English
FrenchSafari Tour: 15-Day North and South Ethiopia Tour Itinerary - Ethiopia Safari Tour
15-Day Ethiopia Safari Tour by nigatethiopiatours
Offered by - nigatethiopiatours
Tour Features
Embark on a 15-day journey through Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and history. Begin in Addis Ababa with a city tour, visiting museums, markets, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Explore northern highlights including Bahir Dar’s Lake Tana and Blue Nile Falls, Gondar’s royal castles, Simien Mountains’ wildlife, and Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches. Venture to the Afar region to witness the surreal landscapes of Lake Afdera, Dallol, and the active Erta Ale volcano. Discover the rich cultures of southern Ethiopia in the Omo Valley, visiting Mursi, Hamar, Dassanech, Karo, Konso, and Dorze communities, plus natural wonders like Lake Chamo and Forty Springs. This immersive tour blends history, nature, adventure, and tribal traditions, offering an unforgettable experience across Ethiopia’s north and south regions.
| Budget tour | This budget tour includes camping and tented camps. |
| Can be customized | You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour. |
| Private tour | This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't be shared with others. |
| Solo travel available | Solo travelers can book this tour. |
| Can start any day | If availability permits, this tour can start on any day. |
| No minimum age | There is no minimum age for this tour. |
| Transportation | This tour uses: Normal 4x4, Boat, Overland. |
Route & Activities
Ethiopia
Activities Included
Accommodation & Meals
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
| Day | Accommodation | Meals |
| 1 | Triple E Hotel No images available | Breakfast Included |
| 2 | Jacaranda Hotel No images available | Breakfast Included |
| 3 | Haile Resort No images available | Breakfast Included |
| 4 | Camping No images available | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks |
| 5 | Gondar Plaza Hotel No images available | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks |
| 6-7 | sora Lodge No images available | Breakfast Included |
| 8-9 | Camping No images available | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks |
| 10 | Triple E Hotel No images available | Breakfast Included |
| 11-12 | Emerald lodge No images available | Breakfast Included |
| 13 | Konso Hotels No images available | Breakfast Included |
| 14 | Darose No images available | Breakfast Included |
| 15 | Budget Accommodation No images available | No meals selected |
Arrival (See Getting There for more details)
- A transfer from the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.
- Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
- Day 1 - Day 1: Addis Ababa City Tour
Start your adventure with a city tour of Addis Ababa, visiting key historical and cultural landmarks such as the National Museum and the Ethnological Museum. Explore the vibrant Mercato market, one of the largest in Africa, and savor traditional Ethiopian cuisine. End your day with a visit to the Holy Trinity Cathedral and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Main Destination: Addis Ababa
Accommodation: Triple E Hotel
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast Included
- Day 2 - Fly Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar and Visit Lake Tana & Blue Nile
Catch a flight to Bahir Dar, located by Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia. Take a boat ride to visit the beautiful monasteries on the islands of Lake Tana, and then head to the Blue Nile Falls, one of Ethiopia’s most famous natural attractions. The spectacular waterfall and its surrounding lush scenery are a perfect way to begin your journey through northern Ethiopia.
Main Destination: Gondar
Accommodation: Jacaranda Hotel
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast Included
- Day 3 - Fly Bahir Dar to Gondar and Visit Gondar Castles & Debre Bir
Fly from Bahir Dar to Gondar, known for its medieval architecture and historical significance. Explore the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site, including the impressive Gondar Castles, and visit the Debre Birhan Selassie Church, renowned for its beautiful ceiling murals. Discover Gondar’s rich history as you wander through the city’s ancient streets.
Main Destination: Gondar
Accommodation: Haile Resort
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast Included
- Day 4 - : Drive Gondar to Sankaber and Visit Chimpanzee Baboon
Embark on a scenic drive to Sankaber, located on the edge of the Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a trek to spot the iconic Gelada Baboon, known for its colorful chest and unique behavior. The stunning landscape of the Simien Mountains offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy Ethiopia’s rugged beauty and wildlife.
Main Destination: Simien Mountains National Park
Accommodation: Camping
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks
- Day 5 - Drive to Chenek, Visit Walia Ibex, Jinbar River & Return to
Early in the morning, drive to Chenek, one of the best spots for wildlife watching in the Simien Mountains. Visit the Walia Ibex, a wild goat found only in Ethiopia, and explore the Jinbar River, where you can enjoy breathtaking views. In the afternoon, return to Gondar for an overnight stay.
Main Destination: Simien Mountains National Park
Accommodation: Gondar Plaza Hotel
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks
- Day 6 - Fly Gondar to Lalibela, Visit First & Second Group Churches
Fly to Lalibela, famous for its rock-hewn churches that are considered one of Ethiopia’s greatest architectural wonders. Begin your visit by exploring the first and second groups of churches, including the iconic Church of St. George. These ancient monolithic structures, carved into the mountains, provide a fascinating glimpse into Ethiopia's rich religious heritage.
Main Destination: Lalibela
Accommodation: sora Lodge
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast Included
- Day 7 - Visit the 3rd Group of Churches and Fly Back to Addis Ababa
Continue your exploration of Lalibela with a visit to the third group of churches, each with its unique historical and spiritual significance. Afterward, catch a flight back to Addis Ababa, where you can relax and reflect on the wonders you’ve seen. This evening is free for leisure or additional exploration in the capital city.
Main Destination: Lalibela
Accommodation: sora Lodge
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast Included
- Day 8 - Fly Addis Ababa to Semera and Drive to Hamdella, Visit Lake
Fly to Semera, the capital of the Afar region, and embark on a drive to Hamdella. En route, stop by Lake Afdera, a saline lake known for its striking landscape and salt extraction activities. Enjoy a sunset view of the lake and the surrounding desert, a stunning contrast to Ethiopia's lush northern highlands.
Main Destination: Arba Minch
Accommodation: Camping
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks
- Day 9 - Early Morning Sunrise at Lake Asale, Visit Dallol Minerals &
Wake up early to catch the sunrise at Lake Asale, one of the lowest points on Earth, before heading to the Dallol depression to marvel at its colorful mineral deposits and bubbling hot springs. In the afternoon, drive to the Erta Ale volcano, an active lava lake that offers an extraordinary experience. Witness the volcanic activity up close, one of the most unique natural phenomena on the planet.
Main Destination: Arba Minch
Accommodation: Camping
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks
- Day 10 - Drive to Semera & Fly Back to Addis Ababa
In the morning, drive back to Semera, passing through the striking desert landscapes of the Afar region. Afterward, take a flight back to Addis Ababa, where you can relax or enjoy a cultural evening in the capital. Reflect on your incredible journey through Ethiopia’s most remote and rugged regions.
Main Destination: Addis Ababa
Accommodation: Triple E Hotel
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast Included
- Day 11 - Fly Addis Ababa to Jinka, Visit Mursi & Hamar Villages
Fly to Jinka, located in the heart of the Omo Valley, and begin your exploration of the local tribes. Visit the Mursi people, known for their iconic lip plates, and then head to the Hamar tribe, famous for their bull-jumping ceremony. Immerse yourself in the unique traditions and lifestyles of these fascinating groups.
Main Destination: Arba Minch
Accommodation: Emerald lodge
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast Included
- Day 12 - Drive from Turmi to Dassanech Tribes & Karo Villages
Drive from Turmi to visit the Dassanech tribe, who live near the border of Ethiopia, Kenya, and South Sudan, and learn about their nomadic culture. Continue to the Karo people, known for their intricate body painting and elaborate rituals. This day offers a deep dive into the diversity of Ethiopia’s southern tribes.
Main Destination: Arba Minch
Accommodation: Emerald lodge
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast Included
- Day 13 - Drive from Turmi to Konso, Visit Villages
Travel from Turmi to Konso, a region known for its terraced hills and well-preserved cultural heritage. Explore the Konso villages, where traditional practices, including unique architecture and agricultural techniques, have been maintained for centuries. Discover the rich history and resilience of the Konso people, who have adapted to a challenging environment.
Main Destination: Arba Minch
Accommodation: Konso Hotels
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast Included
- Day 14 - Visit Lake Chamo & Dorze Villages
Begin your day with a visit to Lake Chamo, where you can take a boat trip to spot crocodiles, hippos, and abundant birdlife. Later, head to the Dorze villages, famous for their beehive-shaped homes and traditional weaving techniques. Enjoy learning about the Dorze people’s way of life, which has remained largely unchanged for generations.
Main Destination: Arba Minch
Accommodation: Darose
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast Included
- Day 15 - After Breakfast Drive to Airport for Flight to Addis Ababa
After breakfast, transfer to Arba Minch airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Reflect on the unforgettable journey through Omo Valley’s tribes, traditions, and landscapes. See the beauty of remote villages, rivers, and highlands along the way. Capture last-minute photos or souvenirs if time permits. Arrive in Addis Ababa,
Meals & Drinks: No meals selected
End of tour (See Getting There for more details)
- Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
- A transfer back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.
Includes
- Park fees (for non-residents)
- All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
- All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Excludes
- International flights (from/to the client's home country)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips: tipping guideline of $6 per person per day for the guide and crew
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees and other personal items)
Rates Per Person
Mar 2, 2026 - Feb 2, 2027
*n/a = not available. This tour is unavailable for solo travelers.
Includes
- Park fees (for non-residents)
- All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
- All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Excludes
- International flights (from/to the client's home country)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips: tipping guideline of $6 per person per day for the guide and crew
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees and other personal items)
Getting There
Ethiopia, situated in the famous Horn of Africa, is known as both the Land of Origins and the Land of a Thousand Smiles. Most of the visitors arrive at the Bole International Airport (ADD) in Addis Ababa. Usually, the Safari operator picks you up at the airport and takes care of any travel arrangements from there. If you are already in the region it’s possible to get in by land from Sudan, Kenya and Djibouti. It is best to stay away from the borders of South Sudan and Somalia. Drive-around tours are also available (especially in southern Ethiopia). Even when flying around, covering some distances by car can be very rewarding as you'll see some of the Ethiopian countrysides.
This tour starts in Addis Ababa and ends in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Travel Requirements
- All foreign visitors need a passport that is valid for at least six months
- Passports must have a clean and a full visa page for endorsement.
- Visitors can be obtain there Visas in advance from Ethiopian embassies or high commissions.
- You can also apply through the online visa-application portal, the official website of the Ethiopian Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs.
- For certain countries, A tourist visa can also be issued on arrival at Bole International Airport.
- When arriving from a country in Africa or the Americas where yellow fever is present, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.
Getting There
Ethiopia, situated in the famous Horn of Africa, is known as both the Land of Origins and the Land of a Thousand Smiles. Most of the visitors arrive at the Bole International Airport (ADD) in Addis Ababa. Usually, the Safari operator picks you up at the airport and takes care of any travel arrangements from there. If you are already in the region it’s possible to get in by land from Sudan, Kenya and Djibouti. It is best to stay away from the borders of South Sudan and Somalia. Drive-around tours are also available (especially in southern Ethiopia). Even when flying around, covering some distances by car can be very rewarding as you'll see some of the Ethiopian countrysides.
This tour starts in Addis Ababa and ends in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Travel Requirements
- All foreign visitors need a passport that is valid for at least six months
- Passports must have a clean and a full visa page for endorsement.
- Visitors can be obtain there Visas in advance from Ethiopian embassies or high commissions.
- You can also apply through the online visa-application portal, the official website of the Ethiopian Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs.
- For certain countries, A tourist visa can also be issued on arrival at Bole International Airport.
- When arriving from a country in Africa or the Americas where yellow fever is present, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.
Offered By
nigatethiopiatours
Ethiopia
Nigat Ethiopia Tours is a locally owned and passionately run travel company dedicated to showing the true beauty, depth, and diversity of Ethiopia. “Nigat” means dawn a symbol of new beginnings, new experiences, and new perspectives. That is what we give every traveler who journeys with us: a fresh, authentic encounter with Ethiopia
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