• Explore ancient artifacts at the National Museum, including the famous fossil “Lucy.”
• Visit the majestic Trinity Cathedral and fascinating Ethnographic Museum
• Stunning panoramic views from Mount Entoto
• Boat trip to the 14th-century Ura Kidane Mehret Church with its historic murals
• Witness the powerful Blue Nile Falls
• Experience the grand Timkat festival, including the Ketera procession and sacred baptisms
• Walk through the Imperial Castle Compound, a UNESCO-listed royal fortress
• Marvel at the angel-covered ceiling of Debre Birhan Selassie Church
• Scenic adventure in the Simien Mountains, spotting gelada monkeys and breathtaking landscapes
• Discover the awe-inspiring rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Visit hidden gems like Genete Mariam, a lesser-known rock church
• Last-minute souvenir shopping and a farewell dinner with traditional dances

Day 1: Thursday, January 15, 2026

Addis Ababa

Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and you’ll then enjoy a comfortable ride to your hotel, where you can check in and unwind. Addis Ababa is a vibrant city with a mix of modern life and rich culture. If you’re not too tired, take a short walk around your hotel to feel the energy of the city maybe try some famous Ethiopian coffee or snap a photo of the colorful streets. Rest well tonight because exciting experiences await you in the days ahead!

Overnight: Addis Ababa

Day 2: Friday, January 16, 2026

Addis Ababa

After breakfast, embark on a full-day city tour, exploring the rich cultural and historical highlights of Addis Ababa. Visit the National Museum, home to ancient artifacts, including the famous fossil “Lucy.” Continue to the majestic Trinity Cathedral, a symbol of Ethiopia’s religious heritage, before delving into the fascinating exhibits at the Ethnographic Museum. In the afternoon, ascend Mount Entoto for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and explore the historic church, palace, and museum at its summit.

Overnight: Addis Ababa

Day 3: Saturday, January 17, 2026

Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar (flight)

On this day take the morning flight to Bahir Dar. After checking in at the hotel, embark on a private boat to visit Ura Kidane Mehret Ethiopian Orthodox Church, situated on the Zege Peninsula along Lake Tana. Founded in the 14th century, the current circular church structure dates back to the 16th century. Its interior is adorned with numerous murals painted between 100 and 250 years ago.

In the afternoon enjoy lunch, then drive to the village of Tis Isat to see the Blue Nile Falls. After the visit, return to Bahir Dar.

Overnight: Bahir Dar, Sky Resort or similar

Day 4: Sunday, January 18, 2026

Bahir Dar – Gondar

Celebrating Timkat in Gondar is a mesmerizing experience, especially during the Ketera procession on the eve of this grand Ethiopian Orthodox festival.

After breakfast, you’ll drive from Bahir Dar to Gondar, arriving in time to witness the vibrant religious ceremonies. Ketera marks the beginning of Timkat (Epiphany), where priests carry the sacred Tabot (a replica of the Ark of the Covenant) from the churches in a grand procession to Fasilides’ Bath. The streets come alive with the sounds of prayer, rhythmic drumming, and the sight of crowds dressed in dazzling white traditional garments, holding colorful umbrellas and crosses. The faithful follow the clergy in joyous celebration, singing hymns and chanting psalms as the Tabot is escorted to its temporary resting place near the water. After witnessing this awe-inspiring ceremony, you’ll return to your hotel to rest and prepare for the next day’s festivities, ensuring you’re refreshed for the spiritual and cultural experiences ahead. This is a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in Ethiopia’s deep religious traditions, surrounded by the historic beauty of Gondar.

Note: Since Timkat involves large crowds and long ceremonies, comfortable shoes, respectful clothing, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.

Overnight: Gondar, Gondar Hills Resort

Day 5: Monday, January 19, 2026

Gondar

This day early in the morning, you will join the celebration of early Timkat mass program at Taboat Maderia to witness the beautiful baptism rituals at Fasilides Bath. The holy water symbolizes the Jordan River, as in the Bible. A priest blesses the water, and then a high-ranking clergy member dips a golden cross into it. He uses the water to put out a candle’s flame on the altar before sprinkling it over the crowd, a symbolic reenactment of Jesus’ baptism. After the ceremony, the sacred Tabots (replicas of the Ark of the Covenant) are carried back to their churches in a lively procession. The streets fill with joyful celebrations singing, dancing, and feasting as people follow the Tabots. Feel free to join the dancing with your guide and experience this unforgettable cultural tradition!

Overnight: Gondar, Gondar Hills Resort

Day 6: Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Gondar

After breakfast, we begin our visit to the Imperial Castle Compound, the grand palace of Emperor Fasilidas and his successors. Explore the ancient halls, towers, and royal buildings while learning about Ethiopia’s fascinating history.

Next, we visit Quskuam Mariam Church, a beautiful 18th-century church built by Empress Mintwab. This sacred site holds deep religious significance and features traditional Gondarine architecture.

Finally, we enter the world-famous Debre Birhan Selassie Church, known as the “Light of Trinity.” Marvel at its stunning wall and ceiling paintings, which depict biblical stories in vibrant colors. The most famous highlight is the ceiling covered with angel faces, symbolizing God’s watchful protection.

Overnight: Gondar, Gondar Hills Resort

Day 7: Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Gondar – Simien Mountains – Gondar

Set off early from Gondar for an unforgettable day exploring the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its jaw-dropping scenery and unique wildlife. After a 2.5-hour scenic drive through rolling hills and rural villages, you’ll arrive at the park headquarters in Debark to pick up permits and meet your local guide. Then, a short drive to Sankaber takes you along dramatic cliffs and lush valleys, where you’ll almost certainly spot troops of playful gelada monkeys often called “bleeding-heart baboons” for their distinctive red chest patches. Keep an eye out for soaring birds of prey and other wildlife animals found only in these highlands. Enjoy a picnic lunch with panoramic views before heading back to Gondar in the late afternoon, stopping at viewpoints for last-minute photos of the breathtaking landscapes. This compact adventure packs in the best of the Simiens epic vistas, fascinating wildlife, and fresh mountain air all in one day!

Overnight: Gondar, Gondar Hills Resort

Day 8: Thursday, January 22, 2026

Gondar – Lalibela (flight)

After breakfast, take a short flight to Lalibela. After checking in at the hotel, visit the rock-hewn Churches of Lalibela. Lalibela is the jewel in the crown of Ethiopia, home to the most famous churches and the scene of many major religious ceremonies. Also known as ‘Africa’s Petra’, Lalibela and its rock-hewn churches are among Ethiopia’s top attractions. Visit the churches: Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Mariam, Bete Maskal, Bete Danaghel, Bete Golgotha & Bete Mikael, and Bete Giorgis. In the afternoon, visit the remaining churches: Bete Amanuel, Bete Markorios, Bete Aba Libanos, and Bete Gebriel-Rufael.

Overnight: Lalibela, Panoramic View Hotel

Day 9: Friday, January 23, 2026

Lalibela

After a delicious breakfast, get ready for another incredible day exploring the legendary rock-hewn churches of Lalibela! Today, you’ll visit the remaining awe-inspiring churches you didn’t see on the first day, each one a masterpiece of ancient engineering and devotion. But the adventure doesn’t stop there. You’ll also take a scenic excursion outside Lalibela town to discover hidden gems like the stunning Genete Mariam rock-hewn church and others, carved into the rugged landscapes centuries ago. These lesser-known treasures offer a quieter, equally breathtaking experience, giving you a deeper connection to Ethiopia’s rich spiritual heritage.

Overnight: Lalibela, Panoramic View Hotel

Day 10: Saturday, January 24, 2026

Lalibela – Addis Ababa (flight)

In the morning, take a domestic flight from Lalibela to Addis Ababa. Use your last few hours in Ethiopia for some final souvenir shopping to pick up beautiful handicrafts, aromatic coffee, and other local treasures at one of the city’s bustling markets.

Later, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, where you’ll savor delicious local dishes while watching captivating cultural dances. Afterward, transfer to the airport for your departure.

End of Tour, Departure!

Includes

• Car with fuel
• Driver allowance
• Accommodation
• Meals (B/L/D)
• Boat
• Local guide fee all destinations
• Entrance fee in the park (SMNP)
• Sightseeing entrance
• Scout fee
• Bottle of water every day
• Service fee

• Domestic flight
• Tip
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Any service not mentioned in the “Price included” section