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Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, then board a domestic flight to Lalibela. After landing, we will drive to the hotel for check-in and enjoy a lunch break.
In the afternoon, we will explore the churches compound, where we can observe the deep devotion of local believers and religious followers as they engage in continuous bowing throughout the day in remembrance of Good Friday, reflecting on the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Overnight accommodation will be at the recommended hotel.
In the morning, we will kick off our visit with the first group of rock-hewn churches, featuring five impressive churches carved from a massive basaltic rock.
The Rock-hewn Churches of Lalibela were excavated in the 12th century AD by the revered King Lalibela.
It’s truly remarkable to discover the incredible work of King Lalibela, who completed these churches, carved from a colossal basaltic rock, in just 23 years.
In the afternoon, we will continue our exploration with the second group of rock-hewn churches, which consists of four grand churches, all also carved from the same massive basaltic rock.
We will conclude our day by visiting the stunning 15-meter high, cross-shaped monolithic rock-hewn church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis).
That evening, we will immerse ourselves in the unforgettable experience of the church sermon and mass held on the eve of Easter. It’s a moment you will cherish for a lifetime.
We will spend the night at the recommended hotel.
On this day, we will take a domestic flight to Gondar. After arriving, we will drive to the hotel for check-in, followed by a lunch break.
In the afternoon, we will visit several fascinating sites. First, we’ll explore The Castles Compound, a vast complex of 40,000 square meters that includes six castles and numerous ruined royal houses, all constructed by Ethiopian kings during the Gonderian Era in the 17th and 18th centuries AD.
Next, we’ll visit The Bath of King Fasiladas, who founded Gondar and established it as his capital in 1636. This site, originally created for recreational purposes for his family, is now an iconic location for the annual religious celebration of the Epiphany, observed by Ethiopian Orthodox followers from January 18 to 20.
Finally, we’ll stop by The Church of Debre Birhan Selassie. This remarkable example of authentic architecture, built in the early 18th century by King Eyasu, features vibrant biblical murals that captivate visitors. We will spend the night at the recommended hotel.
On this day, we will board a domestic flight to Arba Minch. Upon arrival, we will meet our drivers and begin a scenic drive to the Gughe mountains. Our first stop will be the village of Hayzo, where we will have the opportunity to visit the Dorze people. They are known for their traditional handmade cotton cloth and their impressive 12-meter-high huts constructed from bamboo and banana leaves. After an enriching day of exploration, we will enjoy an overnight stay at the recommended hotel.
On this day, we will take a domestic flight to Arba Minch. Upon arrival, we will meet our drivers and embark on a scenic journey to the Gughe mountains. Our first destination will be the village of Hayzo, where we will have the opportunity to engage with the Dorze people, known for their traditional handmade cotton textiles and their remarkable 12-meter-high huts constructed from bamboo and banana leaves. After a fulfilling day of exploration, we will settle in for an overnight stay at the recommended hotel.
The following morning, we will drive to Turmi, covering a distance of 290 km, which will take approximately five hours. Along the way, we will make stops to enjoy the sights, including Lake Chamo, one of the seven lakes in the Great Rift Valley. This lake is famous for its population of giant crocodiles and a variety of aquatic birds, such as herons, pelicans, flamingos, and African fish eagles, as well as hippopotamuses. We will enjoy another overnight stay at the suggested hotel.
In the morning, we will set off on a drive to Kangaten, which is about 90 kilometers away, taking approximately one and a half hours. Our first stop will be to visit the Nyangatom tribe. Afterward, we will continue our journey to Korcho, located 64 kilometers from there, and it will take us about one hour to reach. In Korcho, we will have the opportunity to meet the Karo tribe. Following these enriching visits, we will make our way back to Turmi, where we will spend the night at the recommended hotel.
Early in the morning, set out on a drive to Omorate, which is approximately 72 kilometers away and will take about one and a half hours. Your destination is the Dassanech tribe, a vibrant community located in the lower Omo Valley near the banks of the Omo River. To reach them, you’ll need to cross the river using a locally crafted canoe made from a large tree trunk. The Dassanech are known for their rich cultural practices, including their annual girls’ circumcision celebration called Dimi.
After your visit, drive back to Turmi and continue on to Jinka, which is about 130 kilometers away and will take around two and a half hours. At the end of the day, enjoy an overnight stay at the recommended hotel, reflecting on the unique experiences of the day.
Start your day early with a scenic drive to the village of Sala Mago, located about 50 kilometers away, which will take approximately an hour and a half through the beautiful Mago National Park. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the fascinating culture of the Mursi tribe, known for the distinctive lip plates worn by their women and the traditional Donga stick fighting practiced by the men, who are primarily cattle herders.
After immersing yourself in the rich heritage of the Mursi, return to town for a lunch break to recharge before continuing your journey to Karat town. This leg of the trip covers about 150 kilometers and will take around three and a half hours. Along the way, you’ll stop to visit the Konso people, who reside in Karat. The Konso inhabit around 30 villages that are strategically located on hills and protected by a traditional round stone wall system that has been maintained for over 500 years. Their innovative agricultural practices, notably their terracing system, have earned them recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
At the end of the day, unwind and relax with an overnight stay at the recommended hotel, reflecting on the remarkable experiences and cultures you’ve encountered.
Early in the morning, we’ll depart for Arba Minch, embarking on a picturesque 90 km drive that takes about an hour and a half. This journey will lead us to catch a flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, we’ll check into the hotel reserved for day use, allowing us to relax and refresh.
In the afternoon, we will visit the Church of St. George, a significant historical site constructed by Emperor Menelik II just a year after the Italian troops were defeated at the Battle of Adwa. This church is celebrated for its stunning mosaic paintings that grace the walls, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
As the day draws to a close, we will gather for a farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant. Here, we will be treated to vibrant folkloric dances and savor delicious local spicy dishes, creating a memorable conclusion to our tour.
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