Ethiopia - The Historical Route
14 days from £4450 per person
A classic journey through northern Ethiopia covering all the major religious and historical sites in the country this tour takes you through breathtaking scenery and history into the very core of Ethiopian life. From modern Addis Ababa and the ancient cultured city of Axum – home of the Ark of the Covenant – to the atmospheric pilgrimage town of Lalibela, spectacular Blue Nile Falls near Bahir Dar and the Royal Palaces of Gondar, this is a truly memorable journey encompassing all that is synonymous with Ethiopia.
Route: Addis Ababa - Bahir Dar – Gondar - Simien Mountains – Axum – Hawzen – Mekele - Lalibela - Addis Ababa
Itinerary Highlights
Aksum is the original capital city of the Kingdom of Aksum and one of the oldest inhabited places in Africa. Numerous tall stelae or obelisks are over 1700 years old.
One of Ethiopia’s holiest cities, Lalibela is famous for its rock-cut churches. As the population is mostly Orthodox Christians, many of these churches are still in daily use.
Bahar Dar is a pleasant city with wide avenues lined with palm trees and colourful flowers. From here you can visit Lake Tana and the source of the Blue Nile.
Itinerary: Ethiopia - The Historical Route
Accommodation in Addis Ababa: Wassamar Hotel (or similar)
This morning leave Addis Ababa and fly with your guide to Bahir Dar where you will be transferred to your lodge. One of Ethiopia’s most attractive towns, Bahar Dar is located on the southern shore of Lake Tana and is an excellent base from which to visit the Blue Nile Falls and the island monasteries that dot the lake. After lunch take a trip to the Blue Nile Falls, recognised as being one of Africa’s most spectacular waterfalls. That afternoon return to Bahir Dar and explore the local markets dotted with stalls selling jewellery, woven and embroidered garments and ox-horn cups. (B)
Accommodation in Bahir Dar: Kuriftu Lodge (or similar)
After breakfast take a boat trip on Lake Tana to visit the many island monasteries. Stop off at Ura Kidane Mihret known for its 14th-century grass-roofed churches and their magnificent wall murals. During the walk to Ura Kidane Mihret through the dense forest, encounter monkeys and abundant birdlife. Later that afternoon enjoy the beautiful sunset over Lake Tana. (B)
Accommodation in Bahir Dar: Kuriftu Lodge (or similar)
Today drive to Gondar, a 17th-century royal city of Ethiopia. The city commands an important location at the crossroads of three ancient caravan routes and is home to both exceptionally well-preserved castles and churches that stand alongside modern Italian Art Deco architecture. After lunch visit the 17th-century Royal Enclosure, home to a number of fascinating buildings including the palace of the Emperor Fasiladas. Also visit the Debre Berhan Selassie Church – the most famous in Ethiopia. (B)
Accommodation in Gondar: Goha Hotel (or similar)
Drive outside of Gonder to visit Wolleka, a Falasha Village and the one-time home of a community of Falashas, Ethiopian Jews. Afterwards, continue towards the spectacular Simien Mountains. Declared a UNESCO World Nature Heritage site due to the parks unique landscape and endemic fauna, enjoy the gorges, valleys and waterfalls of the Simien Mountains. Encounter animals such as the Gelada baboons, Simien fox and Walia ibex. (B)
Accommodation in The Simien Mountains: Simien Lodge (or similar)
Today drive up to Sankaber and admire the spectacular scenery of this mountainous region. Visit Jinber, Ethiopia’s highest waterfall after a gentle two-hour hike and enjoy the beautiful views over the valleys and gorges. Spend the rest of the day exploring the region and enjoying a stunning sunset just before dusk. (B)
Accommodation in The Simien Mountains: Simien Lodge (or similar)
After breakfast continue your journey to Axum. Sitting at an altitude of 1637m, Axum is considered a holy city of Ethiopia where Ethiopian Christianity is said to have begun. This ancient city was also once the centre of a rich, powerful and highly civilised empire. On arrival to your hotel, relax and enjoy the facilities available. (B)
Accommodation in Axum: Yared Zema International Hotel (or similar)
Today you have a full day to explore this fascinating city with your guide. Start the day at the fascinating St Mary of Zion Churches. Within this enclosure is a small guarded chapel said to contain the Ark of the Covenant. Afterwards, continue the short distance to the Northern Stelae Field which is home to over one hundred finely carved monoliths. Also visit the Queen of Sheba’s bath and the local Royal Palaces. (B)
Accommodation in Axum: Yared Zema International Hotel (or similar)
This morning depart Axum and drive to the temple of Yeha, a well preserved stone temple estimated to be 2,500 years old. Also visit Adwa where the 1896 battle between the Ethiopians and Italians took place. Continue through the amazing rocky landscape of Tigray before arriving in Hawzen in the late afternoon. (B)
Accommodation in Hawzen: Gheralta Lodge (or similar)
Today you have the option of a spectacular half-day trek in the Gheralta Mountains to explore the churches of Maryama dn Daniel Korkor built on top of soaring cliffs. The views from the cliffs are truly magical and are worth the hike. After lunch continue to Mekele where you will explore the rock-hewn churches of this city. (B)
Accommodation in Mekele: Axum Hotel (or similar)
Depart Mekele and head towards the important town of Lalibela located in the isolated Lasta Mountains. Famous for its rock-cut churches this small and largely undeveloped town is one of the most important religious-historical sites of the Christian world. Relax at the hotel this evening. (B)
Accommodation in Lalibela: Panoramic View Hotel (or similar)
Today explore Lalibela and the surrounding area. Visit the remarkable rock churches which have been literally cut into the bedrock. Orthodox Christianity is still central to this community, and the faithful still gather to hear priest clad in white and purple sing the liturgy in the early morning, and the church air is heavy with incense. (B)
Accommodation in Lalibela: Panoramic View Hotel (or similar)
**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
What's included
- International flights from the UK
- Domestic flights
- Private car and driver
- Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's not included
- Cost of visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
Guide to Price
The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.
