11 Days Mixed Tour to the North
Day 1: Arrive Addis Ababa-Bahir Dar
Fly to Bahir Dar and transfer to Kuriftu Hotel. After breakfast, embark on a Lake Tana cruise from south to north. Visit island monasteries such as Ura Kidane Mehret with its beautiful frescoes and Narga Selassie in its stunning island setting. Continue to visit Debre Sina Church on the northern shore.
Day 2: Bahir Dar – Gondar
Drive early to Gondar, the 17th-century capital with rich history and architecture. Visit the Royal Enclosure, Debre Berhan Selassie Church with its angelic ceilings, and Weleka, the former Jewish quarter. Enjoy a scenic drive to a hill resort.
Day 3: Gondar
After breakfast, explore Gondar’s Fasil Castles and Debre Berhan Selassie Church again for detailed insights. Visit Weleka village, home to the historic Ethiopian Jewish community, then return to your resort for relaxation.
Day 4: Gondar
Morning walk to the Saturday Market in Gondar, followed by lunch. In the afternoon, visit Local 18 where the Jewish community lives. Spend some time with them before returning to the hotel.
Day 5: Gondar – Sankaber (3250m)
Drive from Gondar to Debark for park permits and pick up your scout. Continue to Simien Mountains for a short hike along the northern escarpment with stunning views. Encounter Gelada baboons before driving back to Gondar in the afternoon.
Day 6: Gondar – Lalibela
Fly to Lalibela, the UNESCO World Heritage “Jerusalem of Ethiopia.” Explore the incredible rock-hewn churches carved into red volcanic rock. Visit the eastern group of churches and enjoy your evening in this spiritual town.
Day 7: Lalibela // Addis // Axum
Fly from Lalibela to Addis and connect to Shire. After a short drive, arrive in Axum for lunch at Sabiyan Hotel. Overnight stay at Sabiyan Hotel.
Day 8: Axum Historical Tour
Discover ancient Axum, once the heart of the Aksumite Kingdom. Visit the archaeological museum, stelae fields, royal tombs, Queen of Sheba’s palace and bath, and the Cathedral of St. Mary of Zion—home to the Ark of the Covenant. Overnight at Sabiyan Hotel.
Day 9: Axum – Gheralta / Hawzen / Mekele – Addis
Drive to Yeha to visit the 800 BC pre-Axumite temple, then continue to Debre Damo Monastery (accessible by rope). Proceed to Mekele and take your flight back to Addis Ababa.
Day 10: Addis Ababa
Visit Entoto Hills, St. Mary Church, and the National Museum in the morning. After lunch, explore Friendship Park and attend a Shabbat ceremony at Chabad in Addis Ababa.
Day 11: Fly Back Home
Transfer to the airport for your international departure. End of the 11-day northern Ethiopia adventure.
✅ Included Services
- 🚗 4W Drive Vehicle: with driver and fuel included
- 🎟️ All Entrance Fees: access to all attractions mentioned in the itinerary
- 💧 Bottled Water: stay hydrated during your tours
- ☕ Cultural Coffee: experience traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremonies
- 🗣️ English Speaking Guides: expert guidance throughout your journey
- 🍽️ All meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner: enjoy delicious meals at selected locations
- 🏨 Hotel Accommodation: any unlisted or personal stays
- 👨🏫 Professional Guide Service: personalized assistance and local insights
📸 Camera & Video Charges: personal photography or filming with special fees
❌ Excluded Services
- 🍷 Alcoholic Drinks: not included in the package
- ✈️ Any Flight: international or extra flights are excluded
- 🛡️ Personal Insurance: travel or medical insurance not included
- 💰 Personal Tips & Gratitude: for guides, drivers, or staff
- 🛍️ Shopping Items: souvenirs or personal purchases
📝 SMT Tour – Cancellation Policy
🙋♂️ Cancellation by You (the Traveler)
- 📅 More than 30 days before the tour: Full refund minus a 10% administrative fee.
- 📅 15–30 days before the tour: 50% refund of the total booking amount.
- 📅 Less than 15 days before the tour: No refund.
🏛️ Cancellation by SMT Tour
In rare cases, if SMT Tour must cancel a tour, you will receive a full refund. Whenever possible, we will also offer alternative dates or similar tour options.
🔄 Changes to Your Booking
Changes such as dates or number of travelers are subject to availability and may incur additional charges. Please contact us as early as possible to make adjustments.
🌪️ Force Majeure
SMT Tour is not responsible for cancellations due to events beyond our control, including natural disasters, political unrest, or pandemics. We will assist with rescheduling or providing credit for future tours.
💳 Refund Process
Refunds are processed to the original payment method within 7–14 business days after cancellation confirmation.
💡 Travel Tip
We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected situations that may affect your travel plans.