Ethiopia Adventure Tours – Adventure Sense

Highlights of Ethiopia

adventuresense.com — Thu, 20 May 2021 11:37:30 +0000

The Highlights Of Ethiopia trip starts from and ends in Addis Ababa. It is an active and outdoor trip that takes 14 days taking you through Debark, Axum, Harar and 5 other destinations in Ethiopia.

Take a journey through one of Africa’s least explored countries – a true blend of natural wonders and ancient history. A visit to the dramatic, arid landscapes of the Danakil Depression kicks-off an adventurous fortnight of discovery, including Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches and the rugged Simien Mountains

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Addis Ababa; city tour
Arrival in Addis. Please note that if you are being picked up at the airport. You will have to exit the terminal to find our representative with the Exodus board. You may see people with signs inside the terminal but they are generally people with special permission such as the UN, Government or hotels with desks inside the terminal.

In the afternoon on a site-seeing tour of Addis Ababa. We will visit the National Museum which houses some of the country’s historic treasures. The collection of fossils and bones of early hominids discovered in Ethiopia include the 3.5 million year old remains of ‘Lucy’, the oldest hominid every found. We will also visit the Holy Trinity Church, Ethiopia’s main cathedral and home to the remains of the last emperor, Haile Selassie.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Addis Ababa to Bahar Dar (By Flight)
Today we will take a spectacular flight to Bahar Dar. From the air we can gaze across the extraordinary nature of the Ethiopian Plateau, repeatedly cut by immensely deep gorges. Bahar Dar is a small but fast growing town on the southern shore of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile. It has long attracted religious men and the area contains numerous churches and monasteries, many of them on the thirty or so islands of Lake Tana. The afternoon is free to enjoy the fantastic bird-watching around the lake or head into Bahar Dar itself and explore its local market. There is also the option of doing a half day excursion to the Blue Nile Falls (usually in the morning).

Day 03: Discover Lake Tana’s famous monestaries
We have a full day boat trip on Lake Tana to visit the monasteries of Narga Selassie & URA Kidane Mehret. We’ll travel by boat to visit some of the more remote monasteries and churches, most of which date back to the thirteenth century. The monasteries are fascinating and unlike any others outside Ethiopia, often decorated with bright mural painting. Because of their isolation they were used to store art treasures and religious relics from all over the country. Local history says the Ark of the Covenant was kept on one of these islands when the city of Axum was under threat, and the remains of five emperors are to be found at Daga Istafanos.

Day 04: Drive to Gondar; visit the castles, Fasilides’ bathhouse and the church’s ceiling
This morning we drive north to Gondar, the former capital of Ethiopia. Arriving in Gondar we will stop by the Kindu Trust, a local organisation which works with disadvantaged children, their families and communities.After lunch we will explore Gondar and visit the castles, which were built in the 17th and 18th century by several generations of Ethiopian kings. Nearby is Debre Birhan Selassie church with its sensational angelic ceiling, and the bathhouse of Fasilides where thousands of Ethiopians celebrate Timkat festival every January. Our hotel is up on a cliff top with wonderful views looking over the town.

Day 05: Drive to Simien Mountains; afternoon hike along the plateau
After breakfast we drive to Debark on the edge of the Simien Mountains. The road has considerably improved and the drive should take about 2hrs. In the late morning we drive up into the mountains for some spectacular views of this unique ecosystem. The highland plateau is capped by a dramatic skyline of jagged volcanic plugs and split by deep gorges and gullies. On a good day, the views are sensational and the striking towers and formations have been described as the ‘chess pieces of the Gods’. We take an optional 2hr walk, mostly flat or downhill, and hope to see the endemic Gelada baboons and Klipspringers before returning to Debark. The maximum altitude we reach is 3250m.

Day 06: Debark to Axum
Continue on a full day’s drive to the fabled city of Axum via the lowlands of the Simien Mountains and Tekeze River gorge. Though this is a long journey, the spectacular views make time slide away. Arrive in the late afternoon. Overnight at hotel.

Day 07: Full day visiting the ancient capital of the Axumite Kingdom
Axum is the seat of the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Axum, which was once one of the most powerful in the ancient world. Located at the centre of the trading routes between the Mediterranean and India, and the great port of Adulis on the Red Sea, it was economically, politically and technically advanced and at times had control over both sides of the Red Sea.Axum is also the origin of Christianity in Ethiopia and believed to be the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. The old church of St Mary of Zion was the first church to be built in Sub-Saharan Africa around 330AD. Its ruins can be seen in the precinct of the church compound.We visit the famous monolithic stelae of Axum, the tallest one still standing reaches over 21 metres and the greatest one of them all, once 34 metres high now lies toppled on the ground. It is still, however, the largest monolith ever erected by man. The subterranean tombs, stone inscriptions of ancient Axumite kings and the small archaeological museum are also living witness of the ancient Axumite history. We will also visit the ruined palace of the Queen of Sheba who is said to have given birth to Menelik the First, fathered by King Solomon, the founder of Ethiopia’s ruling family until the late Emperor Haile Selassie.

Day 08: Visit Yeha Temple and through eatern Tigrai to Wukro
We leave for Wukro visiting some of the rock hewn churches of Eastern Tigrai on the way. We first pass through the Battle field of Adwa, where the Ethiopians defeated the Italian colonial army in 1896, and then stop to visit the 500 B.C. pre-Christian Temple of Yeha. We will have lunch at Adigrat and proceed on to Wukro. En route we visit the beautiful rock-hewn church of Medhane-Alem Adi Kesho in Tsaeda Imba. Overnight stay at Wukro.

Day 09: Visit Wukro’s rock-hewn churches and on to Mekele
This morning we start by driving about 20Kms North West of Wukro to visit the famous rock-hewn church of Abreha Wo Atsebeha and Wukro Cherkos, on the northern outskirts of the town, before proceeding on to Mekele in time to explore this fast growing city.

Day 10: Drive through mountains and gorges on the way to Lalibela
Today is a long day’s driving but the scenery, once again, is spectacular as we pass through mountains and river gorges, seeing for ourselves why Ethiopia’s landscape is completely different to anywhere else. We eventually reach Lalibela, possibly Ethiopia’s most famous site.

Day 11: Explore Lalibela amazing churches
We spend the day exploring Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches. Whilst they may feel busy compared to the ones we’ve visited in Tigrai they are still spectacular and well worth visiting. The churches are mostly cut from solid rock, and therefore have the appearance of being underground. The most famous church is Bete Giorgis (St George, patron saint of Ethiopia), carved in the form of a Greek cross. It is exceptionally well preserved and visually almost flawless.The churches are quite dark inside, with little artificial light, and in some cases limited natural light. In each one there is a resident priest, who is usually happy to put on richly embroidered vestments and pose for a photo with his crosses, ancient bibles and sunglasses (due to constant camera flashes!). Although the churches are remote, they are not short of worshippers: most Ethiopians, certainly of the older generation, are devout Orthodox Christians, and the services in the churches on religious festivals are of marathon length: sixteen hours is not unusual.

Day 12: Mule trek up to Ashatan Maryam
In the morning we enjoy an optional (no extra cost) adventurous mule journey to visit Ashetan Maryam (St Mary), built on a ridge with excellent views over the surrounding countryside. The trip takes approximately 6 hours (round trip) and will start early to avoid the heat. We will ride the mules up the mountain for approximately an hour, before hiking the rest of the way up the mountain to the church. After visiting the church we will walk back down to the village on slippery mountain paths. This is a tough walk and is optional. If you choose not to do the walk there is plenty to do in Lalibela: There is the opportunity to walk into the town and visit some of the many shops or relax in a Tej bar to sample the local fermented honey drink or a local café to socialise.The rest of the day is spent absorbing the atmosphere of this extraordinary town with its Tukul or round houses. Made as two storey buildings, they are unusual in Africa.

Day 13: Lalibela to Addis Ababa (By Flight)
An afternoon flight takes us back to Addis Ababa. We are then transferred to the hotel. Free relax.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 14: Depart Addis Ababa
Transfer to the airport in your international flight back home.

Hotels

City	Nights	Hotels
Addis Ababa	01	Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa
Bahar Dar	02	Blue Nile Resort Hotel
Gondar	01	Taye Belay Gondar Hotel
Debark	01	Simien Park
Axum	02	Yared Zema International Hotel
Wikro	02	Planet Hotels
Lalibela	03	Sora Lodge Lalibela
Addis Ababa	01	Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa

Includes

Includes:
– Meeting and assistance by our representative.
– 13 nights accommodation as per program
– Meals: Breakfasts & Dinners
– Entry fee as per mentioned
– Two internal flights
– English Speaking guide
– All transfers, sightseeing & excursion by private vehicle.
– All present government taxes.

Excludes

• International Flights.
• Personal Expenses.
• Camera / Video Camera Fees.
• Medical Aid.
• Tips.
• Travel Insurance.

Important

• Accommodation in good hotels.

• Check-in / out time is 12 noon at most of the hotels.

• Extension to other places is also possible with a minimal extra cost. – Additional nights are available at each place with minimal supplement.

• A visa is required and must be obtained prior to your departure from your Country.

• If quoted hotel is not available, we will provide one of a similar category and standard.

• Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather, road conditions, flight schedules and room availability.

• In case the government changes presently applicable taxes, increase in airlines prices, fuel surcharge our rates will need to be adjusted accordingly.

• In Asia, there is no relevance between the distance and time of travelling, as it depends upon the condition of the roads and congestion of the traffic.

• While every effort will be made to maintain the itinerary, in view of local strikes etc that are beyond our control all schedule and itineraries are subject to last moment changes.

• Clients must be fully insured, as the company cannot accept liability for loss or damage to client’s property, medical emergencies or any other loss suffered by them whilst on tour.

• In Case of issuing Domestic or International air tickets, SGV is not responsible for any refund if the flight is delayed or cancelled, as it is the responsibility of airline.

Trek to the summit of Ethiopia’s highest pick Ras Dashen

adventuresense.com — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 07:38:14 +0000

Start and end in Gondar! With the hiking & trekking tour The Simien Mountains Trek, you have a 8 day tour package taking you through Gondar, Ethiopia. The Simien Mountains Trek includes
4WD transportation to and from Gonder
cook & cooking materials
mule(s) & mule handler
sleeping bags & mattresses
all park entrance fees
plenty of food & bottled mineral water and more.

Itinerary

Day 01: Gondar – Sankaber
We will meet you in the morning at Gonder Airport or your hotel in Gonder. Drive to the first camp (Sankaber) via Debark (the small town); you will be rewarded with very impressive views of the low land areas to the north and west; you will very likely encounter troops of the endemic gelada baboons. The gelada baboon, only found in Ethiopia, is often referred to as the bleeding heart baboon or the lion monkey because their coat is shaggy resembling a lion whilst their chest has a marked red heart or patch. The gelada baboon can be found in good numbers and is quite easy to approach. Sankaber camp is situated at an altitude of 3250 meters on an impressive view point between the northern escarpment and the southern wazla. Before you arrive at the camp you have about 2hrs walk.

Day 02: sankaber – Geech
In and around Geech
From Sankaber Camp the path to Geech Camp will stretch for approximately ten kilometers.(5-6hrs). The initial stages of this path leads through extensive areas of highland grasslands and heather forests. This path offers some of the most impressive views of the escarpement. One of the best views is of the Jinbar Wenz waterfall which plummets down the Geech Abyss. After descending down to the Jinbar Wenz River a short ascent remains to Geech village. In this area, cultivation is done in a two-year cycle. One side of the valley is planted whilst the other side lies fallow. You will notice extensive soil erosion in this area as a result of the combination of such factors as slope steepness, cultivation, overgrazing, erosive rainfall and limited land resources. We pause in Geech village as we are invited into one of the local houses for a coffee ceremony. Here you will participate in this very important social tradition of Ethiopia as well as gain an insight into the traditional lifestyle. Just above Geech village is the campsite which will serve as your base for two nights. The campsite has great views of the mountains and is characterized by giant Lobelia plants. These plants can grow up to 10 meters in height and may live for as long as twenty years, at which point they first flower before dying.

Day 03: Geech – Imet Gogo
Walk from Geech to Imet Gogo, Saha and Kedatit.These three places are perhaps the most spectacular places in the simien mountains. The time taken to complete this hike is about 5-6hrs and then back to Geech Camp and overnight here.

Day 04: imet Gogo – Chenek
The trek from Geech to Chenek covers approximately twelve kilometres (six to seven hours), following a path along the escarpment edge. Just before arriving into Chenek you will encounter the Kurbet Metaya viewpoint at 4070 metres – this viewpoint is actually a gap in the precipitous cliff – which reveals impressive views of the steep mountain faces to the west and the lowlands areas to the left. The tightly clustered houses (tukuls) that form the village of Dihwara , tucked below a cliff, are also visible from this viewpoint. Chenek campsite is spectacularly located in a beautiful valley at the foot of the Bwahit Peak. Strategically placed benches allow for the opportunity to take in the expansive views back toward Imet Gogo, especially beautiful in both the dawn and dusk light. A large troop of gelada baboons are common here and Walia Ibex are also often seen on the rocky escarpment edges here.

Day 05: Cheneck – Ambiquo
Today is the longest trekking day so far, consisting of a total of about ten hours. From Chenek camp, 3650 metres, the path to Ambiquo campsite crosses through B wahit Pass. Leaving Chenek you will be faced with a two-hour ascent to the top of B wahit Pass at 4200 metres. From the top of the pass views open up to the east over Mesheha Valley to the Dashen mountain range. Looking back the impressive rock formations of Imet Gogo loom large. From Bwahit Pass the path leads steeply down and across the Mesheha Valley. Here you will notice an increase in temperature as you descend down to the Mesheha River at 2800 metres before climbing slightly to reach Ambiquo campsite at an altitude of 3100 metres.

Day 06: Ambiquo – Ras Dashen
Today is summit day involving a trek of sixteen kilometres (ten to eleven hours)! The path will wind its way over eight kilometres and ascending over 1400 metres to Ras Dashen. To begin the path climbs steeply through barley fields and fallow land before clearing the vegetation zone and reaching mountain steppe at around 3700 metres . From there the path flattens out as it traverses ridges in the shadow of Ras Dashen. Just below Dashen Pass, at around 4250 meters, an impressive moraine can be distinguished. A moraine is material transported by a glacier and then deposited. This moraine was formed 20,000 – 14,000 years ago in the last ice age when the Simien Mountain tops had small ice caps. The final stretch to the summit involves an exciting climb / scramble up and over large boulders to the summit. From atop the summit of Ras Dashen, 4543 meters, you will be mesmerized by the far-ranging view which spans more than ten thousand square kilometres. On the west the steep faces of peaks in the National Park are visible whilst to the north and east the Tekeze valley is visible. From the summit you will need to return along the same path to return to your camp at Ambiko. This campsite, situated along the banks of a stream and amidst a small village, is a project of the local church and a donation for the facilities is gratefully accepted.

Day 07: Ras Dashen – Cheneck
Walk from Ambiko to Chenek via the same way. It takes about seven to eight hours walking; stay the night in Chenek camp site.

Day 08: Cheneck – Gondar
Drive from Chenek to Gonder airport via Debark, about five hours driving. On arrive transfer to airport for flight back to home.

Hotels

City	Night (s)	Comping site / Tent
Sankaber	01	Camp
Geech	02	Tented Camp
Chenek Camp	01	Tented Camp
Ambiquo	01	Tented Camp
Ras Dashen	01	Tented Camp
Chenek Camp	01	Tented Camp

Inclusions

– Meeting and assistance by our representative.
– Welcome with fresh flower garlands.
– 07 Nights accommodation Comping site / Tent.
– Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners.
– Local English-speaking guide
– Cook & cooking materials
– Mule(s) & mule handler
– Sleeping bags & mattresses
– All transfers, sightseeing, excursions as per the program by private vehicle.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways.
– All present government taxes.

Exclusions

– International Airfare.
– Tips, gratuities, Portage, laundry, telephone calls, table drinks, camera/ video camera charges, or any other expenses of a personal nature.
– Visa fees, personal insurance.
– Any item not specified under cost includes.

Important

– Accommodation in good hotels.
– Check-in / out time is 12 noon at most of the hotels.
– Extension to other places is also possible with a minimal extra cost.
– Additional nights are available at each place with minimal supplement.
– A visa is required and must be obtained prior to your departure from your Country.
– If quoted hotel is not available, we will provide one of a similar category and standard.
– Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather, road conditions, flight schedules and room availability.
– In case the government changes presently applicable taxes, increase in airlines prices, fuel surcharge our rates will need to be adjusted accordingly.
– Sometimes, there is no relevance between the distance and time of travelling, as it depends upon the condition of the roads and congestion of the traffic.
– While every effort will be made to maintain the itinerary, in view of local strikes etc that are beyond our control all schedule and itineraries are subject to last moment changes.
– Clients must be fully insured, as the company cannot accept liability for loss or damage to client’s property, medical emergencies or any other loss suffered by them whilst on tour.
– In Case of issuing Domestic or International air tickets, SGV is not responsible for any refund if the flight is delayed or cancelled, as it is the responsibility of airline.

Ethiopia Highlights

adventuresense.com — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 05:40:42 +0000

Spend 6 days exploring the most popular highlights on this 6-day Ethiopia tour. Start with time in Axum to visit St. Mary’s Church and the claimed home of the Ark of the Covenant. Continue to tour the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, including the more distant Genete Mariam. Finish up the cultural tour with time in Addis Ababa to visit national museums and their open air market. Learn the country’s dark history at Red Terror Martyrs Museum and see the famous hominid “Lucy” at the National Museum. See weavings and handicrafts at the Muya Abyssinia craft and experience the warm hospitality of the Ethiopian people. This introductory cultural tour of Ethiopia can easily be combined with a trek in the Simien Mountains or visits to the Bale Mountains or a tour of the tribes of Omo Valley.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Addis Ababa
Arrive to Bole airport where you are met and transferred to your hotel for the evening. Settle in and rest up after your long journey.

Day 02: Fly Axum | St. Mary’s Church
Transfer to the airport for the flight on to Axum, Ethiopia’s most ancient city and once capital of the great Aksumite Empire. Take a city tour here today visiting the city’s stelae park and St. Mary’s Church. This sanctuary chapel is the claimed home of the original Ark of the Covenant (though it cannot be viewed by visitors) and it contains the ancient coronation yard whereby emperors were crowned. The Axum Museum, the Queen of Sheba’s palace ruins, and King Kaleb’s tomb are all also found here. Explore the church and more of the city this afternoon before returning to your hotel this evening.

Day 03: Fly Lalibela | Rock-Hewn Churches
This morning you drive to the airport for a short flight on to Lalibela, the crown jewel of Ethiopia often referred to as ‘Africa’s Petra’. Here you find the most well-known and preserved churches in the country and the site for many religious ceremonies throughout the year. Visit the magnificent rock-hewn churches which were built by hand between 800 and 1200 AD and are still active worship places.

Day 04: Genete Mariam
Today take a full-day excursion to Genete Mariam, one of the most interesting churches in the Lalibela area near the source of the Tekaze River. The large monolith was carved into a rocky hilltop and is supported by pillars. This site was first excavated during the reign of Yakuno Amlak in the early 13th century and contains some of the earliest discovered wall paintings in Ethiopia. Located about 30 km southeast of Lalibela, the trip out to the site and back takes a total of about 4 hours today.

Day 05: Fly Addis Ababa
This morning transfer back to the Lalibela Airport for your flight on to Addis Ababa. Settle in to your hotel and set out with your guide to visit the Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum, designed as a testament to the victims of a recent dark period in Ethiopia’s history under the Derg Regime. The museum displays a number of graphic exhibits, including skeletal remains, photos, and models of how victims were tortured and is not recommended for young children. From here, continue on to the Muya Abyssinia craft and see how the weavings and other handicrafts are used to create home furnishings, decor, and accessories.

Day 06: Addis Ababa Day Tour
Spend today sightseeing with a guide around Addis Ababa. Start your tour with a drive up north to Mount Entoto. Next visit the Ethnographic museum which contains a large collection of Ethiopian handicrafts and historic artifacts. Visit also the National Museum of Ethiopia, which houses the famous fossil of ‘Lucy’. Visiting the Trinity Cathedral this evening. This is the largest and most revered of all modern churches. Finish up your tour with a drive through the largest open-air market in all of Africa. Rest up in your hotel room one last time before your transfer back to the airport for your flight home this evening.

Hotels

City	Night (s)	Hotels / Camp
Addis Ababa	01	Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa
Axum	01	Consolar International
Lalibela	02	Sora Lodge Lalibela
Addis Ababa	01	Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa

Inclusions

– Meeting and assistance by our representative.
– Welcome with fresh flower garlands.
– 05 Nights accommodation Hotel.
– Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners.
– Local English-speaking guide
– All transfers, sightseeing, excursions as per the program by private vehicle.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways.
– All present government taxes.

Exclusions

– International Airfare.
– Internal Flights: Addis Ababa – Axum – Lalibela – Addis Ababa
– Tips, gratuities, Portage, laundry, telephone calls, table drinks, camera/ video camera charges, or any other expenses of a personal nature.
– Visa fees, personal insurance.
– Any item not specified under cost includes.

Important

Simien Mountains Trek

adventuresense.com — Wed, 21 Oct 2020 13:17:50 +0000

Spend 4 full days trekking through the Simien Mountains on this 7-day Ethiopia tour. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, spot wildlife, and experience the mystery of the ‘rooftop of Africa’, one of its biggest mountain ranges. Trek from campsite to campsite as you make your way towards a summit up the Bwahit Peak where 360-degree views of the Simien Mountains await you. This Ethiopian trekking adventure takes place at high altitude and is not for the faint of heart.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Addis Ababa
Arrive to the Bole International Airport where you are met and drive to your hotel for the evening.

Day 02: Fly Gondar | Simien Mountain Lodge
Transfer back to the airport this morning for your flight on to Gondar. From here you set out on a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Buhit Ras in Simien Mountains National Park. Along the way observe breathtaking glimpses of the Simien Mountains, one of the largest in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage site with more than a dozen peaks higher than 12,000 ft. The gelada baboon, Ethiopian wolf, and walia ibex are all found here and the cliffs are known for birds of prey such as the lammergeyer. Settle in this evening to Simien Mountain Lodge, set on the edge of an escarpment at 10,700 ft above sea level. The lodge claims to have the highest bar in Africa!

Day 03: Trek to Sanqaber
Set out from your hotel this morning after breakfast for your trek following along the ridge of an escarpment. Incredible views await you on both sides of the ridge and the path is lined with unique flora and fauna. One of the most spectacular and diverse landscapes in Ethiopia, you hike past some steep rocky passes on rough roads and trails. You may even spot the elusive gelada baboon. After about five hours of hiking, arrive to Sanqaber for your first dinner and settle into your tented camp. Campsites here are public and there may be other travelers sharing the site with you.

Trek Distance: 4-5 hours of trekking at about 10,300 elevation

Day 04: Trek Sanqaber to Geech
Get an early morning start today after breakfast for your trek eastward along a narrow ridge before you descend into the Koba River Valley. Catch a sight of the Jinbar River and a spectacular waterfall which tumbles into a narrow canyon known as Geech Abyss. The canyon is rumored to be about 2600 ft deep but this has yet to be accurately documented due to its remote location and difficult to measure conditions. Cross the river here and ascend for about two more hours to reach Geech and your next campsite.

Trek Distance: About 11 miles (5-6 hours) on rocky track at about 11,500 elevation

Day 05: Trek Geech to Chenek
Depart Geech this morning and follow a high escarpment to reach a 12,800 ft Imet Gogo Peak, the trek’s most spectacular view. Pause here to admire the panorama and take in the scenery. Walia ibex and gelada baboons are often seen along this day’s route. Arrive to Chenek Camp for a much-earned rest.

Trek Distance: About 15 miles (7-8 hours) on rocky path with multiple ascents and descents at about 11,800 ft elevation

Day 06: Bwahit Peak Ascent
Hike today for the rewarding ascent to Bwahit summit, Ethiopia’s third tallest mountain. Depart camp early and continue east up a valley for a steady climb to the broad summit plateau. Here you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Simien Range. Cross the Bwahit Pass and arrive to another viewpoint to the Mesheha River Valley and a glimpse of the 14,870 ft Ras Dashen. Admire the landscape and return to your camp at Chenek this afternoon. Return to Simien Mountain Lodge to freshen up this evening after your long trek.

Trek Distance: About 6 miles (3 hours ascent, 1.5 hours descent) on steep terrain. Highest elevation is 14,530 ft.

Day 07: Return Addis Ababa
This morning drive about 3 hours down to Gondar to the airport for your flight on to Addis Ababa.

Hotels

City	Night (s)	Hotels / Camp
Addis Ababa	01	Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa
Simien	01	Simien Lodge
Sanqaber	01	Tented Camp
Geech	01	Tented Camp
Chenek Camp	02	Tented Camp

Inclusions

– Meeting and assistance by our representative.
– Welcome with fresh flower garlands.
– 06 Nights accommodation Hotel/Tented Camp.
– Gear Rental: Camping Gear (except sleeping bags)
– Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners.
– Local English-speaking guide
– All transfers, sightseeing, excursions as per the program by private vehicle.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways.
– All present government taxes.

Exclusions

– International Airfare.
– Internal Flights: Addis Ababa – Gondar – Addis Ababa
– Tips, gratuities, Portage, laundry, telephone calls, table drinks, camera/ video camera charges, or any other expenses of a personal nature.
– Visa fees, personal insurance.
– Any item not specified under cost includes.

Important

Isolated Tribes of Ethiopia

adventuresense.com — Wed, 21 Oct 2020 12:07:36 +0000

Travel to the isolated Omo Valley region in Ethiopia, where you can encounter multiple unique and rich cultures that have been isolated and maintained their traditions and customs for centuries. Learn about the various people groups saturated in this tiny part of the world, and encounter their daily lives as you learn about their heritage. Spend 10 days on this rich cultural tour in Ethiopia, and travel on long dirt roads to see parts of the country that many travelers do not get to see. Spend your nights in local and modest hotels in the closest established towns as you drive out to encounter centuries-old people groups and their traditions. Couple this tour with the Historic Route tour or a hike in the Simien Mountains.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Addis Ababa
Arrive to Addis Ababa where you are met at the airport and drive to your nearby hotel for a brief rest after your long journey. This afternoon set out with your guide to explore the city and some of its attractions. Visit the National Museum, also called the Archaeological Museum, known for housing hominid finds such as “Lucy” and other fossils. Continue on to the Ethnographic Museum to learn about the various tribes in Ethiopia and their history. Finish with the Trinity Cathedral, one of the most ornate urban cathedrals in the world. Return to your hotel this evening.

Day 02: Fly Arba Minch
Drive back to the airport today for your flight south to the town of Arba Minch, the largest town in southern Ethiopia and a jumping off point for exploring the Omo Valley. Set amidst lush green hills near Lakes Abaya and Chamo, Arba Minch is divided into two distinct areas called Sikela which is the downtown, residential and commercial area, and Shecha, which is the administrative center. Enjoy an hour-long boat ride on Lake Chamo this afternoon to visit the ‘crocodile market’, or a common feeding ground for crocodile and pelican. Settle in to your lodge this evening located in Nechisar National Park which spans the length of the isthmus separating Lake Abaya and Chamo. Spot kudu, zebra, eland, and gazelle in this area.

Day 03: Lower Omo Valley
Located in the remote southwest of Ethiopia lies the thinly populated part of the world separating the mountainous center of Ethiopia from Kenya. The people here are largely untouched by outsiders who scarecly understood that an ‘Ethiopia’ existed up until about 70 years ago. Here you find Mago National Park, the wild Omo River, and various pastoralist tribes, including the Mrusi whose women boast lower lip plates as a way of communicating their worth. Stop first in Hamer territory, where personal appearance is important and who are adorned with metal bracelets and necklaces and elaborate beadwork. En route, stop to visit Konso and see their 800-year-old resource management system, rock terracing, a unique walled village. Overnight this evening in the small town of Turmi, a hub in the Hamer territory.

Drive Time today: 6-8 hours on paved and packed dirt roads

Day 04: Karo Tribes
Today you venture out to Murelle to visit the Karo people who reside along the banks of the Lower Omo Valley River. The Karo people incorporate a lot of symbolism in the manner in which they dress and their rituals. Ornate body art, intricate headdresses, and body scarification are ways that they express status and beauty in their community and one way that they differ from their close neighbors, the Hamer people. They paint themselves with colored ochre, white chalk, yellow mineral rock, charcoal, and iron ore as a means of communicating to each other and decorating themselves. This small tribe numbers around 1,000 and are considered small but are the main non-nomadic agriculturalist group in Lower Omo Valley. Spend some time interacting with the Karo people before returning to Turmi this evening.

Drive Time: 7 hours on paved road and dirt track

Day 05: Drive Jinka
Drive to the town of Jinka today, one of the larger settlements in the area situated high on the plateau overlooking the Omo Valley below it to the west. Arrive to Jinka and drive a short distance to the nearby South Omo Research Centre and Museum to see some of the artifacts on display and learn about the history of the interactions of the tribes in Omo Valley. Settle in to your new hotel in Jinka tonight.

Drive Time: 4 hours on paved and dirt roads

Day 06: Key Afer Market | Mursi People
This morning you head off to the village of Key Afer to visit its market. A variety of goods are sold daily here, including rope, fabric, and beads as well as a number of food staples such as chicken, grains, and tribe decorations. A variety of cultures come together at this market, and most can be identified by their distinctive dress and beads that they wear. Many Ari people attend this market, who are the dominant people in this part of the Omo Valley and predominantly sell coffee and honey. The Benna people with their red-caly beads can also be seen along with their close relatives the Tsemai and Mali people. Return to Jinka this evening.

This market takes place on Thursdays. Another market in Dimeka just outside of Turmi is available as well on Saturdays.

Drive Time: 6-8 hours on paved and dirt roads

Day 07: Mago National Park
Drive two hours today into the vast wilderness of Mago National Park. Founded in 1960, this national park houses nearly 100 mammal species and 300 bird species within its dense acacia forests and open savannah lands. Next set out to visit a Mursi village lying along the Mago River at the heart of the Omo Valley. This tribe is renowned for its fierce warriors and wild yet decorative appearance. Large circular clay labrets are placed in women’s lower lip to reveal her worth prior to being married. Enjoy short hikes in the park today before returning to the lodge in Jinka this evening.

Drive Time: 4 hours

Day 08: Drive Arba Minch
Set out to return to Arba Minch today by tracking back through the Arbore villages and a stopover in Konso village. The Konso are considered a ‘pagan’ tribe and have an interesting practice of erecting totem poles (called waka) over the graves of their dead and have numerous cults based around the breeding and veneration of snakes. The cornerstone for Konso culture is a highly specialized agricultural economy on the fertile hillsides of the valley through stone terracing. Overnight this evening in Arba Minch and enjoy your last night in southern Ethiopia.

Drive Time: 5 hours

Day 09: Fly Addis Ababa
This morning you drive to the airport in time for your flight on to Addis Ababa. After lunchtime and settling in to your hotel, set out on a guided city tour. Visit the Institution of Ethiopia Studies which houses a good collection of artifacts, religious artifacts, and musical instruments. Next drive through the large open air market as you finish off your last moments on the tour. Settle in for the the evening.

Day 10: Return Home
Transfer to the airport this morning in time for your return flight home out of Addis Ababa.

Hotels

City	Night (s)	Hotels
Addis Ababa	01	Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa
Arba Minch	01	Emerald Resort
Turmi	02	Kizo Lodge
Jinka	03	Central Hotel – Jinka
Arba Minch	01	Emerald Resort
Addis Ababa	01	Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa

Inclusions

– Meeting and assistance by our representative.
– Welcome with fresh flower garlands.
– 09 Nights accommodation.
– Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners.
– Local English-speaking guide
– All transfers, sightseeing, excursions as per the program by private vehicle.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways.
– All present government taxes.

Exclusions

– International Airfare.
– Internal Flights Addis Ababa – Arba Minch – Addis Ababa
– Tips, gratuities, Portage, laundry, telephone calls, table drinks, camera/ video camera charges, or any other expenses of a personal nature.
– Visa fees, personal insurance.
– Any item not specified under cost includes.

Important

Historic Route

adventuresense.com — Wed, 21 Oct 2020 10:08:54 +0000

Spend 9 days on a privately guided tour of Ethiopia and explore the best places to visit in this fascinating and culturally rich nation. Learn about the history of the mysterious city of Axum, where residents claim to house the Ark of the Covenant. Tour rock-hewn churches in Lalibela and cruise the islands of the popular Lake Tana region. Hike through the Simien Mountains, which are some of the highest in all of Africa and labeled the ‘rooftop of Africa’. Tour Addis Ababa, getting a taste of local daily life in this bustling metropolis. Visit with locals, learn some of the terrible history the people endured at the Red Terror Museum, and leave feeling a new heart connection with these amazing and resilient people.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Addis Ababa
Arrive to Bole airport where you are met and transferred to your hotel for the evening. Settle in and rest up after your long journey.

Day 02: Fly Bahir Dar | Lake Tana Islands
This morning transfer back to the airport for your flight to Bahir Dar. Transfer to your hotel here, the Avanti Blue Nile. Bahir Dar is situated on the southern side of Lake Tana and near the Blue Nile River. Settle in to freshen up before an afternoon boat cruise to some of the islands on Lake Tana, home to some of the oldest churches and monasteries in the world. Visit the 14th-century monastery Ura Kidane Mihret, most famously known for its painted maqdas and collection of crosses and crowns. This afternoon drive to the village of Tis Isat and see the Blue Nile Falls, a scenic waterfall created by a dam along the river a short drive outside of town.

Day 03: Drive Gondar
Today set out for a drive to Gondar, once the royal capital of Ethiopia. The landscape here is beautiful and the area is dotted with castles and churches built by Emperor Fassiladas and his descendants. Visit today the Debre Birhan Sealssie church with ornately decorated walls and ceilings depicting stories from the Bible and medieval history.

Day 04: Simien Mountains
Drive to Sanqaber in the Simien Mountains today for a full day of hiking and exploring the breathtaking scenery, some of the most wild in all of Ethiopia. Known as the ‘rooftop of Africa’, the Simien Mountains are one of the largest mountain ranges in all of Africa. Enjoy your afternoon to soak up the scenery and have a picnic lunch before you head back to Gondar.

Day 05: Fly Axum | St. Mary’s Church
Transfer to the airport for the flight on to Axum, Ethiopia’s most ancient city and once capital of the great Aksumite Empire. Take a city tour here today visiting the city’s stelae park and St. Mary’s Church. This sanctuary chapel is the claimed home of the original Ark of the Covenant (though it cannot be viewed by visitors) and it contains the ancient coronation yard whereby emperors were crowned. The Axum Museum, the Queen of Sheba’s palace ruins, and King Kaleb’s tomb are all also found here. Explore the church before returning to your hotel this evening.

Day 06: Fly Lalibela | Rock-Hewn Churches
This morning you drive to the airport for a short flight on to Lalibela, the crown jewel of Ethiopia often referred to as ‘Africa’s Petra’. Here you find the most well-known and preserved churches in the country and the site for many religious ceremonies throughout the year. Visit the magnificent rock-hewn churches which were built by hand between 800 and 1200 AD and are still active worship places.

Day 07: Genete Mariam
Today take a full-day excursion to Genete Mariam, one of the most interesting churches in the Lalibela area near the source of the Tekaze River. The large monolith was carved into a rocky hilltop and is supported by pillars. This site was first excavated during the reign of Yakuno Amlak in the early 13th century and contains some of the earliest discovered wall paintings in Ethiopia. Located about 30 km southeast of Lalibela, the trip out to the site and back takes a total of about 4 hours today.

Day 08: Fly Addis Ababa
This morning transfer back to the Lalibela Airport for your flight on to Addis Ababa. Settle in to your hotel and set out with your guide to visit the Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum, designed as a testament to the victims of a recent dark period in Ethiopia’s history under the Derg Regime. The museum displays a number of graphic exhibits, including skeletal remains, photos, and models of how victims were tortured and is not recommended for young children. From here, continue on to the Muya Abyssinia craft and see how the weavings and other handicrafts are used to create home furnishings, decor, and accessories.

Day 09: Addis Ababa Day Tour
Spend today sightseeing with a guide around Addis Ababa. Start your tour with a drive up north to Mount Entoto. Next visit the Ethnographic museum which contains a large collection of Ethiopian handicrafts and historic artifacts. Visit also the National Museum of Ethiopia, which houses the famous fossil of ‘Lucy’. Enjoy lunch at a nearby cafe before visiting the Trinity Cathedral this evening. This is the largest and most revered of all modern churches. Finish up your tour with a drive through the largest open-air market in all of Africa. Rest up in your hotel room one last time before your transfer back to the airport for your flight home this evening.

Hotels

City	Night (s)	Hotels
Addis Ababa	01	Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa
Bahir Dar	01	Blue Nile Resort Hotel
Gondar	02	Lodge Du Chateau
Axum	01	Consolar International
Lalibela	02	Sora Lodge Lalibela
Addis Ababa	01	Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa

Inclusions

– Meeting and assistance by our representative.
– Welcome with fresh flower garlands.
– 08 Nights accommodation.
– Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners.
– Local English-speaking guide
– All transfers, sightseeing, excursions as per the program by private vehicle.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways.
– All present government taxes.

Ethiopia Adventure Tours – Adventure Sense

Highlights of Ethiopia

Eithiopia

All Journeys

Trek to the summit of Ethiopia’s highest pick Ras Dashen

Ethiopia Highlights

Simien Mountains Trek

Isolated Tribes of Ethiopia

Historic Route