THE BEST OF ETHIOPIA!

Best of Ethiopia Tour. Historic North and Omo Valley: 16 Days / 15 Nights

Day 01 Addis Ababa

For morning Arrivals at Bole International Airport you may begin your tour after checking into your hotel. For clients arriving in the afternoon or evening, you may begin your tour the following day. African Treasure Tours representative will meet all clients arriving at the airport regardless of arrival time. Visit the Ethnographic Museum, a great introduction to Ethiopian culture and history. Tour the Mercato, one of Africa's largest outdoor markets, and Trinity Cathedral, resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
Overnight Hotel - Addis Ababa

Day 02 Addis Ababa - Bahar Dar

Fly to Bahar Dar on Ethiopian Airlines. Visit the marketplace in Bahar Dar. Take a boat tour on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, and tour ancient island monasteries.
Overnight Hotel - Bahar Dar

Day 03 Bahar Dar - Gondar

Drive through the countryside to Gondar. Tour the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five castles built by a succession of Ethiopian Kings beginning in the early 17th century. Having survived several wars, including air raids during World War 2, the castles are a testament to the resilience of this once mighty African Empire. Visit the church of Debre Birhan Selassie, famous for its religious art and especially its iconic ceiling depicting angels.
Overnight Hotel - Gondar

SDay 04 Gondar - Lalibela

Fly to Lalibela on Ethiopian Airlines 700 kilometers north of Addis Ababa. Tour the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This group of eleven monolithic and semi-monolithic structures were carved directly into the stone of the mountainside at least 800 years ago. This complex boasts the largest monolithic church in the world, a maze of passageways and tunnels, intricately carved reliefs, and fabulous examples of icon paintings.
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela

Day 06 Lalibela

For the morning you have two choices: Take a morning hike with mules to Mount Asheton, with its 13th century rock-hewn monastery and great views of the town; - OR - Drive to Yemrehanna Kristos, a beautiful church situated in a shallow cave that predates the churches of Lalibela. The drive to Yemrehanna will also give you the opportunity to view the rural countryside and villages of the Ethiopian highlands. Following either option above continue with tour of Lalibela's churches in the afternoon.
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela

Day 07 Lalibela - Axum

Fly to Axum on Ethiopian Airlines. Tour the ancient stelae fields, standing for 2000 years. Visit the new and impressive Archeological Museum. Visit other tombs and archeological sites as time permits.
Overnight Hotel - Axum

Day 08 Axum - Addis Ababa - Arba Minch

Fly to Addis Ababa and then drive to the Rift Valley Lake Langano. Relax at the Sabana Lodge. Lake Langano is safe for swimming.
Overnight Lodge - Lake Langano

Day 9 Lake Langano - Arba Minch

Drive to Arba Minch, one of the main towns in Southern Ethiopia. On the way, visit a Dorze Village in the Guge Mountains. The Dorze are known for their tall, beehive-shaped bamboo houses. If the base becomes infested with termites, the entire house can be lifted and moved to another location.
Overnight Hotel - Arba Minch

Day 10 Arba Minch - Jinka

Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo and view some of the largest crocodiles in the world sunning on the banks of the lake. Hippopotami and birdlife are also abundant. Drive to Jinka visiting various peoples such as the Gamo and Derashe. Stop at Key Afar's weekly market (if on a Thursday) and wander among the various tribes such as the Benna and Ari that have gathered to barter their goods.
Overnight Lodge - Jinka

Day 11 Mago National Park Excursion

Early morning drive to the Mago National Park to visit the Mursi people. The Mursi women are known for the clay plates they insert into their lower lips. Time permitting, visit the Omo Valley Museum in Jinka.
Overnight Lodge - Jinka

Day 12 Jinka - Turmi

Drive to Turmi to visit the Hamer people who are well known for the scarring of their bodies, using clay to shape their hairstyles, and the unique practice of "bull-jumping" which every young man must accomplish prior to marriage. En route to Turmi, visit the Benna and Ari people.
Overnight Lodge - Turmi

Day 13 Omorate Excursion

Excursion to Omorate to visit the Dassanech people, known for their elaborate body-painting. Cross the famous Omo River by canoe. Return to Turmi for the evening.
Overnight Lodge - Turmi

Day 14 Turmi - Konso

Drive to Konso, recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A highland people, the Konso are known for the ancient and intricate terraces that encircle their well-planned villages.
Overnight Lodge - Konso

Day 15 Konso - Hawassa

Drive to the lakeside town of Hawassa. Relax and recover from your journey at one of Hawassa's fine resorts.
Overnight Resort - Hawassa

Day 16 Hawassa - Addis Ababa

Visit the Hawassa fish market in the morning. Drive to Addis Ababa making stops at the Rift Valley Lakes. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring dancers and musicians representing some of the country's many ethnic groups. Transfer to airport for late night departure if needed.

Ethiopian Explorer. Historic North, Harar, Omo Valley, National Parks: 20 Days / 19 Nights

Day 01 Addis Ababa

For morning Arrivals at Bole International Airport you may begin your tour after checking into your hotel. For clients arriving in the afternoon or evening, you may begin your tour the following day. African Treasure Tours representative will meet all clients arriving at the airport regardless of arrival time. Visit the Ethnographic Museum, a great introduction to Ethiopian culture and history. Tour the Mercato, one of Africa's largest outdoor markets, and Trinity Cathedral, resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
Overnight Hotel - Addis Ababa

Day 02 Addis Ababa - Bahar Dar

Fly to Bahar Dar on Ethiopian Airlines. Visit the marketplace in Bahar Dar. Take a boat tour on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, and tour ancient island monasteries.
Overnight Hotel - Bahar Dar

Day 03 Bahar Dar - Gondar

Drive through the countryside to Gondar. Tour the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five castles built by a succession of Ethiopian Kings beginning in the early 17th century. Having survived several wars, including air raids during World War 2, the castles are a testament to the resilience of this once mighty African Empire. Visit the church of Debre Birhan Selassie, famous for its religious art and especially its iconic ceiling depicting angels.
Overnight Hotel - Gondar

Day 04  Simien Mountain Excursion

Drive to Sankabar the gateway to the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy an easy hike (2 - 3 hours) to take in the spectacular scenery and spot wildlife such as the endemic Gelada Baboons. Return to Gondar by evening.
Overnight Hotel - Gondar

Day 05  Gondar - Lalibela

Fly to Lalibela on Ethiopian Airlines 700 kilometers north of Addis Ababa. Tour the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This group of eleven monolithic and semi-monolithic structures were carved directly into the stone of the mountainside at least 800 years ago. This complex boasts the largest monolithic church in the world, a maze of passageways and tunnels, intricately carved reliefs, and fabulous examples of icon paintings.
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela

Day 06  Lalibela

For the morning you have two choices: Take a morning hike with mules to Mount Asheton, with its 13th century rock-hewn monastery and great views of the town; - OR - Drive to Yemrehanna Kristos, a beautiful church situated in a shallow cave that predates the churches of Lalibela. The drive to Yemrehanna will also give you the opportunity to view the rural countryside and villages of the Ethiopian highlands. Following either option above continue with tour of Lalibela's churches in the afternoon. 
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela

Day 07  Lalibela - Axum

Fly to Axum on Ethiopian Airlines. Tour the ancient stelae fields, standing for 2000 years. Visit the new and impressive Archeological Museum. Visit other tombs and archeological sites as time permits.  
Overnight Hotel - Axum

Day 08 Axum - Dire Dawa

Fly to Dire Dawa via Addis Ababa.  Tour Dire Dawa's massive outdoor market. 
Overnight Hotel - Dire Dawa

Day 09 Harar

Drive to Harar. Stroll through the old city or "Jugal," considered by many one of the most important cities in the Islamic world.
Overnight Hotel - Harar

Day 10 Harar - Awash National Park

Drive to Awash National Park and take an evening game drive. 
Overnight Lodge - Awash National Park

Day 11 Awash National Park - Langano

After an early morning game, drive to Lake Langano, one of the Rift Valley lakes. Relax at the Sabana Lodge. Lake Langano is safe for swimming. 
Overnight Lodge - Lake Langano

Day 12  Lake Langano - Arba Minch

Drive to Arba Minch, one of the main towns in Southern Ethiopia. On the way, visit a Dorze Village in the Guge Mountains. The Dorze are known for their tall, beehive-shaped bamboo houses. If the base becomes infested with termites, the entire house can be lifted and moved to another location. 
Overnight Hotel - Arba Minch

Day 13  Arba Minch - Jinka

Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo and view some of the largest crocodiles in the world sunning on the banks of the lake. Hippopotami and birdlife are also abundant. Drive to Jinka visiting various peoples such as the Gamo and Derashe. Stop at Key Afar's weekly market (if on a Thursday) and wander among the various tribes such as the Benna and Ari that have gathered to barter their goods.
Overnight Lodge - Jinka 

Day 14  Mago National Park Excursion

Early morning drive to the Mago National Park to visit the Mursi people. The Mursi women are known for the clay plates they insert into their lower lips. Time permitting, visit the Omo Valley Museum in Jinka. 
Overnight Lodge - Jinka 

Day 15  Jinka - Turmi

Drive to Turmi to visit the Hamer people who are well known for the scarring of their bodies, using clay to shape their hairstyles, and the unique practice of "bull-jumping" which every young man must accomplish prior to marriage. En route to Turmi, visit the Benna and Ari people.
Overnight Lodge - Turmi 

Day 16  Emirate Excursion

Excursion to Omorate to visit the Dassanech people, known for their elaborate body-painting.  Cross the famous Omo River by canoe.  Return to Turmi for the evening.
Overnight Lodge - Turmi

Day 17  Turmi - Konso

Drive to Konso, recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A highland people, the Konso are known for the ancient and intricate terraces that encircle their well-planned villages.
Overnight Lodge - Konso 

Day 18  Konso - Hawassa

Drive to the lakeside town of Hawassa. Relax and recover from your journey at one of Hawassa's fine resorts. 
Overnight Resort - Hawassa 

Day 19  Hawassa - Bale Mountains

Visit the Hawassa fish market in the morning. Drive to the Bale Mountains National Park and take a short walk in the park spotting endemic wildlife.

Day 20  Bale Mountains - Addis Ababa

Drive to Addis Ababa via the Arsi/Bale region, home to many of Ethiopia's famous distance runners. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring dancers and musicians representing some of the country's many ethnic groups. Transfer to airport for late night departure if needed.

Ethiopian Explorer. Historic North, Harar, Omo Valley, National Parks: 20 Days / 19 Nights

Day 01 Addis Ababa

For morning Arrivals at Bole International Airport you may begin your tour after checking into your hotel. For clients arriving in the afternoon or evening, you may begin your tour the following day. African Treasure Tours representative will meet all clients arriving at the airport regardless of arrival time. Visit the Ethnographic Museum, a great introduction to Ethiopian culture and history. Tour the Mercato, one of Africa's largest outdoor markets, and Trinity Cathedral, resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
Overnight Hotel - Addis Ababa

Day 02 Addis Ababa - Bahar Dar

Fly to Bahar Dar on Ethiopian Airlines. Visit the marketplace in Bahar Dar. Take a boat tour on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, and tour ancient island monasteries.
Overnight Hotel - Bahar Dar

Day 03 Bahar Dar - Gondar

Drive through the countryside to Gondar. Tour the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five castles built by a succession of Ethiopian Kings beginning in the early 17th century. Having survived several wars, including air raids during World War 2, the castles are a testament to the resilience of this once mighty African Empire. Visit the church of Debre Birhan Selassie, famous for its religious art and especially its iconic ceiling depicting angels.
Overnight Hotel - Gondar

Day 04  Gondar - Simien Mountains National Park 

Drive to Sankabar the gateway to the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy some light hiking in the afternoon in the park and spot wildlife such as the endemic Gelada baboon.  
Overnight Lodge 

Day 05  Simien Mountains National Park - Axum  

Take a scenic drive to Axum, capital of the ancient Axumite Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Frequent stops at viewpoints along the way. Arrive in Axum late afternoon.
Overnight Hotel - Axum

Day 06  Axum

Tour the ancient stelae fields, standing for 2000 years. Visit the new and impressive Archeological Museum. Visit other tombs and archeological sites as time permits. 
Overnight Hotel - Axum

Day 07  Axum - Ghiralta Lodge

Drive to the Ghiralta Lodge passing the Adwa battlefield, site of Emperor Menelik II's 1895 victory over the invading Italians. Visit the 2,500 year old ruins of Yeha, an ancient moon temple.  Continue past Adigrat and visit Aba Gerima and Petros Paulos, two of the Tigray region's oldest and finest rock churches.    * On this day, we will pass the 6th century monastery of Debre Damos which is perched atop a remote plateau.   The monastery is only accessible using a rope and the monks will help pull visitors up the 20 - 25 meter cliff.  However, we only recommend this for physically fit individuals.  Women are not allowed on the grounds of the monastery, and therefore, it is not part of our regular tour itinerary.  However, we can stop here for those on a custom or private tour.  
Overnight Ghiralta Lodge   

Day 08  Ghiralta Lodge to Mekele 

Visit more of Tigray's remote and ancient rock-hewn churches:  Abraha Atsbeha, dating from the 10th century; the beautiful Wukro Chirkos; and  Medhane Alem Kesho.  Drive to Mekele.
Overnight Hotel - Mekele

Day 09  Mekele - Lalibela

Drive on a scenic road to Lalibela. Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the sunset from the terrace. 
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela

Day 10  Lalibela 

Tour the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This group of eleven monolithic and semi-monolithic structures were carved directly into the stone of the mountainside at least 800 years ago. This complex boasts the largest monolithic church in the world, a maze of passageways and tunnels, intricately carved reliefs, and fabulous examples of icon paintings. 
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela

Day 11  Lalibela

For the morning you have two choices: Take a morning hike with mules to Mount Asheton, with its 13th century rock-hewn monastery and great views of the town; - OR - Drive to Yemrehanna Kristos, a beautiful church situated in a shallow cave that predates the churches of Lalibela. The drive to Yemrehanna will also give you the opportunity to view the rural countryside and villages of the Ethiopian highlands. Following either option above continue with tour of Lalibela's churches in the afternoon. 
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela

Day 12  Lalibela - Addis Ababa - Lake Langano 

Fly to Addis Ababa and then drive to the Rift Valley Lake Langano. Relax at the Sabana Lodge. Lake Langano is safe for swimming.  
Overnight Lodge - Lake Langano

Day 13  Lake Langano - Arba Minch

Drive to Arba Minch, one of the main towns in Southern Ethiopia. On the way, visit a Dorze Village in the Guge Mountains. The Dorze are known for their tall, beehive-shaped bamboo houses. If the base becomes infested with termites, the entire house can be lifted and moved to another location. 
Overnight Hotel - Arba Minch

Day 14  Arba Minch - Jinka

Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo and view some of the largest crocodiles in the world sunning on the banks of the lake. Hippopotami and birdlife are also abundant. Drive to Jinka visiting various peoples such as the Gamo and Derashe. Stop at Key Afar's weekly market (if on a Thursday) and wander among the various tribes such as the Benna and Ari that have gathered to barter their goods. 
Overnight Lodge - Jinka

Day 15  Mago National Park Excursion  

Early morning drive to the Mago National Park to visit the Mursi people. The Mursi women are known for the clay plates they insert into their lower lips. Time permitting, visit the Omo Valley Museum in Jinka. 
Overnight Lodge - Jinka

Day 16  Jinka - Turmi

Drive to Turmi to visit the Hamer people who are well known for the scarring of their bodies, using clay to shape their hairstyles, and the unique practice of "bull-jumping" which every young man must accomplish prior to marriage. En route to Turmi, visit the Benna and Ari people.
Overnight Lodge - Turmi

Day 17  Murele Excursion

Drive to Murele and visit the Karo people, known for their elaborate body-painting. Also visit a village of the Dassanech people. Return to Turmi for the evening.
Overnight Lodge - Turmi 

Day 18  Turmi - Konso 

Drive to Konso, recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A highland people, the Konso are known for the ancient and intricate terraces that encircle their well-planned villages.
Overnight Lodge - Konso

Day 19  Konso - Hawassa 

Drive to the lakeside town of Hawassa. Relax and recover from your journey at one of Hawassa's fine resorts. 
Overnight Resort - Hawassa

Day 20  Hawassa - Bale Mountains National Park 

Drive to the Bale Mountains National Park and meet with park guide. Arrive at the park headquarters in the afternoon, in time for a leisurely afternoon hike, possibly spotting two endemic mammals that frequent the area: Menelik's Bushbuck and the Mountain Nyala. Birds in this area include the Blue-Winged Goose, the Spot-Breasted Lapwing, the Abyssinian Long Claw, the Wattled Ibis, the Black-Headed Siskin, Rouget's Rail, and numerous other species. 
Overnight Hotel - Goba

Day 21  Bale Mountains National Park - Addis Ababa

Drive to Addis Ababa. Optional souvenir shopping if time permits. Enjoy a Farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring dancers and musicians representing some of the country's many ethnic groups. Transfer to airport for late night departure if needed.

Ethiopian Road Trip. History, Nature, Culture: 25 Days / 24 Nights

Day 01  Arrival - Addis Ababa 

For morning Arrivals at Bole International Airport you may begin your tour after checking into your hotel.  For clients arriving in the afternoon or evening, you may begin your tour the following day.  African Treasure Tours representative will meet all clients arriving at the airport regardless of arrival time. Visit the Ethnographic Museum, a great introduction to Ethiopian culture and history. Tour the Mercato, one of Africa's largest outdoor markets, and Trinity Cathedral, resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
Overnight Hotel - Addis Ababa 

Day 02  Addis Ababa - Bahar Dar

Drive to Bahar Dar via the Blue Nile Gorge, the "Grand Canyon" of East Africa. Stop at the historically important Monastery of Debre Libanos, rebuilt since it was razed by the Italians during the 1930's.  Overnight Hotel - Bahar Dar  

Day 03  Bahar Dar 

Visit the Bahar Dar marketplace. Take a boat tour on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, and visit ancient island monasteries. 
Overnight Hotel - Bahar Dar  

Day 04  Bahar Dar - Gondar

Drive through the countryside to Gondar. Tour the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five castles built by a succession of Ethiopian Kings beginning in the early 17th century. Having survived several wars, including air raids during World War 2, the castles are a testament to the resilience of this once mighty African Empire. Visit the church of Debre Birhan Selassie, famous fo religious art and especially its iconic ceiling depicting angels.
Overnight Hotel - Gondar 

Day 05  Gondar - Sankabar 

Drive to Sankabar the gateway to the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy some light hiking in the afternoon in the park.  Overnight Lodge 

Day 06  Sankabar - Axum 

Take a scenic drive to Axum, capital of the ancient Axumite Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Frequent stops at viewpoints along the way. Arrive in Axum late afternoon.
Overnight Hotel - Axum 

Day 07  Axum

Tour the ancient stelae fields, standing for 2000 years. Visit the new and impressive Archeological Museum. Visit other tombs and archeological sites as time permits. 
Overnight Hotel - Axum 

Day 08  Axum - Ghiralta Lodge 

Drive to the Ghiralta Lodge passing the Adwa battlefield, site of Emperor Menelik II's 1895 victory over the invading Italians. Visit the 2,500 year old ruins of Yeha, an ancient moon temple.  Continue past Adigrat and visit Aba Gerima and Petros Paulos, two of the Tigray region's oldest and finest rock churches.    * On this day, we will pass the 6th century monastery of Debre Damos which is perched atop a remote plateau.   The monastery is only accessible using a rope and the monks will help pull visitors up the 20 - 25 meter cliff.  However, we only recommend this for physically fit individuals.  Women are not allowed on the grounds of the monastery, and therefore, it is not part of our regular tour itinerary.  However, we can stop here for those on a custom or private tour.  
Overnight Ghiralta Lodge

Day 9  Ghiralta Lodge - Mekele

Visit more of Tigray's remote and ancient rock-hewn churches:  Abraha Atsbeha, dating from the 10th century; the beautiful Wukro Chirkos; and  Medhane Alem Kesho.  Drive to Mekele.
Overnight Hotel - Mekele 

Day 10  Mekele - Lalibela 

Drive on a scenic road to Lalibela. Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the sunset from the terrace. 
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela 

Day 11  Lalibela

Tour the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This group of eleven monolithic and semi- monolithic structures were carved directly into the stone of the mountainside at least 800 years ago. This complex boasts the largest monolithic church in the world, a maze of passageways and tunnels, intricately carved reliefs, and fabulous examples of icon paintings. 
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela

Day 12  Lalibela - Weldiya 

For the morning you have two choices: Take a morning hike with mules to Mount Asheton, with its 13th century rock-hewn monastery and great views of the town; - OR - Drive to Yemrehanna Kristos, a beautiful church situated in a shallow cave that predates the churches of Lalibela. The drive to Yemrehanna will also give you the opportunity to view the rural countryside and villages of the Ethiopian highlands. After lunch, drive to Weldiya.
Overnight Hotel - Weldiya

Day 13  Weldiya - Awash National Park

Drive to Awash National Park. En route visit a village of the Afar people. 
Overnight Hotel - Awash National Park

Day 14  Awash National Park - Harar

Early morning game viewing. Afterwards, drive to Harar via Harege Plateau a region of coffee and chat plantations. 
Overnight Hotel - Harar

Day 15  Harar 

Stroll through the 16th century walled city of Harar, the fourth most important city in the Islamic World. See the home of Arthur Rimbuad, renowned French poet who worked and lived in Harar as a "gun-runner" during the 19th century. Visit the National and Harari museums; the house of Ras Mekonnen (father of Haile Selassie); and a traditional Harari home. In the evening see the "Hyena Man" feeding the hyenas that gather nightly outside the town. 
Overnight Hotel - Harar

Day 16  Harar - Lake Langano

Drive to Langano, one of the Rift Valley Lakes for relaxation at the Sabana Lodge. Lake Langano is Bilharzia free and safe for swimming and has fantastic birdlife. 
Overnight Lodge - Lake Langano

Day 17  Lake Langano - Arba Minch

Drive to Arba Minch via Melka Kunture, a stone-age archeological site; Adadi Mariam, a 12th century rock-hewn church; and Tiya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its mysterious stelae, thought to be grave markers, dating from the 12th century. Also visit a Dorze Village in the Guge Mountains. The Dorze are known for their tall, beehive-shaped bamboo houses. If the base becomes infested with termites, the entire house can be lifted and moved to another location.
Overnight Hotel - Arba Minch

Day 18  Arba Minch - Jinka 

Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo and view some of the largest crocodiles in the world sunning on the banks of the lake. Hippopotami and birdlife are also abundant. Drive to Jinka visiting various peoples such as the Gamo and Derashe. Stop at Key Afar's weekly market (if on a Thursday) and wander among the various tribes such as the Benna and Ari that have gathered to barter their goods. 
Overnight Lodge - Jinka 

Day 19  Mago National Park Excursion

Early morning drive to the Mago National Park to visit the Mursi people. The Mursi women are known for the clay plates they insert into their lower lips. Time permitting, visit the Omo Valley Museum in Jinka. 
Overnight Lodge - Jinka 

Day 20  Jinka - Turmi 

Drive to Turmi to visit the Hamer people who are well known for the scarring of their bodies, using clay to shape their hairstyles, and the unique practice of "bull-jumping" which every young man must accomplish prior to marriage. En route to Turmi, visit the Benna and Ari people.
Overnight Lodge - Turmi 

Day 21  Murele Excursion

Drive to Murele and visit the Karo people, known for their elaborate body-painting. Also visit a village of the Dassanech people. Return to Turmi for the evening. 
Overnight Lodge - Turmi

Day 22  Turmi - Konso

Drive to Konso, recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A highland people, the Konso are known for the ancient and intricate terraces that encircle their well-planned villages.
Overnight Lodge - Konso

Day 23  Konso - Hawassa

Drive to the lakeside town of Hawassa. Relax and recover from your journey at one of Hawassa's fine resorts.   
Overnight Resort - Hawassa

Day 24  Hawassa - Bale Mountains National Park 

Drive to the Bale Mountains National Park and meet with park guide. Arrive at the park headquarters in the afternoon, in time for a leisurely afternoon hike, possibly spotting two endemic mammals that frequent the area: Menelik's Bushbuck and the Mountain Nyala. Birds in this area include the Blue-Winged Goose, the Spot-Breasted Lapwing, the Abyssinian Long Claw, the Wattled Ibis, the Black-Headed Siskin, Rouget's Rail, and numerous other species.
Overnight Hotel - Bale Mountains National Park

Day 25  Bale Mountains National Park - Addis Ababa

Drive to Addis Ababa. Optional souvenir shopping if time permits. Enjoy a Farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring dancers and musicians representing some of the country's many ethnic groups.  Transfer to airport for late night departure if needed.

Ethiopian Adventure. History, Nature, Culture: 27 Days / 26 Nights

Day 01  Arrival - Addis Ababa 

For morning Arrivals at Bole International Airport you may begin your tour after checking into your hotel.  For clients arriving in the afternoon or evening, you may begin your tour the following day.  African Treasure Tours representative will meet all clients arriving at the airport regardless of arrival time. Visit the Ethnographic Museum, a great introduction to Ethiopian culture and history. Tour the Mercato, one of Africa's largest outdoor markets, and Trinity Cathedral, resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
Overnight Hotel - Addis Ababa 

Day 02  Addis Ababa - Bahar Dar

Drive to Bahar Dar via the Blue Nile Gorge, the "Grand Canyon" of East Africa. Stop at the historically important Monastery of Debre Libanos, rebuilt since it was razed by the Italians during the 1930's.  Overnight Hotel - Bahar Dar  

Day 03  Bahar Dar - Gondar

Drive through the countryside to Gondar. Tour the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five castles built by a succession of Ethiopian Kings beginning in the early 17th century. Having survived several wars, including air raids during World War 2, the castles are a testament to the resilience of this once mighty African Empire. Visit the church of Debre Birhan Selassie, famous fo religious art and especially its iconic ceiling depicting angels.
Overnight Hotel - Gondar 

Day 04 Gondar - Sankabar 

Drive to Sankabar the gateway to the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy some light hiking in the afternoon in the park.  Overnight Lodge 

Day 05  Sankabar - Axum 

Take a scenic drive to Axum, capital of the ancient Axumite Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Frequent stops at viewpoints along the way. Arrive in Axum late afternoon.
Overnight Hotel - Axum 

Day 06  Axum

Tour the ancient stelae fields, standing for 2000 years. Visit the new and impressive Archeological Museum. Visit other tombs and archeological sites as time permits. 
Overnight Hotel - Axum 

Day 07 Axum - Ghiralta Lodge 

Drive to the Ghiralta Lodge passing the Adwa battlefield, site of Emperor Menelik II's 1895 victory over the invading Italians. Visit the 2,500 year old ruins of Yeha, an ancient moon temple.  Continue past Adigrat and visit Aba Gerima and Petros Paulos, two of the Tigray region's oldest and finest rock churches.    * On this day, we will pass the 6th century monastery of Debre Damos which is perched atop a remote plateau.   The monastery is only accessible using a rope and the monks will help pull visitors up the 20 - 25 meter cliff.  However, we only recommend this for physically fit individuals.  Women are not allowed on the grounds of the monastery, and therefore, it is not part of our regular tour itinerary.  However, we can stop here for those on a custom or private tour.  
Overnight Ghiralta Lodge

Day 8  Ghiralta Lodge - Mekele

Visit more of Tigray's remote and ancient rock-hewn churches:  Abraha Atsbeha, dating from the 10th century; the beautiful Wukro Chirkos; and  Medhane Alem Kesho.  Drive to Mekele.
Overnight Hotel - Mekele 

Day 09  Mekele - Ahmedela

Meet support vehicles and drive to Ahmedela via Berhaile. Make camp, and see camel caravans passing against a backdrop of dramatic sunsets. 
Overnight Camping

Day 10  Lake Asale and Dalol Excursion

Visit Lake Asale and watch the salt workers as they cut bricks of salt from the lake bed. The bricks are then sold on the market and loaded on camel caravans for transport to the highlands. Proceed to Dalol and view the dramatic and colorful geological formations caused by the hot springs rich in sulfur, potash, and salt. 
Overnight Camping

Day 11  Trek to Erta Alle 

Drive to Dodom. Trek 15 kilometers to the Erta Alle volcano lake, 613 meters above sea level. Arrive at Erta Alle around midnight and walk to see the spectacular volcanic eruption. Set up camp and rest. 
Overnight Camping

Day 12  Drive to Mekele 

Return trek to Dodom. Drive to Mekele. 
Overnight Hotel - Mekele

Day 13  Mekele - Lalibela

Drive on a scenic road to Lalibela. Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the sunset from the terrace. 
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela

Day 14  Lalibela

Tour the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This group of eleven monolithic and semi- monolithic structures were carved directly into the stone of the mountainside at least 800 years ago. This complex boasts the largest monolithic church in the world, a maze of passageways and tunnels, intricately carved reliefs, and fabulous examples of icon paintings.
Overnight Hotel - Lalibela

Day 15  Lalibela - Addis Ababa - Dire Dawa  

Fly to Dire Dawa via Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines.  Visit Dire Dawe's massive outdoor market. 
Overnight Hotel - Dire Dawa

Day 16  Harar 

Drive from Dire Dawa to Harar stopping at Ethiopia's largest "chat" market enroute.  Stroll through the 16th century walled city of Harar, the fourth most important city in the Islamic World. See the home of Arthur Rimbuad, renowned French poet who worked and lived in Harar as a "gun-runner" during the 19th century. Visit the National and Harari museums; the house of Ras Mekonnen (father of Haile Selassie); and a traditional Harari home. In the evening see the "Hyena Man" feeding the hyenas that gather nightly outside the town. 
Overnight Hotel - Harar

Day 17  Harar - Awash National Park

Drive to Awash National Park. Visit the Awash Falls. Take an evening game drive in Awash National Park and visit an area frequented by hyenas. 
Overnight Hotel - Awash National Park

Day 18  Awash National Park - Lake Langano 

Drive to Langano, one of the Rift Valley Lakes for relaxation at the Sabana Lodge. Lake Langano is Bilharzia free and safe for swimming and has fantastic birdlife. 
Overnight Lodge - Lake Langano

Day 19  Lake Langano - Arba Minch 

Drive to Arba Minch, one of the main towns in Southern Ethiopia. On the way, visit a Dorze Village in the Guge Mountains. The Dorze are known for their tall, beehive-shaped bamboo houses. If the base becomes infested with termites, the entire house can be lifted and moved to another location. 
Overnight Hotel - Arba Minch

Day 20  Arba Minch - Jinka 

Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo and view some of the largest crocodiles in the world sunning on the banks of the lake. Hippopotami and birdlife are also abundant. Drive to Jinka visiting various peoples such as the Gamo and Derashe. Stop at Key Afar's weekly market (if on a Thursday) and wander among the various tribes such as the Benna and Ari that have gathered to barter their goods. 
Overnight Lodge - Jinka

Day 21  Mago National Park Excursion

Early morning drive to the Mago National Park to visit the Mursi people. The Mursi women are known for the clay plates they insert into their lower lips. Time permitting, visit the Omo Valley Museum in Jinka. 
Overnight Lodge - Jinka

Day 22  Jinka - Turmi

Drive to Turmi to visit the Hamer people who are well known for the scarring of their bodies, using clay to shape their hairstyles, and the unique practice of "bull-jumping" which every young man must accomplish prior to marriage. En route to Turmi, visit the Benna and Ari people.
Overnight Lodge - Turmi

Day 23  Murele Excursion 

Drive to Murele and visit the Karo people, known for their elaborate body-painting. Also visit a village of the Dassanech people. Return to Turmi for the evening.  
Overnight Lodge - Turmi

Day 24  Turmi - Konso

Drive to Konso, recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A highland people, the Konso are known for the ancient and intricate terraces that encircle their well-planned villages.
Overnight Lodge - Konso 

Day 25  Konso - Hawassa

Drive to the lakeside town of Hawassa. Relax and recover from your journey at one of Hawassa's fine resorts.
Overnight Resort - Hawassa

Day 26  Hawassa - Bale Mountains National Park

Drive to the Bale Mountains National Park and meet with park guide. Arrive at the park headquarters in the afternoon, in time for a leisurely afternoon hike, possibly spotting two endemic mammals that frequent the area: Menelik's Bushbuck and the Mountain Nyala. Birds in this area include the Blue-Winged Goose, the Spot- Breasted Lapwing, the Abyssinian Long Claw, the Wattled Ibis, the Black-Headed Siskin, Rouget's Rail, and numerous other species. 
Overnight Hotel - Bale Mountains National Park

Day 27  Bale Mountains National Park - Addis Ababa

Drive to Addis Ababa. Optional souvenir shopping if time permits.  Enjoy a Farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring dancers and musicians representing some of the country's many ethnic groups.  Transfer to airport for late night departure if needed.