Northern Ethiopia Tour
Overview
This immersive 7-day journey through Northern Ethiopia invites you to experience the perfect blend of iconic landmarks and hidden cultural treasures. From the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains, this tour offers unparalleled access to some of Ethiopia's most awe-inspiring sites. Along the way, you'll connect with local communities, discover remote villages, and engage in authentic experiences—such as a boat ride on Lake Tana and a visit to the Blue Nile Falls. Designed for those seeking both adventure and cultural immersion, this journey offers moments that go beyond typical tourist attractions, providing you with a deeper understanding of Ethiopia’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant people.
Ready to experience the real Ethiopia?
Love this itinerary but want to tweak it? All our tours are fully customisable — whether you want to change the activities, pace or number of days, we’ll tailor it to you. Just let us know what you need!
Experiences Include:
🌊 Blue Nile Falls
🚤 Boat trip on Lake Tana
🥾 Simien mountain trek
🐒 See bleeding heart monkeys
🏰 Ancient Castles of Gondar
🔥 11 Rock-hewn churches in Lalibela
🏘️ Visit local villages
🗓️ Tour Length: 7 Days Standard (Flexible: 3–10 days)
🎯 Tailored Experience – Customise it to match your pace and interests
🌍 Wonders: Discover 5 unique places
🏡 Accommodation: Choose between lodges or local guesthouses
✈️ Available From: July 2025
Jump to:
Trip overview
Day 1: Fly to Lalibela, start exploring
Day 2: Full day exploring hand-carved churches
Day 3: Fly to Gondar, see ancient castles
Day 4: Drive to Simien Mountains and hike with Gelada monkeys
Day 5: Morning Simien mountain hike, drive back to Gondar
Day 6: Fly to Arba Minch via Addis Ababa, Dorze Tribe experience
Day 7: Drive from Arba Minch to Konso to see UNESCO cultural heritage site, drive to Turmi.
Day 8: Full Day Hamar tribe immersion
Day 9: Hamar and Ethiopian culture immersion
Day 10: Turmi to Addis via Jinka
Day 11: Best of Addis Ababa City Tour
Click for Full Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa – Transfer to Bahir Dar
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Morning:
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Arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
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Meet your guide and transfer to a domestic flight to Bahir Dar (1-hour flight).
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Check-in at a local eco-lodge/local guesthouse.
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Afternoon:
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Visit Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia, by boat. Stop at Kebran Gabriel Monastery on one of the islands, and explore the Ura Kidane Meheret Monastery, known for its impressive murals and history.
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Enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake, which is also an important spiritual and ecological area for local communities.
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Evening:
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Dinner at a restaurant serving traditional Amhara cuisine.
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Overnight in Bahir Dar.
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Day 2: Bahir Dar – Blue Nile Falls – Local Village Visit
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Morning:
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Drive (30 minutes) to Blue Nile Falls, one of Ethiopia’s most famous natural landmarks. Enjoy a guided walk to view the falls and learn about the local environmental importance. A lot of the time, the falls run brown because of the gorgeous brown soil - we show this picture here rather than you being disappointed when they are not clear like other photos online.
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Afternoon:
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After lunch, head to a nearby local village where you will interact with indigenous communities. Visit rural homes, learn about traditional agricultural practices, and participate in a coffee ceremony.
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Visit Tis Abay, a village near the falls, experience day-to-day life and handicrafts.
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Evening:
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Return to Bahir Dar for dinner. Overnight at the eco-lodge/hotel.
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Day 3: Bahir Dar to Gondar – Historical Tour
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Morning:
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After breakfast, drive (3-4 hours) to Gondar, the ancient capital of Ethiopia.
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Visit the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the Fasil Ghebbi, the complex of palaces and castles, which date back to the 17th century.
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Afternoon:
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Visit the Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its vibrant murals depicting biblical scenes and angels.
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Visit a local handicraft workshop, where artisans create traditional Ethiopian jewelry, pottery, and woven goods.
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Evening:
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Dinner at a local restaurant.
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Overnight in Gondar.
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Day 4: Gondar to Simien Mountains – Trekking & Village Experiences
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Morning:
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Drive (3 hours) to the Simien Mountains National Park.
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Check-in to an eco-lodge within the park, where you can enjoy the stunning highland landscapes.
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Afternoon:
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A short guided hike to view the Simiens’ dramatic landscapes. See wildlife like the Gelada baboon, Walia ibex, and Ethiopian wolf.
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Visit a local highland village within the park and learn about traditional farming, herding, and home life in the region.
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Evening:
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Dinner at the eco-lodge, enjoying local ingredients from the highlands.
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Overnight in the Simien Mountains.
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Day 5: Simien Mountains – Trekking & Cultural Immersion
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Morning:
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Full day trek in the Simien Mountains, exploring breathtaking ridges, valleys, and dramatic cliffs.
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Stop for a picnic at a scenic point
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Afternoon:
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Continue trekking and experiencing the beautiful natural environment. Visit Imet Gogo, a panoramic viewpoint offering spectacular views of the park and surrounding landscapes.
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Learn about the park's conservation efforts and how local communities are involved in sustainable tourism and wildlife protection.
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Evening:
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Return to the eco-lodge for dinner and enjoy storytelling from local guides about the area's history and culture. Overnight in the Simien Mountains.
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Day 6: Simien Mountains to Lalibela – Rock-Hewn Churches
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Morning:
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Drive (5-6 hours) to Lalibela, one of the holiest cities in Ethiopia, known for its rock-hewn churches.
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Check-in at a local eco-lodge.
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Afternoon:
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Visit the famous 11 medieval rock-hewn churches, including St. George Church and Bet Medhane Alem.
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Take a guided tour through the complex, learning about the ancient monastic traditions and the significance of these churches to Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.
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Evening:
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Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian meal and live music, perhaps witnessing a local dance performance. Overnight in Lalibela.
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Day 7: Lalibela – Local Village Visit & Departure
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Morning:
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Visit a local village near Lalibela, where you will experience rural life, learn about agriculture, and enjoy coffee ceremonies.
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Engage with local artisans creating traditional Ethiopian crafts, such as weaving and pottery.
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Afternoon:
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Return to Lalibela for a farewell lunch at a restaurant with a view of the surrounding landscape.
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Transfer to Lalibela Airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa or onward destination.
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What do previous guests think?
Not your typical South Omo tour.
While most tours move quickly from tribe to tribe, offering brief visits and surface-level glimpses, we take a different path. Our deep, respectful partnership with the Hamar people invites you into authentic experiences built on real trust, connection, and learning. We're a believer that everyone does their best until they know better and then they do better. We believe tourism can do better, and we hope more journeys will follow this model in the future.
Typical South Omo Tours:
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Visit many tribes quickly, little depth
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Focused on photos, not real experiences
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Surface-level, sometimes inaccurate information
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Voyeuristic — tourists watch but don’t engage
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Heavy use of single-use plastics
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No carbon offsetting or sustainability focus
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Short, rushed interactions with locals
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Tourist groups often overwhelm villages
Our Hamar Immersion Tour (incorporated into this Tour)
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Deep connection with one tribe (Hamar)
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Hands-on cultural experiences (cook, dance, craft)
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Accurate knowledge passed on from Hamar people
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Respectful, non-intrusive, meaningful exchanges
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Low-plastic, eco-conscious operations
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Full carbon offsetting and tree planting
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Slow travel approach — quality over quantity
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Small groups for genuine, low-impact experiences
Not your typical tour company:
Pricing
Your tour is customized around you so pricing varies depending on: group size, season, activites and your choice of luxury lodges and premium 4x4, or authentic guesthouses and standard vehicles.
We’ll tailor everything to your style and budget — so you get the best possible experience at the best possible price.
👉 Contact us now for a personalized quote.
What’s Included ✔️
✔️ Exclusive Activities: Enjoy a range of exclusive cultural experiences, including visits to historic and religious sites, and immersive activities with local communities. All entrance fees to museums, heritage sites, and attractions are included, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience throughout your tour.
✔️ Accommodation: High-end lodges or authentic local guesthouses
✔️ All Meals & Drinks: All meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks included
✔️ Expert Local Guides: You’ll be accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide, as well as local guides who are experts in the site we are visiting
✔️ Private Transport: Comfortable AC 4x4 or budget-friendly vehicle option
✔️ Internal Flights: Your internal Ethiopian flights
✔️ Carbon Offsetting: Travel responsibly — your trip emissions are offset
✔️ Community Charitable Support: 10% portion of your payment directly supports local communities
✔️ LifeStraw Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and safe throughout your trip
✔️ Tree Planting: We plant a tree for every traveler to support reforestation and carbon offsetting efforts
✔️ Photographic Opportunities: Guidance on the best spots and respectful photography practices
✔️ 24/7 In Country Support: Personal assistance from Fiona, a British travel expert based in Ethiopia
✔️ Pre-Trip Travel Advice: Packing lists, safety tips, and cultural etiquette guidance. Ask any additional questions on email or phone call.
What’s Not Included ❌
❌ International flights to/from Ethiopia
❌ Travel insurance (recommended)
❌ Alcoholic beverages
❌ Personal purchases like souvenirs
❌ Optional extra services (e.g., massages at lodges)
Ready to experience the real Ethiopia?
👉 Click here to start planning your adventure.
Who is running this trip?
Geta Desta
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Your guide throughout the whole trip
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Expert 5* reviewed guide
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English fluent
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Born + raised in South Omo Valley
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Lived in the UK 7+ years
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Travel lover
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Supported by regional local guides
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Co-Founder of Ethical Ethiopian Experiences
Fiona Clarke
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Your point of contact before your trip
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Lived between Ethiopia + UK for 12 years
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You will likely meet her in Turmi
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Available for queries via phone, Whatsapp or email
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African Studies MA
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Co-Founder of Ethical Ethiopian Experiences
Kuna Bita
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You will meet Kuna in Hamar
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Grew up in Hamar
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Only female guide in Hamar
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Good English
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Loves hosting and sharing her culture
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Expert jewellery maker
Who is this trip for?
This journey is made for travellers who care deeply about ethical, immersive, and authentic experiences.
You’re not here to tick boxes - you want to connect with real people, learn their traditions, and leave a positive impact.
You’ll feel at home among the Hamar, Dorze, and Konso communities because this trip is built on the trust and respect we have spent the last decade building - you’ll be genuinely welcomed by the people you meet and they are excited to meet you.
We know you may sometimes worry about missing “everything” in Ethiopia, or about the cost of a small, personalised trip. That’s natural. But our approach gives you the depth you can’t get on a rushed tour - a chance to really experience life in these communities, compare cultures meaningfully, and take part in hands-on learning like cooking, crafting, and ceremonies.
Ideal travellers for this trip:
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Prefer small groups of 10 or fewer, with the freedom to be active or opt out and rest
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Value safety, clean accommodation, and authentic food
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Are aged 25 – 65, travelling solo or as a couple/ friends
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Seek connection, awe, adventure, and a sense of discovery
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Care about making their travel ethical and meaningful, giving back rather than exploiting
You’re here because you want more than sightseeing.
You want to come home changed, having shared real life with people you can learn from - and having done it in a way that’s thoughtful, responsible, and unforgettable.
This journey isn’t for everyone — it’s for travellers who want to experience Ethiopia deeply, ethically, and authentically.
Who is this trip not for?
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This is not the trip for everyone, and that's okay!
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This isn’t for travellers who want to tick off every tribe, stick rigidly to a schedule, or prioritise price over depth.
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It’s not for those who can’t adapt to local rhythms, want only familiar international food for every meal, or hope to photograph people without connecting first.
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This journey is real life - immersive, hands-on, and sometimes unpredictable - for those willing to be flexible, open, and fully present.
FAQs
These are the questions previous travellers have asked the most - but if your question isn't here, do reach out!
Is this trip safe?
The Northern part for the tour does travel through regions sometimes classified as red zones by the FCDO, but we design the itinerary to prioritise safety at every step. The region is classified as a red zone due to some conflict in very rural areas, which we are not going near. All travel between cities is by flight, and within each city we stay strictly in secured, well-monitored areas. In the north, the main cities are maintained by a strong military presence, and new flight routes make travel smoother and safer.
We live in the south of Ethiopia for most of the year and see firsthand that the areas we visit—including key cities and cultural sites—are stable and welcoming to tourists. Guests continue to visit while it is classified as a red zone; in fact, we’ve recently had visitors in the exact locations included in this tour.
Your safety is our top priority. Before each trip, we check in with trusted local contacts for the most up-to-date information on conditions, ensuring you can focus on enjoying your experience without worry.
Your guide carries a first-aid kit, has emergency contacts in every location, and only travels on safe roads.
For minor illness, we know good local doctors.
The vehicles you travel in are modern, with seatbelts and are reguarly maintained.
Terrain includes tarmac and dirt roads; the longest drive at a time is about 4 hours (mostly dirt roads).
Malaria is present though, we recommend preventative medicine and up-to date vaccinations.
What is the accommodation like?
You’ll mostly stay in local guesthouses with private rooms and en-suite bathrooms. Modern, clean, usually with hot water and power (occasional outages may occur).
In Hamar villages, you can choose a tent, sleep on a cowskin inside a Hamar home, or return to the guesthouse.
Couples or friends can share rooms for a discount.
What about food?
Meals are authentic Ethiopian cuisine, with gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan options (please let us know in advance) and most allergy needs accommodated with advance notice. Some international food is available in Hawassa, Arba Minch, or on request in Turmi. Food hygiene is our top priority - we select reputable places and provide handwashing stations; guests are encouraged to bring sanitiser.
How does logistics and transport work?
Internal flight from Addis Ababa to Jinka is included; we meet you at the airport with your name card and contact info. All local transfers are provided. Group size is 10 or fewer, ensuring personal attention and flexibility.
What if plans change?
While disruptions are rare, we adapt the itinerary to give you the best experiences possible — substituting activities or shifting schedules if needed.
What if I have specific dietary needs, mobility limits, or special requests?
We can accommodate most dietary needs if notified in advance. The trip requires some flexibility on timing, terrain, and daily pace; if you have severe mobility limitations or back issues, please check with us.
What is your refund and cancellation policy?
While disruptions are rare, we adapt the itinerary to give you the best experiences possible — substituting activities or shifting schedules if needed.
Who will be guiding the trip?
Your journey is led by Geta, who will be with you throughout. Geta has years of experience leading tours across Ethiopia. Geta grew up in the Hamar region and will introduce you to friends and family he has known his whole life, so you'll feel like you're joining the extended family, rather than intruding. Geta is in the unique position of having lived in the UK for 7 years and travelled across Europe, South East Asia, Mexico and East Africa, bringing an understanding of tourism and your culture that can be hard to grasp when you haven't left the region.
Geta will work alongside experienced local guides in other regions, who know the communities personally and help translate language, customs, and everyday life.
Geta will often be supported in Hamar by Kuna, the only female guide and our longtime friend. She will give you more insight into women's life in Hamar and you'll love her stories. Geta and Kuna's relationships with the Hamar and other communities are what make this journey possible.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in Ethiopia?
Tap water is not safe to drink in Ethiopia. To make staying hydrated easy, we include a LifeStraw water bottle for every traveller, allowing you to safely filter drinking water throughout the journey. It removes 99% of bacteria, parasites, microplastics etc. We can also provide bottled water for brushing teeth.
The Lifestraw water bottle is one of the thoughtful extras we include to make your journey easier and more comfortable.
Will I have support before and during the trip?
Yes. Before you travel, you’ll have direct access to Fiona via call, Whatsapp and email, she is a native English speaker and co-founder, who can help with preparation and answer questions - no question is too big / small / weird! During the journey, she remains available if you need reassurance or support.
This is to make your experience smoother and more personal.
Will I know how to prepare for the trip?
Absolutely. Before departure you’ll receive a detailed packing list and an 80-page Ethiopia guide. It covers culture, customs, practical preparation, and what to expect day-to-day so you can arrive feeling confident. You don't have to read this - it is not in any way required because Geta will be with you throughout your trip to provide you with all of the information you need. We know some guests like to rock up and see what the country brings, and some like to read up beforehand - there's no right or wrong way but we provide the guide for those who want it.
It’s one of the extra touches we include to help you feel prepared and relaxed before the adventure begins.
What makes this journey special?
This isn’t just a holiday.
It’s a rare opportunity to connect deeply with cultures at a turning point, before modernization changes many traditional ways of life.
Through immersive experiences, respectful cultural exchange, and time spent with local communities, many travellers find it becomes one of the most meaningful journeys they’ve ever taken.
🧭 Want more than landmarks? Include the South for cultural immersion you’ll never forget:
Best of Ethiopia Tour
From the castles of Gondar to the tribes of the Omo Valley, this tour offers a diverse and unforgettable journey.
🗓️ 9 Days · Flex 5–21🎯 Tailored Experience 🌍 Wonders & Tribes 🏡 Lodges / Guest Houses ✈️ From June '25
🦁 Craving the best beaches, safaris, historical sites and culture of East Africa? You'll love this:
Best of East Africa Tour
Explore Ethiopia and Tanzania in one epic journey— Wonders, Culture, Animals and Beach
🗓️ 21 Days · Flex 17–28+ 🎯 Tailored Experience 🌍 Wonders 🏡 Choose Lodges / Guest Houses ✈️ From June '25
💛 Want to really get to know a tribe? This is the tour we always suggest for depth over breadth:
Hamar South Omo Tour
If you do just one tour, make it this one — the heart of everything we stand for. Cook, craft, dance, roast, drink, learn.
🗓️ 7 Days Flex 3–14🎯 Tailored Experience 🌍 3 Tribes 🏡 Lodges / Guest Houses✈️ From June '25
🧭 Want to swap or add a specific location? Tailor your route with flexible options:
Location Add-Ons
Shape your trip with 1–3 day extensions or swaps—lakes, wildlife, history, tribes, or downtime—fit to your pace and style.
🗓️ Flex 1–3 Days · Swap or Add
🎯 Tailored Picks 🌍 Nature, Culture & More 🏞️ Mix & Match ✈️ Add to any trip
🎒 Travelling on a backpacker budget? All the impact, less of the cost:
Backpackers South Omo
Travel off the beaten path with a small group - designed for cultural immersion on a budget.
🗓️ 7 Days 👥 Group Size: 4–8 🌍 5 Tribes 🏡 Local Guest Houses / Camping✈️ From June '25
🤝 More into humans than history? See the South Omo for real connection and culture:
South Omo Valley Tour
Explore the Omo Valley’s rich diversity as you visit five unique tribes, including an immersive Hamar experience.
🗓️ 7 Days · Flex 3–10 🎯Tailored Experience 🌍 5 Tribes 🏡 Choose Lodges / Guest Houses ✈️ From June '25
Optional Extensions or Substitutions for Your Tour
Each of these options offers a distinct experience and can be easily integrated into your 7-day Northern Ethiopia tour. Depending on your interests, you can swap out a day from the main itinerary for one of these exciting adventures or extend your tour to include it. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient history, venture into unique landscapes, or engage in thrilling wildlife encounters. Below are 4 examples of extensions but you can see all 17 options here. Just let us know which experience appeals to you, and we’ll customize your itinerary accordingly!
1. Danakil Depression (2-3 Days) - Feel like you're on another planet
For those seeking an extreme and awe-inspiring adventure, a trip to the Danakil Depression is a must. Located in one of the hottest and most inhospitable places on Earth, this surreal landscape is home to volcanoes, salt flats, geysers, and acid lakes. You will experience the otherworldly beauty of Erta Ale, an active volcano with a molten lava lake, and the colorful sulfur springs of Dallol, where vibrant yellow and red mineral deposits create a Martian-like terrain. This trip provides a glimpse into one of the planet’s most unique ecosystems, and you’ll also meet the Afar people, who have lived in this harsh environment for centuries. Note: This option requires a more adventurous spirit due to the remote and rugged nature of the region. We can explain more over an email or phone call!
2. Gheralta Mountains (2-3 Days) - Incredible churches in the cliffside
For those interested in history, culture, and dramatic landscapes, the Gheralta Mountains offer a fascinating and less-traveled experience. Located in the Tigray region, these rugged peaks are home to ancient rock-hewn churches, many of which are still active places of worship. You can take scenic hikes through valleys and cliffs to visit these remote monasteries, some of which date back to the 4th century. The area’s unique landscapes, with steep escarpments and striking natural beauty, create an unforgettable atmosphere. Hiking to these cliffside churches offers both a spiritual and physical journey, providing a deeper connection to Ethiopia’s early Christian heritage.
3. Axum (2-3 Days) - Explore Ancient Tombs
For those seeking to explore the roots of Ethiopia’s ancient civilizations, a visit to Axum is highly recommended. As the former capital of the Aksumite Empire, Axum is home to towering obelisks, royal tombs, and the legendary Ark of the Covenant, believed by some to be housed in the St. Mary of Zion Church. This historical site offers an incredible journey into Ethiopia’s past, with ancient ruins that speak to the power and influence of one of Africa’s oldest kingdoms. The site’s historical importance is complemented by the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding area, making Axum a truly enlightening experience for history enthusiasts.
4. Harar – Feed Hyenas (1-2 Days)
For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, spend a day in Harar, one of the most culturally rich cities in Ethiopia. Harar is known for its ancient walls, colorful markets, and vibrant Islamic heritage. However, what sets it apart is the opportunity to feed wild hyenas. In the evening, venture into the countryside where local hyena-feeding rituals have been practiced for generations. Guided by the “hyena man,” you will have the chance to feed the hyenas by hand, witnessing this fascinating tradition up close. This experience offers a rare chance to connect with both the wildlife and people of Harar, combining adventure with cultural immersion in a safe and respectful manner.