13-Day Northern Ethiopia Adventure

Discover the wonders of Northern Ethiopia, from the Danakil Depression to the Simien Mountains and the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela.

Day 1

Fly to Semera

Arrival & Preparation

Arrive in Semera and overnight at a hotel to prepare for the Danakil trip.
Day 2

Semera to Erta Ale

Trek to the Lava Lake

Drive to Dodom base camp, rest, then trek 1.5 hours to Erta Ale volcano. Overnight camping at the crater.
Day 3

Erta Ale to Hamedella

Salt Lake & Caravans

Hike back to camp, then drive to Hamedella. Visit Lake Asale and camel caravans. Overnight camping.
Day 4

Hamedella to Dallol & Mekele

Danakil Depression

Visit Dallol’s sulfur springs, salt mining, and swim in Lake Afdera. Overnight at Axum Hotel in Mekele.
Day 5

Visit Yeha Temple

Ancient Heritage

Explore Yeha’s Temple of the Moon (7th century BC). Continue to Axum. Overnight at Atranos Hotel.
Day 6

Full Day in Axum

Historic Sites

Visit the Obelisks of Axum, Queen of Sheba’s Palace, King Kaleb’s tombs, and St. Mary’s Church. Overnight in Axum.
Day 7

Axum to Debark

Scenic Drive

Drive via the stunning Limalimo road built by Italians. Overnight at Limalimo Lodge.
Day 8

Simien Mountains National Park

Wildlife & Hiking

Drop luggage at Simien Lodge, hike to see endemic Gelada baboons and dramatic views. Overnight at Simien Lodge.
Day 9

Simien to Gondar

Castles & Churches

Morning walk, then drive to Gondar. Visit the Royal Enclosure, Debre Berhan Selassie Church, and Fasil’s Bath. Overnight at Haile Resort.
Day 10

Fly to Lalibela

Rock-Hewn Churches

Fly via Addis Ababa to Lalibela. Explore the first group of rock-hewn churches. Overnight at Sora Lodge.
Day 11

Lalibela

Eastern Churches & Coffee Ceremony

Visit the eastern group of churches, Nakutelab cave church, and experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
Day 12

Fly Back to Addis Ababa

Sightseeing

Fly back to Addis and enjoy local sightseeing. Overnight in a hotel.
Day 13

Addis Ababa

Farewell & Departure

Visit Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market. Transfer to the airport for your departure.

✅ 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.