07 Day Trip to the North Historic Route – Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s breathtaking North Historic Route offers an unforgettable journey through the country’s rich cultural tapestry. From the majestic castles of Gondar to the serene monasteries of Lake Tana, this 7-day adventure promises an immersive experience that showcases the nation’s diverse heritage. As travelers explore these remarkable sites, they’ll uncover the captivating stories that have shaped this ancient land, leaving them eager to delve deeper into Ethiopia’s timeless allure.

Good To Know

• Explore Ethiopia’s cultural and historical highlights on a 7-day tour of the northern historic route, including Addis Ababa, Gondar, Lake Tana, Bahir Dar, and Lalibela.
• Discover the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Gondar’s castles and Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, showcasing the country’s architectural and engineering feats.
• Experience the tranquility of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, and its ancient monasteries with rich religious heritage.
• Visit the Mercato market in Addis Ababa, the largest open-air market in Africa, and the Blue Nile Falls in Bahir Dar.
• The tour includes domestic flights, transportation, accommodation, an English-speaking guide, and select activities, with exclusions such as international airfare and travel insurance.

Exploring Addis Ababa

Your tour begins with exploring Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s bustling capital city.

As the diplomatic and economic center of the country, this vibrant metropolis offers a unique blend of modern and traditional elements. You’ll wander through the lively Mercato, the largest open-air market in Africa, where vendors sell an array of goods, from spices and textiles to local handicrafts.

Visit the National Museum, home to the renowned "Lucy," a 3.2-million-year-old hominid fossil, and gain insights into Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage.

Explore the Entoto Hills, the former imperial capital, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Your time in Addis Ababa sets the stage for the incredible sights that await you on the historic northern route.

Discovering Gondar’s Castles

After departing Addis Ababa, the tour moves on to Gondar, the historic capital of Ethiopia.

Once there, travelers explore the city’s famous castles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These majestic stone structures, built between the 17th and 18th centuries, showcase the architectural grandeur of the Ethiopian Empire.

Visitors wander through the imposing Royal Enclosure, marveling at the intricate designs and learning about the kings who once ruled from these halls.

The tour also includes a visit to the palatial baths of Emperor Fasilides, where the monarch would bathe and entertain guests.

With its unique blend of history and culture, Gondar captivates travelers with its impressive royal legacy.

Boating on Lake Tana

From Gondar, the tour moves on to the enchanting Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile.

Travelers embark on a boat trip to explore the lake’s hidden gems – the ancient monasteries dotting its islands. They’ll witness the architectural wonders and learn about the rich religious history preserved within these sacred sites.

The tranquil waters of the lake provide a serene backdrop, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

This boat excursion offers a unique opportunity to connect with Ethiopia’s past and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s enduring traditions.

Uncovering Bahir Dar’s Treasures

Situated on the southern shores of the majestic Lake Tana, Bahir Dar beckons travelers with its vibrant culture and architectural marvels.

This charming city is home to the magnificent Blue Nile Falls, one of Ethiopia’s most captivating natural wonders. Visitors can embark on a tranquil boat ride across the lake, discovering the ancient monasteries that dot its islands, including the revered Kebran Gabriel and Ura Kidane Mehret.

In the heart of the city, the lively Mercato market offers a glimpse into the daily life of the locals, with vendors selling an array of colorful handicrafts and local produce.

Bahir Dar’s blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic experiences make it a must-visit destination on Ethiopia’s historic northern route.

Marveling at Lalibela’s Churches

Twelve ancient rock-hewn churches carved directly into the volcanic rock captivate visitors in the town of Lalibela.

These UNESCO World Heritage churches date back to the 12th and 13th centuries and showcase remarkable architectural and engineering feats.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings, explore the underground tunnels connecting the churches, and witness religious ceremonies.

The most famous is the Church of St. George, shaped like a Greek cross and entirely carved out of a single piece of rock.

Wandering through this unique and sacred site is a humbling experience, offering a glimpse into Ethiopia’s rich Christian heritage and the ingenuity of its people.

Domestic Flight Itinerary

This tour includes a series of domestic flights that efficiently transport travelers between the key destinations on the northern historic route.

The journey begins with a flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, where the stunning Lake Tana awaits. Travelers then head to Gondar, the former royal capital, before flying to Lalibela, known for its remarkable rock-hewn churches.

Finally, the tour concludes with a flight back to Addis Ababa.

These domestic flights not only save time but also provide breathtaking aerial views of Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the country’s rich history and culture.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a comprehensive package of accommodations, transportation, and guided experiences. This covers six nights of accommodation with breakfast, domestic flights, minibus/bus transportation, and an English-speaking local guide.

Additional inclusions are:

1. Boat trips at Lake Tana
2. Daily bottled water, fuel surcharge, and landing and facility fees
3. Accommodation in 4-star hotels in Addis and the best available elsewhere

However, the tour excludes international airfare, some meals, alcohol, travel insurance, and tips.

Dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Booking and Confirmation Details

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this tour.

Pickup points are available, with tour start time set at 7:00 AM. The tour accommodates most travelers, with a minimum of 2 persons required for the trip price quotation. The maximum group size is 15 travelers.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum drinking age is 18 years. Dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Vaccines Are Recommended for This Trip?

Recommended vaccines for travel to Ethiopia may include hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever. Travelers should consult with a healthcare provider or travel medicine specialist to determine the appropriate vaccinations based on their personal health history and travel plans.

Is There a Weight Limit for Luggage?

There is no specific weight limit for luggage mentioned in the tour overview. However, it’s recommended to pack lightly as travelers will be using minibuses/buses for transfers and sightseeing throughout the trip.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Travelers can customize the tour length and itinerary according to their preferences, but additional costs may apply. The tour operator can provide options and pricing for extended tours upon request.

What Is the Refund Policy for Cancellations?

The refund policy for cancellations depends on when the trip is cancelled. Generally, full refunds are provided for cancellations made more than 30 days prior to the trip, with partial refunds for later cancellations. Specific policies should be confirmed with the tour operator.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum drinking age is 18 years, and dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking.

The Sum Up

The 07 Day Trip to the North Historic Route in Ethiopia offers an immersive cultural experience that showcases the country’s remarkable heritage. From the majestic castles of Gondar to the awe-inspiring rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, this comprehensive package provides travelers with an unforgettable journey through Ethiopia’s rich tapestry of history, architecture, and natural beauty. With domestic flights, accommodations, and guided tours included, this tour ensures a seamless and enriching exploration of the nation’s northern historic route.