Discover Ethiopia’s Ancient Treasures in Just Five Days

🧭 Introduction

Experience the essence of Ethiopia’s ancient north in just five days! This express tour is crafted for travelers with limited time who want to immerse themselves in Ethiopia’s fascinating history, UNESCO heritage sites, and breathtaking landscapes. From the mystical rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the medieval castles of Gondar and the natural beauty of Lake Tana, this compact yet comprehensive itinerary offers a lifetime of memories in under a week.

🌍 Tour Overview

• Tour Title: 5-Day Express Historic Tour
• Destination: Northern Ethiopia (Lalibela, Gondar, Bahir Dar)
• Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
• Starting & Ending Point: Addis Ababa (with domestic flights)
• Tour Type: Historical & Cultural
• Transport: Flight + Private vehicle
• Accommodation: Tourist-standard hotels/lodges (upgradable upon request)

📅 Itinerary

Day 1: Addis Ababa ✈️ to Bahir Dar – Lake Tana & Blue Nile Falls

• Morning flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar
• Visit the majestic Blue Nile Falls (“Tis Issat”)
• Afternoon boat trip on Lake Tana to explore island monasteries
• Sunset at Lake Shore
• Overnight in Bahir Dar

Day 2: Bahir Dar 🚐 to Gondar – Castles & Churches

• Scenic drive to Gondar (approx. 3 hrs)
• Explore Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure) – the “Camelot of Africa”
• Visit Debre Berhan Selassie Church with stunning ceiling art
• Optional: Bath of Fasilides
• Overnight in Gondar

Day 3: Gondar ✈️ to Lalibela – Rock-Hewn Churches

• Morning flight to Lalibela
• Afternoon visit to the first group of Lalibela rock-hewn churches (UNESCO World Heritage)
• Explore the famous Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, Bet Golgotha
• Overnight in Lalibela

Day 4: Lalibela – Second Group of Churches & Local Life

• Visit the second group of rock churches, including Bet Giyorgis (St. George)
• Optional: Visit a local village or partake in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony
• Overnight in Lalibela

Day 5: Lalibela ✈️ to Addis Ababa – Departure

• Morning flight back to Addis Ababa
• Optional short city tour (if time permits): National Museum or Merkato
• Transfer to airport for departure or evening cultural dinner (optional add-on)

✅ Tour Inclusions

• 4 nights hotel accommodation (double/twin sharing)
• Private vehicle transportation
• English-speaking professional guide
• All entrance fees to sites and churches
• Lake Tana boat trip
• Daily breakfast
• Bottled water during tours
• Airport transfers

❌ Tour Exclusions

• International flights
• Lunch and dinner (available upon request)
• Personal expenses (souvenirs, tips, laundry)
• Travel Insurance
• Alcoholic beverages
• Optional activities not listed

💰 Price

• Starting from $890 USD per person (based on 2 participants sharing a room)
• Single supplement: +$120
• Group discounts available