27 Days Grand Ethiopia Tour
Tour Overview
Discover Ethiopia’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and nature on this epic 27-day journey. From the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and ancient ruins of Axum to the tribal traditions of the Omo Valley and wildlife of the Bale Mountains, this tour offers a deep dive into one of Africa’s most diverse and fascinating countries. Perfect for travelers seeking a truly immersive experience.
Day 1 – Welcome to Addis Ababa
Arrive in Ethiopia’s capital. After check-in, enjoy a half or full-day city tour exploring museums, churches, markets, or the Entoto hills.
Day 2 – Boat Trip on Lake Tana
Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Tana visiting historic churches on the Zeghe Peninsula and Kibran Gebreal Island, spotting hippos and birds along the way.
Day 3 – Blue Nile Falls & Drive to Gondar
Visit the Blue Nile Falls via a scenic walk, then drive to Gondar with a stop for lunch in Bahir Dar.
Day 4 – Royal Gondar & Journey to the Simiens
Explore Gondar’s royal castles, churches, and baths. Drive to the Simien Mountains for sunset views.
Day 5 – Explore the Simien Mountains
Full day to explore the Simien Mountains on foot or by car. Spot Gelada monkeys, Walia ibex, and other endemic wildlife.
Day 6 – Scenic Drive to Axum
Travel through dramatic highlands and gorges to reach the ancient city of Axum.
Day 7 – Ancient Legends of Axum
Discover Axum’s obelisks, churches, Queen of Sheba’s legacy, and the story of the Ark of the Covenant.
Day 8 – Tigray’s Temples to Mekele
Visit the Yeha Temple and Aberha Atsbeha church en route to Mekele, exploring Tigray’s rock-hewn wonders.
Day 9 – Drive to Lalibela
Enjoy breathtaking scenery on the way to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s spiritual heart.
Day 10 – Lalibela’s Rock-Hewn Churches
Spend the day visiting Lalibela’s incredible 12th-century churches. Optional hikes or market visits available.
Day 11 – Fly to Harar via Dire Dawa
Take two domestic flights to reach Harar, arriving by evening to check in and relax.
Day 12 – Explore the Walled City of Harar
Wander the alleyways of historic Harar, visit shrines and mosques, and witness the famous Hyena Man feeding ceremony.
Day 13 – Drive to Awash National Park
Travel through highlands and plains to reach Awash National Park. Evening game drive.
Day 14 – Wildlife & Scenery of Awash
Spend the day exploring Awash’s wildlife and landscapes. Expect to see oryx, baboons, and exotic birdlife.
Day 15 – From Awash to Lake Langano
Drive to Langano with a stop at Lake Ziway. Optional visit to the Shala-Abijatta National Park.
Day 16 – Drive to Arba Minch via Senkele
Head south with a visit to Senkele Game Sanctuary, known for its endemic wildlife.
Day 17 – Dorze Village & Lake Chamo
Visit the Dorze highland village, then enjoy a boat ride on Lake Chamo to spot crocodiles and hippos.
Day 18 – Market Day in Key Afar, Arrive in Jinka
Travel through tribal regions, visit Key Afar market, and arrive in Jinka by evening.
Day 19 – Mursi & Ari Tribes
Meet the Mursi in Mago National Park, followed by a cultural visit to the Ari people in Jinka.
Day 20 – Jinka to Turmi via Dimeka Market
Stop at the Dimeka market and visit local tribes on your way to Turmi.
Day 21 – Dassanech Village & Hammer Culture
Cross the Omo River to visit the Dassanech people. Experience the traditional Hammer dance or bull-jumping.
Day 22 – Turmi to Yabello via Konso
Visit the UNESCO-listed Konso cultural landscape and continue to Yabello.
Day 23 – Singing Wells & Salt Crater
Witness the Borana people at their singing wells and hike to the El Sod salt crater.
Day 24 – Coffee Culture in Yirgalem
Drive through coffee country and relax at a beautiful eco-lodge in Yirgalem.
Day 25 – To the Bale Mountains
Stop in Hawassa to visit the fish market before arriving in the Bale Mountains for a nature walk.
Day 26 – Bale Mountains National Park
Full day in the Bale Mountains searching for Ethiopian wolves and taking in the high-altitude scenery.
Day 27 – Return to Addis Ababa
Scenic drive back to Addis. Enjoy a cultural dinner with music and dancing before your evening airport transfer.
