English
FrenchSafari Tour: The Historic Route of Ethiopia 8 Days / 7 Nights Journey - Ethiopia Safari Tour
8-Day Ethiopia Safari Tour by SMT Tour
Offered by - SMT Tour
Tour Features
The Historic Route of Ethiopia 8 Days / 7 Nights – A Journey Through Ethiopia’s Ancient Kingdoms, Spectacular Landscapes, and Living Heritage Discover the wonders of Ethiopia on an unforgettable journey through the country's most iconic historical, cultural, and natural treasures. From the shores of Lake Tana and the majestic Blue Nile Falls to the medieval castles of Gondar, the dramatic peaks of the Simien Mountains, the ancient kingdom of Axum, and the extraordinary rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, this tour offers an immersive experience into one of Africa’s most fascinating civilizations.
| Mid-Range tour | This mid-range tour includes comfortable lodges and tented camps. |
| Can be customized | You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour. |
| Shared tour | This tour will be shared with other travelers. |
| 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: Pop-up roof 4x4, Normal 4x4, Minivan, Bus, Walking, Air, Overland, Self-drive, Horse, Bicycle. |
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 |
| 1-8 | Mid-Range Accommodation No images available | Breakfast, Lunch Included with Drinks |
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 - Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar Gateway to Lake Tana and the Blue Ni
Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar
Gateway to Lake Tana and the Blue Nile
Begin your Ethiopian adventure with a short flight to Bahir Dar, one of the country's most picturesque cities, located on the shores of Lake Tana—the source of the Blue Nile. Observe local fishermen navigating traditional papyrus reed boats, a practice unchanged for centuries. In the afternoon, visit the spectacular Tis Issat Falls (Blue Nile Falls), where the mighty river plunges dramatically into a lush gorge, creating one of Ethiopia’s most celebrated natural landmarks.
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch Included with Drinks
- Day 2 - Bahir Dar – Gondar Exploring Ethiopia’s Royal Capital
Journey through scenic highland landscapes and fertile farmlands to Gondar, the legendary "Camelot of Africa." Founded in the 17th century, Gondar served as Ethiopia’s imperial capital and remains renowned for its magnificent castles and royal compounds. Explore the UNESCO-listed Fasil Ghebbi, a remarkable complex of palaces and fortresses, before visiting the Church of Debre Berhan Selassie, famed for its beautifully painted ceiling adorned with angelic faces.
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
- Day 3 - Gondar – Simien Mountains National Park – Gondar Among the
Experience one of Africa’s most breathtaking mountain landscapes with a full-day excursion to Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike along scenic escarpments overlooking dramatic valleys and jagged peaks while discovering the park’s unique biodiversity. Encounter troops of Gelada baboons, found only in the Ethiopian Highlands, and enjoy spectacular panoramic views throughout the day before returning to Gondar.
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks
- Day 4 - Gondar – Axum In the Footsteps of Ancient Kings
Fly to Axum, the cradle of one of Africa’s greatest ancient civilizations and the legendary home of the Queen of Sheba. Discover the city's fascinating archaeological heritage, including the towering granite stelae, royal tombs, and ancient inscriptions. Visit the Cathedral of St. Mary of Zion, revered as the traditional resting place of the Ark of the Covenant, and gain insight into Ethiopia’s rich spiritual and historical legacy.
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks
- Day 5 - Axum – Lalibela The Sacred City of Stone Churches
Travel to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s most revered pilgrimage destination and one of the world's greatest architectural achievements. Often called the "Jerusalem of Africa," Lalibela is home to eleven extraordinary monolithic churches carved directly from solid rock. Explore these remarkable structures, connected by tunnels and passageways, while learning about their religious significance and enduring role in Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity.
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks
- Day 6 - Lalibela Living Faith and Timeless Traditions
Continue your exploration of Lalibela with visits to the eastern cluster of rock-hewn churches, celebrated for their intricate carvings and sacred atmosphere. Venture beyond the town to Nakutoleab Monastery, dramatically set within a natural cave. Later, enjoy an authentic cultural experience as you participate in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, gaining insight into one of the country's most cherished customs.
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
- Day 7 - Lalibela – Addis Ababa Return to Ethiopia’s Vibrant Capital
Fly back to Addis Ababa, Africa’s diplomatic capital and cultural hub. Depending on your schedule, enjoy time for sightseeing, shopping, or exploring the city’s vibrant markets and cultural attractions. Celebrate your journey with a farewell evening reflecting on the remarkable experiences of the past week.
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch Included with Drinks
- Day 8 - Addis Ababa – Departure Farewell Ethiopia
Transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your onward flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of Ethiopia’s ancient kingdoms, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Tour Highlights
✓ Explore four UNESCO World Heritage Sites
✓ Visit the spectacular Blue Nile Falls
✓ Discover the medieval castles of Gondar
✓ Hike in the stunning Simien Mountains National Park
✓ Experience the ancient civilization of Axum
✓ Explore Lalibela’s world-famous rock-hewn churches
✓ Participate in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony
✓ Encounter Ethiopia’s unique wildlife and rich cultural heritage
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included with Drinks
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
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Excludes
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- International flights (from/to the client's home country)
- 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)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Rates Per Person
Jun 1, 2006 - Dec 12, 2007
*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
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Excludes
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- International flights (from/to the client's home country)
- 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)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
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
SMT Tour
Ethiopia
Kenya
Tanzania
Nurlign – Ethiopian Tour Guide & Tourism Professional
Nurlign is an experienced Ethiopian tour guide and tourism professional with nearly two decades of experience guiding travelers across Ethiopia. He has a deep passion for showcasing the country's rich history, diverse cultures, spectacular landscapes, and unique wildlife.
As the owner of �, Simien specializes in organizing customized tours throughout Ethiopia, including the renowned Simien Mountains National Park, which he considers one of the most beautiful mountain destinations in the world. Having worked as a guide in the Simien Mountains for approximately 17 years, he possesses extensive knowledge of trekking routes, local communities, wildlife, and mountain logistics.
simienmountainstour.com
Simien is actively involved in developing travel itineraries, trekking expeditions, cultural tours, and wildlife adventures. He is particularly interested in promoting Ethiopian tourism internationally and building partnerships with travel platforms, tour operators, and travelers worldwide.
He communicates confidently in English and continuously works to improve his language and professional communication skills. His approach to tourism emphasizes hospitality, cultural exchange, and creating memorable experiences for visitors.
Beyond tourism, Simien values cooperation and understanding among people and believes in peaceful collaboration to solve regional challenges. His dedication to Ethiopia's natural and cultural heritage is reflected in his commitment to helping travelers discover the country's remarkable destinations.
Key strengths:
Professional tour guiding and trekking leadership
Ethiopia travel planning and logistics
Simien Mountains trekking expertise
Cultural and historical tourism
Customer service and hospitality
Tourism business development and partnerships
Multiday expedition organization
This profile presents you as a knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated tourism professional committed to promoting Ethiopia to travelers from around the world.
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