ETHIOPIA: LAND OF LEGENDS
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Itinerary Overview
Travel to Ethiopia, a land of legends and one the world's most fascinating destinations. Our adventure
begins in Addis Ababa and traverses the northern historic route visiting Lake Tana, Gondar, Lalibela and
Axum, featuring several UNESCO world heritage sites. In this fabled land where legend and history are
deeply entwined, hike among the villages to sacred island monasteries of Lake Tana. Explore the Castles
of Gandor where you enjoy a private coffee ceremony. Based from an ecolodge in the Simien Mountains,
hike on the roof of Africa in the continent’s highest range and deepest gorges where you will encounter
wildlife found nowhere else in the world. At dawn, wander through the ethereal subterranean churches of
Lalibela glowing in the early morning light. Experience the towering stelae of Axum, coming as close to
the legendary arc of the covenant as possible. Equipped with the best vehicles and escorted by expert
guides you are immersed in the ancient history, cultures, natural habitats and spiritually of this
captivating country and its people. This itinerary is easily modified as a custom trip. If you are flexible
when to travel to Ethiopia experience the colorful Timkat festival on January 19.
DAY
DATE
OVERNIGHT
HOTEL
MEALS
1
ADDIS ABABA
Addis Hilton
2
BAHIR DAR
Kuriftu
Resort and Spa
BLD
3
GONDAR
Goha Hotel
BLD
4
SIMIEN MOUNTAINS
Simien Ecolodge
BLD
5
SIMIEN MOUNTAINS
Simien Ecolodge
BLD
6
GONDAR
Goha Hotel
BLD
7
LALIBELA
Roha Hotel
BLD
8
LALIBELA
Roha Hotel
BLD
9
AXUM
Yeha Hotel
BLD
10
AXUM
Yeha Hotel
BLD
11
ADDIS ABABA
Addis Hilton
BLD
12
DEPARTURE
Addis Hilton
(dayroom)
BLD
HIGHLIGHTS
Arrival and transfer to hotel
Fly to Bahir Dar, Lake Tana
and monastery visit
Drive to Gondar, visit the
African castles
Drive to the Simien Mountains,
afternoon hike
Day hike in the Simien
Mountains
Morning hiking, afternoon
return to Gondar
Fly to Lalibela, visit rock-hewn
church
Visit Asheten Maryam and
rock-hewn churches
Fly to Axum and tour the city
St Mary of Zion Complex,
Queen of Sheba palace ruins
Return flight to Addis
Museum visits and afternoon
departures
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Itinerary in Detail
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN ADDIS ABABA
Meet your local guide on arrival at the airport and transfer to your hotel for the evening. Addis Ababa is
the third highest capital in the world and one of the largest cities in Africa, with a population well over 5
million. Despite its size, Addis retains a small-town feel with lively markets, donkey carts hurrying down
main streets and traditional coffee shops. Overnight at Hilton Hotel [Meals on own]
DAY 2: BAHIR DAR, LAKE TANA AND
THE ISLAND MONASTERIES
Transfer to the airport for the short early
morning flight to Bahir Dar. Bahir Dar rests
on the shores of Lake Tana and is one of
Ethiopia’s prettiest cities with its wide
avenues, palms, jacaranda trees, and
stunning lake views. For centuries Bahir Dar
has been a trading center for the region; the
tankwa, the traditional papyrus boats, still
transport goods across the lake adding a
sense of timelessness to city. Head out on
Lake Tana to the Zege Peninsula and its
famous island monasteries. Whilst on board
your private boat and keep an eye out for a
variety of bird species. After a short hike
through local villages and coffee farms, you reach the monastery of Ura Kidane Meret. Home to an
important collection of crosses and crowns dating back to the 16th century. The painted maqdas, colorful
and well-preserved, tell the stories of Ethiopian saints. The second monastery visit, Azwa Maryam, is a
smaller construction set amidst pleasant gardens. This afternoon there is an optional excursion available
to the Blue Nile Falls. Alternatively, you can choose to explore Bahir Dar’s market, enjoy a cold beverage
overlooking the lake or bird watch in the lush gardens at the hotel. Overnight at Kuriftu Resort and
Spa. [BLD]
Blue Nile optional excursion:
The Blue Nile Falls is considered by many one of
the most spectacular falls in Africa. When in full
flood the falls are impressive at 400m wide and
45m high, however the river was recently dammed
upstream and the river levels are now controlled.
Considering this factor, the falls are still an
interesting site with good bird watching
opportunities on the easy 30-min walk to the
viewpoint. Hippos and crocodiles are occasionally
spotted on the banks of the river, especially in the
early morning and late afternoon. The road to and
from the falls is packed gravel and can be rough
and dusty.
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DAY 3: GONDAR AND THE AFRICAN CASTLES
Depart this morning for the three hour drive to
Gondar, passing rural villages over mountain
passes with stunning vistas to get your first
glimpse of the impressive castles of Gondar.
Often called Africa’s Camelot, King Fasiledes
named Gondar capital in 1636 ACE and by his
death in 1667 ACE Gondar’s population had
reached 65,000, its wealth and beauty well
known throughout the land. Walking amongst
the castles of the Royal Enclosure, ornate
churches adorned with Ethiopian cherubs, and
royal baths. It’s easy to imagine Gondar in its
glory days as capital of Ethiopia. Return to
watch the sunset from your hotel. Overnight
at Goha Hotel [BLD]
DAY 4: SIMIEN MOUNTAINS
Depart Gondar to drive up into Africa's most beautiful highlands, the Simien Mountains. The drive takes
about 4 hours on packed gravel roads amidst stunning scenery. The Simien Mountains not only offer
amazing vistas and panoramic views, but the area is also a critical habitat of several of Ethiopia’s endemic
species: the walia ibex, gelada baboon, and the rare Ethiopian wolf. Other resident mammals include
rock hyraxes, jackals, bushbuck and klipspringers. Ras Dashen, the fourth highest peak in Africa, rises to
4,000 meters amongst several other impressive peaks. Check in to the Simien Ecolodge then take off for
an afternoon hike. The Simien Ecolodge is situated on the edge of a high escarpment designed to
represent a typical Simien Village built from local materials. Overnight at Simien Eco Lodge [BLD]
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DAY 5: HIKING IN THE SIMIEN MOUNTAINS
Set out with the local expert guide on a day hike with a picnic lunch. Depart the lodge for Chenek where it
is possible to spot the endemic walia ibex. Hike along the escarpment at around 10,000' elevation and
marvel at the spectacular landscape with panoramic vistas overlooking waterfalls and the deep gorges
below. Overnight at Simien Eco Lodge [BLD]
DAY 6: RETURN TO GONDAR
After a short hike or relaxed morning enjoying the mountains return to Gondar. The afternoon is free to
walk around the town, catch up on your travel journal, and relax at the hotel with a refreshing drink in
the lounge. Tonight a typical Ethiopian feast awaits you. Overnight at Goha Hotel [BLD]
DAY 7: LALIBELA ROCK HEWN CHURCHES
The short flight to Lalibela transects amazing rust
colored canyons and high jagged peaks. At over
8,500 feet the small town of Lalibela is situated
high in the Lasta Mountains. Even though
Lalibela has been a destination for travelers and
pilgrims since the 16th century, the town is
remarkably undeveloped. The day is spent
exploring the ancient city and its many rock-hewn
churches. Lalibela is arguably one of the most
important religious and historical sites in Africa,
and certainly in the entire Christian world.
Although it is not widely known in the west,
Ethiopia was the first country to adopt
Christianity as a state religion and, due to
Ethiopia’s becoming Christian long before the Catholic church was born or instigated the structure we
recognize today. The roots of Ethiopian Orthodox religious practices are as recognizably Jewish as they
are Christian. The Lalibela churches are said to have been constructed during King Lalibela’s reign in the
12th and 13th centuries when Lalibela (then known as Roha) was the capital of the Zagwe dynasty.
Legend has it that King Lalibela was exiled in Jerusalem and returned to Ethiopia to build a New
Jerusalem. There are many theories as to how these architecturally very advanced churches were built,
and by whom, including angels and the Knights de Templars. Thanks to UNESCO, the main road to
Lalibela has been paved, and in recent years Lalibela finally received electricity. Water shortages are an
almost daily occurrence and the hotels ration water. Overnight at Roha Hotel [BLD]
Note: Due to water shortages be prepared to experience rations with short showers or using buckets for
bathing and flushing to help conserve the precious commodity.
DAY 8: ASHETEN MARYAM AND THE ROCKHEWN CHURCHES
Rise early and enjoy an excursion out of town by mule
up the mountain slopes to the dramatic church site of
Asheten Maryam. The mountain views are impressive
and it’s easy to understand why the priests at this
church believe they are the “closest to God.” We
return to Lalibela in the afternoon to visit the second
and third groups of rock hewn churches, including
the famous Bet Giyorgis. Overnight at Roha Hotel
[BLD]
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DAY 9: FLY TO AXUM, TOUR THE CITY
After breakfast head back through the rugged landscape to the airport and your flight to Axum. This
simple frontier town is in fact a city of great importance; once the ancient capital of Ethiopia. According
to local legend, Axum was home to the Queen of Sheba and is today the current resting place of the Ark of
the Covenant. As one explores Axum and its ancient relics, your sense of adventure and imagination will
guide you through this mysterious historic place. On arrival, get your first glimpse of the long history of
the area with a city tour that includes the Archeological Museum, Stelae Park and Ezana’s inscriptions.
The North Stelae Park contains over 120 stelae, some are upright, some are buried and others have been
removed. The Rome Stelae, the tallest at 25m high, was shipped to Italy in 1937 under orders from
Mussolini, but has since been returned and is being re-erected at this time. Return in time for a
sundowner at the hotel. Dinner and overnight Yeha Hotel [BLD]
DAY 10: ST MARY OF ZION COMPLEX AND
THE RUINED PALACE OF THE QUEEN OF SHEBA
Explore the St. Mary of Zion complex—an
unexpected blend of ancient and modern. The
original church was build by Emperor Fasiladas,
founder of Gonder, in 1665. It’s thought that this
church was constructed on the original foundations
of a temple built by King Ezana or King Kaleb in
the 4th or 6th centuries, making this the oldest
Christian site in Africa. Keep your eye out for the
guarded chapel, said to be the home of the Ark of
the Covenant. Visit the museum of ancient relics
under the modern cathedral of St. Mary’s of Zion
built by Emperor Haile Selassie in the 1960's. The
ruined palace of the Queen of Sheba and the 10th
century B.C. Axumite temples of Kings Kaleb and Gebre Meskel are also impressive sites overlooking the
Adwa Mountains and Eritrea. Dinner and overnight at Yeha Hotel [BLD]
DAY 11: RETURN TO ADDIS ABABA
Morning transfer to the airport for flight to Addis. The afternoon is at leisure to explore the beautiful
gardens, bird watch, and to enjoy an espresso--a specialty drink in Ethiopia. Dinner and overnight at
Hilton Hotel [BLD]
DAY 12: FULL DAY TOUR OF ADDIS AND DEPARTURE
A full-day guided exploration of Addis Ababa includes the National Museum to view an extensive
collection of Ethiopian antiquities, plus the hominid skeleton, Lucy or Dinknesh (Amharic for
‘wonderful’). The Ethnographic Museum represents over 80 ethnic groups of the region. Then wander
the bustling Merkato, the largest open-air market in East Africa. Volunteerism opportunities at a local
orphanage can be arranged upon request. A day room is available until the evening airport transfer.
[BLD]
END OF SERVICES
Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change
accommodations to similar quality alternatives.
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PRICING AND DATES:
For current pricing please click here: Pricing
For scheduled departure dates please click here: Dates
INCLUDED SERVICES
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All guided tours and excursions
English-speaking historical and naturalist guides
Airport-hotel transfers, land transportation
Boat rental at Lake Tana
Scout fee in Simien Mountains
11 nights hotel accommodation as indicated
Meals as indicated [B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner]
Bottled water
Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services
NOT INCLUDED SERVICES
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International or internal airfare (listed separately)
Tips and gratuities
Airport departure taxes
Drinks, alcoholic beverages, and meals other than listed above
Laundry service
Personal expenses for extra services, optional activities, or changes in your itinerary for reasons
beyond our control
Travel insurance for trip cancellation, medical services, or evacuation
Any other items not mentioned above
NOTE: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services of local in-country
ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges, hotels and other
suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary. It
is however possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts
of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all
risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs
due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly
recommend purchasing traveler’s insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or
sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred hotels are
not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative accommodations of similar quality. (If
upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply.) All information and services provided are subject to our
Reservation Form Terms and Conditions.
33 LB. (15KG) PER PERSON BAGGAGE WEIGHT LIMIT ON DOMESTIC AIRPLANES
There is a 33 lb. per person baggage weight limit for transportation on domestic airline flights within this
itinerary. The airline operator enforces this limitation on your checked baggage for safety reasons. Please
keep your luggage at 33lbs or less. Carry-on space is not available, so all of your luggage will be counted
as check luggage. Cameras or binoculars that are around your neck or in a small bag will not be included
in this limit.
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Accommodations
THE HILTON HOTEL, ADDIS ABABA
A 4-star international hotel complete with shops, swimming pool,
restaurants and bar. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed. En
suite restrooms including a tub and shower, hair dryer and
amenities kit. Quality linens, a writing desk and TV with
international news channels make your stay comfortable.
KURIFTU RESORT AND SPA, BAHIR DAR
Located on the shores of Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake,
Kuriftu Resort and Spa is designed with a clever blend of native
Ethiopian architecture and décor, and offers warm traditional
hospitality. The resort is comprised of 28 suites, a swimming pool
with sunbathing terrace and a world-class gourmet restaurant
looking out across the lake view with stunning sunsets and
constant cool breeze. Rooms are well appointed with modern
comforts including flat-screen TV. Enjoy their full service spa.
GOHA HOTEL, GONDAR
Perched high upon a hilltop overlooking the entire town, including
the Royal Enclosure, the Goha Hotel offers one of the best settings
in Ethiopia. Beautiful terrace gardens, an airy dining room and
atmosphere bar make this hotel a favorite. En suite rooms are
clean and comfortable. Internet is available for a fee. A small shop
features local crafts and fair prices. A dinner buffet allows guests
to sample authentic Ethiopian cuisine. Italian favorites are also
available.
SIMIEN ECOLODGE, SIMIEN MOUNTAINS
The Simien Ecolodge is located on the roof of Africa situated on
an escarpment overlooking a high plateau and deep gorges below.
The 20 individual bungalows are designed in the local
architectural style of a "tukel" with conical thatched roof and
insulated rock walls. Rooms have under-floor solar heating with
private bath. The beds all have duvets and extra blankets are
provided for the cold mountain environment. The lounge and
dining room are located in a spacious common building with log
fire place in the center where meals are served.
HOTEL ROHA, LALIBELA
Just outside of town, the Hotel Roha is situated in a peaceful
garden surrounded by bougainvilleas. Spacious public areas, a
shop and terrace for enjoying drinks are available. En suite rooms
are clean and comfortable, although more basic. Water is scarce in
Lalibela and guestrooms are often rationed a bucket of water for
flushing toilets and washing hands during hours when water is not
available from the tap.
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