Addis Ababa: 8-Day Northern Ethiopia Adventure Tour

Highlights

• Feel the heat of the Danakil Depression and see the Erta Ale Volcano
• Explore the colorful geothermal landscapes of Dallol and Lake Assale
• Visit the famous Aksum Obelisks and the Church of St. Mary of Zion
• Discover the rock-hewn churches of the Gheralta mountains in Tigray
• See the iconic rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, including Bete Giyorgis

Description

Day 1: Addis Ababa – Semera – Erta Ale Volcano Fly from Addis Ababa to Semera. Meet your Afar guide team and begin a 4x4 expedition into the Danakil Depression. Stop at Lake Afdera to observe traditional salt extraction. Continue to Dodom base camp and hike at sunset to Erta Ale. Witness the lava lake (activity dependent). Overnight: Camping near the crater. Day 2: Erta Ale – Hamad Ela Enjoy sunrise views over the volcanic crater before descending. Drive across the desert plains to Hamad Ela, a remote Afar settlement. Overnight: Camping. Day 3: Dallol – Salt Flats – Hawzen (Tigray) Visit the colorful geothermal landscapes of Dallol, one of the lowest and hottest places on Earth. Explore salt mountains and the vast Lake Assale. In the afternoon, drive toward the Gheralta region in Tigray. Overnight: Hawzen. Day 4: Hawzen – Aksum Travel north to Aksum, one of Africa’s most important historical sites. Visit the famous Aksum Obelisks, the legendary Queen of Sheba’s palace ruins, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion. Overnight: Aksum. Day 5: Tigray Rock Churches – Mekelle Explore the spectacular rock-hewn churches of the Gheralta mountains, such as Abune Yemata Guh (optional hike). Continue to Mekelle, with optional stop at Yeha Temple. Overnight: Mekelle. Day 6: Mekelle – Addis Ababa Visit nearby cliff churches such as Debre Maryam Korkor and Abba Daniel (time permitting). Fly back to Addis Ababa. Overnight: Addis Ababa. Day 7: Addis Ababa – Lalibela Fly to Lalibela. Visit the iconic rock-hewn churches, including Bete Giyorgis. Overnight: Lalibela. Day 8: Lalibela – Addis Ababa (City Tour & Departure) Morning exploration of Lalibela before flying back to Addis Ababa. Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia (home of Lucy) and Holy Trinity Cathedral. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner with music and dance at Yod Abyssinia Cultural Restaurant. Late-night departure.

Includes

1. Accommodation Accommodation is provided as per the itinerary (per night basis) 2. Meals Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included throughout the tour 3. Transportation Well-maintained 4WD touring vehicles in excellent condition Professional and experienced drivers included 4. Entrance Fees All entrance fees to tourist sites included Photography fees at attractions are also covered 5. Guiding Service Experienced local tour guides at each destination A professional tour guide accompanies the entire route for the full journey

Excludes

The package does not include: Personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages Laundry services and other personal items.

Important Information

• The Danakil Depression is one of the hottest places on Earth. The hike to Erta Ale Volcano is challenging and requires a good fitness level. Camping conditions are basic.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund