Ethiopia-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

  • Arrive at Bole International Airport
  • Visa on arrival (VOA) available for most nationalities
    • Cost: $20-$50 per person (depending on nationality)
    • Duration: Valid for 30-90 days
  • Transfer to hotel and check-in
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia ($10 per person)
    • Explore the bustling streets of Addis Ababa, a city with a mix of African, European, and Middle Eastern influences

Day 2: Addis Ababa - Bahir Dar

  • Morning:
    • Breakfast at hotel
    • Depart for Bahir Dar (approx. 8 hours by bus or taxi)
  • Afternoon:
    • Check-in to hotel and relax
    • Explore the city’s lakefront promenade, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike

Day 3: Lake Tana - Blue Nile Falls

  • Morning:
    • Take a boat tour on Lake Tana ($10-$20 per person)
    • Visit some of the lake’s many churches and monasteries
  • Afternoon:
    • Depart for Blue Nile Falls (approx. 1 hour by bus or taxi)
    • Hike to the falls and take in the stunning scenery

Day 4: Gondar

  • Morning:
    • Drive to Gondar (approx. 3 hours by car)
    • Check-in to hotel
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Royal Palace of Gondar ($10 per person)
    • Explore the nearby Fasilidas’ Castle and the Church of Debre Berhan Selassie

Day 5: Axum

  • Morning:
    • Depart for Axum (approx. 4 hours by car)
    • Check-in to hotel
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the ancient city of Axum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site ($10 per person)
    • See the famous Stele of Axum and other archaeological sites

Day 6: Lalibela

  • Morning:
    • Depart for Lalibela (approx. 4 hours by car)
    • Check-in to hotel
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela ($10 per person)
    • Visit the famous Church of Beta Giorgis

Day 7: Return to Addis Ababa

  • Morning:
    • Depart for Addis Ababa (approx. 4 hours by car or flight)
  • Afternoon:
    • Last-minute shopping and sightseeing in Addis
    • Departure from Bole International Airport

Important Notes:

  • Ethiopia is a predominantly Orthodox Christian country, with a significant Muslim minority.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches and mosques.
  • Avoid taking photographs of sensitive areas or people without permission.
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, including heat and rain.
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes.

Safety:

  • Ethiopia is generally a safe country to visit, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in rural areas.
  • Keep valuables secure and use reputable transportation services.

Health and Vaccinations:

  • Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about necessary vaccinations and medications for travel to Ethiopia.
  • Bring any prescribed medications with you and be aware of local health conditions, such as malaria and altitude sickness.

Visa Requirements:

  • Visa on arrival (VOA) available for most nationalities
    • Cost: $20-$50 per person (depending on nationality)
    • Duration: Valid for 30-90 days

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights:
    • Ethiopian Airlines operates internal flights, with limited schedules.
  • Bus and taxi services:
    • Reputable companies offer affordable transportation between cities.

Note: Prices listed are approximate and subject to change. Please verify with local authorities or tour operators for the most up-to-date information.