Arrival at Bole International Airport. Meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. Later, explore Addis Ababa with visits to the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and Entoto Hills for panoramic city views.
Overnight: Addis Ababa
Morning flight to Mekelle, the capital of Tigray. Visit the Tigray Martyrs Memorial Museum to understand the region’s modern history. Enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony in the evening.
Overnight: Mekelle
Drive to Wukro to visit Wukro Cherkos, one of the finest rock-hewn churches carved into sandstone. Continue exploring nearby churches and villages, learning about early Ethiopian Christianity and local traditions.
Overnight: Wukro
Travel into the dramatic Gheralta Mountains, home to some of Ethiopia’s most spectacular churches. Visit Abreha we Atsbeha, famous for its Axumite architecture and ancient frescoes. Afternoon hike to cliff-top viewpoints overlooking the rugged landscape.
Overnight: Gheralta area lodge
Early morning hike to one of the iconic cliff churches such as Maryam Korkor or Daniel Korkor, offering breathtaking views and a deep spiritual atmosphere. Continue to Abune Yemata Guh, a thrilling climb involving barefoot ascents and narrow ledges.
Overnight: Gheralta area lodge
Leisurely morning walk through local villages. Return drive to Mekelle, with stops at scenic viewpoints and traditional markets. Preparation and briefing for the Danakil Depression expedition.
Overnight: Mekelle
Early departure by 4x4 vehicles toward the Danakil Depression. Visit the surreal landscapes of Dallol, famous for its colorful sulfur springs, salt canyons, and acidic pools. Continue to Lake Assale, one of the lowest points in Africa, and observe traditional salt mining by Afar people.
Overnight: Hamed Ela (basic camp)
Early morning descent from Erta Ale. Drive back through the Afar lowlands, passing volcanic landscapes and desert plains. Arrive in Mekelle in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Mekelle
Early morning descent from Erta Ale. Drive back through the Afar lowlands, passing volcanic landscapes and desert plains. Arrive in Mekelle in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Mekelle
Drive to Axum, the ancient capital of the Axumite Empire. Visit the Stelae Park, Church of St. Mary of Zion, and royal tombs. Learn about Axum’s role in early Christianity and ancient trade routes.
Overnight: Axum
Excursion to Yeha, home to Ethiopia’s oldest standing structure, the Great Temple of Yeha, dating back over 2,500 years. Explore the surrounding archaeological sites before returning to Axum.
Overnight: Axum
Morning flight back to Addis Ababa. Depending on your international flight schedule, enjoy last-minute shopping or a traditional farewell dinner. Transfer to the airport for departure.
End of Tour