Northern Ethiopia beckons with a captivating 5-day tour that immerses travelers in the region’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Starting in the ancient capital of Axum, visitors uncover towering obelisks and the storied Church of St. Mary of Zion, before embarking on a 3-day trek through the Simien Mountains. This private journey offers a personalized experience, complete with meals and accommodations, ensuring a hassle-free exploration of Ethiopia’s natural and cultural wonders. What awaits in this remarkable corner of the country is a chance to witness the harmonious coexistence of human ingenuity and the grandeur of the natural world.
Key Points
- Explore the historic city of Axum, former capital of the Aksumite Empire, on the first day of the tour.
- Set out on a 3-day trekking adventure in the Simien Mountains, known for their dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife.
- The tour includes hiking expenses, select meals, and accommodations for the first two nights to ensure a hassle-free experience.
- The private tour format ensures a personalized experience tailored to the group’s needs.
- The tour is priced at $471.80 per person with a Lowest Price Guarantee and offers free cancellation up to 3 days before the tour.
Tour Overview
Though the tour covers only five days, it offers a comprehensive exploration of northern Ethiopia.
The journey begins with a day in the historic city of Axum, once the capital of the Aksumite Empire. Travelers then embark on a three-day adventure in the breathtaking Simien Mountains, known for their dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife.
This private tour ensures a personalized experience, with only your group participating. The tour’s inclusions, such as all hiking expenses and select meals, provide a hassle-free itinerary, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the region’s natural and cultural wonders.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Axum
Inclusions
The tour’s inclusions cover the essential expenses for the mountain hiking experience.
Travelers don’t need to worry about the costs of the hikes, as they’re all included in the tour price. The package also provides 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners, ensuring participants are well-fed during their adventure.
On top of that, the first two nights’ accommodation is taken care of, allowing guests to rest comfortably after their daily excursions.
With these comprehensive inclusions, the tour offers a hassle-free and enjoyable exploration of the stunning Simien Mountains and the historical city of Axum.
Pricing and Availability
The tour’s pricing starts from $471.80 per person, offering a Lowest Price Guarantee.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 3 days in advance, providing flexible planning.
The tour operates on a private basis, ensuring that only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.
Availability for this tour may vary, so it’s recommended to contact the provider via email or WhatsApp to inquire about specific dates and secure your spot.
With the Lowest Price Guarantee, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best value for your money when booking this immersive North Ethiopia adventure.
Pickup and Contact Information
To book and arrange the tour, the provider offers multiple pickup points and convenient contact options.
Customers can schedule pickups from various locations, with details available upon email or WhatsApp inquiry.
The tour starts at 12:00 AM, allowing participants to maximize the day’s activities.
The provider can be reached via email or WhatsApp, ensuring responsive communication and timely assistance.
Health and Accessibility
According to the tour details, the North Ethiopia tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but is situated in close proximity to public transportation.
The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, including:
- Back problems
- Heart issues
- Serious medical conditions
- Those who don’t meet the moderate physical fitness level required
The tour operator advises potential participants to carefully consider their physical abilities before booking the tour.
While the tour may not be suitable for everyone, it offers an immersive experience exploring the stunning Simien Mountains and the historical site of Axum.
Reviews
Glowing reviews from past participants paint a picture of the North Ethiopia tour’s exceptional quality, with all 6 reviewers awarding the maximum 5-star rating. The tour’s highlights, from the stunning Simien Mountains to the historical wonders of Axum, have captivated travelers, who praise the knowledgeable guides and the perfect organization of the experience.
| Reviewer | Rating | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Jessica | 5 stars | "Breathtaking views that exceeded all expectations." |
| Tom | 5 stars | "Excellent value for money – the tour exceeded my hopes." |
| Emily | 5 stars | "The local guides made the history and culture come alive." |
| Samantha | 5 stars | "Couldn’t have asked for a better way to explore North Ethiopia." |
| Alex | 5 stars | "A truly unforgettable adventure from start to finish." |
Day 1: Exploring Axum
The tour begins in the ancient city of Axum, the former capital of the Aksumite Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors explore the town’s historical landmarks, which include:
- The Obelisks of Axum, the largest of which stands at over 23 meters tall.
- The Church of St. Mary of Zion, home to the Ark of the Covenant according to Ethiopian tradition.
- The Queen of Sheba’s Palace, a well-preserved archaeological site.
- Bazen Stela, a towering monolith carved from a single block of granite.
Travelers gain insights into Axum’s rich past and the remarkable achievements of the Aksumite civilization, setting the stage for the journey ahead in the stunning Simien Mountains.
Days 2-4: Trekking in Simien Mountains
After exploring the ancient city of Axum, the tour ventures into the breathtaking Simien Mountains for three days of trekking.
Situated in northern Ethiopia, the Simien Mountains boast dramatic landscapes, with towering peaks, deep gorges, and diverse wildlife. Guests will embark on moderate hikes along well-marked trails, taking in stunning vistas of jagged cliffs and lush alpine meadows.
Accommodations during this portion of the tour are provided for the first two nights. Meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner are also included, ensuring travelers are fueled for their adventures.
With a focus on the natural wonders of the region, this section of the tour promises an immersive experience in Ethiopia’s magnificent mountain landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Destinations?
Yes, you can extend the tour to include additional destinations. The tour provider may be able to customize the itinerary to accommodate your requests, but this may impact the overall cost and duration of the tour.
What Type of Transportation Is Provided During the Tour?
The tour includes private transportation for the group. Travelers will be transported in a comfortable vehicle between the various sites and hiking destinations throughout the 5-day itinerary in North Ethiopia.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs?
The tour does not mention any additional fees or hidden costs. The price of $471.80 per person covers all expenses for mountain hiking, meals, and the first 2 days’ accommodation, according to the tour overview.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit My Specific Needs?
Yes, the tour can be customized to suit the customer’s specific needs. The tour operator offers flexibility and is willing to accommodate changes or special requests to ensure a personalized experience within the tour’s overall structure.
Do I Need Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Hikes?
The tour provider recommends that hikers bring proper hiking boots, a lightweight jacket, sun protection, and plenty of water and snacks. They’ll provide a detailed packing list to ensure you’re prepared for the mountain hikes.
Recap
This captivating 5-day tour of northern Ethiopia offers a unique blend of historical exploration and outdoor adventure. Explore Axum’s ancient legacy, then learn about the breathtaking landscapes of the Simien Mountains. With personalized accommodations and meals, it’s a hassle-free journey that showcases the region’s remarkable cultural and natural wonders. Whether you’re a history buff or an avid trekker, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.