CAROLINA IN ETHIOPIA
ITINERARY
Day 1, 21 Oct-Thu : Arrival in Addis Ababa
Our team will meet you at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa upon arrival and we will provide a transfer to the hotel.
Overnight Stay at Addis Ababa
Day 02, 22 Oct-Wen: Addis Ababa City Tour
The day begins with a morning visit to Unity Park, located within the Grand Palace compound, offering a rich insight into Ethiopia’s historical legacy and diverse culture. After the visit, you will enjoy lunch at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, sampling authentic local dishes. In the afternoon, the tour continues with a visit to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of Ethiopia’s most significant religious landmarks. The journey through history proceeds with a stop at the National Museum, home to the world-famous fossil "Lucy," followed by a visit to the Ethnological Museum, which presents a deep dive into Ethiopia’s cultural heritage. The day concludes with a traditional dinner and live cultural performance at Yod Abyssinia Restaurant, an ideal setting to enjoy Ethiopia’s vibrant music, dance, and cuisine.
HIGHLIGHT
● Unity Park: an opportunity to learn about nature and Ethiopian history and culture. Here, you can view historical buildings and artifacts, learn about indigenous plants at the traditional garden.
● Holy Trinity Cathedral
● National Museum: This museum’s greatest treasure is the partial skeleton of "Lucy," a tiny human believed to have lived over three million years ago
● Ethnological Museum: This museum is a tribute to decolonization across the continent. There is an exhibit that highlights the different ethnic groups of Ethiopia. The displays are an interesting overview of Ethiopian history and diversity.
● Yod Abyssinia: local famous restaurant with the best exposure to Ethiopian food, song, and dance.
Overnight Stay at Swiss in Nexus Hotel, Addis Ababa
Day 03, 23 Oct-Thu: Fly to Jinka – Turmi
After breakfast, take a domestic flight to Jinka, the gateway to Ethiopia’s Omo Valley, a region known for its rich cultural diversity and unique tribal traditions. Upon arrival, drive to Turmi, stopping along the way to visit the vibrant Key Afer Market, held every Thursday, where local tribes gather to trade goods and socialize. After exploring the market’s lively atmosphere, continue to visit the nearby Mursi tribe communities, famous for their distinctive lip plates and traditional lifestyle; some Mursi people live around the Key Afer area, offering a fascinating insight into their customs and daily life.
HIGHLIGHT
● Key Afer Market and Mursi Tribes
Overnight Stay at Turmi
Day 04, 24 Oct-Fri: Jinka to Turmi – Karo & Hamar Villages
After breakfast, visit the Hamer village, home to one of the most colorful and traditional tribes in the Omo Valley, known for their elaborate hairstyles, body decorations, and the famous bull-jumping ceremony that marks a rite of passage for young men. Then, continue to the Karo tribe, who live along the banks of the Omo River and are renowned for their intricate body painting, scarification, and close connection to the river’s natural resources, offering a unique glimpse into their artistic expression and way of life.
HIGHLIGHT
● Hamar Tribes
● Karo Tribe
Overnight Stay at Turmi
Day 05, 25 Oct-Sat: Turmi - Omorate – Turmi
Set out early for a 70 km drive to Omorate, located near the Kenyan border, a remote area where traditional ways of life remain strong. Upon arrival, cross the Omo River usually by local canoe or footbridge which offers a chance to experience the daily rhythm of river life. Visit the Dassanech people, who are known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving with their cattle in search of grazing land, and for their striking adornments, including colorful beads and body decorations that reflect their cultural identity. After this enriching cultural encounter and insight into their resilient way of life, return to Turmi.
HIGHLIGHT
● Dassanech Village
Overnight Stay at Turmi
Day 06, 26 Oct-Sun: Drive to Jinka and visit Ari Village – Return to Addis Ababa
In the morning, drive to Jinka and visit the Ari Village to experience the local culture and traditions firsthand. This visit offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant community, gaining insight into their customs, lifestyle, and values. After spending time learning about their way of life, you will take a flight to Addis Ababa.
HIGHLIGHT
● Ari Village
Overnight Stay in Addis Ababa
Day 07, 27 Oct-Mon: Addis Ababa - Lalibela
After breakfast, take a flight to Lalibela. Once you check in to your hotel, start your visit to the historical churches in town. The rock-hewn Ethiopian Orthodox Churches of Lalibela are a collection of churches - some connected by fascinating internal channels. The town of Lalibela contains 11 monolithic churches built in the 12th century with beautifully painted walls inside.
HIGHLIGHTS
● The Northwestern cluster churches include Bet Medhane Alem (House of the world savior)- the largest monolithic church and five more churches.
Overnight at Lodge in Lalibela.
Day 08, 28 Oct-Tue: Lalibela
In the morning, you will depart to Asheton Mariam Monastery. Asheton is a small monastery carved in a mountain, with a rare bible, sacred crosses & dramatic mountain views. After the visit, return back to Lalibela for lunch. In the afternoon, continue your visit with the Southeastern churches of Lalibela.
HIGHLIGHTS
● Bet Giyorgis (House of St. George)- pictured above and the most famous of the churches in town.
● Asheton Mariam Monastery
Overnight at Lodge in Lalibela.
Day 09, 29 Wed: Lalibela to Addis Ababa
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Lalibela Airport for your return flight to Addis Ababa. En route, visit the serene Nakuto Le’Abe Monastery, a cave church named after the 13th-century king who abdicated his throne to embrace a life of monastic devotion. Carved into a cliffside, the monastery holds sacred religious relics and offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
After your visit, you will be transferred to Lalibela Airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa.
Overnight Stay in Addis Ababa
Day 10, 30 Oct-Thu: Escape to the Serenity of Wenchi Crater Lake
On your second day, we invite you to embark on a breathtaking excursion to Wenchi Crater Lake, a hidden gem nestled in the Ethiopian highlands. Just a scenic drive from Addis Ababa, this natural wonder offers a perfect escape into nature. Marvel at the stunning views of the crater lake surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic peaks. Hike down to the lake, passing through charming villages and farmland, where you can interact with friendly locals and learn about their daily lives. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the crystal-clear waters and visit the small island monastery, a serene spot steeped in history. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility, Wenchi Crater Lake is a must-visit destination. Return to Addis Ababa in the evening, refreshed and inspired by the beauty of Ethiopia’s landscapes.
HIGHLIGHT
● Wenchi Crater Lake
Overnight Stay in Addis Ababa
Day 11, 31 Oct-Fri: Departure from Addis Ababa
Based on your flight time, you will be transferred to Bole International Airport in time for your departure flight.
End of Tour!
PRICE QUOTATION DISPLAY (a)
RATE PER PERSON IN USD including local guides.
- B & B Basis $ 5394 (+/-4684 €)
- Full board basis $ 5962
RATE PER PERSON IN USD, including a guide from Addis for the Omo Valley & an English-speaking local guide in Lalibela.
- B & B Basis $ 6190 (+/-5441€)
- Full board basis $ 6749
RATE PER PERSON IN USD including English-speaking Guide throughout the Tour;
- B & B Basis $ 6710 (+/-5 839,31 €)
- Full board basis $ 7269
INCLUDED:
- All hotel accommodation (10 nights) based on Single Room.
- Domestic flight as mentioned above (ADD-BCO, AMH-ADD, ADD-LLI-ADD). This is a discounted domestic airfare as part of international flight with Ethiopian Airlines. Additional USD $ 346 per person is applicable if the international flight is with other airlines.
- All ground transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle including fuel;
- All entrance fees;
- Bottled mineral water in the vehicle (2 liters per person per day);
- Airport Transfers;
- Government tax associated with the trip.
- Travel Insurance
NOT INCLUDED:
- International flights
- Tips
- Meals & Drinks