Ethiopia is an African enigma, combining a rich history, mosaic of cultures and incredible geographic diversity.
The highlands strong Orthodox Christian heritage has been formidably maintained over the millennia, alone amongst Islam and tribal cultures in surrounding Africa. From the colourful chaotic sprawl of the capital Addis Ababa, medieval castles of Gondar, to the tranquil island monasteries of Lake Tana, it is indeed a land of contrasts. This itinerary includes visits to local tribes and villages to experience their fascinating culture and a walk in the Simien Mountains. We allow plenty of time to take in the greatest of the ancient churches and monasteries home to art and religious icons, including the amazing 12th-century rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. The tremendous ethnic diversity and resplendent cultures of Ethiopia are evident as we explore the only country in Africa to have escaped colonialism.
2012 Departure Dates & Costs
16 day Ethiopia Explorer
December 16 - 31, 2011
January 4 - 19
January 10 - 25
February 19 - March 5
April 19 - May 4
September 21 - October 6
October 23 - November 7
November 16 - December 1
Tour cost$ 3,790 CAD per person
Also available:
13 - 15 Day Ethiopia Highland Trekking Adventure
Itinerary details on request
Departures in Jan (13 or 15 days), Feb (15 days), Mar (13 days), Oct (15 days) & Nov (15 days)
Tour cost: $ 2,470 CAD 13 days | $ 3,320 CAD 15 days
Itinerary in brief
DAY 1 Join Addis Ababa
DAY 2 Fly to Lalibela
DAY 3 In Lalibela
DAY 4 Fly Lalibela to Gondar, to Simien Mountains
DAY 5 In Simien Mountains
DAY 6 Gondar
DAY 7 Boat trip on Lake Tana
DAY 8 Fly Bahir Dar to Addis Ababa
DAY 9 Addis Ababa to Arba Minch
DAY 10 Boat trip on Lake Chamo, drive to Jinka
DAY 11 Jinka, excursion to Mursi Village, to Turmi, visit Hammer tribes
DAY 12 Excursion to Karo tribes
DAY 13 Drive to Arba Minch, visit Konso tribe
DAY 14 To Langano
DAY 15 To Addis Ababa
DAY 16 In Addis Ababa, trip concludes
Additional Information
Ethiopia offers a very different safari experience to its more popular neighbours of Kenya and Tanzania. It is home to 277 mammals and over 800 species of birds, many of which are unique to Ethiopia. The parks are not congested with visitors and they are almost untouched by commercial tourism. Awash National Park, with its volcanic formations and grassy plains, attracts some of the larger mammals and outstanding birdlife. The volcanic lakes in the Rift Valley are also home to a vast array of birds that make their homes on the shores of the lakes, including pelicans, egrets, kingfishers and storks. The Bale Mountains are famed for their beauty, with escarpments, gorges and several waterfalls, resulting in breathtaking views. The mountains also offer the opportunity to see the Ethiopian Wolf, which can be found on the Sanetti Plateau. This trip visits some of the finest areas of wilderness and wildlife, so we can experience all that Ethiopia has to offer.
