Day 1: Addis Ababa
Arrive at the airport in Addis Ababa, & transfer to the hotel. Enjoy a guided tour of the city this afternoon. Visit the Ethnological Museum, which features a display of Emperor Haile Selassie’s bedroom, & see the famous Holy Trinity Cathedral. This evening, watch a unique cultural performance while enjoying traditional Ethiopian cuisine.
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Gondar
In the morning, transfer to the airport, & board domestic flight to Gondar. Here you will learn about Emperor Fasilides & the rulers who led the land thereafter. See the royal complex, which features the palaces built by these six emperors, & later visit Debre Birhan Selassie Church, which features fascinating wall & ceiling artwork. After the tour, transfer to the hotel. Enjoy dinner & an overnight stay in Gondar.
Day 3: Gondar – Simien National Park
Head for the Simien Mountains today. This majestic range features peaks that surpass an incredible 13,000 feet. Enjoy a day hike, which features breathtaking views & a chance to see the area’s popular wildlife, Gelada monkeys. After today’s adventure in Simien National Park, transfer to the hotel for dinner & an overnight stay.
Day 4: Simien National Park – Axum
Learn about the history of the Ge’ez language on the way to the city of Axum. Upon arrival, check-in to the hotel, & spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 5: Axum
After breakfast, head to Sanctuary Chapel, the legendary site of the Ark of the Covenant. Next, take a walk through Stelae Park, & visit the St. Mary of Zion Cathedral. Other highlights include the tomb of King Kalab & the ruins of the Palace of the Queen of Sheba. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 6: Axum – Lalibela
Transfer to the airport, & board domestic flight to Lalibela. Lalibela is home to the incredible rock churches. These churches are responsible for the town’s nickname: “The Petra of Africa.” Learn about the town’s history & its relation to Jerusalem, & visit all twelve rock churches. After the tour, transfer to the hotel for dinner & an overnight stay.
Day 7: Lalibela
Enjoy another day in the town of Lalibela. Today’s historic highlight is the Nakuto Le’ Abe Monastery. Built within a cave, this monastery was the shelter for King Nakuto Le’ Abe after he renounced his throne in the 13th century. Inside of the monastery you will find ancient manuscripts & religious artifacts.
Day 8: Lalibela – Addis Ababa – USA
Transfer to the airport, & board return flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, visit The National Museum of Ethiopia, which features a replica of the skull of Lucy. Enjoy time to explore the famous Addis Merkato, where you can shop for handicrafts & other unique items. Head up onto Mount Entoto to discover scenic views of Ethiopia’s capital city. Before heading to the airport & beginning your journey home, enjoy dinner hosted by a local inside their home.