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Northern Ethiopia, often referred to as the “Historical Circuit,” is a treasure trove of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural wonders. The region is anchored by Axum, the ancient heart of Ethiopian civilization, where towering obelisks, royal tombs, and the legendary Church of St. Mary of Zion—believed to house the Ark of the Covenant—tell stories of a glorious past. Lalibela captivates visitors with its 12th-century rock-hewn churches, marvels of medieval engineering carved from solid rock and still active as places of worship. Gondar, known as the “Camelot of Africa,” showcases the Fasil Ghebbi, an impressive royal enclosure of castles and palaces, and the Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famed for its vibrant ceiling frescoes. In Bahir Dar, Lake Tana and its serene island monasteries offer a tranquil escape, while the majestic Blue Nile Falls thunder nearby. The Simien Mountains National Park, with its jagged peaks, deep valleys, and unique wildlife like the Gelada baboon and Walia ibex, provides a stunning backdrop to this historical and cultural journey. Together, these sites embody the profound heritage and natural beauty of Ethiopia’s northern highlands.
- Day 1
- Day 02
- Day 03
- Day 04
- Day 05 Lalibela
- Day 06
- Day 07 Axum - Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa
Arrival at in Addis Ababa, Bole international airport. Transfer to your hotel for an overnight.
Addis Ababa - Bahar Dar
Fly to Bahar Dar on Ethiopian Airlines. Take a boat tour on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, and tour ancient monasteries on the Zege Peninsula. We will visit Ura Kidane Mihiret. End the day with a sunset
visit to Bezawit Hills overlooking the Nile River.
Overnight Lodge (B, L, D)
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 empire. Visit the church of Debre Birhan Selassie, famous for its
religious art and especially its iconic ceiling depicting angels.
Overnight Hotel (B, L, D)
Gondar - Lalibela
Fly to Lalibela on Ethiopian Airlines 700 kilometers north of Addis Ababa. Tour the magnificent
rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This group of eleven monolithic churches were
carved directly into the stone 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. In the late afternoon, enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony and
learn the process for baking injera (a staple food for much of Ethiopia.)
Overnight Hotel (B, L, D)
Lalibela
For the morning we have two options: Take a morning hike with mules to the 13th century
rock-hewn monastery of Mount Asheton. The walk provides wonderful views of Lalibela and the
surrounding countryside. - OR - Drive to Yemrehanna Kristos, a beautiful church situated in a shallow
cave that predates the churches of Lalibela. The drive to Yemrehanna will 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 (B, L, D)
Lalibela - Axum
Fly to Axum on Ethiopian Airlines. Tour the ancient stelae fields, standing for 2000 years. Visit the new and impressive Archaeological Museum. See St. Mary Tsion Church, which houses the Ark of the Covenant according to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church (no one is allowed to see the Ark.) Visit other tombs and archaeological sites as time permits.
Overnight Hotel (B, L, D)
Day 07 Axum - Addis Ababa
Fly to Addis Ababa. 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.
(B, L, D)
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