Ethiopia-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

  • Arrive at Bole International Airport (ADD)
  • Transfer to hotel and check-in
  • Visit the National Museum, which houses a vast collection of Ethiopian cultural and historical artifacts, including the famous fossilized remains of “Lucy”
  • Explore the vibrant Mercato Market, one of Africa’s largest markets, for shopping and food
  • Things to know:
    • Visa requirements: Tourists from most countries can obtain an e-visa online or on arrival at Bole International Airport
    • Vaccination requirements: Consult your doctor about required vaccinations for travel to Ethiopia

Day 2: Addis Ababa to Gondar

  • Depart for Gondar, a historic city in northern Ethiopia (approx. 1-hour flight or 8-hour drive)
  • Visit the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring several ancient castles and palaces
  • Explore the Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its ornate murals and intricate stone carvings
  • Activities:
    • Take a guided tour of the city’s historic sites
    • Visit the local market to see traditional crafts and clothing
  • Transportation:
    • Domestic flights or shared taxi (dala) from Addis Ababa to Gondar

Day 3: Gondar to Lalibela

  • Depart for Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Ethiopia’s most famous attractions (approx. 1-hour flight or 8-hour drive)
  • Explore the ancient rock-hewn churches, including:
    • Bet Gurhul (Church of St. Gregory), with its stunning frescoes
    • Bet Maryam (St. Mary’s Church), featuring intricate stone carvings and a unique underground church
  • Activities:
    • Take a guided tour of the rock-hewn churches
    • Visit the local market to see traditional crafts and clothing
  • Transportation:
    • Domestic flights or shared taxi (dala) from Gondar to Lalibela

Day 4: Lalibela

  • Spend another day exploring Lalibela’s ancient ruins and cultural sites, including:
    • Yemrehanna Kristos Church, a rock-hewn church located in a nearby valley
    • Tukul village, where you can see traditional Ethiopian architecture and meet local residents
  • Activities:
    • Take a guided tour of the surrounding countryside to learn about rural life in Ethiopia
    • Visit the Lalibela Hotel for dinner and relaxation
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at the rock-hewn churches during peak season (June-September)
    • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting churches and villages

Day 5: Lalibela to Axum

  • Depart for Axum, a historic city in northern Ethiopia (approx. 2-hour flight or 10-hour drive)
  • Visit the ancient stone monuments, including:
    • The Stelae Park, featuring several massive stone obelisks
    • The Temple of Yeha, one of Africa’s oldest and most impressive buildings
  • Activities:
    • Take a guided tour of the city’s historic sites
    • Explore the local market to see traditional crafts and clothing
  • Transportation:
    • Domestic flights or shared taxi (dala) from Lalibela to Axum

Day 6: Departure from Bahir Dar

  • Transfer to Bahir Dar, a charming town on Lake Tana (approx. 4-hour drive)
  • Depart for Addis Ababa, where you will catch your international flight home
  • Things to know:
    • Visa requirements: Tourists from most countries can obtain an e-visa online or on arrival at Bole International Airport
    • Vaccination requirements: Consult your doctor about required vaccinations for travel to Ethiopia

Note:

  • This itinerary is a general suggestion and can be customized based on individual preferences and time constraints.
  • Transportation options may vary depending on the season, availability, and other factors.
  • Accommodations range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels; prices vary accordingly.
  • Activities and attractions are subject to change due to local conditions or unforeseen circumstances.