AUpon arrival in Addis Ababa, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After some rest, explore the highlights of Ethiopia’s capital:

• Visit the National Museum, home to “Lucy” — the 3.2-million-year-old fossil of humanity’s ancestor.
• Stop by the Holy Trinity Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece and important religious site.
• Drive up to Mount Entoto (3,200 meters) for panoramic city views and a glimpse into Emperor Menelik II’s early palace.

Overnight in Addis Ababa.

After breakfast, travel north to Bahir Dar, one of Ethiopia’s most attractive cities, set on the shores of Lake Tana — the source of the Blue Nile. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on the lake to visit its ancient island monasteries, such as Ura Kidane Mihret and Kebran Gabriel, famous for their colorful murals and old manuscripts.

Overnight in Bahir Dar.

Today, enjoy an excursion to the magnificent Blue Nile Falls, locally known as Tis Issat (“the smoking water”). Walk through small villages, cross a historic Portuguese bridge, and feel the cool mist from the powerful cascade. In the afternoon, explore Bahir Dar’s local market and experience Ethiopia’s traditional coffee ceremony.

Overnight in Bahir Dar.

Drive to Gondar, the former capital of Ethiopia’s emperors. Known as the “Camelot of Africa,” Gondar is home to a series of medieval castles within the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit:

• Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure)
• Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its angel-adorned ceiling
• Fasilidas’ Bath, used during the annual Timkat (Epiphany) celebrations

Overnight in Gondar.

After breakfast, drive to Debark, the gateway to the Simien Mountains National Park. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic escarpments and endemic wildlife. Enjoy trekking or short hikes to observe Gelada Baboons, Walia Ibex, and stunning scenery stretching for miles.

Overnight in Debark or within the Simien Mountains.

Drive through breathtaking highlands and valleys toward Axum, one of Africa’s oldest and most sacred cities. Along the route, enjoy spectacular views and local village life.

Overnight in Axum.

Explore Axum’s archaeological treasures, once the capital of the great Aksumite Empire. Visit:

• The Northern Stelae Field, home to towering granite obelisks
• The Queen of Sheba’s Palace and Bath
• St. Mary of Zion Church, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant
• Local museums displaying ancient inscriptions and royal relics

Overnight in Axum.

Drive to Hawzien through the dramatic landscapes of the Tigray highlands. The region is known for its hidden rock-hewn cliff churches, some carved high into sandstone mountains.

Overnight in Hawzien.

Visit famous churches such as Abuna Yemata Guh, Maryam Korkor, and Daniel Korkor — breathtaking sanctuaries carved into cliffs that date back over a thousand years. After exploration, continue to Mekele for the night.

Overnight in Mekele.

Journey to the sacred town of Lalibela, often called the “New Jerusalem.” Set high in the Lasta Mountains, Lalibela is Ethiopia’s crown jewel — home to 12th-century rock-hewn churches carved entirely out of solid rock.

Overnight in Lalibela.

Begin your spiritual exploration of Lalibela’s northern group of churches, including Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, and Bet Golgotha, connected by intricate tunnels and passageways.

Overnight in Lalibela.

Visit the southern cluster of churches, highlighted by Bet Giyorgis (St. George’s Church) — the most iconic and perfectly shaped of all. In the evening, join locals for a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony or enjoy cultural music and dance.

Overnight in Lalibela.

Fly back to Addis Ababa. Depending on your flight schedule, explore local craft markets and enjoy a farewell dinner with live cultural music before your transfer to the airport for departure.