Discover the extraordinary landscapes and historical treasures of Ethiopia with our 6-day Danakil Depression and Tigray churches tour. This unique journey will take you through the mesmerizing geothermal wonders of the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most inhospitable places on Earth and the ancient rock-hewn churches of Tigray, where history and spirituality merge in stunning architectural masterpieces.
Day 1: Arrival – Sightseeing Addis Ababa
As soon as you set foot at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, welcome and transfer to your reserved hotel followed by Addis Ababa city tour. Visit National museum, have an insight into the past and present history, culture, economy and art of the nation. Among other things you will visit the oldest hominid known as Lucy “Dinknesh ” dated back to 3.2 million years.
Visit Holy Trinity Cathedral built by Emperor Haile Silassie II. It is one of architecturally decorated, spacious, splendid stained-glass windows and well-designed churches in Ethiopia. Visit is Merkato, the largest open-air market in Africa. Visit mount Entoto the highest peak of the city at an altitude of 3200 meters above sea level, offering panoramic view of Addis Ababa city. Overnight in Addis Ababa.
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Mekelle – Danakil Depression (Erta Ale)
Early morning fly to Mekelle, the capital of Tigray region. Then drive to Erta Ale through the changing landscape of solidified lava, rock, and sand and occasional palm lined oasis. On the way, visit Lake Afdera and the salt mining center. Lake Afdera is the largest salt lake in Ethiopia located at an altitude of below sea level. Late in the afternoon, hike about 40 minutes to the rim of the volcano, to watch the dramatic action of the boiling lava. Erta Ale contains the world’s only permanent lava lake. Overnight in basic Camping.
Day 3: Erta Ale – Dallol (Hamed Ela)
In the morning walk back to the summit of the volcano to have a final look before driving to Dallol. In the afternoon, visit Salt Mountain, Lake Assale swimming Pool and the stunning Sunset in Dallol. Overnight at basic camping in Hamed Ela.
Day 4: Dallol (Hamed Ela) – Hawzen
Early in the morning visit a colorful sulfur field of Dallol, a bubbling Hypersaline Lake, traditional salt mining practiced by Afar people and camel caravan. In the afternoon drive to Hawzen with a short stop in Mekelle. Overnight in Hawzen.
Day 5: Tigray churches
Take an excursion to the foot of Geraltha Mountains. Visit the 5th century Abuna Yemata monolithic rock-hewn church. Abuna Yemata church is the highest church in Ethiopia situated at a height of 2,580 meters (8,460 ft.) and known for its dome and wall paintings dating back to the 5th century. Visit Maryam Korkor church, another nearby church dated back to the 6th century. Overnight in Hawzen.
Day 6: Hawzen – Mekelle – Addis Ababa
In the morning drive back to Mekelle. On the way visit Abraha Atsbeha rock-hewn church, founded in the 10th century by two brothers Abraha and Atsbeha, Aksumite rulers who have adopted Christianity to Ethiopia in the 4th century. In the afternoon fly back to Addis Ababa. In the evening attend a folkloric farewell dinner. Experience the rich cultural heritage of Ethiopia with a traditional dance performance live from stage. Transfer to airport for your departure.
What is included in the price quote?
- All transfers and ground transportation with fuel and driver allowance
- All entrance fees according to the program
- Accommodations
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Bottles of drinking water throughout the tour
- Multilingual professional guide
- Government tax
Price Excludes?
- Any flight (Domestic Flights can be arranged upon request)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Travel insurance
- Any other expenses which are not mentioned under what’s included section
