Upon your arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, a company representative will warmly greet you. After checking into your hotel and taking an hour to rest, we will begin our city tour.
Our first stop will be Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, where you will have the chance to engage with the local community and learn about their trading practices. Next, we will visit The National Museum, which houses ancient artifacts from the Axumite Empire, including the renowned 3.18 million-year-old fossil of Lucy. Finally, we will explore The Holy Trinity Cathedral, the most significant Ethiopian Orthodox church built in the 1930s, known for its stunning biblical paintings and unique architectural style.
You will enjoy an overnight stay at the recommended hotel.

DAY 2: ADDIS ABABA TO JINKA/TURMI (FLIGHT) – 14 APRIL

Arrive in Jinka, where you will begin your journey to the village of Sala Mago, which is approximately 50 km away and takes about an hour and a half to reach. As you drive through Mago National Park, keep an eye out for the breathtaking scenery and wildlife. Your first destination will be the Mursi tribe, well-known for the distinctive lip plates worn by women and the traditional Donga stick fighting practiced by men, who are primarily cattle herders.
After visiting the Mursi tribe, return to Jinka for a lunch break to recharge before continuing your adventure. The next leg of your journey takes you to Turmi, located about 130 km away, which will take around two and a half hours.
Once in Turmi, you will have the opportunity to learn about the Hamer tribe, famous for their vibrant culture and the bull jumping ceremony, a significant rite of passage for young boys transitioning into adulthood.
In the evening, unwind and relax with an overnight stay at a recommended hotel, reflecting on the rich cultural experiences of the day.

DAY 3: TURMI – 15 APRIL

In the morning, we will set off on a drive to Kangaten, which is 90 kilometers away and will take approximately one and a half hours. Our first stop will be to visit the Nyangatom tribe, where we can learn about their culture and way of life. After our visit, we will continue our journey to Korcho, located 64 kilometers further along, which will take about one hour. Here, we will have the opportunity to explore the Karo tribe and their unique traditions.
Once we have finished our explorations, we will make our way back to Jinka, which is 130 kilometers from Korcho and will take around two and a half hours. After a full day of adventure, we will spend the night at a recommended hotel, where we can relax and reflect on our experiences.

DAY 4: TURMI TO JINKA – 16 APRIL

Start your early morning with a drive to Omorate, which is about 72 kilometers away and will take approximately an hour and a half. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Dassanech tribe, who reside in the lower Omo Valley near the banks of the Omo River. To reach the tribe, you will cross the river using a locally crafted canoe made from a giant tree trunk. The Dassanech tribe is known for their vibrant culture, including their annual girls’ circumcision celebration known as Dimi.
After spending time with the Dassanech, return to Turmi and then continue your journey to Jinka, which is about 130 kilometers away and will take around two and a half hours. Upon arrival in Jinka, enjoy an overnight stay at the recommended hotel.

DAY 5: JINKA TO ADDIS ABABA (FLIGHT) – 17 APRIL

On this day, we will board a flight back to Addis Ababa. In the afternoon, we will visit St. George Cathedral to observe and participate in the ceremony where priests wash the feet of the faithful, commemorating the moment when Jesus Christ washed the feet of his apostles. We will enjoy an overnight stay at a recommended hotel.

DAY 6: ADDIS ABABA TO LALIBELA (FLIGHT) – 18 APRIL

On this day, we will embark on a domestic flight to Lalibela. Upon our arrival, we’ll 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 faith of local believers and religious followers. They will be engaged in continuous bowing throughout the day in remembrance of Good Friday, honoring the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
We will spend the night at the recommended hotel.

DAY 7: LALIBELA – 19 APRIL

In the morning, we will begin our visit with the first group of rock-hewn churches, which includes five impressive structures carved from a massive basaltic rock. These remarkable churches, known as the Rock-hewn Churches of Lalibela, were excavated in the 12th century AD by the esteemed king Lalibela. It is truly awe-inspiring to learn about the labor of love that went into creating these churches, all hewn from giant basaltic rock in just 23 years.
In the afternoon, our exploration will continue with the second group of rock-hewn churches, featuring four grand churches, also carved from massive basaltic rock. We will conclude our day with a visit to the stunning 15-meter high, cross-shaped monolithic church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis), a highlight of the visit.
As the day comes to a close, we will spend the night immersed in the beautiful church sermon and mass held on this special Easter eve—an unforgettable experience that promises to stay with us for a lifetime. An overnight stay will be arranged at the recommended hotel.

DAY 8: LALIBELA TO ADDIS ABABA (FLIGHT) – 20 APRIL

At noon, you will board your flight returning to Addis Ababa. After your travel, you’ll have a free afternoon to relax or explore the area, with an optional chance to shop for souvenirs to remember your trip. In the evening, a farewell dinner awaits you at a cultural restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional dances and savor local spicy dishes. This meal will mark the conclusion of your tour, providing a memorable end to your journey.

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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.

DAY 2: LALIBELA

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.

DAY 3: LALIBELA TO GONDAR (FLIGHT)

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.

DAY 4: ADDIS ABABA TO ARBA MINCH (FLIGHT)

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.

DAY 5: ARBA MINCH TO TURMI

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.

DAY 6: TURMI – 23 APRIL

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.

DAY 7: TURMI TO JINKA – 24 APRIL

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.

DAY 8: JINKA TO KARAT

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.

DAY 9: JINKA TO ADDIS ABABA (FLIGHT)

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• Arrival to Addis Ababa Bole International airport, meet and greet with a welcome gesture by our representative from the company.
• After a hotel check-in and an hour rest, we will proceed on a drive through the city on a tour to visit;
– Merkato – the biggest open air market in Africa, whereby you will interact with the local community and learn from their way of trading.
– The National museum – a museum which displays the ancient historical values from the archaeological findings of the Axumite Empire, and known for housing humanoid fossils, with the 3.18 million years old fossil of Lucy.
– The Holy Trinity cathedral – the most important Ethiopian Orthodox church from the 1930s, known for the biblical paintings from the interior and the unique architectural design of the building.
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 2: ADDIS ABABA TO LALIBELA (FLIGHT) – 6 JANUARY –

• On this day, we will take a domestic flight destined to Lalibela. Upon arrival, we drive to the hotel for a check-in and a lunch break.
• In the afternoon, we will start our visit from the first group of the rock-hewn churches (having 5 giant churches in the complex, all carved out from a massive basaltic rock).
– The Rock-hewn churches of Lalibela were excavated during the 12th century AD, by the saintly king Lalibela.
–  It is so amazing to learn from the work of the churches by King Lalibela, which are excavated from a giant basaltic rock to be only done within a period of 23 years.
• In the evening, we will spend some time participating in the mass and procession.
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 3: LALIBELA – 7 JANUARY –

• Early morning at 4:00am, we will proceed to the rock-hewn church of St.Mary and be witnessing the hours long beautiful religious ceremony held by the priests. It goes till sunrise and afterwards.
• In the afternoon, we will proceed on a visit of the second group of the rock-hewn churches (having 4 giant churches in the complex, all carved out from a massive basaltic rock).
– Then we will end our day, after visiting the 15 meters high cross shaped monolithic rock-hewn church of St.George (Bete Giyorgis).
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 4: LALIBELA TO GONDAR (FLIGHT) – 8 JANUARY

• On this day, we will take a domestic flight destined to Gondar. Upon arrival, we drive to the hotel for a check-in and a lunch break.
• We will have an afternoon visit of the following sites;
– The Castles compound – a 40,000 square meters complex which houses 6 Castles and more than a dozen of ruined royal houses, built by the Ethiopian kings from the Gonderian Era during the 17th / 18th centuries AD.
– The bath of King Fasiladas – founder of Gondar as his capital in 1636, having built this place for a recreational purpose with his family. Now a days, it is one of the iconic place to celebrate the annual religious festivity of the Epiphany during the month of January (18 – 20) by the Ethiopian Orthodox religion followers.
– The church of Debre Birhan Selassie – an authentic architecture and a colorful biblical mural paintings within, it is built at the beginning of the 18th century AD by King Eyasu.
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 5: GONDAR – 9 JANUARY –

• On this days, we will have a drive of about two hours long to reach to Debark (100kms – two hours long) on a day trip.
• From Debark, we will have an access to the Simien Mountains National Park after obtaining a permit from the park’s headquarter.
– The Simien Mountains National Park – with so many majestically high rising mountains (from 3300 to 4565 meters above sea level), is home to hundreds of indigenous trees and endemic mammals, offering a magnificent view over the rising highest peaks.
– We will have a hiking activity of around two hours, while spotting the endemic red chested mammals called the Chalada Baboons.
• Drive back to Gondar.
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 6: GONDAR TO BAHIR DAR – 10 JANUARY

• A morning drive of about three and a half hours long to Bahir Dar (178kms – three and a half hours long), with some photo stops on the way.
• After a hotel check-in and a lunch break, we proceed to Lake Tana for an excursion boat trip to visit;
– The 14th century AD built up churches of Ura Kidane Mihret and Azuwa Mariyam, which are both located in the peninsula of Zeghe.
– The churches are well known for their preserved mural paintings of the 17th century.
– Lake Tana – covering a mass of 3600 square kilometres, is the largest lake in Ethiopia, having 37 islands and a peninsula.
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 7: BAHIR DAR TO ARBA MINCH (FLIGHT) – 11 JANUARY –

• Early morning, drive to the village of Tisisat and visit the Blue Nile falls.
• Drive back to the city, and take an afternoon flight destined to Arba Minch. Transfer to the hotel for the check-in.
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 8: ARBA MINCH – 12 JANUARY –

In the morning, we will drive to Lake Chamo and take a boat for a visit of:
– Lake Chamo – one of the seven lakes lying in the Great Rift Valley, is known for being home to thousands of giant crocodiles, aquatic birds like the Herons, Pelicans, Flamingos, and African Fish Eagles, and the hippopotamus.
• Drive back to town for a lunch break.
• In the afternoon, drive up to the mountains of Gughe and visit:
– The Dorze people – at their village of Hayzo, are known for weaving the traditional handmade cotton cloth of Ethiopians and also for the 12 meters high huts they build from bamboo and banana leaves.
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 9: ARBA MINCH TO TURMI – 13 JANUARY –

• Early morning, we drive to Turmi (290kms – five hours long), visiting on the way;
– Konso People – settling as a town called Karat, the Konso live in around 30 villages built up in hills and guarded well with a round stone walled system they have still kept as a tradition for more than 500 years. Their agricultural practices using a terracing system they adopted for more than 500 years is registered as a world heritage site by UNESCO.
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 10: TURMI – 14 JANUARY – 

• In the morning, we will drive to Kangaten (90kms – an hour and a half hours long) and visit the Nyangatom tribe. Then proceed on a drive to Korcho (64kms – an hour long) and visit the Karo tribe.
• Drive back to Turmi.
*NB: If this day lies on Monday, we will have a possibility to visit the weekly market of the Hamer tribes in Turmi. And if it lies on Saturday, it is a weekly market day of the Hamer and Banna tribes at Dimeka.
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 11: TURMI TO JINKA – 15 JANUARY –

• Early morning, drive to Omorate (72kms – an hour and half long) and visit the Dassanech tribe.
– The Dassanech tribe – are one of the tribes from the lower Omo valley, which are settled taking the area near to the banks of the river Omo. We need to cross the river by a locally made canoe from a giant tree trunk. They are culturally rich and known for the annual circumcision festivity of the girls called Dimi.
• Drive back to Turmi, and proceed on a drive to Jinka (130kms – two and a half hours long).
* NB: If this day lies on Tuesday, we will have a possibility to visit the weekly market of the Banna and Hamer tribes at Alduba. And if it lies on Thursday, it is a weekly market day where around five tribe members gather at Key Afer.
• An overnight stay in the suggested hotel.

DAY 12: JINKA TO ADDIS ABABA (FLIGHT) – 16 JANUARY –

• In the morning, drive to the village of Sala Mago (50kms – an hour and half long) by crossing through Mago National Park. Then we will visit;
– The Mursi tribe – known for the lip plates worn by the woman and the Donga stick fighting performed by the men. They are cattle herders.
• Drive back to town and take a flight destined back to Addis Ababa.
• A free afternoon with an optional shopping activity of souvenirs.
• In the evening, a farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant with folkloric dances and a local spicy meals, marks the end of the tour.

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