Northern Ethiopia Highlights - 8 Days

Arrive in Addis Ababa (the capital city of Ethiopia) and embark sightseeing including the Trinity Cathedral, the National and Ethnographic museums and the Merkato (the largest open-air market in Africa). Stop for lunch at Dashen Ethiopian Restaurant for your introduction to enjera (the Ethiopian staple food). Overnight hotel.

Fly to Lalibela and visit the famous 12th century rock-cut churches of Lalibela, regarded as one of the wonders of the ancient world. Overnight hotel.

In the morning drive to the 12th century cave church of Yimrhne Kirsots considered to be the masterpiece of built churches from the medieval period of Ethiopian history. Drive back to Lalibela to visit the remaining rock churches of Lalibela. Late afternoon you will have coffee ceremony in a private home. Overnight hotel.

Fly to Gondar and visit the 17th and 18th century castles of Gondar and the church of Debre Birhan Sillasse, famous for its murals. Overnight hotel.

Excursion to the Simen Mountains National Park to appreciate its landscape and rare wildlife particularly the Gelada Baboons, endemic to Ethiopia.  Overnight hotel.

In the morning visit the 18th century ruins of Kusquam and meet Ethiopian Orthodox church students. After lunch drive to Bahir Dar with stops on the way for local life. Overnight hotel.

In the morning drive to the Blue Nile Falls. In the afternoon you will have boat excursion on Lake Tana to visit one of the churches famed for its murals. Overnight hotel.

In the morning fly to Addis Ababa. You will have a chance to do some shopping for coffee and other things. Fly home in the afternoon or in the evening.