5 Days Historic North
Ethiopia’s Historic Northern Circuit offers a mesmerizing blend of ancient wonders and natural beauty. This unforgettable journey begins in Gondar, known as the “Camelot of Africa,” where 17th-century castles and palaces whisper tales of a royal past.
From there, travel to Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its 12th-century rock-hewn churches. These remarkable structures are carved deep into the earth like hidden gems, and even today, spiritual ceremonies echo through their candlelit corridors.
Continue onward to Negash, a cornerstone of Islamic heritage in Africa. It is home to the continent’s oldest mosque, Negash Amedin Mesgid, which once provided refuge to the early followers of Prophet Muhammad, making it a sacred site of great historical significance.
Conclude your journey at the tranquil Lake Tana, the source of the legendary Blue Nile. The lake is dotted with ancient island monasteries like Kibran Gebriel and Kidanemhiret, which are richly adorned with medieval frescoes and manuscripts. Nearby, you can trek to the thunderous Blue Nile Falls, or immerse yourself in local culture through vibrant markets and traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremonies.
Best visited between October and March, this circuit gracefully weaves together history, faith, and breathtaking landscapes into a truly unforgettable Ethiopian adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Price included
Price not included
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Highlights
- Explore the vibrant city of Bahir Dar, nestled on the shores of Lake Tana.
- Embark on a boat trip to visit the fascinating monasteries on the lake’s islands.
- Witness the breathtaking Blue Nile Falls.
- “Camelot of Africa,” Gondar, with its well-preserved 17th-century castles and palaces.
- The Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore the fascinating Debre Berhan Selassie Church.
- Rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Itinerary
Day 1: ADDIS ABABA
After checking in at the hotel and having breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Addis Ababa. Drive north to Mount Entoto to visit a museum, a church, and Emperor Menelik’s Palace. Then descend to the city and proceed to the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases a large collection of Ethiopian crafts and items of historical interest.
Continue the tour to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the highest-ranking Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo cathedral in Addis Ababa. Built in 1941 to commemorate Ethiopia’s victory over Italian occupation, this cathedral remains an important place of worship.
After lunch, visit the National Museum, home to the famous 3.2 million-year-old hominid fossil, Lucy, along with other significant archaeological findings.
Overnight in Addis Ababa.
Day 2: ADDIS ABABA – BAHIR DAR (Flight)
In the morning, take a flight to Bahir Dar. After checking in at the hotel, enjoy a private boat ride on Lake Tana to visit Ura Kidane Mehret Church, located on the Zege Peninsula. Founded in the 14th century, the present circular church dates back to the 16th century and is adorned with murals painted between 100 and 250 years ago.
After lunch, drive to the village of Tis Isat to witness the breathtaking Blue Nile Falls. After the visit, return to Bahir Dar.
Overnight in Bahir Dar.
Overnight in Bahir Dar.
Day 3: BAHIR DAR – GONDAR
After breakfast, drive to Gondar, the 17th-century capital of Ethiopia. In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Castle Compound, the Bath of Emperor Fasiladas, Quskuam Mariam Church (the residence of Empress Mintwab), and the renowned Debre Birhan Selassie Church, famous for its stunning wall and ceiling paintings.
Overnight in Gondar.
Day 4: GONDAR – LALIBELA (Flight)
After breakfast, take a flight to Lalibela via Woreta, passing through the picturesque Amhara region. Enjoy stunning views of the Guna Mountains as you travel through this dramatic highland landscape.
Overnight in Lalibela.
Day 5: LALIBELA – ADDIS ABABA (Flight)
After breakfast, fly back to Addis Ababa. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the best traditional restaurants in the city, accompanied by cultural music, dance performances, and delicious Ethiopian cuisine.
Overnight in Addis Ababa or Departure.
Price included
- Meals
- Car with fuel
- Driver allowance
- Boat
- Local guide fee all destinations
- Entrance fee in the park (SMNP)
- Sightseeing entrance
- Scout fee
- Bottle of water everyday
- Service fee
Price not included
- Domestic flight
- Tip
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Photo and Videography fee
Reviews
