Four Day Ethiopian Ancient Kingdoms Tour

Short Overview

If you're fascinated with Ethiopian history, this four-day itinerary is the perfect way to see some of the country's most significant cultural and historic sites in a relatively short amount of time.

Visit the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the famous stelae fields of Axum, and finish it all off with some time in the breathtaking Simien Mountains.

Your Journey Mapped Out

Ready to set out? Your adventure awaits!

  1. DAY 1 - ADDIS ABABA - AXUM (AKSUM)
  2. DAY 2 - AXUM - LALIBELA
  3. DAY 3 - LALIBELA - GONDAR - SIMIEN MOUNTAINS
  4. DAY 4 - SIMIEN MOUNTAINS - GONDAR - ADDIS ABABA
Nights in total: 3
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DAY 1 - ADDIS ABABA - AXUM (AKSUM)

You'll set off after breakfast and board your scheduled flight to Axum (sometimes known as Aksum), the site of some of Ethiopia's most storied ruins.

Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel before venturing out to the Northern Stelae field to see the 4th-century obelisks that lend the region its name. While all of the tombs excavated so far have been robbed centuries ago, more than 90% of the ancient burial sites remain unearthed!

You'll then embark on a day of discovery as you explore the ruins of Dungur, better known as the Queen of Sheba's Palace, as well as the tombs of ancient figures such as King Kaleb, King Gebre Meskel, and more.

You'll then proceed to St. Mary's of Zion Cathedral, fabled home of the Ark of the Covenant. Not only is this 4th-century church said to be home to the Biblical artifact, it is also where ancient Axum Emperors and Empresses were crowned.

A visit to the archaeological museum will further enhance your knowledge of the ancient kingdom.

Bathed in the history of the Ancient Kingdom of Axum, you'll overnight nearby.

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DAY 2 - AXUM - LALIBELA

After breakfast, you'll pay a visit to the tombs of King Kaleb and Gebre Meskel before you set off for the airport for your scheduled flight to Lalibela.

The famous rock-hewn churches of Lalibela are undoubtedly one of Ethiopia's most recognizable attractions and stand as a testament to the ancient nation's devout belief.

After checking into your hotel, you'll visit two sets of rock-hewn churches, including those connected by underground passages and the most famous of all - Bet Giyorgis (St. George).

These ancient churches date from the 7th through 13th century and showcase Ethiopia's roots as one of Christianity's founding nations.

You'll overnight nearby in your selected accommodation.

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DAY 3 - LALIBELA - GONDAR - SIMIEN MOUNTAINS

After an early breakfast, you'll set off a tour of a second set of rock-hewn churches before you board your flight to Gondar.

After lunch in the city, you'll set out for the spectacular Simien Mountains, where you'll overnight.

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DAY 4 - SIMIEN MOUNTAINS - GONDAR - ADDIS ABABA

You'll start your day bright and early with a game drive in Simien Mountains National Park. Home to the unique Gelada Baboons, the park is one of the most visually spectacular regions in all of Africa.

You'll spend your morning hiking through the mountains and taking in the variety of birds and animals that call the park home, before returning to your lodge for lunch.

In the afternoon, you'll head to nearby Gondar, sometimes known as the 'Camelot of Africa'.

Where most of Ethiopia's most famous landmarks have close Christian ties, Gondar finds its roots in Ethiopia's early Jewish population.

Fasil Ghebbi, the Royal Enclosure, is the most impressive site in Gondar, but you'll also pay a visit to other local landmarks such as the Bath of King Fasildas and the breathtaking Debre Berhan Selassie Church.

In the evening, you'll be taken to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa.

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