This fast-paced 5-day tour of Northern Ethiopia’s Historical Circuit hits the UNESCO World Heritage highlights: the Lake Tana monasteries of Bahir Dar, the medieval castles of Gondar, the dramatic escarpment of the Simien Mountains, and the monolithic rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. This tour requires three domestic flights to cover the vast distances between locations in such a short timeframe. Trekkers will experience the unique history of the Gondarine period, encounter the endemic Gelada baboons, and witness the architectural marvel of Ethiopia’s “New Jerusalem” before flying back to the capital.
Arrive at Bole International Airport (ADD) in Addis Ababa and take an immediate connecting domestic flight (approx. 1 hour) to Bahir Dar (BJR). Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on **Lake Tana** (Ethiopia’s largest lake) to visit the ancient, painted monasteries, particularly the most famous one, **Ura Kidane Mehret**, on the Zegie Peninsula. The monasteries date back to the 13th and 14th centuries and are famous for their colorful frescoes. The boat trip also offers excellent birdwatching. Overnight in Bahir Dar.
In the morning, drive to the **Blue Nile Falls** (*Tis Abay* or ‘Great Smoke’) (approx. 1.5-hour drive one way). Take a short hike to the falls viewpoint and cross the 17th-century Portuguese bridge. Return to Bahir Dar and drive to Gondar (approx. 3-hour drive). In the afternoon, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of **Fasil Ghebbi** (the Royal Enclosure). Visit the castles of Emperor Fasilidas and Iyasu I, built in a unique blend of Ethiopian, Portuguese, and Indian styles. Overnight in Gondar.
Begin the long day trip with a very early start (approx. 7 AM). Drive from Gondar to Debark (the park headquarters) (approx. 2 hours) to obtain permits and pick up the mandatory scout and guide. Continue driving into the **Simien Mountains National Park** (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Drive to Sankaber or Buyit Ras for a light 2-3 hour trek along the escarpment edge, offering dramatic views of the jagged peaks and high valleys. Look for large troops of the endemic **Gelada Baboons** (sometimes called the ‘bleeding heart monkey’). Return late afternoon to Gondar. Overnight in Gondar.
Take a morning transfer to Gondar Airport (GDQ) for a short domestic flight (approx. 30 minutes) to Lalibela (LLI). Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, begin exploring the first cluster of UNESCO rock-hewn churches. Visit the **Northern Cluster**, which includes **Bet Medhane Alem** (House of the Saviour of the World—the world’s largest monolithic church) and connected churches like **Bet Maryam** (House of Mary). The churches are connected by intricate trenches and tunnels. Overnight in Lalibela.
Complete the church tour in the morning. Visit the **Southern Cluster** (including **Bet Amanuel** and **Bet Abba Libanos**) and the most famous church, **Bet Giyorgis** (House of St. George), which stands alone in a deep pit, perfectly carved in the shape of a cross. Transfer to Lalibela Airport (LLI) for your domestic flight back to Addis Ababa (ADD) (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes). Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, transfer to your hotel or connect with your international departure, concluding the tour.
At Safrisway, we prioritize flexibility and customer satisfaction. Our cancellation and booking policy blends standard, promotional, and flexible options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Please review our cancellation and refund policy for details.
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Don't just get there, get there in style.
Kazanchis Nega City Mall 1st floor,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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