Noor al Sharqiya, Building No. 1537/1, Way No. 5026 Ghala, Muscat, Oman

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Volcanic thrills image
Man sitting inside private jet airplane and looking outside the window while reading a magazine.
Your Journey

From Ancient to Volcanic thrills

Enchanting Ethiopia – A Odyssey

Destination Overview

This 12-day journey takes you on an unforgettable adventure through Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes and rich history. Explore the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, witness the raw power of Erta Ale volcano, trek through the Gheralta Mountains, and uncover the ancient mysteries of Axum. This trip is a perfect blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and thrilling adventure.

Best period
October to June (Rainy Season)
Ideal duration
12 Days
Airport
Addis Ababa Bole Intl. Airport (ADD)
Transfer
Domestic Flights, Private Vehicle, Trekking

Your Tour

Indicative price range

4580 – 7620 USD per person

What's Included

All accommodations as listed in the itinerary
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner unless otherwise specified)
Domestic flights (Addis Ababa – Lalibela, Semera – Mekelle, Axum – Addis Ababa, Lalibela – Addis Ababa)
Transportation in a private vehicle with a driver
Services of an English-speaking guide throughout the tour
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites and activities
Camel transport at Erta Ale
Camping equipment and supplies for the Erta Ale trek
The price indicated below is for informational purposes only. Prices depend on various factors. The final price of your tour will be the one proposed by our Travel Designers on your personalized quote.
Your Journey

Ethiopia: From Ancient Wonders to Volcanic Thrills

Sacred Lalibela
Man sitting inside private jet airplane and looking outside the window while reading a magazine.
Day 1

Sacred Lalibela

Land in Addis Ababa and catch a quick flight to Lalibela, the heart of Ethiopia’s rock-hewn churches. Spend the day exploring these UNESCO World Heritage sites, marveling at their intricate architecture and spiritual significance
Activities
Fly to Lalibela, visit select churches Accommodation: Hotel in Lalibela Meals: Included
Day 2

A Capital Pause Before Departure

Continue exploring Lalibela’s unique churches in the morning. In the afternoon, fly back to Addis Ababa for an overnight stay, perhaps exploring the capital at your leisure.
Activities
Morning church visits in Lalibela, return flight to Addis Ababa Meals: Included Accommodation: Hotel in Addis Ababa
Day 3

The Fiery Depths of Danakil

Fly from Addis Ababa to Semera, gateway to the otherworldly Danakil Depression. Drive to Afdera and soak in the unique salt lake scenery before an afternoon trek to the basecamp of Erta Ale volcano.
Activities
Fly to Semera, drive to Afdera, trek to Erta Ale basecamp Accommodation: Camping at Erta Ale Meals: Included
Day 4

Lava & Salt Wonders

Rise early to witness the mesmerizing lava lake of Erta Ale at Rise early to witness the mesmerizing lava lake of Erta Ale at sunrise. Then, journey to the salt flats of Lake Assale and the colorful mineral formations of Dallol. Return to Afdera for the night.
Activities
Sunrise at Erta Ale, visit Hamad Ela, Lake Assale, Dallol, return to Afdera Meals: Included Accommodation: Camping at Lake Afdera
Farewell to the Afar
Day 5

Farewell to the Afar

Enjoy a final sunrise over Lake Afdera, then drive back to Semera for your flight to Addis Ababa. Depending on your flight schedule, explore the capital or prepare for your onward journey.
Activities
Sunrise at Afdera, drive to Semera, fly to Addis Ababa Meals: Breakfast included Accommodation: N/A (Departure)
Tigray’s Ancient Treasures
Day 6

Tigray’s Ancient Treasures

From Mekelle, venture into the Gheralta Mountains, home to ancient rock-hewn churches like Abrha We Atsbeha and Yohans Maqudi. Pay respects at the Al Nejashi Mosque, a significant Islamic site.
Activities
Drive to Gheralta, visit churches and mosqu Meals: Included Accommodation: Hotel in Gheralta
Mountaintop Monasteries
Day 7

Mountaintop Monasteries

Embark on a full-day trek through the Gheralta Mountains, visiting the remote Debre Damo monastery (men only) or exploring other churches and villages in the area.
Activities
Full-day trek to Debre Damo or other churches Meals: Included Accommodation: Hotel in Gheralta
Reaching for the Heavens
Day 8

Reaching for the Heavens

Challenge yourself with the climb to Abuna Yemata Guh, a church carved into a sheer cliff face. Admire the ancient paintings and soak in the breathtaking views before driving to Axum.
Activities
Climb to Abuna Yemata Guh, drive to Axum Meals: Included Accommodation: Hotel in Axum
Axum: Echoes of an Empire
Day 9

Axum: Echoes of an Empire

Explore the ruins of Axum, the heart of the ancient Ethiopian kingdom. Visit the towering stelae, the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion, and other historical sites.
Activities
Full-day tour of Axum’s historical sites Meals: Included Accommodation: Hotel in Axum
Back to the Capital
Day 10

Back to the Capital

Fly back to Addis Ababa, where you can delve into the city’s museums, markets, and cultural offerings, or simply relax and reflect on your journey.
Activities
Fly to Addis Ababa, city exploration or relaxation Meals: Included Accommodation: Hotel in Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa Culture
Day 11

Addis Ababa Culture

A buffer day for deep-diving into the capital’s vibrant culture, fine dining, and last-minute souvenir shopping at the Merkato.
Activities
Cultural immersion, fine dining, shop at Merkato Meals: Included Accommodation: Hotel in Addis Adaba
Departure
Day 12

Departure

Final morning at leisure in Addis Ababa before a private transfer to Bole International Airport (ADD) for your flight home.
Activities
Morning at leisure, airport transfer Meals: Included Get in touch Luxury, comfort, and adventure await—reserve now Bespoke Travel Planning, Tailored to You Just one click to tell us about your escape desires and receive a personalized proposal. Get Quote Let’s Design Your Perfect Escape—Together Let’s talk about your next trip during a personalized phone interview with one of our experts. Schedule Now Luxury Travel Planning with No Obligation Our team is here to help you design a tailor-made trip that exceeds your expectations. Start My Journey Reach out to Lux Orient Travel for a personalized quote designed just for you. Experience Oman in unmatched comfort, style, and authenticity. Book Your Exclusive Journey Now!

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