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Home > Destinations > Africa > Ethiopia > Ethiopia: Land of Legend
Ethiopia: Land of Legend
Ethiopia, Land of Legend, is one the world's most fascinating destinations. We begin our adventure in Addis Ababa and traverse the Northern Historic Route, visiting Lake Tana, Gondar, Lalibela and Axum, and exploring several UNESCO World Heritage Sites en route. In this fabled land where legend and history are deeply entwined, we visit the sacred island monasteries of Lake Tana, explore the Royal Enclosure and enjoy a private coffee ceremony in Gondor, and spend two wonderful nights at an eco-lodge in the Simien Mountains with opportunities for wildlife hikes amidst truly spectacular scenery. We rise early in Lalibela to explore the subterranean churches, which glow in the morning light, and to wander amongst the towering stelae of Axum, coming as close to the legendary Arc of the Covenant as it is possible for the unordained. Equipped with the best vehicles available and escorted by expert guides, we immerse ourselves in this captivating country. You may visit Ethiopia for the Timkat Festival, to relish the serene and stunning scenery, or to wander in awe amidst the deeply historical relics and sites. Whatever your motivation, Ethiopia is an unforgetable experience.
Read our Ethiopia Tour Review: The Historic North and The Wild Lower Omo.
DAY 1 : ADDIS ABABA: MEET AND TRANSFER ON ARRIVAL
We meet our local guide on arrival in Addis Ababa and transfer to our hotel. Addis Ababa is the third highest capital in the world and one of the largest cities in Africa, with a population well over 5 million. Despite its size, Addis retains a small-town feel with lively markets, donkey carts hurrying down main streets and traditional coffee shops. Overnight at the Hilton Hotel Addis Ababa. [Meals on own]
DAY 2 : BAHIR DAR: FLY. LAKE TANA, ISLAND MONASTERIES
This morning we rise before dawn, transfer to the airport and catch the short flight to Bahir Dar. Upon arrival we transfer to our hotel for breakfast and a cup of Ethiopias signature coffee! Bahir Dar rests on the shores of Lake Tana and is one of Ethiopias prettiest cities with its wide avenues, palms and jacaranda trees and stunning lake views. For centuries Bahir Dar has been a trading center for the region and the tankwa, the traditional papyrus boats, still transport goods across the lake, adding a sense of timelessness to city. After breakfast we head out on Lake Tana to the Zege Peninsula and its famous Island Monasteries. Whilst on board our private boat, keep an eye out for a variety of bird species and, of course, the traditional tankwa crossing the lake.
After a short hike through local villages and coffee farms, we reach the monastery of Ura Kidane Meret; home to an important collections of crosses and crowns dating back to the 16th century. The painted maqdas, colorful and well-preserved, tell the stories of Ethiopian saints. Our second monastery visit, Azwa Maryam, is a smaller construction set amidst pleasant gardens. This afternoon there is an optional excursion available to the Blue Nile Falls. Alternatively, we may choose to explore Bahir Dars market, enjoy a cold beverage overlooking the lake or bird watch in the lush gardens at the hotel. Overnight in Bahir Dar at Tana Hotel or similar. [BLD]
Optional excursion: The Blue Nile Falls has historically been one of the most spectacular falls in Africa. However, the river was recently dammed upstream and the water flow is now controlled. The falls are still a fascinating natural site with hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds present. Note: The 20kg (44lb) per person baggage weight limit applies to all domestic flights in Ethiopia. (This is standard for all flights not landing in or taking off from North America). Ethiopian officials and airline staff will enforce this restriction as part of their safety procedures. Please restrict your baggage to 20kg or less. Carry on space is not available, so anything other than your checked bag will be in your lap. Cameras or binoculars hung around your neck are not included in the weight limits.
DAY 3 : GONDAR: AFRICAN CASTLES
After breakfast we depart for the three hour drive to Gondar. We pass rural villages, cross mountain passes with stunning vistas and get our first glimpse of the impressive castles of Gondar. Often called Africas Camelot, Gondar isnt far off the mark. King Fasiledes named Gondar capital in 1636 and by his death in 1667, Gondars population had reached 65,000 and its wealth and beauty was well known throughout the land. With the Castles of the Royal Enclosure, ornate churches and resplendent bathing pools, its easy to imagine Gondar in its glorious hey-day as capital of Ethiopia in the mid 1600s. We spend the day exploring the Royal Enclosure and its buildings, the nearby bath of King Fasiledes (where modern-day Timkat ceremonies are performed) and the Debre Birhan Silasse church with its 80 Ethiopian cherubs.
We return to our hotel in time to watch the sunset. Overnight at Goha Hotel. [BLD]
DAY 4 : SIMIEN MOUNTAINS: DRIVE MOUNTAINS. PM HIKE
We depart Gondar early this morning and drive up into the Simien Mountains. The drive takes about 4 hours on packed gravel roads amidst stunning scenery. The Simien Mountains not only offer amazing vistas and panoramic views, but the area is also home to several of Ethiopias endemic speciesthe walia ibex, the very common gelada baboon, and the rare Ethiopian wolf. Other resident mammals include rock hyraxes, jackals, bushbuck and klipspringers. Ras Dashen, the fourth highest peak in Africa, rises to 4,000 meters amongst several other impressive peaks. Upon arrival, we check in to the Simien Eco-Lodge before departing on our afternoon hike. The Simien Eco Lodge was designed to represent a typical Simien Village; wherever possible local materials were used in the construction and the lodges makes use of a solar power and heating grid. The restaurant and bar are spacious with cozy fireplaces and comfortable furniture. Cuisine is both international and Ethiopian. Each of the 20 rooms is heated by an in-floor, solar heating system, featuring feather beds to ward off the cold. Overnight Simien Eco Lodge. [BLD] Overnight at the Simien Eco-Lodge. [BLD]
DAY 5 : SIMIEN MOUNTAINS: HIKE TO CHENEK
After breakfast, we head out on a day hike with picnic lunch. Depart the lodge for Chenek where it is possible to spot the endemic Walia Ibex. The landscape in the area is remarkably picturesque with panoramic vistas overlooking the deep gorges of the Escarpment. Return to the hotel late afternoon. Overnight Simien Eco Lodge. [BLD]
DAY 6 : GONDAR: AM HIKE. DRIVE GONDAR
After a short hike or relaxed morning enjoying the views, we return to Gondar and check in to our hotel. The late afternoon is free to do some shopping or catch up on your travel journal with a refreshing drink in the lounge. Tonight a typical Ethiopian feast awaits you. Overnight at Goha Hotel. [BLD]
DAY 7 : LALIBELA: FLY LALIBELA. ROCK-HEWN CHURCHES
We rise early today for a short flight to Lalibela flying over amazing rust colored canyons and high jagged peaks. At over 8,500 feet the small town of Lalibela is situated high in the Lasta Mountains. Even though Lalibela has been a destination for travelers and pilgrims since the 16th century, the town is remarkably undeveloped, with no banks or pharmacies. Thanks to UNESCO, the main road has been paved, and in recent years Lalibela finally received electricity. Water shortages are an almost daily occurrence and the hotels ration water. Be prepared to use a bucket for hand-washing and flushing the toilet during certain hours of the day and, anytime of day showers are quick affair. Upon arrival, we head out to visit our first group of rock-hewn churches. Lalibela is arguably one of the most important religious and historical sites in Africa, and certainly in the entire Christian world. Although it is not widely known in the west, Ethiopia was the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion and, due to Ethiopias becoming Christian long before the Catholic church was born or instigated the structure we recognize today, the roots of Ethiopian Orthodox religious practices are as recognizably Jewish as they are Christian.
| "A shaft of warm light shines through the cross-shaped window and casts an ethereal glow on the priest's face. Layers of rugs, clouds of Frankincense and candlelight fill the church..." |
The Lalibela churches are said to have been constructed during King Lalibelas reign in the 12th and 13th centuries when Lalibela (then known as Roha) was the capital of the Zagwe dynasty. Legend has it that King Lalibela was exiled in Jerusalem and returned to Ethiopia to build a New Jerusalem. There are many theories as to how these architecturally very advanced churches were built, and by whom, including angels and the Knights de Templars. Overnight at Roha Hotel. [BLD]
Note: Daily water shortages may occur; be prepared to experience water rationing. Please help to conserve this precious commodity. Note: The 20kg (44lb) per person baggage weight limit applies to all domestic flights in Ethiopia. (This is standard for all flights not landing in or taking off from North America). Ethiopian officials and airline staff will enforce this restriction as part of their safety procedures. Please restrict your baggage to 20kg or less. Carry on space is not available, so anything other than your checked bag will be in your lap. Cameras or binoculars hung around your neck are not included in the weight limits.
DAY 8 : LALIBELA: ASHETEN MARIAM, ROCK-HEWN CHURCHES
This morning we rise early and enjoy an excursion out of town to Asheten Mariam or Nakutolaab. Asheten Mariam sits atop a mountain overlooking Lalibela, we reach this dramatic site by mule back. The mountain views are impressive and panoramic and its easy to understand why the priests at this church believe they are the closest to God.
UNESCO registered this site as the "8th Wonder of the World."
We return to Lalibela in the afternoon to visit the second and third groups of rock hewn churches, including the famous Bet Giyorgis. Overnight Roha Hotel. [BLD]
Note: Daily water shortages may occur; be prepared to experience water rations and help to conserve the precious commodity.
DAY 9 : AXUM: FLY AXUM. TOUR CITY
After breakfast we transfer back through the rugged landscape to the airport for our flight to Axum. This simple frontier town is in fact a city of great importance; oncethe ancient capital of Ethiopia. According to local legend, Axum was home to the Queen of Sheba and is today the current resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. As we explore Axum and its ancient relics, our sense of adventure and imagination guides us through this mysterious and historic place. On arrival, we get our first glimpse of the long history of the area with a city tour that includes the Archeological Museum, Stelae Park and Ezanas inscriptions. The North Stelae Park contains over 120 stelae, some are upright, some are buried and others have been removed. The Rome Stelae, the tallest at 25m high, was shipped to Italy in 1937 under orders from Mussolini, but has since been returned and is being re-erected at this time. We return in time for a sundowner at the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the Yeha Hotel. [BLD]
Note: Daily water shortages may occur; be prepared to experience water rations and help to conserve the precious commodity. Note: The 20kg (44lb) per person baggage weight limit applies to all domestic flights in Ethiopia. (This is standard for all flights not landing in or taking off from North America). Ethiopian officials and airline staff will enforce this restriction as part of their safety procedures. Please restrict your baggage to 20kg or less. Carry on space is not available, so anything other than your checked bag will be in your lap. Cameras or binoculars hung around your neck are not included in the weight limits.
DAY 10 : AXUM: TOUR AXUM AND SURROUNDINGS
In the afternoon, visit the Queen of Sheba palace ruins, and explore the 10th century Axumite temples of Kings Kaleb and Gebre Meskel, which house the earliest known Christian symbols in Africa. Dinner and overnight at the Yeha Hotel. [BLD]
Note: Daily water shortages may occur; be prepared to experience water rations and help to conserve the precious commodity.
DAY 11 : ADDIS ABABA: FLY ADDIS. PM AT LEISURE
After breakfast we catch the flight to Addis. On arrival we transfer to our hotel. The PM is at leisure to explore the beautiful gardens, bird watch, or to enjoy an afternoon espresso. Dinner and overnight Ghion Hotel. [BLD] Dinner and overnight at the Ghion Hotel. [BLD] Note: The 20kg (44lb) per person baggage weight limit applies to all domestic flights in Ethiopia. (This is standard for all flights not landing in or taking off from North America). Ethiopian officials and airline staff will enforce this restriction as part of their safety procedures. Please restrict your baggage to 20kg or less. Carry on space is not available, so anything other than your checked bag will be in your lap. Cameras or binoculars hung around your neck are not included in the weight limits.
DAY 12 : ADDIS ABABA AND DEPARTURE
Today we embark on a full-day exploration of Addis Ababa. We visit the National Museum to view an extensive collection of Ethiopian antiquities, plus the hominid skeleton, Lucy or Dinknesh (Amharic for wonderful). We explore the Ethnographic Museum's relics, which represent over 80 ethnic groups. Wander the bustling Merkato, the largest open-air market in East Africa. Volunteerism opportunities at a local orphanage can be arranged upon request. A hotel room is available until our evening airport transfer. [BLD]
Note: Lucy is often on tour around the world and unavailable for viewing.
| - Prices, Departure Dates and Included Services - |
Days: 12 | Grade: II, Basic Hotel Accommodations, Hiking, Extreme Weathe (click for grades definition) | 2010 Price: From $2995 per person. Land cost based on Group Size | Group size | 2-3 | 4-5 | 6-7 | Land tour | $3595 | $3095 | $2995 | Domestic airfare | $420 | $420 | $420 |
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| Single Supplement: $725 (click for info) | *Christmas and Easter high season suplements may apply. Customized extensions to Bale Mountians, Harar, and the Omo Valley are available. | | | | | 2010 Departure Dates | 2011 Departure Dates | | | (Available upon request) | (Available upon request) |
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| | | Included: Transfers and ground transportation as noted including 4 WD vehicles where needed or otherwise first-class, private vehicles with English speaking driver/guide; exclusive services of crew while camping in Lower Omo as per itinerary; all meals outside of Addis Ababa as noted (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner); accommodations in hotels with private bath. All non-alcoholic beverages are included; entrance fees to historical sites and parks, airport fees and taxes. Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services; and services of in-bound land operator for airline reconfirmations are also included.
PLEASE NOTE: There is a 33lb. (15kg) per person baggage weight limit on all domestic flights in Ethiopia. Ethiopian officials and airline staff will enforce this restriction as part of their safety procedures. Please restrict your baggage to 33lbs or less. Cary on space is not available, so anything other than your checked bag will be in your lap. Cameras or binoculars hung around your neck are not included in the weight limits. | | | Not Included: International airfare, local flights (priced separately) visas, land services and meals not specifically listed; alcoholic beverages; tips and gratuities; personal expenses or costs associated with changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control. We recommend and offer travelers insurance. | |
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