Travel to Ethiopia on this remarkably diverse journey of ancient historic sites and present day tribal cultures.
The full tour visits the historic north during the Timket traditions as well as the Omo Valley, home of diverse ethnic groups, in the south. We offer the option to join just one part to suit your interest.
The tour of historic North Ethiopia starts with arrival in Addis Ababa. We visit Lalibela, Bahir Dar and Gondar.
In Lalibela we attend the traditional timket festival with the locals. Then to the famous eleven churches in Lalibela each carved by hand from solid rock; a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the wonders of the ancient world.
One delight is a boat trip on Lake Tana to the Zeghe Peninsula known for its 14th century round, grass-roofed churches with magnificent wall murals. We explore the splendid city of Gondar with its many medieval buildings including royal palaces and picturesque churches.
We take a break from history with an excursion to Semien Mountains National Park which contains some of the most dramatic scenery in Africa. Here you will see the exotic Gelada baboons with their bright red hourglass chest markings.
The second part of the tour travels through Ethiopia’s beautiful and primitive Omo Valley. With our knowledgable guide we enjoy encounters with various tribal groups. We will visit several markets for spontaneous interactions and fantastic photo opportunities!
To see the detailed itinerary which also contains hotel names and urls, click Download Brochure.
To book this tour click "See Availability." A calendar pops up showing the first date of the tour. Click the date of the tour to continue to the booking page. Prices listed are in USD. To see the price in your currency, at the top of the booking page there is a drop-down menu, click that to select your country and it will convert the price to your currency. You can pay in your own currency.
Trip pricing is contingent upon a minimum of four (4) participants and is subject to adjustment should this minimum not be met.
Attend the traditional Timket ceremonies with the locals
Visit ancient Christian monasteries and churches (many are UNESCO World Heritage Sites) and marvel at the magnificent murals.
Explore Gondar, the first capital of the Ethiopian Empire, with architecture that shows both European and Islamic influences.
See thrilling native wildlife in Semien National Park & Mago National Park.
Mingle with tribespeople from the Mursi, Dorze and Chencha villages, and among others.
Accommodations 4* and best available in Omo Valley
Early check in on Day one
Accompanying guide throughout
Airport arrival and departure transfers on tour dates
AC Transport van or minibus depending on group size
Meals: 19 lunches, 17 dinners
Bottled water in the vehicles during drives
Entrance Fees to all sites
Local Taxes
International airfare
Visa Fee
Flights within the tour, priced separately
Beverages even when meals are included
Tips to drivers, guides, and hotel porters
Trip Cancellation/Travel Insurance
Original World, founded in 1997, offers hand-crafted immersive journeys steeped in vibrant local color and time-honored traditions. Original World is a boutique company, not a corporate conglomerate. Our services are personalized and we offer options for flexibility even within a group tour. Our small group tours feel like a private tour experience with like-minded travel companions. Explore destinations that maintain a traditional culture in India, Asia, Africa, Middle East, and Central, Northern, and Eastern Europe.