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.