Historical · Trekking · Danakil
13-Day Historic Route, Simien Trekking & Danakil
Lake Tana, Gondar, a three-day Simien trek, Lalibela, the Danakil and the churches of Gheralta.
- Duration
- 13 Days
- Season
- November to March
- Group Size
- Private or group
- Price
- Designed Around You
The Journey
12 nights, designed around the hours that matter
The north at its most complete. After Bahir Dar and Gondar, trek for three days through the Simien Mountains from Sankaber to Chenek, explore Lalibela, then descend into the Danakil Depression for Dallol and Erta Ale before climbing back to the highlands to visit the rock-hewn churches of Gheralta.
Day by Day
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
This itinerary is carefully planned, but minor adjustments may be made due to weather, local festivals, road conditions or your personal interests to ensure the best possible experience.
Day 1
Arrival in Addis Ababa
Welcome to Abyssinia, the Land of Origins! Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle to your 3- or 4-star hotel in the heart of Addis Ababa. Your city tour begins with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous fossil "Lucy" and an impressive collection showcasing Ethiopia’s rich history and cultural heritage. Continue to the Ethnological Museum, located within the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie on the main campus of Addis Ababa University. It is widely regarded as one of the finest museums in Africa. Before lunch, visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of Ethiopia’s most important religious landmarks, renowned for its unique architecture. After a relaxing lunch, drive to the Entoto Mountains, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Addis Ababa. Entoto is also a historic site where Emperor Menelik II established his palace before founding the modern capital. Overnight: Lobelia Hotel, Addis Ababa.
Day 2
Fly to Bahir Dar
Take a morning flight with Ethiopian Airlines from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar. Upon arrival, meet your driver and guide at the airport and transfer to your hotel. After check-in and breakfast, drive to the Blue Nile Falls (Tis Issat). Visit the hydroelectric power station and enjoy an easy hike to the Portuguese Bridge while taking in the beautiful scenery. Return to Bahir Dar for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip on Lake Tana to visit its ancient island monasteries. During the cruise, you may spot a variety of bird species, hippos, and the source of the Blue Nile. Overnight: Jacaranda Hotel, Bahir Dar.
Day 3
Drive to Gondar
After breakfast, drive from Bahir Dar to Gondar, a journey of approximately 180 km through the beautiful Ethiopian highlands. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking scenery before arriving in Gondar for lunch at your hotel. In the afternoon, explore Gondar, Ethiopia’s former imperial capital founded by Emperor Fasilides in the 17th century. Visit the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains several castles and palaces built by successive emperors over more than two centuries. The architecture reflects a unique blend of Ethiopian, Portuguese, and Indian influences. Continue to Debre Birhan Selassie Church (Light of the Trinity), renowned for its magnificent ceiling decorated with angelic faces and its beautiful murals. According to local tradition, the church was once considered as a possible resting place for the Ark of the Covenant. Finally, visit Fasilides’ Bath, a historic royal bathing pool that is still used today during the annual Timkat (Epiphany) celebrations. Overnight: Goha Hotel, Gondar.
Day 4
Simien Mountains National Park Trekking
Depart from Gondar in the morning and drive to Debark, where you will obtain the necessary permits to enter Simien Mountains National Park. Upon arrival in Debark, meet your local guide, scout, cook, and porters (if required). Your trekking equipment will also be checked before entering the park. Afterward, continue with a one-hour drive into the heart of the park, where your adventure begins. Start your first 3 to 4 hour hike to Sankaber Camp, located at an altitude of 3,250 meters above sea level. The trek offers breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and beautiful landscapes. Along the way, you may have the opportunity to spot the endemic Gelada baboons in their natural habitat. Overnight: Camping at Sankaber Camp (3,250 m).
Day 5
Trekking in the Simien Mountains
After an early open-air breakfast, begin your day with a two-hour hike to Jinbar Waterfall. The trail takes you through rugged terrain and offers spectacular views of the Simien Mountains. Spend some time at the waterfall, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. After visiting the waterfall, return to the main road and drive to Chenek, one of the best locations in the park for wildlife viewing and panoramic mountain scenery. Upon arrival in Chenek, take a short hike in search of the endemic Walia ibex, a wild goat species found only in the Simien Mountains. You may also have the chance to see Gelada baboons and, with some luck, the rare Ethiopian wolf. In the late afternoon, set up camp at Chenek, located at an altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Overnight: Camping at Chenek Camp (3,500 m).
Day 6
Hike in the Simien Mountains and Return to Gondar
Start the day with an early morning hike around the lodge, one of the most scenic areas in the Simien Mountains. The hike will take approximately 3 to 4 hours and offers incredible views of the surrounding cliffs, valleys, and mountain peaks, including Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia. After enjoying the breathtaking scenery and taking photos, descend back to the lodge and begin the drive to Gondar. Upon arrival in Gondar, check in at your hotel and relax. Overnight: Goha Hotel, Gondar.
Day 7
Fly to Lalibela and Visit the Rock-Hewn Churches
Take a morning flight with Ethiopian Airlines from Gondar to Lalibela. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This remarkable complex of monolithic and semi-monolithic churches was carved directly into the mountainside more than 900 years ago. The site features the largest monolithic church in the world, a fascinating network of tunnels and passageways, beautifully carved architectural details, and impressive religious paintings. During your visit, explore the first group of churches, including Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Maryam, Bete Meskel, Bete Denagil and Debre Sina and Golgotha. You will also visit the famous third group of churches, which consists of the iconic Bete Giyorgis (St. George Church). In the evening, experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Overnight: Sora Lodge, Lalibela.
Day 8
Explore Lalibela Churches and Fly to Addis Ababa
After breakfast, continue your exploration of Lalibela’s remarkable rock-hewn churches by visiting the second group of churches, including Bete Emanuel, Bete Gabriel-Rufael, Bete Mercoreos and Bete Abba Libanos. After completing the visit, return to the hotel for check-out and transfer to Lalibela Airport for your flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, transfer to your hotel and relax. Overnight: Lobelia Hotel, Addis Ababa.
Day 9
Fly to Semera and Drive to Hamed Ela, Danakil Depression
Take a morning flight to Semera, the capital of the Afar Regional State. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed at the airport by our experienced drivers and transferred in a comfortable 4WD vehicle with air conditioning. You will be accompanied by an experienced team, including expert guides, a professional cook, a local Afar guide, a road leader from the tourism authorities, and a police escort. All necessary camping equipment will be prepared before departure. Drive directly to Hamed Ela, the gateway to the Dallol and Danakil Depression area. In the late afternoon, visit Lake Assale to enjoy the spectacular sunset over the salt lake. Overnight, enjoy open-air camping with comfortable beds, mattresses, pillows, clean bed sheets, and plenty of drinking water. We provide approximately 6 liters of water per person per day to ensure proper hydration in the hot desert environment. Overnight: Hamed Ela Camping.
Day 10
Explore Dallol and Erta Ale Volcano
Early in the morning, before sunrise, drive to the extraordinary Dallol geothermal area, a unique landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. Here, you will witness a spectacular natural phenomenon created by chemical reactions, producing incredible colors and formations that make Dallol one of the most fascinating places in the world. After exploring Dallol, continue to visit the salt and mud formations beneath the Dallol crater. Just a short drive away, you will discover a completely different landscape. Enjoy a picnic breakfast near this amazing natural site. Continue the journey to the vast salt plains and Lake Karum, where you can experience the unique saltwater formations. Visit the traditional salt miners and learn about their ancient salt extraction methods before returning to Hamed Ela for some rest and lunch. In the afternoon, continue driving toward Erta Ale, one of the most active volcanoes in Ethiopia. Arrive at the camping area near the volcano and begin the hike to the summit crater. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the crater lake, where you can witness the impressive volcanic activity. Spend time observing this incredible natural wonder before walking back to the campsite. The hike to Erta Ale usually starts around 5:30 PM and returns around 8:00 PM, depending on conditions and the pace of the group. Overnight, enjoy open-air camping on a flat and comfortable area with mattresses, pillows, clean bed sheets, and a peaceful environment. Overnight: Dodom Camping.
Day 11
Drive to Hawzen and Visit Abreha we Atsbeha Church
After breakfast, begin your drive to Hawzen. Along the way, visit the historic Abreha we Atsbeha Church, one of the most impressive ancient churches in the Tigray region. The church is believed to have been founded by King Abreha and King Atsbeha, the two brothers who played an important role in the introduction of Christianity to Ethiopia. Admire the church’s remarkable architecture, ancient rock-carved features, and learn about its rich religious and historical significance. Continue to Hawzen and check in at your hotel. Overnight: Vision Hotel, Hawzen.
Day 12
Explore the Rock-Hewn Churches of Gheralta and Drive to Mekelle
Begin the day with a visit to Maryam Korkor Church, an impressive cross-shaped rock-hewn church known for its unique architecture, cruciform pillars, arches, and beautiful ancient frescoes. The hike to the church takes approximately one hour and rewards you with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Gheralta Mountains. From Maryam Korkor, continue with a short walk to Daniel Korkor Church. Perched on a dramatic cliff, this lesser-visited church offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and features remarkable religious paintings. Later, visit the famous Abuna Yemata Guh Church, carved high into a cliff face. Dedicated to Abuna Yemata, one of the Nine Saints who contributed to the spread of Christianity in Ethiopia, this ancient church is renowned for its 5th-century wall and dome paintings. Although the climb requires effort and courage, the incredible artwork and spectacular views make it a truly unforgettable experience. After exploring the churches, drive to Mekelle. Overnight: Libanos Hotel, Mekelle.
Day 13
Fly to Addis Ababa and Departure
After breakfast, drive to Mekelle Airport for your flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, enjoy some free time to relax, do shopping, or explore the city before your departure. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine, a special cultural buffet, and local drinks. This will be a wonderful opportunity to experience Ethiopia’s unique food, music, and traditions. After the farewell dinner and cultural experience, you will be transferred to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your international departure. What to Bring for the Danakil Depression and Simien Mountains National Park A small flashlight or headlamp for walking at night, A small backpack for the hike to the top of Erta Ale Volcano, Closed, comfortable trekking shoes, Sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, A warm jacket for the cold night at the volcano and Sleeping bag, pillow, or blanket (these can also be provided by the agency).
What Is Included
- Meet-and-assist at Bole International Airport and all transfers
- Domestic flights as shown in the itinerary
- 4x4 vehicles with experienced desert drivers
- Licensed English-speaking guide (other languages on request)
- 12 nights of accommodation: 4-Star Hotels and Eco-Lodges
- Full board: breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Afar regional permits, local Afar guide and police escort
- Camping equipment with mattresses, pillows and clean bedding
- Drinking water: around six litres per person per day
- Entrance fees to all sites and churches in the itinerary
Not Included
- International flights and Ethiopian visa
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Drinks, tips and personal expenses
Before You Book
Questions about this journey
How long is this tour?
When is the best time to take this tour?
Is it private, and can the itinerary be changed?
How much does it cost, and how do I book?
Guest reviews
What our guests say
Rated 5.0 on Tripadvisor and Google, and 4.9 on SafariBookings.
“My tour operator was very communicative even before the trip began and very responsive on WhatsApp. He booked all my domestic flights and arranged all my airport pick-ups and drop-offs. He had professional guides in all the regions I visited, the itinerary was clear, and he was flexible with any changes. There were no extra costs. He is reliable, communicative and well experienced. I will be back with the same company.”
Sarah · Kenya · August 2026
Read more reviews on SafariBookings“Excellent services provided by Maereg and his team. The local guides and the drivers – Geta (my fave) – were all great. They were patient, professional, knowledgeable and took great care of us. Everything was seamlessly coordinated and they were always on time for pickups and made sure we were briefed in advance of the itinerary and any changes. One of my top travel destinations in Africa, with some of the kindest and warmest people. Maereg went above and beyond! First-class service, always with a smile!”
D Thomas · Google review · May 2026
Read more reviews on GoogleEnquire
Make 13-Day Historic Route, Simien Trekking & Danakil yours
Send us your dates and we will confirm availability, quote precisely, and suggest the two or three changes we would make if it were our own trip.
Runs November to March · Private or group · A quote made for your journey
Let’s Plan Your Ethiopian Adventure
Tell us a little about your travel plans. We’ll help you create a journey that suits your interests.
Other Journeys
You may also be weighing up
Discover Ethiopia. Experience the Extraordinary!
Questions before you enquire?
Altitude, road time, how hard the walking really is, whether the children will cope. Ask us anything. Our team will answer honestly.
Or call us directly on +251 912 039405