10-Days Northern Ethiopia Historic Tour

A 10-day historic tour of Northern Ethiopia will allow you to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa Upon your arrival at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, you will be greeted by a guide who will assist you with the transfer to your hotel. Take some time to rest and acclimate to the altitude.

Day 2: Addis Ababa City Tour Embark on a city tour of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. Visit the National Museum, where you can see the famous fossilized remains of Lucy, a hominid dating back millions of years. Explore the Holy Trinity Cathedral and the vibrant Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets.

Day 3: Bahir Dar and Lake Tana Fly to Bahir Dar, a city located on the shores of Lake Tana. Take a boat trip on the lake to visit some of its ancient monasteries, such as Ura Kidane Mehret and Azwa Mariam. In the afternoon, visit the Blue Nile Falls, also known as “Tis Issat” or the “Smoking Water.”

Day 4: Gondar Drive to Gondar, known as the “Camelot of Africa.” Explore the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses several castles and palaces from the 17th century. Visit the Debre Birhan Selassie Church, famous for its beautiful ceiling adorned with angelic faces.

Day 5: Simien Mountains National Park Embark on a day trip to the Simien Mountains National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy breathtaking views of the dramatic landscapes, spot endemic wildlife such as the Gelada baboon and the Ethiopian wolf, and take a short hike to appreciate the natural beauty of the park.

Day 6: Axum Fly to Axum, an ancient city that was once the capital of the Aksumite Empire. Explore the archaeological sites, including the famous obelisks, the ruins of ancient palaces, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, which is believed to house the Ark of the Covenant.

Day 7: Lalibela Fly to Lalibela, home to the famous rock-hewn churches. Visit the 11 monolithic churches, carved out of solid rock, and marvel at their architectural beauty and religious significance. Lalibela is often referred to as the “New Jerusalem” and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 8: Lalibela (Optional Excursion) Take an optional excursion to the nearby Yemrehanna Kristos Church, known for its unique architectural style and beautiful frescoes. Alternatively, you can explore the local markets and interact with the friendly locals.

Day 9: Lalibela to Addis Ababa Fly back to Addis Ababa and spend the day exploring the city at your leisure. You can visit museums, art galleries, or indulge in some shopping for traditional Ethiopian crafts and souvenirs.

Day 10: Departure Transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of your historic tour of Northern Ethiopia.

Please note that this itinerary is just a suggestion, and it can be customized according to your preferences and time constraints.