Northern Historic Route Itinerary – 10 Days





Day 1: Addis Ababa
- Arrive in Addis Ababa.
- Visit the National Museum (home of “Lucy”), Holy Trinity Cathedral, and Entoto Hills for panoramic views of the city.
- Overnight in Addis Ababa.
Day 2: Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar
- Morning flight to Bahir Dar.
- Explore the bustling market and take a boat trip on Lake Tana to visit ancient island monasteries like Ura Kidane Mehret.
- Overnight in Bahir Dar.
Day 3: Bahir Dar
- Morning excursion to the Blue Nile Falls (“Tis Isat” – Smoke of Fire).
- Afternoon leisure time at the lakeside or explore local shops.
- Overnight in Bahir Dar.
Day 4: Bahir Dar to Gondar
- Drive to Gondar (3 hours).
- Visit the Royal Enclosure with its castles, Fasilides’ Bath, and Debre Berhan Selassie Church, known for its remarkable ceiling art.
- Overnight in Gondar.
Day 5: Gondar to Simien Mountains
- Drive to Simien Mountains National Park.
- Begin hiking and enjoy stunning views of the dramatic landscapes; look out for Gelada baboons and other endemic wildlife.
- Overnight in a lodge or campsite in the Simien Mountains.
Day 6: Simien Mountains
- Full day in the Simien Mountains with a guided trek to explore more of the park’s peaks and valleys, including a visit to the Jinbar Waterfall.
- Overnight in the Simien Mountains.
Day 7: Simien Mountains to Axum
- Morning drive to Axum (7 hours) through scenic highlands and rural villages.
- Evening leisure time in Axum to explore the town’s local market or rest.
- Overnight in Axum.
Day 8: Axum
- Full-day exploration of Axum’s ancient heritage, including the Obelisks of Axum, the Queen of Sheba’s Palace, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion.
- Discover Axum’s rich history with a visit to King Ezana’s inscription and the tombs of ancient kings.
- Overnight in Axum.
Day 9: Axum to Lalibela
- Morning flight to Lalibela.
- Begin exploring the rock-hewn churches, focusing on the Northern Cluster, including the Church of St. Mary and the Church of the Savior of the World.
- Overnight in Lalibela.
Day 10: Lalibela
- Visit the remaining rock-hewn churches, including the iconic St. George’s Church and the Southern Cluster.
- Optional visit to Yemrehanna Kristos Church, a stunning church built in a cave, located just outside Lalibela.
- Evening flight back to Addis Ababa or overnight in Lalibela.
