10 Days Tour to Simien Mts National Park Trekking with Axum and Lalibela

Our journey begins with the discovery of a fascinating historic route through the breathtaking landscapes of the Simien Mountains, where you’ll encounter troops of Gelada Baboons—an endemic species of Ethiopia. After a three-day trek through the stunning mountain scenery, we will return to Gondar. From there, we’ll continue to the ancient kingdom of Axum, home to the mysterious stelae parks and the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s palace. Our adventure will also take us to the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world. You will have ample time to explore and learn about these extraordinary churches on a guided tour.

Program in Detail

Day 01: Arrival – Sightseeing in Addis Ababa (“The New Flower”)
Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After refreshing, we begin your sightseeing in Addis with a drive up to Mount Entoto for a panoramic view of the city. Descend to the National Museum, where you can view the fossil of the oldest hominid, “Lucy.” Continue to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, built during WWII, then visit the Ethnographic Museum, formerly the palace of Emperor Haile Selassie. Conclude your day at Merkato, East Africa’s largest market.
Overnight at Aya Hotel Addis (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 02: Fly to Gondar (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
This morning, we take a flight to Gondar, the former capital of Ethiopia. Gondar is renowned for its 17th-century castles, with the largest and best-preserved being King Fasilidas’ Castle. The King also built a remarkable bath outside the city known as the ‘Pavilion of Delight,’ where thousands celebrate the Timkat festival every January. This afternoon, we’ll visit Debre Birhan Selassie Church, known for its extraordinary angelic ceiling and murals.
Overnight at Roseau Hotel Gondar (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 03: Drive to Simien Mountains (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
After breakfast, we’ll drive from Gondar to Debark, where we begin our trek in Simien Mountains National Park. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the escarpment with spectacular views of Africa’s highest mountain range. Keep an eye out for Lammergeyer vultures, Gelada Baboons, and bushbucks. After lunch, we’ll embark on a short trek to Sankaber Campsite, passing through the scenic Buyit Ras.
Overnight at Sankaber Camp (Bed, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 04: Trek to Geech
After breakfast, we’ll pack up and meet our muleteers for the trek to Geech. The trail crosses the Jinnbar River and its impressive falls (especially spectacular after the rainy season). We’ll continue along the escarpment, descending into the Geech Abyss. Keep an eye out for herds of Gelada Baboons along the way.
Overnight at Geech Campsite (3600m) (Bed, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 05: Trek to Imet Gogo
Today’s trek takes us to Imet Gogo promontory, offering some of the most spectacular views in the entire mountain range. This is also a great opportunity to spot the magnificent Lammergeier vultures. After soaking in the views, we’ll trek back to a village called Ambaras and meet the vehicle for our return to Gondar.
Overnight at Roseau Hotel Gondar (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 06: Fly to Axum (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
We fly to Axum, once one of the most powerful cities in the ancient world. Located at the crossroads of trade routes between the Mediterranean and India, Axum was economically, politically, and technologically advanced. It is also the birthplace of Christianity in Ethiopia and believed to be the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. We’ll visit the iconic monolithic stelae, including the tallest, which stands over 21 meters. The ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s palace, where she is said to have given birth to Menelik I, will also be explored.
Overnight at Sabean Hotel (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 07: Full Day in Axum
In the morning (if it’s Saturday), we’ll visit the colorful Basket Market under the largest sycamore tree, the only basket market in Axum, held every Saturday. We’ll continue to explore the main market, where locals trade goods from the surrounding countryside. After lunch, we’ll trek to the Gobo Dura Lioness Statue, located about 7 km from town and requiring a 20-minute walk. This site is believed to be the quarry from which the famous Axum obelisks were sourced.
Overnight at Sabean Hotel (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 08: Fly to Lalibela (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
After a short flight, we’ll visit the first cluster of Rock-Hewn Churches in Lalibela. These extraordinary churches were carved from solid rock around 800 years ago by King Lalibela and are considered one of the world’s wonders. The most impressive of these is Bet Giorgis, shaped like a Greek cross and meticulously preserved.
Overnight at Maribela Hotel (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 09: Full Day in Lalibela
Today, we’ll visit the Church of Yimrehane Kristos, a stunning example of Axumite wood and stone architecture. Famous for its intricate wooden coffered ceiling and beautiful decorations, this church is a highlight. In the afternoon, we’ll continue to explore Lalibela’s remaining rock-hewn churches, including Bete Gabriel, Rafael, Merkorous, Emanuel, and Abba Libanos. Among these, Bete Emanuel stands out for its exceptional carvings and Axumite architectural features.
Overnight at Maribela Hotel (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 10: Fly Back to Addis Ababa and Departure
We’ll fly back to Addis Ababa, where you will have free time in the afternoon to relax or explore. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant, featuring traditional live dances. Afterward, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure home.