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13-Day Northern Ethiopia Tour

Explore the Danakil Depression, Simien Mountains, Axum, Gondar, Lalibela, and Addis Ababa in this unforgettable northern Ethiopia adventure.

Day 1

Fly to Semera

Arrival

Fly to Semera and overnight in a hotel to be ready for the Danakil trip.
Day 2

Semera to Erta Ale

Volcano Trek

Drive from Semera to Dodom (base of Erta Ale). After rest and dinner, trek 1.5 hrs to Erta Ale and witness the only permanent lava lake in the world. Overnight camping on the mountain.
Day 3

Erta Ale to Hamedella

Drive & Camp

Hike back to camp in the morning, then drive to Hamedella. Overnight camping in open air (tent available if needed).
Day 4

Hamedella to Dallol & Mekele

Danakil Depression

Sunrise drive to Dallol to visit salt mines, salt pools, and colorful sulfuric hot springs. Stop at Lake Afdera, then continue to Mekele. Overnight at Axum Hotel.
Day 5

Yeha Temple & Axum

Ancient Heritage

Visit Yeha Temple (7th century BC) on the way 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

Drive to Debark

Scenic Road

Travel via the stunning Limalimo road, built during the Italian occupation. Overnight at Limalimo Lodge.
Day 8

Simien Mountains

Wildlife & Hiking

Arrive at Simien Lodge, then enjoy a 1–2 hour hike to see Walia ibex, Gelada monkeys, and breathtaking 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. Afternoon tour of the monolithic red-rock churches. Overnight at Sora Lodge.
Day 11

Lalibela

Eastern Churches & Coffee

Visit the eastern group of churches, Nakutelab cave church, and experience an Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Overnight in Lalibela.
Day 12

Fly Back to Addis Ababa

Sightseeing

Return to Addis Ababa for sightseeing. Overnight in a hotel.
Day 13

Addis Ababa

Farewell

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

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