Ethiopian Explorer

14 days - from $2595

This trip explores the fascinating but largely unknown mountain country of Ethiopia, a place packed full of astounding and ancient history as well as some of the best scenery in Africa. We visit the magnificent Blue Nile Falls, take a boat trip on the vast Lake Tana and explore isolated island monasteries, walk in some of the most dramatic mountains you're ever likely to see, and visit 'Africa's Petra', the collection of rock-hewn churches in medieval Lalibela. Add to this some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet and you really have every reason to visit this unique and intriguing destination.

Highlights

• Axum
• Lake Tana Island Monasteries Boat Cruise
• Castles of Gondar
• Simien Mountains National Park
• Lalibela Rock-hewn Churches

Itinerary:

Day 1 (Sun) Arrive in Addis Ababa and transfer to hotel.2 City tour of Addis Ababa, including St George's Cathedral and Merkato.3 Fly to Bahar Dar. Explore the Blue Nile Falls.4 Full day exploring the island monasteries on Lake Tana.5-6 Travel to Gondar. Tour of the Royal Enclosure and Debre Berhan Selassie Church.7 Simien Mountains National Park. Trek to Sankaber. 8 Day treks through the Simien Mountains.9-10 Final morning trek, return to Debark and continue onward to Axum. Full day sightseeing in Axum including Church of St Mary of Zion.11-12 Fly to Lalibela. Explore rock-hewn churches in Lalibela town. Visit remote church built within a cave dating back to the 12th Century. 13 Fly back to Addis Ababa. Option for a traditional meal and dancing.14 Tour ends after breakfast (Sat).
Included: An experienced English-speaking leader, accommodation, meals, transportation, and sightseeing excursions as per itinerary, transfer to hotel on arrival, entrance fees for sites listed in the itinerary.
Not Included: * Visa costs
* Border Taxes
* Drinks, tips, laundry and other items of a personal nature.
* International flights
* Departure transfers
* Meals other than those listed
* The single supplement does not cover the camping in the Simien Mountains.

Basic equipment such as sleeping mats will be provided, but you will need to bring your own sleep-sheet. Sleeping bags can be hired locally for around US$5. As we are trekking through some of Ethiopia's most remote regions, please be prepared for very basic washing/toilet facilities. Our tour leader will carry a comprehensive medical kit throughout the duration of the trek.

Meals: 13 breakfasts,1 lunch,10 dinners
National Parks: Simien Mountains National Park
Valid From: 12 Jan 09
Notes: Ethiopia is a developing tourist destination and some facilities may not be up to certain expected standards. We are using the best hotels, but hot water, electricity and a wide choice of meals may not always be available. Please be aware that the road between Gondar and Aksum and in Simien Mountains National Park is very dusty and bumpy.
Starts/Ends: Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa
Trip Reference: KTEE