Overview
Discover the ancient heart of Ethiopia on this unforgettable 7-day journey through the historic northern circuit. This tour takes you to the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the imperial castles of Gondar, the breathtaking Simien Mountains, and the sacred city of Axum — home to ancient obelisks and legendary Ark of the Covenant traditions.
Designed for travelers seeking history, culture, and spectacular landscapes, this itinerary combines Ethiopia’s most iconic heritage sites with warm local hospitality and expert guiding. From centuries-old monasteries to dramatic mountain scenery, Northern Ethiopia offers a journey back in time unlike anywhere else in Africa.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Addis Ababa
- Meet and greet at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
- City tour: National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Merkato market
- Welcome dinner with traditional Ethiopian cuisine
- Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa
Day 2 – Fly to Lalibela
- Morning flight to Lalibela
- Visit the first group of rock-hewn churches
- Sunset visit to Bete Giyorgis (St. George Church)
- Overnight: Lodge in Lalibela
Day 3 – Lalibela
- Visit the second group of Lalibela churches
- Optional early morning church service experience
- Afternoon free time or village walk
- Overnight: Lodge in Lalibela
Day 4 – Fly to Gondar
- Morning flight to Gondar
- Visit the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi castles)
- Explore Debre Berhan Selassie Church
- Overnight: Hotel in Gondar
Day 5 – Simien Mountains National Park
- Day excursion to Simien Mountains
- Scenic hiking and wildlife viewing (Gelada baboons, Walia ibex)
- Panoramic views of dramatic escarpments
- Return to Gondar
- Overnight: Hotel in Gondar
Day 6 – Fly to Axum
- Morning flight to Axum
- Visit ancient obelisks, tombs of kings, and archaeological sites
- Visit St. Mary of Zion Church
- Overnight: Hotel in Axum
Day 7 – Fly to Addis Ababa & Departure
- Morning flight back to Addis Ababa
- Souvenir shopping
- Transfer to airport for international departure
Tour Includes
- All domestic flights (Addis Ababa – Lalibela – Gondar – Axum – Addis Ababa)
- Airport transfers
- All accommodation in standard hotels/lodges (twin sharing)
- Daily breakfast
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All entrance fees and site permits
- Ground transportation with comfortable vehicle
- Simien Mountains park fees
- Bottled water during sightseeing
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Ethiopian visa fee
- Lunches and dinners (unless stated)
- Personal expenses
- Camera fees where applicable
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Travel insurance
Tour Price
USD 1,950 per person
(Based on two travelers sharing)
Single supplement: USD 250
Prices may vary depending on season, accommodation category, and flight availability.
Why Travel With Village Omo Valley Tours
- Locally owned Ethiopian tour operator
- Experienced professional guides
- Carefully selected accommodations
- Flexible and customized departures
- Authentic cultural experiences