Highlights of Ethiopia

Year round

From £7,370pp

Land-only

12 Nights

Erta Ale Volcano Danakil Depression Ethiopia

Sulphur Covered Ground at Danakil Depression Dallol Ethiopia

From ancient walled cities to volcanic fire lakes, discover Ethiopia’s cultures, landscapes, and living history

This journey reveals Ethiopia in all its remarkable diversity, from ancient walled cities and sacred rock-hewn churches to the volcanic landscapes of the Danakil Depression. Beginning in Addis Ababa, you explore the cultural foundations of one of Africa’s oldest civilisations before travelling east to the historic city of Harar, where colourful markets and centuries-old Islamic traditions shape daily life within its walls. The adventure continues across the salt flats and mineral fields of the Danakil Depression to the glowing lava lake of Erta Ale, one of the world’s most extraordinary natural spectacles. Your journey concludes in Lalibela, where Ethiopia’s famed rock-hewn churches stand as enduring monuments of faith and craftsmanship, creating an experience defined by cultural discovery, dramatic landscapes, and unforgettable encounters.

Itinerary highlights

Discover Addis Ababa’s rich heritage through visits to the National Museum, home of the famous fossil Lucy, the Ethnographic Museum, and vibrant local artisan communities.

Wander through the maze-like alleys of Harar Jugol, a UNESCO-listed walled city where colourful houses, bustling markets, and Islamic heritage shape a truly unique cultural landscape.

Witness Harar’s legendary hyena feeding ritual, an extraordinary nightly tradition where local guardians call wild hyenas by name.

Journey through the dramatic landscapes of eastern Ethiopia, passing the lively Aweday Khat Market and the rugged beauty of the Gara Muleta Mountains.

Explore the surreal terrain of the Danakil Depression, where shimmering salt flats, mineral formations, and desert horizons create one of the planet’s most otherworldly environments.

Stand at the edge of Erta Ale’s glowing lava lake at sunset and sunrise, watching one of the world’s few continuously active volcanic craters.

Discover Lalibela’s extraordinary rock-hewn churches, carved directly into the earth in the 12th century and still serving as living places of worship.

From ancient walled cities to volcanic fire lakes, discover Ethiopia’s cultures, landscapes, and living history

Itinerary highlights

Discover Addis Ababa’s rich heritage through visits to the National Museum, home of the famous fossil Lucy, the Ethnographic Museum, and vibrant local artisan communities.

Wander through the maze-like alleys of Harar Jugol, a UNESCO-listed walled city where colourful houses, bustling markets, and Islamic heritage shape a truly unique cultural landscape.

Witness Harar’s legendary hyena feeding ritual, an extraordinary nightly tradition where local guardians call wild hyenas by name.

Journey through the dramatic landscapes of eastern Ethiopia, passing the lively Aweday Khat Market and the rugged beauty of the Gara Muleta Mountains.

Explore the surreal terrain of the Danakil Depression, where shimmering salt flats, mineral formations, and desert horizons create one of the planet’s most otherworldly environments.

Stand at the edge of Erta Ale’s glowing lava lake at sunset and sunrise, watching one of the world’s few continuously active volcanic craters.

Discover Lalibela’s extraordinary rock-hewn churches, carved directly into the earth in the 12th century and still serving as living places of worship.

Day 1

Journey begins

Your journey begins as you board your flight to Ethiopia, travelling towards the vibrant highland capital of Addis Ababa. Ethiopia is one of the world’s oldest civilisations, where deep-rooted traditions and striking natural environments create an experience unlike anywhere else in Africa.

Day 2

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Arrive in Addis Ababa early in the morning, where you are welcomed at Bole International Airport by your guide before transferring to your hotel. Set high in the Ethiopian Highlands at around 2,500 metres above sea level, the capital enjoys a pleasant climate and a lively cultural atmosphere. Later, begin exploring the city with visits to the National Museum, home to the famous fossil “Lucy,” one of the oldest known human ancestors, and the fascinating Ethnographic Museum, which offers insight into Ethiopia’s many cultures and traditions. You will also visit a local women’s cooperative where skilled artisans craft traditional pottery by hand, providing a glimpse into everyday life and craftsmanship. After a rewarding first day discovering Ethiopia’s heritage, return to your hotel and relax as you prepare for the journey ahead.

Day 3

Addis Ababa to Harar

This morning you take a short flight east to Dire Dawa, where breakfast and freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee await before beginning a scenic drive towards Harar. The journey winds through the dramatic landscapes of the Gara Muleta Mountains, passing Lake Alemaya and the lively Aweday Market, one of the region’s busiest trading centres. Traders gather here from across eastern Ethiopia to buy and sell khat leaves, creating a colourful and energetic atmosphere. Continuing onwards, you arrive in Harar, an ancient walled city renowned for its rich Islamic heritage and distinctive architecture. Within the city walls, narrow alleyways, pastel-coloured houses, and intricately carved balconies reflect centuries of cultural exchange between African and Arabian influences. Settle into your charming guesthouse and enjoy your first evening in one of Ethiopia’s most historic cities.

Day 4

Harar, Ethiopia

Today is devoted to exploring Harar Jugol, the historic walled city recognised as one of Islam’s most sacred centres. Walking through its maze of narrow streets, you encounter colourful Harari homes, bustling markets, and centuries-old mosques that reveal the city’s deep cultural heritage. Visit the historic Rimbaud House, once home to the French poet Arthur Rimbaud during his time as a trader in Harar, along with the Harar Market and the Hadere Village Museum, where traditional household objects and decorative arts provide insight into Harari life and customs. As evening approaches, experience one of Harar’s most fascinating traditions — the hyena feeding ritual. Local guardians call wild hyenas by name and feed them by hand in a remarkable ceremony that has been practised for generations, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s relationship with the surrounding wilderness.

Day 5

Harar to Dire Dawa

After breakfast, depart Harar and begin the drive back towards Dire Dawa, stopping along the way at the lively Aweday Market. Here, traders and buyers gather from across the region to exchange fresh khat leaves, creating a colourful and energetic scene that offers insight into everyday life in eastern Ethiopia. Continuing to Dire Dawa, you explore this charming railway city founded during the construction of the historic Addis Ababa–Djibouti railway. Stroll through the Che-Mendefer district, where colonial-era architecture and leafy boulevards reflect the city’s cosmopolitan past. You will also visit the old railway station, an important reminder of the region’s early industrial history. Later, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the city’s cafés and restaurants, sampling local cuisine before settling in for the evening.

Day 6

Dire Dawa to Addis Ababa

This morning offers time to explore more of Dire Dawa’s markets and historic streets, where a blend of Ethiopian, Somali, and Arabian influences reflects the city’s long history as a trading hub. Wander through lively market areas filled with colourful goods and local produce while experiencing the rhythm of daily life in this diverse community. After lunch, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Arriving in the capital in the early evening, you return to your hotel for a relaxed evening. Take time to unwind and prepare for the next stage of your journey, which leads to one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth.

Day 7

Addis Ababa to Dallol

Rise early this morning for your flight northeast to Semera, gateway to the remarkable landscapes of the Danakil Depression. On arrival, meet your expedition team before beginning the drive across vast desert terrain towards Dallol. En route, stop in the small town of Afdera for lunch and refreshments before continuing across immense salt flats where camel caravans sometimes appear on the horizon, transporting blocks of salt across the desert as they have done for centuries. As the sun begins to set, you reach the extraordinary landscapes of Dallol. The mineral-rich terrain and endless salt plains glow with striking colours in the evening light, creating an otherworldly scene unlike anywhere else on the planet.

Day 8

Dallol to Ertale

Wake early to witness sunrise over the surreal landscapes of the Dallol Depression, where mineral formations and salt flats create a striking palette of colours in the morning light. After exploring this remarkable geothermal environment, return to camp for breakfast before travelling across the salt plains towards Erta Ale volcano. Arriving at the base camp during the afternoon, you rest during the heat of the day before preparing for an evening trek to the summit. As dusk settles across the desert, walk with local guides to the crater’s edge, where you witness the extraordinary sight of a glowing lava lake. One of the few permanent lava lakes on Earth, the molten surface shifts and bubbles beneath the night sky, creating an unforgettable natural spectacle.

Day 9

Ertale to Semera

Before sunrise, return to the crater to watch the lava lake illuminated by the soft morning light, offering another opportunity to experience this extraordinary natural phenomenon. After descending the volcano and enjoying breakfast at camp, begin the journey back across the desert landscapes towards Semera. The drive reveals vast horizons and the stark beauty of the Afar region, with occasional stops for photographs and panoramic viewpoints along the way. Arriving in Semera later in the day, you check into your lodge where you can relax and reflect on the remarkable experiences of the past two days spent exploring one of the most extreme environments on Earth.

Day 10

Semera to Lalibela

This morning you travel from the desert landscapes of the Afar region into the cooler highlands of northern Ethiopia, where the scenery gradually transforms into rolling hills and fertile valleys. Passing through the town of Woldia, the road climbs steadily towards Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s most important spiritual centres. Arriving in the late afternoon, settle into your hotel and take time to relax while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains. Lalibela is renowned for its remarkable rock-hewn churches carved directly into the earth during the 12th century, and tomorrow you will begin exploring these extraordinary monuments of faith and architecture.

Day 11

Lalibela, Ethiopia

After breakfast and freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee, you set out to explore Lalibela’s extraordinary rock-hewn churches, often described as the “living wonders of the world.” Carved directly into solid rock in the 12th century during the reign of King Lalibela, these remarkable structures have served as an active centre of Christian worship for more than 800 years. Walking through narrow passageways and hidden courtyards, you visit several of the most significant churches including Bete Medhani Alem, the largest monolithic rock-hewn church in the world, along with Bete Mariam, Bete Meskel, Bete Denagil, Bete Golgotha Michael, and the iconic cross-shaped Bete Giorgis. After lunch, continue exploring the second group of churches, linked by tunnels and ancient pathways, including Bete Gabriel, Bete Merkorios, Bete Amanuel, and Bete Aba Libanos. Later in the afternoon, experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, where freshly roasted beans are prepared and served in a ritual that symbolises hospitality and community.

Day 12

Depart Lalibela

Early this morning, return to the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to witness the atmosphere of morning prayer as worshippers gather in white robes for traditional services that have taken place here for centuries. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Addis Ababa, enjoying one final view of Ethiopia’s dramatic highland landscapes from the air. On arrival, spend time exploring more of the capital before gathering for a farewell dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine, local drinks, and a vibrant cultural performance celebrating the country’s many ethnic traditions. It is a fitting way to reflect on the remarkable experiences of your journey — from ancient cities and sacred churches to the surreal landscapes of the Danakil Depression. Later in the evening, transfer to the airport for your onward flight to the United Kingdom, bringing your Ethiopian adventure to a memorable close.

Day 13

Arrive home

Arrive back in the United Kingdom, bringing your Ethiopian adventure to a close. As you return home, memories linger of ancient walled cities, sacred rock-hewn churches, dramatic desert landscapes, and the warm hospitality that defines Ethiopia — a journey rich in culture, history, and remarkable discovery.

What's Included

International return flights
All domestic flights
Airport transfers and private ground transportation
Four-wheel drive expedition vehicle in the Danakil Depression
Handpicked accommodations throughout
Meals as indicated
Professional English-speaking national escort guide throughout
All entrance fees to parks, cultural sites, and monuments

What's Included

International return flights
All domestic flights
Airport transfers and private ground transportation
Four-wheel drive expedition vehicle in the Danakil Depression
Handpicked accommodations throughout
Meals as indicated
Professional English-speaking national escort guide throughout
All entrance fees to parks, cultural sites, and monuments

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Every journey I plan starts with a conversation. Tell me what excites you, what you've always dreamed of experiencing, and I'll craft something extraordinary. The best expeditions begin with a single question: What would make this unforgettable for you?

Ashley | Expedition Planner

Highlights of Ethiopia