6 Days Ethiopian Historical Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by an Addis Ethiopia Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Your city tour begins at 9:00 AM, featuring visits to the Ethnographic Museum, Merkato (Africa’s largest open-air market), Mount Entoto for panoramic city views, and St. George’s Cathedral, one of Addis Ababa’s historic landmarks. Overnight: Hotel – Addis Ababa

Day 2: Addis Ababa → Bahir Dar (Flight)

Take an early morning flight to Bahir Dar. Upon arrival, visit the colorful local marketplace, followed by a boat excursion on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile. Explore several ancient island monasteries known for their historic manuscripts and beautiful religious artworks. Overnight: Hotel – Bahir Dar

Day 3: Bahir Dar → Gondar

After breakfast, drive through scenic countryside to Gondar, the 17th-century imperial capital. Explore the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a remarkable complex of castles built by successive Ethiopian kings. Despite wars and even World War II air raids, these structures stand as proud symbols of Ethiopia’s imperial history. Continue to Debre Birhan Selassie Church, admired for its vibrant murals and its iconic ceiling painted with angelic faces. Overnight: Hotel – Gondar

Day 4: Gondar → Axum (Flight)

Fly to Axum, the cradle of the ancient Aksumite Empire. In the afternoon, visit the Stelae Field, home to towering granite obelisks that have stood for over 2,000 years. Explore the Archaeological Museum, as well as additional tombs and historical sites depending on time. Overnight: Hotel – Axum

Day 5: Axum → Lalibela (Flight)

Fly to Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s holiest cities. In the afternoon, tour the extraordinary rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These eleven monolithic and semi-monolithic structures carved directly into solid rock more than 800 years ago include the world’s largest monolithic church, intricately carved reliefs, interconnected tunnels, and stunning icon paintings. Overnight: Hotel – Lalibela

Day 6: Lalibela → Addis Ababa (Flight) & Departure

Fly back to Addis Ababa. Visit the National Museum, home to “Lucy,” the 3.18-million-year old hominid fossil. Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs or enjoying leisure time. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring cultural music and dances from Ethiopia’s diverse ethnic groups.
Transfer to the airport for your evening or late-night international departure.