horn of africa tours

Explore The Wonder Horn Of Africa With Adulis Travel

• 6 nights, 7 days
• Max Guests : 10

Explore the captivating landscapes and cultures of Djibouti, Somaliland , and Somalia, three enigmatic destinations nestled in the Horn of Africa. Somaliland, though not internationally recognized as a sovereign state, boasts a rich heritage, while Djibouti, one of Africa’s smallest nations, beckons with its unique charm. Somalia, particularly Mogadishu, once a vibrant cosmopolitan center, now emerges from a turbulent past to reveal its resilience and allure.

Embark on a journey back to the roots of civilization, where these countries stand as the last true frontiers of Africa. Delight in the mesmerizing rock paintings of Las Geel, feel the pulse of Hargeisa’s bustling capital, and unwind on deserted beaches. Explore vibrant market towns and marvel at the breathtaking Lac Abbe, a geological wonder adorned with limestone chimneys and contrasting lush greenery.

Nestled along the shores of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, these regions boast a diverse cultural tapestry influenced by African, Arabic, and Indian Ocean traditions. Encounter locals renowned for their legendary hospitality and deep pride in their nations.

Finally, journey to Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital and once a jewel of Horn of Africa . Despite its turbulent history, Mogadishu’s beaches and classical architecture still evoke its former glory. The strategic significance of its seaport, spanning over 3000 kilometers of coastline, underscores its role as a vital link between Africa and Asia.

Price details

• 1 person: $2650
• 2 people travelling together: $1850 per person
• 3 – 10 people travelling together: $1700 per person
• Single room supplement: $60

Day 1 : Arrival in Djibouti City (Djibouti)

Upon arrival in Djibouti City, you’ll be greeted with an airport pickup and transferred to Ras Dika Hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll either embark on a city tour or relax at the hotel for the remainder of the day. Overnight at Ras Dika Hotel or similar.

Day 2 : Djibouti City - Lac Assal - Djibouti City

After breakfast, we’ll journey to Lake Assal, Africa’s lowest point. En route, we’ll marvel at the Panoramic views of Canyon Adaleh and Goubet. At Lake Assal, the vast salt field creates an otherworldly experience, with its water displaying ever-changing hues under the sun’s rays. We’ll return to Djibouti City by evening. Overnight at Ras Dika Hotel or similar.

Day 3 : Djibouti City - Hargeisa (Somaliland)

Upon arrival in Hargeisa, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. If time allows, a walking tour of the city center will be provided; otherwise, you’ll relax at the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll either explore the city or unwind at the hotel. Overnight at Damal Hotel.

Day 4 : Hargeisa - Laas Geel - Hargeisa

In the early morning, we’ll visit the camel market before heading to the ancient caves of Laas Geel. These caves house remarkably preserved rock art dating back over 5,000 years, offering a unique glimpse into ancient African culture. After exploring, we’ll return to Hargeisa and overnight at Damal Hotel.

Day 5 : Hargeisa - Mogadishu

Upon arrival in Mogadishu, you’ll be assisted with visa procedures and transferred to Shamo hotel for a briefing. Later, enjoy an orientation followed by relaxation time at Lido beach. Overnight stay at Shamo hotel.

Day 6 : Full Day in Mogadishu

Begin the day with a visit to the bustling fish market, capturing the essence of morning activity. Explore Mogadishu’s historic harbor and reconstructed lighthouse, offering panoramic views. Taste traditional Somali cuisine at a local restaurant and explore Mogdishu Mall. Visit significant landmarks like the SYL Monument, Dhagaxtuur Monument, and Union Mosque. Dinner and overnight at Shamo hotel.

Departure from Mogadishu

Transfer to the airport for departure, marking the end of your Horn of Africa Expedition.

Includes /Excludes

Price Includes

Price Excludes

Is Somaliland safer than Somalia?

Yes, Somaliland is generally considered to be safer than Somalia. Somaliland has enjoyed relative stability and security compared to other parts of Somalia. It has its own government, security forces, and has been relatively peaceful since declaring its independence in 1991. However, like any region, it is important for travelers to stay informed about the current situation and follow local guidance and travel advisories.

Is it safe to visit Hargeisa?

Yes, Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, is generally considered safe for visitors. As the largest city in Somaliland, it has its own administration and security forces, providing a relatively stable and secure environment. However, it’s always important for travelers to stay informed about the current situation, follow local guidance, and be aware of any travel advisories from relevant authorities. Additionally, it’s a good practice to take standard safety precautions while traveling, such as being aware of your surroundings and respecting local customs and laws.

Payment Method

We highly advise securing your reservation by booking ahead of time. To finalize your tour booking, a pre-payment of a 5% deposit is necessary, which can be transferred to our bank accounts in either USD or EURO. The remaining amount is due upon arrival and can be paid in cash. Alternatively, you have the option to settle the full payment in advance through a bank transfer. In either case, we will provide you with an invoice containing all the required banking details.

Can I get the refund?

In the event that Adulis Travel does not provide one of the services In the program, we will offer an opportunity to refund the services not provided, except in force majeure cases or adverse weather conditions, delays or cancellations of international or domestic flights, road conditions, or, if you are denied, obtaining a Travel permit. (All tourists must have a travel permit to travel outside Asmara)

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Do you need assistance with your Eritrea Visa?

Adulis Travel can help you secure the visa on arrival by scanning your passport's front page. We will arrange a visa in advance so that you can pick it up on arrival at Asmara airport.

Adulis Travel, the leading Eritrea travel agency, marvels at assisting you to get your trip intended. Not only a trip, however, exceptional excursions full of enjoyable and life-enriching adventures.

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Horn of Africa

An overland journey from Djibouti into Somaliland to get a taste of traditional Somali life and visit some extraordinary desert scenery, in the Horn of Africa: a region where the Arab and African worlds collide.

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An overland journey from Djibouti into Somaliland, to get a taste of traditional Somali life and visit some extraordinary desert scenery in the Horn of Africa, a region where the Arab and African worlds collide.

First up is Djibouti, offering the chance to head into the Danakil region and explore the otherworldly landscapes around Lac Abbe and Lac Assal. Then, we cross into Somaliland and take a long journey through the desert and scrub to Somaliland’s low key but friendly capital Hargeisa. In Somaliland we will visit the extraordinary cave paintings at Las Geel as well as the coastal town of Berbera. A great introduction into Somali culture and landscape.

Horn of Africa highlights:

• Camp at Lac Abbe
• Visit Lac Assal
• Enjoy rock art at Las Geel and Dhagax Khoure
• Explore Somali culture and hospitality

Start point : Djibouti City, Djibouti End point : Hargeisa, Somaliland

Feeling extra intrepid? Add on an extra 48 hours in Mogadishu, with our experienced guide and security team.

• Meals at Lac Abbe camp
• Ground transport
• Escort – Armed security in Somaliland (Required)
• English speaking guides
• Site access and entrance fees
• Visa support
• International flights
• Lunch and dinner (unless mentioned)
• Tips for drivers and guides
• Other expenses

Upon arrival in Djibouti, you will be transferred to your hotel. If you arrive early enough, you may have the chance to explore the capital with your guide.

Overnight in Djibouti City at the Menelik hotel or similar.

You will certainly remember your visit to Lake Abbe, a desolate salt lake surrounded by limestone chimneys and dotted with old ruins. Those of you familiar with the film ”Planet of the Apes” will already be aware of the otherworldly landscape that served as the backdrop.

Overnight stay at the Lac Abbe Camp.

In this trip, we will visit the crater lake of Lac Assal, which has the lowest point in all of Africa (-150 m). The lake also has the highest salinity (up to 40%) of any lake in the world. Its spectacular colors and unusual crystal formations give the impression that this is an inhabited area by Afar herders or salt collectors. It is one of the most stunning natural phenomena in Africa.

Return to Djibouti’s capital city and overnight at the Menelik hotel or similar.

After breakfast, transfer to the border with Somaliland in the early morning hours. As we crossed the border into Somaliland, our journey begin. We will travel through the desert to the town of Borama in Somaliland. This is a long and challenging drive which may take ten hours to complete but allows the opportunity to explore a much less travelled route.

Overnight in Borama at the Rays Hotel or similar.

Explore the site of Dhagax Khoure, one of Somaliland’s famous rock art sites, while enjoying a panoramic view of the surroundings. As we journey out here, we pass a number of small seminomadic communities as well as small towns and villages. Thereafter, we drive to Hargeisa where we spend the night.

Overnight in Hargeisa at Damal Hotel or a similar hotel.

Take a walking tour around the city center of Hargeisa to get a further sense of the people and the city. Here you will see the central market, and the MiG Jetfighter War Memorial which stands for the atrocities committed by the dictator during the Civil War, and get some currency converted into schillings at one of the famous street exchange “offices”. Also, you will visit the livestock market where you can purchase your own camel or goat! For those who can’t fit a camel in their luggage, this market will provide great photo opportunities and a chance to see how the Somalilanders do business.

Overnight in Hargeisa at Damal hotel or similar.

Drive to Las Geel, one of the most important rock art sites in Africa and with numerous well- preserved paintings. The quality of the art here is particularly good and Las Geel is a real highlight of the trip. From here we continue to the coastal city of Berbera.

Overnight in Berbera at Damal Hotel or similar.

Explore the old quarter of Berbera, Darole, with its Ottoman era buildings and atmospheric streets. From here drive into the mountains and the town of Sheikh, before continuing to Hargeisa for your final night in Somaliland.

Transfer to the airport for departure.

End of trip.

We do not and cannot offer a uniform accommodation standard on our itineraries. We consider comfort, location, design, character, historical interest and whether the money we spend will go into the pockets of the local community when we make our choices of where to stay.

Twin share is uncommon in Somaliland, so this trip is based on single room occupancy.

• Escort – Armed Security in Somaliland (Required)

We do not directly arrange international flights to and from your trip but are happy to offer advice on recommended routes. Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates and FlyDubai operate in the full region of Horn of Africa. Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways operate in Djibouti and Mogadishu, but not Somaliland.

We provide visa support for both Djibouti and Somaliland.

We provide a letter of invitation to obtain a Visa on Arrival in Djibouti.  

The Somaliland land border does not accept Visa on Arrival, so we will obtain the visa permit from the Ministry in Hargeisa ahead of the trip.  

On this trip you will be accompanied by two English-speaking guides, one for the Djibouti section and one for the Somaliland section of this trip.

When we choose our vehicles and drivers we take into consideration the road conditions, the length of journey and the competence of the man behind the wheel.

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Djibouti: Adventure in the Horn of Africa

The Horn of Africa brings to mind treacherous coastlines patrolled by AK47 wielding pirates, unforgiving desert plains and fiercely proud tribes. And there is Djibouti, a land of stark beauty with blinding salt flats, mysterious moonscapes, petrified forests and remote mountains hidden away, far off the beaten track, waiting to be discovered.

It was hot. I didn’t need to hear the expletive escaping my brother’s mouth to confirm this as we descended down the plane’s steps. Nor did I need to double check my Lonely Planet copy which helpfully stated, “May-Sep: Some like it hot… some like it hot.”

It was the first week of July. It was no less than 50 degrees Celsius. I could barely breathe. We found temporary respite in the airport. We spotted no other tourists; it looked like we had Djibouti all to ourselves. The perks of travelling in the low season.

We had no plan, just a vague idea about what we wanted to see in the next six days. Our French was terrible, my only carefully rehearsed phrase being, “What type of beer do you have?” It was not used much. Still, this was Djibouti and there was nothing that couldn’t be fixed.

Salah, a friend we made on the plane, soon hooked us up with Ibrahim who had just started his own business venture aptly named “Ibrahim Tours”. We were to be his first customers as we sketched out an itinerary with hand signals on a dirty napkin in Club Ethiopia (a place with the only affordable beer in town).

“There is nothing out here.” I mused as I stared out of the window as our Land Cruiser ate up the sands of the desert.

All signs of life had disappeared the moment we left the outskirts of Djibouti City, morphing into the barrenness of the Gran and Petit Barra depressions. It was a parched landscape etched with intricate patterns into the clay, windswept over millennia. It seemed unending.

As the sun dropped low over the horizon a land of pre-historic limestone chimneys emerged in the distance, rising from the desert carrying with them the angry heat from the depths of the earth. Our skilled Afar guide, Abdul, carefully navigated us through the quicksand-ridden expanse on unmarked roads. We watched the resilient Afar herdsmen stand guard on hilltops and draw near in a cloud of dust guiding their cattle to the precious water, a lifeline in these parts. Humanity can carve out an existence in the most extreme of places.

Lac Abbe was not a place for the faint-hearted. Lightning ravaged the skies and the wind tore at our clothes as we slept under the stars. In the morning, the thick mist obscured the chimneys as they hauntingly emerged and disappeared at a moments notice. Lac Abbe was positively apocalyptic in every sense of the word.

We left Lac Abbe behind and headed for Lac Assal, a crater lake located in the centre of the country deep in the Afar Triangle, known to be many times saltier than the ocean.

At 150m below sea level it is the undisputed lowest spot on the African continent.

A storm loomed large over the lake as we arrived at the blindingly white salt flats. The turquoise waters danced in the wind as we carefully stepped into the shallows. The salt was sharp like razor blades under our exposed feet. I screamed into the wind. I felt alive.

As night fell our Land Cruiser crawled its way up high into the remote Goda Mountains in search of the settlement of Dittilou located on the border of the famed Foret du Day.

We arrived deep into the night at a local camp and sleep came easy. The morning revealed the most incredible mountain vistas.

Hiking deep into the mountains in search of plane crashes and waterfalls was a privilege. Our journey continued on to another settlement in the mountains: Bankouale, a place where the elusive leopard is still said to roam.

We left the mountains in our wake as we headed for the gritty Port City of Tadjoura, Djibouti’s oldest town, once ruled by the mighty Sultans of the gulf.

Today all that remains is camel strewn streets and a brand new Chinese port that sees no ships.

Another mystery that we weren’t going to solve that day – instead we headed for Sables Blancs, a beach only accessible by a steep ramp from the plateau above. The water was magical.

Djibouti is a place like no other. It’s a place made for the intrepid traveller who is searching for an experience that’s different and untouched by mass tourism.

Make no mistake, Djibouti is outrageously expensive but would I go again…? Probably!

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Born in the Netherlands but raised at the end of a tarmac road in a remote Ugandan village, Maurice was always going to end up living in Africa. After a brief stint in Europe he returned to this great continent to pursue a Master's in Conservation Biology at the University of Cape Town, which was followed by several years of traipsing across the globe in search of adventure and stunning wild places. For the last few years Maurice has been based in Kenya and is working towards securing a future for African elephants and the landscapes on which they depend. He is a passionate conservationist, amateur explorer and his camera is always with him! You can follow more of his adventures on Facebook , Instagram , and on his website .

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Young Pioneer Tours

Horn of Africa: Ethiopia, Somaliland, Eritrea Mega Combo

YPT will take you on the African adventure of a lifetime this spring.

Starting in Ethiopia, we will venture to the Danakil Depression, one of the most extreme climates found on Earth. We’ll hang out with the Hamar, Mursi, Karo, Dassench and Ari tribes in the Omo valley, and you’ll have a chance to experience their culture, ceremonies and way of life. We’ll experience Addis, the modern capital of Ethiopia and home to the African Union, and finally and most spectacularly, we’ll head to the small town of Lalibela, home to one of the world’s most magnificent and most sacred sights – the famous churches of Lalibela, eleven rock-hewn churches, each carved entirely out of a single block of granite with their roofs at ground level.

After our adventure in Ethiopia end’s we will head to the capital city of Somaliland, Hargeisa; a gateway into the former British protectorate and the self-declared republic of Somaliland. This de-facto state declared independence from the rest of Somalia in 1991; however, no international organization has recognized its sovereignty.

Still recovering from a brutal civil war, today the area is very safe, and the local people are extremely welcoming and interested in foreign visitors. Somaliland is fundamentally different from the other countries in the region — and almost anywhere else on the planet. We’ll take you to smoke shisha and chew chat with the locals, swim in untouched waters, and visit ancient cave paintings!

To top everything off, we will also be visiting the “North Korea” of Africa, Eritrea. This fascinating country falls well below most travellers’ radars, which makes it a unique and off the beaten track experience. Eritrea boasts a pristine coastline and untouched Red Sea islands as well as some of the best-kept colonial architecture in Africa. On top of all that we’ll take part in the two-day festival to celebrate Eritrea’s independence!

Having been colonized in part by the Turks and Egyptians, Eritrea took on a European flavour with the arrival of the Italians in 1885 during their belated entry in the “scramble for Africa.” The legacies of successive foreign forces, combined with a rich mix of nine local ethnic groups, have created a diverse cultural landscape that offers the best of African, Middle Eastern and European influences.

The Eritrean capital city of Asmara is like a film set from an early Italian movie, with vintage Italian coffee machines and outstanding examples of Art-Deco architecture. Although the country faces numerous hardships, it paradoxically remains one of Africa’s most peaceful, secure, and welcoming destinations.

Contact us now to secure your spot on this once in a lifetime trip!

We use Ethiopian airlines for all our domestic flights. Ethiopian Airlines charges a surcharge for individuals who do not fly into the country with them. As such we have based the tour cost on the basis everyone will be using Ethiopian Airlines to arrive in Addis Ababa for the start of the tour. If you choose another airline, the surcharge of  €295 will apply.

In order to give you maximum flexibility in your trip as well as control over mileage programs, we chose not to include the flights between countries but have put recommendations in the itinerary. If you wish us to include the international flights (Addis Ababa to Hargeisa and Hargeisa to Asmara) in your tour price this can be done for an extra €450 . This price is valid until two months before tour, after which individual quotes will have to be given due to the fluctuation in flight ticket prices.

Wednesday 6 th May  – Addis Ababa

• Morning arrival and transfer from airport to the hotel.
• Full day tour of Addis Ababa, introducing you to the history and culture of Ethiopia.
• We’ll include visits to the “Red Terror” Martyrs’ Memorial Museum, Mt. Entoto, the National Museum, Shola Market, Holy Trinity Cathedral, the Tiglachin Monument and more!
• We’ll also go on a food tour of Addis, learning about how unique Ethiopian dishes are made, sampling some of the most famous dishes as well as seeing some unique local eateries.
• After a full day of sightseeing, we’ll go to dinner, and if you fancy, you can try some of Ethiopia’s famous beers.
• Overnight in Addis Ababa.

Thursday 7 th May – Hamede Ela

• Fly from Addis to Mekelle in the morning.
• We’ll drive from Mekele to Hamede Ela via Berhale, and you can witness for yourself the Danakil Depression.
• We will pass through the small town of Berhale where even now, since there’s no car access, camel caravans stop before they proceed to the northern highlands. En route you’ll see many long camel caravans coming to the salt mine and others going out of the Danakil with their salt loaded camels.
• The Danakil Depression is one of the most inhospitable regions of the world, but is nonetheless spectacular, full of eye-catching colours, and sensational sulphur springs. The depression has several points lying more than 100 meters (328 ft) below sea level.
• Finally, we’ll head to Dallol to see the sunset before camping overnight in the town of Hamad Rla, a small village of around 500 people.
• Overnight in Hamad Ela.

Friday 8 th May – Mekele

• This morning we’ll drive to Ragad (Asebo), to see the famous salt mines. We’ll see salt being extracted from the ground, before being moulded into large blocks and then loaded onto camels to be transported.
• We’ll head back to Dallol and lake Asale and visit the different landscapes formed by volcanic activity. Dallol is one of the lowest places in the world at 116 meters below sea level and is a great way to continue our adventure through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.
• We’ll meet and talk with the local Afar people in the afternoon before driving back to Mekele.
• Overnight in Mekele.  

Saturday 9th May – Lalibela 

• Today we’ll drive to Lalibela.
• We’ll arrive in the late morning and explore the first group of churches.
• After lunch, you’ll have some free time to explore this fascinating town.
• Tonight we’ll head to the famous Ben Ababa for dinner, where a spectacular view and sunset await us. Perched on the edge of a ridge, the building itself is indescribable, and the menu boasts an exciting blend of Ethiopian and Scottish food you never thought possible.
• Overnight in Lalibela.

 Sunday 10 th May – Jinka

• After an early breakfast, we’ll visit the second cluster of churches with our local guide.
• We then fly to Addis before continuing our journey on to Jinka.
• In Jinka we’ll drop our bags off at the hotel before visiting the Southern Omo Research Centre, a museum specializing in the differences and history of the traditional tribal groups in the Omo valley.
• Our last item for the day is a visit to the Ari Tribe. Known for their amazing jewellery and colour, the Ari people paint themselves as well as scar themselves for appearance.
• Overnight in Jinka.

 Monday 11th May – Turmi

• In the morning we’ll drive to Mago National Park to see the untouched and unique Mursi tribe, who live on the southern edge of the park. Mursi women are famous for using lip plates to stretch their lips. The bigger the lip plate she can place in her mouth, the more beautiful she is considered.
• After lunch in the afternoon, we will explore the village of the Hamar tribe. The Hamar are known for their unique custom of “bull jumping”, which initiates a boy into manhood. First, female relatives dance and invite whipping from men who have recently been initiated; this shows their support of the initiation, and their scars give them a right to demand his help in time of need. The boy must run back and forth twice across the backs of a row of bulls or castrated steers and is ridiculed if he fails.
• Overnight in Turmi.

 Tuesday 12 th May – Turmi

• Drive to Omorate, a town near the Kenyan border and the Omo river.
• After exploring Omorate, it’s on to the Dasenech, a tribe that traces its origins in Uganda. Their lives depend on the Omo River, and we need to cross it in tiny, but luckily (hopefully!) safe wooden boats to visit the tribe.
• Return to Turmi for lunch.
• After lunch we’ll drive to the Karo Tribe, of which there are only roughly 1,000-3,000, making it the smallest tribe in Ethiopia. They are famous for their body painting, covering themselves daily with coloured ochre, white chalk, yellow mineral rock, charcoal, and pulverized iron ore; all natural resources local to the area. The specific designs drawn on their bodies can change daily and vary in content, ranging from simple stars or lines to animal motifs, such as guinea fowl plumage, or to the most popular – a myriad of handprints covering the torso and legs. Both the Karo and the Hamar men use clay to construct elaborate hairstyles and headdresses for themselves, signifying status, beauty, and bravery.

 Wednesday 13 th May – Arbaminch

• Today we’ll drive from Turmi to Arbaminch.
• On the way we’ll visit Karat Konso, the famous terraced hills, the newest UNESCO world heritage site in Ethiopia, having been inscribed in 2011. Konso, named after the Konso people, is known for its religious traditions, waga sculptures, and nearby fossil beds.
• The waga sculptures are carved wooden grave markers, and a row of these are erected on the grave of any important Konso man – one symbolizing the hero himself, the others his wives, his defeated enemies, or the dangerous animals he killed.
• We’ll arrive in the mid-afternoon in Arbaminch, where you’ll have free time for the rest of the day.
• Overnight in Arbaminch.

 Thursday 14 th May – Addis Ababa

• Today we’ll make the long drive back to Addis Ababa. Although not hugely long in distance, travelling through Ethiopia can be slow with many stretches of unmade roads, potholes and other obstacles.
• When we arrive in Addis we’ll check into our hotel for the final night, and if we missed anything on the first day, or if there’s anything else you’d like to see, we’ll try to fit it in.
• Tonight we’ll have our farewell dinner and a few last lovely Ethiopian Beers (other beverages available for those who don’t like beer).

 Friday 15 th May – Hargeisa  

• Transfer to the Airport in the morning for our 9:20 am flight to Somaliland.
• Arrival in Hargeisa.
• Dinner at a newly opened and popular Syrian restaurant run by refugees from Damascus. We’ll have a chance to chat with them and hear how they find life in Somaliland.
• After dinner, you can walk around the bustling city center in Hargeisa, and have some chai with the friendly locals or do some shopping for t-shirts and flags for Independence Day.  

Saturday 16 th May – Hargeisa

• Visit the two hills called Naaso Hablood (“Girl’s Breasts”), also known as Hargeisa’s landmark. On the way, we visit the cemetery for British Soldiers who died here battling against the Italians during the Second World War. Hargeisa is the former capital of British Somaliland, while Italy controlled what is now Somalia.
• We will have lunch at a Somali-Yemeni restaurant with some Somalilander intellectual icons who will give us the political, social, historical and cultural introduction of the country.
• We will then take a walking tour around the city center of Hargeisa to get a sense of the people and the city. Here you will see street money exchangers and their “chunk” of bills, the central market, and the MiG Jet fighter War Memorial which stands for the atrocities committed by the dictator during the Civil War. The War Memorial is in the middle of the buzzing centrum and an excellent place for a coffee and chats with Somalilanders about politics and history.
• Visit to the busy market in downtown Hargeisa for some evening shopping and people watching.
• Dinner and overnight in Hargeisa.

Sunday 17th May – Laas Geel/Hargeisa

• After breakfast, we will take a visit to the livestock market where you can purchase your own camel or goat! For those who can’t fit a camel in their luggage, this market will provide excellent photo opportunity and a chance to see how the locals do business.
• Afternoon visit to Laas Geel, the most important rock art site in Africa. These caves contain some of the oldest cave paintings on the horn of Africa; the vibrant colours and well-preserved paintings are estimated to be around ten thousand years old.
• Make the 60km drive back to Hargeisa and spend the evening at your leisure.

Monday 18 th  May – Independence Day!

• We’ll get up nice and early for a quick breakfast before hitting the streets to observe the military and civilian parades. Everyone will be dressed in the national colours on the street, and this is one of the only places on earth to take part in an Independence Day celebration in an unrecognized country!
• After lunch and a short break from the heat, we’ll visit the Somaliland national museum and cultural center. A great place to chat with some local young people.
• We will have a traditional dinner that evening and toast to this small nation!
• Overnight in Hargeisa

Tuesday 19 th May – Berbera

• We will head to the most important port of Somaliland, Berbera. Upon our arrival, we will visit the historical Ottoman Mosque and Ottoman houses.
• Late lunch will be served at the Ottoman houses, and we will relax a bit (it will be sweltering).
• We’ll take a short boat trip to go hunt for shipwrecks in the Gulf of Aden.
• We will relax and swim at the untouched beach, where local youth and families come and enjoy their down time. (Due to local culture, ladies will need to cover their body while in water.)
• Tour the historic town of Berbera in the early evening, where you will find more Ottoman, Persian, and British architecture of historic interest. This will be an excellent chance for some fantastic photographs.
• We will have fresh seafood on the waterfront for dinner.

Wednesday 20 th May – Hargeisa

• After breakfast, we will have short free time in Berbera.
• We’ll drive to the small town of Sheikh in the mountains, stop for some afternoon tea, walk around and enjoy the pleasant climate.
• We’ll make the drive back to Hargeisa for our last dinner in Somaliland.

Thursday 21 st May – Asmara

• End of Somaliland tour – continue onwards to Eritrea!
• Airport transfer to the airport to catch the noon flight to Addis Ababa and transfer to Asmara, arriving at 5:25pm.
• Check in our hotel and free time to look around the city.
• Our local guide will meet our flight at the airport and we will be transferred to our hotel, the  “Capri Hotel ”.
• We will meet our new group members at the hotel before heading out for our first group dinner and drinks in Eritrea

Friday 22 nd May – Asmara

• Waking up in Asmara
• We will meet our new group members at the hotel before heading out in Asmara.
• Free day to explore Asmara slowly and do some shopping, according to your interests.

Saturday 23 rd May – Asmara

• After breakfast, we will have a walking tour of the center of town. We will see the spectacular art deco of Asmara built by the Italians at the turn of the last century, such as the Post office built 1916, Albergo Italia built in 1899, the presidential palace built in 1907, and the Hotel Hamasien built in 1916. Great photo opportunities!
• We check out the Tank graveyard where we can see out-of-use tanks that were demolished during the war with Ethiopia.
• Visit the City Hall to see various photo displays in commemoration of the thirty-years bitter struggle and the post-independence progress. The City Hall was established by the Italians in 1890 and is one of the oldest institutions in Africa. There will also be various inventions on display by young people.
• Continue our tour of Asmara where we check out the various pre-Independence Day celebrations including modern and folklore dances.
• Walk up and down Harnett street where we will watch various cinematographic dramas and performances.
• Festival continues into the night culminating in a massive fireworks show at midnight to celebrate independence. Great vantage point from the roof of our hotel!

Sunday 24 th  May  – Independence Day!

• For those brave enough there will be a 6 am 21-gun salute to mark Independence Day.
• Free time to walk around the city after breakfast and mingle with locals.
• There will be various art exhibitions along the pedestrianized streets of the Main liberation avenue.
• After lunch, we join the celebrations at Asmara Stadium. There will be various displays by the Military music band, and the Eritrean Air force will fly over the stadium in a spectacular color show! Multiple dramas will be shown by many artists during the afternoon.
• The Eritrean President will deliver a speech on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee. The show will come to an end at about 7 pm.
• Dinner and drinks to close out the Independence celebrations at a traditional restaurant, where you can sample injera and local alcohols… Followed by a dance party!
• Overnight at the hotel in Asmara.

Monday 25 th May – Asmara

• After a mini sleep in and some breakfast, we will board a 100-year-old train and ride all the way to Nefasit.
• Along the way, we will go through thirty tunnels. This is definitely a trip highlight!
• On board the train we will be offered a traditional coffee ceremony.
• Arrive back in Asmara
• Head to the incredible bowling alley for a step back in time.
• Dinner and overnight at our hotel.

Tuesday 26 th May – Massaw

• Hit the road for the 3 hour drive to Massawa
• On arrival, we’ll check in at our seaside hotel
• We’ll visit Gurgusum Beach, where we can swim and relax with local people.
• Walking tour to take in the unique mixture of Turkish and Italian architectural design.
• Dinner at the “Salam Restaurant”. Fresh fish prepared in traditional oven. This is a real local experience.
• After dinner, we explore the nightlife of Massawa and find some bars.
• Overnight in Massawa.

Wednesday 27 th May – Massawa

• After breakfast, we visit a local school in Massawa to learn about Eritrea’s education system and meet with the children.
• Take a boat to Dahlac Marine National Park, the Red Sea’s largest archipelago of which just four islands are inhabited.
• We visit ruins from the early Arabic/Islamic settlers of the 8th century, and also some local Tigranyan villages.
• Those who have a diving license can experience a dive in the Red Sea! (additional cost for diving). Don’t dive? No problem – snorkelling equipment is also available.
• In the late afternoon/early evening, we will make our way back to Massawa.
• Dinner, drinks, and overnight in Massawa

Thursday 28 th May – Asmara

• After a late breakfast, we will hit the road back to Asmara.
• Arrival in Asmara at around 4 pm – we will have free time in Asmara. We may be lucky enough to watch football in the famous Cinema Roma or, if interested, have a chance to briefly talk about your country or profession to young Eritrean students.
• Dinner and group drinks in Asmara.

Friday 29 th May – Asmara

• After breakfast, we head to Keren city.
• We take in the festival of Mariam Dearit. This is the real highlight of the religious festival calendar in Eritrea. Simply watch or join in on the thousands of people dancing and sharing coffee with each other
• Lunch in Keren
• Free time in this quaint town to check out the local markets and explore the lively streets.
• Drive back to Asmara and stop by some destroyed Ethiopian tanks along the way!
• Last group dinner and overnight in Asmara!

Saturday 30th May

• End of tour.
• YPT is able to arrange airport transfers for those who require, depending on flight times.

Flag of Eritrea

Flag of Somaliland

City Guide to Asmara

How to Dress in Somaliland

Colour and creativity – travelling to somaliland.

How to Get a Somaliland Visa

Somaliland doesn’t technically exist. Here it is anyway

Somaliland and somalia: what’s the difference .

How Do I Get To Eritrea?

How to Get an Eritrean Visa

Thoughts of an Eritrean Tour Guide

Scenes From an Eritrean Train

• Tour Extensions

Want to extend your YPT adventure? Join one of our great tour extensions

• Start Date : May 6th 2020 End Date : May 30th, 2020
• Price : €3685
• Duration: 24 nights, 25 days

Tour Highlights

• Lalibela Churches: The famous rock carved churches at Lalibela. Revered by the Ethiopian orthodox community as their most sacred site and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Danakil Depression: The Danakil Depression is a contender for the hottest place on Earth, at least if you measure the average year-round temperature (reportedly 34.4C) rather than focusing on isolated bursts of extreme heat.
• Spectate at the Somaliland Independence Day military and civilian parade, one of the only Independence Day parades in an unrecognized country!
• See 10,000 year old cave paintings at Laas Geel, the most important ancient rock art site in Africa
• Ride the 100 year old train to Nesafit, going through spectacular scenery and enjoying a traditional coffee ceremony on board.
• Dive in the pristine Red Sea off the coast of Massawa

Inclusions and exclusions

•All domestic transport to complete itinerary (unless otherwise stated) •All Accommodation based on twin share basis •Some local tours (unless otherwise stated)

•Visa Fees (Eritrea – 70 USD). •Single Supplement (€720) •International flights •Personal expenses and drinks •Local guide tips

We have expert guides ready to help answer any questions you may have.

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Visit The Horn Of Africa With Our Somaliland Tours

Located on the Gulf of Aden, Somaliland has been an important center for trade and commerce throughout its history.

Today, it’s one of the most fascinating yet unusual places to travel. Somaliland is home to several important archaeological sites, including the ancient port city of Zeila, which dates back to the 7th century AD.

Its capital is Hargeisa, the largest city in the country and home to over a million people.

The majority of the population in Somaliland is Muslim, and the country has a rich cultural heritage, being renowned for its traditional dance, music, and poetry.

As specialists in small group and independent travel, Rocky Road Travel takes you to some of the least understood countries in the world.

Somalilland is just one of the many exciting destinations we have available, with our team taking you off the beaten track. 

Our tours of southern Somalia and Mogadishu are ideal if you want to visit one of Africa’s most intriguing and least visited regions. Mogadishu has a long history stretching from ancient times. For centuries it controlled the Indian Ocean gold trade, and eventually came under the Ajuran Empire in the 13th century which was an important player in the medieval Silk Road maritime trade. 

With our local experts, you can see some of the most incredible places with your own eyes.

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SOMALIA + SOMALILAND + DJIBOUTI + SUDAN

Expedition with mzungu to the ancient sudan and the horn of africa: martian landscapes of djibouti, whale sharks, camels and amazing mogadisho somalia + somaliland + djibouti + sudan, find yourself on another planet – discover amazing ancient sudanese pyramids and the horn of africa with its martian landscapes of danakil desert and the lowest point in africa, the country of camels and the coast of whale sharks, the lost caves of laas geel and god-forsaken mogadishu. traveling in somalia and somaliland is accompanied by paramilitary police guards..

• accommodation in mid-range hotels and tents in Somalia and Somaliland, based on single accommodation
• accommodation in hotels, lodges and tourist camp in Djibouti and Sudan, based on twin/double accommodation
• 3 times a day meals
• mineral water during the entire trip
• experienced English speaking guides
• Russian and English speaking team leader Mzungu
• all airport transfers
• all transport as per program: 4WD SUVs (Land Cruiser or similar) in good condition with AC and experienced drivers for land tours (3 travelers in the car - not more than 2 people on back seats)
• boat in good condition for sea tours & Professional pilot
• all travel permits and local communities financial support
• escort services (SPU Police escort for Somalia and Somaliland parts)
• whale shark tour
• all entrance fees
• visa facilitation
• government tax
• international air tickets to Mogadishu and back from Khartoum
• flight from Djibouti to Khartoum one way
• flight from Mogadisho to Hargeisa one way
• flight from Hargeisa to Djibouti one way
• international medical insurance
• Djibouti visa
• Somalia visa
• Somaliland visa
• video filming and photography fees
• sodas & alcohol beverages
• tips & personal purchases
• single room supplement for Djibouti and Sudan
• 1 UNIQUENESS We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears.
• 2 ADVENTURISM Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again.
• 3 SAFETY In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features.
• 4 EXPERIENCE We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbings are guided by Mzungu himself, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort.
• 5 LOW PRICE All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.

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• About Visit Horn Africa

Horn of Africa Combo Tours

We offer a wide range of combination tours to Somaliland, Djibouti, Somalia, Puntland, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Eritrea, Sudan, and Socotra at the most affordable price. Our Horn of Africa tours do not have specific dates. However, we can customize one to fit your schedule or we can create a Horn of Africa tour specially for you. Our independent tours are available for individuals, couples, families, groups, and even for groups traveling together.

Horn of Africa Adventure Tour

————————————————————— DURATION: 7 days (All-inclusive) ————————————————————— RANGE OF PRICES: $1700 – 2600 ————————————————————— COUNTRIES: Djibouti, Somaliland & Somalia

Combo tour for Djibouti and Somaliland

————————————————————— DURATION: 6 days (All-inclusive) ————————————————————— RANGE OF PRICES: $1170 – $1690 ————————————————————— COUNTRIES: Djibouti and Somaliland

Horn of Africa: Somaliland – Djibouti – South Sudan Tour

————————————————————— DURATION: 7 days (All-inclusive) ————————————————————— RANGE OF PRICES: $1560 – $2400 ————————————————————— COUNTRIES: Djibouti, Somaliland & South Sudan

Djibouti – Somaliland – Eritrea Off the Beaten Path

————————————————————— DURATION: 7 days (All-inclusive) ————————————————————— RANGE OF PRICES: $1800 – $2665 —————————————————————- COUNTRIES: Somaliland, Djibouti & Eritrea

Horn of Africa Expedition of Somaliland – Mogadishu – Puntland

————————————————————— DURATION: 7 days (All-inclusive) ————————————————————— RANGE OF PRICES: $2390 – $3380 ————————————————————- COUNTRIES: Somaliland, Mogadishu & Puntland

Mogadishu and Puntland Together

————————————————————— DURATION: 5 days (All-inclusive) ————————————————————— RANGE OF PRICES: $1800 – $2730 ————————————————————- COUNTRIES: Mogadishu & Puntland

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Horn of Africa Tour (9 days)

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About this tour:

The Horn of Africa is the easternmost extent of the African continent and is usually defined as the region containing the countries of Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia (and Somaliland), whose cultures have been linked throughout their long history. In total, the Horn of Africa is estimated to cover over 2 million square kilometers, most of which have a semi-arid to arid climate. Despite the difficult living conditions in many parts of the region, the latest estimates put the population at around 90 million people. This unique journey travels from Addis Ababa to Somaliland and Djibouti, two little-known destinations that have the potential to become major adventure destinations in the future. You will be surprised by the variety of landscapes, the many different attractions, and the friendliness of the people you will meet in this fascinating region.

Highlights:

• Full day exploring the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa
• Full day exploring Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland
• Fascinating cave paintings of Las Geel, one of Africa’s best kept secrets
• Visit to the colorful seaside town of Berbera
• Exploring Djibouti City
• Lake Assal, which is 155m below sea level and marks the lowest point in Africa.

Included in the travel price

• 8 nights with breakfast in middle class hotels and lodges
• All ground transfers by program
• English speaking tour guide
• All regional flights by program
• All entrances and fees for national parks and attractions
• All local guides, rangers and scouts

Short Info:

• Tour code: WET-HOA-9
• Hotel Standard:  basic / middle-class hotels and lodges
• Number of domestic flights: 2
• Required fitness level: fairly fit and heat tolarability

Day 1: Arrive in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and collect Somaliland visa

You will be met by our representative at the airport and taken to your hotel for an early check-in. After you have rest at the hotel, we drive to Somaliland Embassy in Addis Ababa and collect your Somaliland entry visa. Please note that you must already apply for your Djibouti visa at the Djibouti embassy in your home country. Sometime today we should be able to taste Ethiopia’s “Black Gold” because it’s impossible to separate Ethiopia from coffee, and this is the country with arguably the best Arabica coffee. According to legend, it was discovered by an Ethiopian shepherd boy and his goats sometime in the sixth century.

Accommodation: Hotel, Addis Ababa

Day 2: Full day city tour of Addis Ababa

Although not well known outside the country, the Ethiopian National Museum is a truly hidden gem! The most famous exhibit is the replica of Lucy, one of the oldest hominids ever discovered, but the museum offers much more. As the Ethiopian civilization is one of the oldest in the world, the exhibits span thousands of years, including some from the earliest days. During our visit we will see a wide variety of artifacts, from sculptures to clothing to works of art. There are many exhibitions about the different ethnic groups with information about their way of life. A large number of ethnic garments, instruments, tools and other artifacts accompany each ethnic exhibition, making it one of the most interesting museums in Ethiopia. We also visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the most important places of worship in Ethiopia and the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.

Day 3: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Flight to Hargeisa, Somaliland

The Republic of Somaliland is a self-declared state that is internationally recognized as the autonomous region of Somalia. Local authorities declared the region’s independence from the rest of Somalia in May 1991, but neither the Somali federal government nor any other country or international organization has recognized the region’s sovereignty. The area is considered to be much safer than most of its East African neighbors. The local government is very keen to demonstrate its stability and accordingly foreigners are generally treated with respect and interest. This is a truly unique travel experience, off the beaten track and in a “land” that doesn’t even exist! We arrive in Hargeisa and are transferred to our hotel. We spend the afternoon exploring the city and visiting some of its attractions including the unusual war memorial to a downed fighter plane and the Gold and Camel Market.

Accommodation: Hotel, Hargeisa

Day 4: Hargeisa – Las Geel – Berbera

Today we drive to Berbera on a well paved and busy road. On the way we stop in Laas Geel. Laas Geel are cave formations containing some of the earliest known cave paintings in the Horn of Africa. The exact dating has proven to be somehow tricky but it is estimated that the rock carvings in Laas Geel date between 9’000- and 3’000-years BC. The site is located on a granite rock rising on a plateau at 950 m above sea level at the confluence of two seasonal rivers, which is an important explanation for the existence of the rock carvings in this area. Even today, the site’s name (“Camel Well” in Somali) refers to the availability of water near the surface of the wadi. The paintings at Laas Geel are spread over 20 shelters divided into three levels, some of which can be up to 10m wide and 5m deep. All shelters and paintings are within walking distance of each other. The paintings in Laas Geel depict scenes from the daily life of the nomads who inhabited the area and their animals, as well as ceremonial scenes. Some of the paintings are monochromatic, others multicolored, but they are all remarkably well preserved and vibrant for something thousands of years old. The colors used are warm, either red, yellow or orange. After visiting the site, we continue to Berbera with its interesting architecture from Ottoman and British times. Berbera is a coastal city that serves as Somaliland’s largest seaport, with clean and pristine beaches on the Gulf of Aden. Tonight, you can taste some of the seafood that the city is famous for.

Accommodation: Hotel, Berbera

Day 5: Berbera – Hargeisa

We spend the morning exploring Berbera, especially the old quarter. In ancient times, Berbera was part of a chain of trading port cities along the Somali seacoast. In the early modern period, Berbera was the most important trading center in the entire Horn of Africa. It later served as the capital of the British Somaliland Protectorate from 1884 to 1941 when it was replaced by Hargeisa. It’s hard to believe, but Berbera was once a bustling town. Located on the Gulf of Aden across from Yemen, it has been a center of maritime trade since ancient times. Today, the shady city consists mostly of dilapidated buildings and adobe houses with thatched roofs. However, Berbera has immense potential, with stunning beaches and a laid-back vibe. If Somaliland is one day in the tourist brochures, Berbera will probably be at the top of the list. After a lunch break, we return to Hargeisa by road.

Day 6: Hargeisa, Somaliland – Djibouti City, Djibouti

Today we drive from Hargeisa to Djibouti City. Djibouti City is the capital and largest city of Djibouti and is located in the coastal region on the Gulf of Tadjoura. Depending on the arrival time, we can start our Djibouti city tour upon arrival.

Day 7: Djibouti City – Tadjoura

With around 600’000 inhabitants, Djibouti City is home to over 60% of the country’s population. The settlement was founded by the French in 1888 on land leased from the ruling Somali and Afar Sultans. It subsequently served as the capital of French Somaliland and its successor, the French territory of the Afar and Issas. Beneath the facade of urban bustle, the city has remained a down-to-earth place where cultural and social differences are strong. This morning we take a tour of the city visiting the colorful market, the railway station, the main port and the central mosque. Later we drive to Tadjourah, the capital of one of the six regions of Djibouti (about 3 hours). In the afternoon you have free time before having dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel Le Golf, Tadjoura

Day 8: Tadjoura – Lake Assal – Djibouti City

Today we drive southwest on the road to Lake Assal, which is located in the north-central part of Djibouti. Shortly after our departure from the beach area, we make a brief stop at Tadjoura, known as the “White City”. The Sultanate of Tadjoura has many white buildings and is a historic city. French colonization began here when the Sultan gave a piece of land to the French. Soon Djibouti City became the most important city in the country. Nowadays, Tadjoura serves as an important port and fishing site. Lake Assal is a salt Lake lying 155 m below sea level. This makes it the lowest point in Africa and the second deepest land depression on earth after the Dead Sea. The lake is located in the Danakil Desert and is bordered by hills on the west. There is no outflow from the lake, and due to high evaporation, the salinity of the water is ten times sea level, making it the second most saline lake in the world after Don Juan Pond in Antarctica. The salt production by the nomadic tribes of the Afar, camel drivers and Issas from the salt banks of Lake Assal established the old caravan routes. These connected the lake to the mountains of Ethiopia and were used to barter sorghum, coal and other goods. Salt was also traded with southern Abyssinia for coffee, ivory, musk and (historically) also for slaves. It was a source of wealth for the local tribes. After a day of scenic stops and short walks, we continue our journey back to Djibouti City.

Accommodation: Hotel Djibouti city

Day 9: Flight from Djibouti City to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

End of the tour in Addis Ababa

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Horn of Africa Group Overland Tour

• Overland Truck
• Partially Guided

• Introduction
• Day 1-4 ETHIOPIA
• Day 5-16 SOMALILAND & DJIBOUTI
• Day 17-25 ETHIOPIA
• Day 26-31 ERITREA
• Day 32-39 ETHIOPIA

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Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Madventure 4.6
• MartinaStolle · 19th October 2021 My first Madventure trip was the classic tour from London to Sydney in 2013. Everything was exciting and new. We... Show more
• Lauretta · 23rd March 2021 I have done three tours with this Company and are bored on another one. This is the best way to travel in remote... Show more

Dates & Availability

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• Upcoming departures
• Get Instant Confirmation Wednesday 24 Jul, 2024 Saturday 31 Aug, 2024 English €2,682 + €1,017 Local Payment. Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

• Currencies Fr Djibouti Franc Djibouti Nfk Nakfa Eritrea Br Ethiopian Birr Ethiopia Sh Somali Shilling Somalia

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, D, M, L, J. As a traveller from South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, L, J.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Cholera - Recommended for Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Djibouti. Yellow fever - Recommended for Ethiopia. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Meningococcal meningitis - Recommended for Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia. Ideally 3 weeks before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 9th August 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 9th August 2024, a minimum payment of €340 is required to confirm your booking with Madventure. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 120 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Madventure will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Madventure" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Ethiopia: The Wonders of the Horn of Africa

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• 15 Days pre and post trip extensions available
• Single Supplement: TBA

Tour Ethiopia: Lalibela’s underground churches, Axum’s huge monolithic stelae, Gondor’s royal palace, and the tribal areas of the Omo Valley; enjoy colorful Easter Festivities in Aksum and Lalibela.

Ethiopia, formerly called Abyssinia, is one of the oldest countries in the world. Perched atop Africa’s highest plateau, the country is protected by forbidding deserts and tropical lowlands.  Despite its apparent mountainous isolation, Ethiopia has long been a crossroads for Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean, and a site of dynamic interaction between people from throughout the world.  Ethiopia developed its own written language and has a sophisticated culture based upon a deep love of religion. In the highlands, Ethiopia’s Orthodox Church predates the Vatican and is one of the oldest continuously Christian churches in the world. A fascinating and rich history includes legends claiming that the Aksumite Kingdom dates back to when the Queen of Sheba ruled the land, and that Ethiopia’s first king, Menelik I, was the son of this queen and King Solomon of Israel.

Far Horizons proudly presents a 15-day trip to one of the world’s most remote and fascinating countries where the people are warm and welcoming, and stunningly handsome in their traditional dress. Planned around the Ethiopian Orthodox Holy Week celebrations which are centered in Aksum and Lalibela, priests covered in colorful robes lead the white-clad faithful in prayers and chants to God. The exciting itinerary includes spectacular scenery, visits to fabulous ancient ruins, and the opportunity to mingle with the many different people from across the country.

Any questions? Please get in touch . 

Ethiopia history tour led by:

Dr Luisa Sernicola

University of Hamburg Hiob Ludolf Center for Ethiopian Studies

Why take this Archaeology Tour?

• Led by Luisa Sernicola, who has excavated in Axum and Ethiopia for more than ten years
• Visit five UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Join in the Easter festivities at Axum and Lalibela
• Travel into the Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the striking Gelada Baboon
• Optional extension to the Omo Valley, including the UNESCO Cultural Landscape of Konso
• Optional extension to see the walled city of Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Harar Pre-Trip Extension

Day 1 depart for ethiopia.

Depart for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Day 2 Arrive Addis Ababa

Arrive to Addis Ababa and overnight at the Hilton Hotel. Dinner is on our own.

Day 3 Explore the walled city of Harar

A morning flight takes us to Dire Dawa, located in the eastern section of Ethiopia, where we board our van to drive into the mountains. Along the way, stop to view a  qat  (chat) market, where the narcotic plant that is banned in the US and most European countries is being sold. Then it’s on to the fortified city of Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Completely encircled by a city wall built in the 13 th  through 16 th  century and closed to visitors until 1887, the city is considered to be the fourth most holy city in Islam after Mecca, Medina and the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. The city’s mosques include the 16 th  century Grand Mosque with is beautiful twin towers and slender minaret, and three of its multitude of holy shrines date from the 10 th century. Our walk through the town will be a step back in time. The houses of the town show the impact of African and Islamic traditions and their outstanding interior design constitute the most spectacular part of Harar’s cultural heritage. And women dressed in their vibrantly colorful traditional clothing sell everything from firewood to fruit. After dark we go outside the wall to watch as the ‘Hyena Man’ fearlessly calls these wild dog-like creatures to come feed. As he offers pieces of meat, the animals slowly circle and ultimately are snatching the offal off a stick held in his mouth. Overnight in Harar in the simplest hotel of the trip. (B/L/D)

Day 4 Harar, return to Addis Ababa

This morning we continue our explorations of this historic and fascinating town and then return to Addis Ababa and the Hilton Hotel. Dinner is on our own. (B/L)

Itinerary of your Ethiopia archaeology trip

Depart for Ethiopia.

Day 2 Arrive in Addis Ababa

Arrive today in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia and the third highest capital city in the world, at an altitude of 8,300 feet. Overnight for two nights in the Hilton Hotel, a popular meeting place for upwardly mobile Ethiopians.

Day 3 Melka Kunture, Tiya

Begin today at Melka Kunture located along the Awash River south of Addis Ababa and considered one of the most important Paleolithic sites in Ethiopia. Here, we visit the museums explaining the Prehistory and the ‘Open Air Museum’ displaying the excavation of two  Acheulean  sites that have been dated to 1.8 million years ago. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tiya to view the northernmost field of huge incised monoliths that stretch across southern Ethiopia. Carbon dated at between the 12 th  and 14 th  centuries, these impressive stone monuments stand guard over burials, probably of warriors killed in battle. Our welcome dinner this evening will feature singing and dancing from different cultures within the country. (B/L/D)

Day 4 Mount Entoto, National Museum, Institute of Ethiopian Studies

Drive up Mount Entoto, the highest peak overlooking the city of Addis Ababa, where in 1881 Emperor Menelik II built his palace. We will walk through this thatched roof structure and view the Church of Mariam where Menelik was crowned Emperor of Ethiopia and the Church of Archangel Raguel. Stop to see the bustling Shiromeda Cloth Market on our drive back to the city. The afternoon will be spent in two museums – the National Museum as well as the Institute of Ethiopian Studies.  The Institute was founded in 1963 and established to develop and operate the library and ethnographic museum. After dinner, enjoy an optional visit to the main square where festivities for Meskal – the religious holiday commemorating the discovery of the ‘true cross’ by Queen Helena in the fourth century – will take place.  (B/L/D)

Day 5 Fly to Aksum, Stelae Park, Askum Museum, Yeha

Early morning transfer to the airport for our flight to Aksum. This ancient city, with its ruins of palaces, huge monumental  stelae , and subterranean tombs, is one of Ethiopia’s most historic sites. The legendary capital of the Queen of Sheba, Aksum is today the hub of Ethiopian Christianity. Begin at the Stelae Park where several colossal monolithic obelisks still stand together, marking the status of the Aksumite royals two thousand years ago. Continue to the Aksum Museum to view the many artifacts including ancient pottery and glass, Roman amphorae, bronze jewelry, and clay figurines that reveal the hairstyles of ancient Aksum. This afternoon, a road trip takes us east through dramatic volcanic formations to Yeha, the capital of the earliest kingdom in Ethiopia. Here, the pre-Aksumite Temple of the Moon is the oldest known standing structure in Ethiopia dating to about 700 B.C. It is reputed to be the best preserved example in the world of South Arabian style temple architecture. Next to the shrine is the Church of Abune Aftse, one of the “Nine Saints” who came to Ethiopia in the sixth century from the eastern Roman Empire and did much to spread Christianity in the country. This building’s front facade has been fitted with carved stones from the original temple. Overnight for two nights at the Yared Zema International Hotel. (B/L/D) ​

Day 6 Aksum, Dungur

Today commences the week before Palm Sunday, called Hossaena in Ethiopia. It commemorates Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem from Egypt. The air is filled with excitement and streets and meeting-places are transformed into a sea of white as women parade in their traditional finely-woven cotton dresses decorated with colorful woven borders and men in their draped white robes. Walk through the open-air Hosanna Market, filled with multihued hand-made baskets and unique to the days prior to Palm Sunday. According to Ethiopian believers, the son of the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon brought the Ark of the Covenant to Aksum and it remains there to this day, preserved in a sanctuary next to the Maryam Tsion Cathedral. Views of the Ark are forbidden to all but special religious leaders but we will enter the associated museum to see the rich treasures of the church. Aksum is Ethiopia’s center for the Hosanna festivities and pilgrims come from distant villages to be a part. We will join the ritual and joyous preparations at the Cathedral complex as priests and deacons lead worshippers in singing and dancing to the accompaniment of rhythmic drumming. Led by processions of priests dressed in ornately decorated capes and carrying sparkling velvet umbrellas, we will follow the crowd outside to a large tree. Here, the Bishop from Addis Ababa is seated in state while young people sing and dance and gaily sprint around the tree waving palm fronds. Today’s revelries will be a highlight as we are welcomed with smiles and warm hospitality by the white-clad throngs of worshipers. This afternoon we explore Dungur, a complex elite residence popularly thought to be the Palace of the Queen of Sheba. (B/L/D)

Day 7 Aksum, flight to Gondar, Simien Mountain National Park

This morning our explorations of Aksum continue with a visit to a historically important dedicatory stone dating to about 320 AD. Its inscription is written in three languages – Sabaean, Ge’ez (earliest written Ethiopian language), and Greek – and it is named after Ezana, one of the first rulers of Aksum.  Explore the tombs of King Kaleb and his son Gabra Masqal before heading to the airport for our flight to Gondar. Upon arrival, drive into the Simien Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at an average elevation of more than 10,000 feet. Originally formed by outpourings of lava, massive erosion over millions of years has created one of the most dramatic landscapes in the world, with jagged mountain peaks, deep valleys, and sharp precipices that fall thousands of feet. Within this spectacular splendor live the iconic Walia ibex, a wild mountain goat found nowhere else in the world, the Gelada baboon and the Ethiopian wolf – all endemic to Ethiopia. Overnight for the next two nights in the Simien Lodge, located more than 10,000 feet in altitude and the highest hotel in Africa. Opened in 2006, it is Ethiopia’s first ‘eco-lodge’ with thatch-roofed  tukuls  complete with solar-powered under-floor heating. (B/L/D)

Day 8 Simien Mountains, Chenek

More than 180 species of birds (6 endemic to the park; one discovered recently in 1998) can be found in the Simien Mountains, the most famous being the Wattled Ibis, the Lammergeier, the Thick-billed Raven and the Towny Eagle. Enjoy an optional bird walk this morning, and then drive along the northern escarpment to Chenek, in order to experience the best of the striking Simien scenery. Easily seen in these high mountain meadows, families of Gelada baboons often combine to form large foraging bands of 30-350 animals. This high-altitude area is replete with steep, rocky cliffs, to which Geladas have adapted, and at night, the animals drop over precipice edges to sleep huddled together on ledges.  (B/L/D)

Day 9 Gondar, House of Song, Church of Debre Birhan Selassie

An early departure returns us to the royal city of Gondar, where magnificent fortified palaces dominate the landscape. In the 16 th  and 17 th  centuries, the fortified city of Fasil Ghebbi was the residence of Emperor Fasilides and his successors.  Surrounded by a 300-foot-long wall, the fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The oldest and most impressive structure is the two-story palace of built of solid basalt stones. Other royal buildings we visit include the library of Emperor Yohannes I, the House of Song where royal ceremonies took place, the elegant reception and banquet hall of Emperor Bakaffa, and the palace of this king’s wife. Finally, view the Church of Debre Birhan Selassie, a beautiful structure with its harmony of brightly colored ceilings completely covered with intricately painted angels. Overnight for one night at the Gondar Hills Resort with stunning views of the city. (B/L/D)

Day 10 Drive to Bahir Dar

Today we drive to Bahir Dar and the Kuriftu Resort and Spa, located on the shore of Lake Tana and our home for two nights. The afternoon is free to relax poolside and rest. Dinner is on our own. (B/L)

Day 11 Blue Nile Falls by boat, Ura Kidhane Mihret

Lake Tana is the source of the Blue Nile and the dramatic Blue Nile Falls which, in flood-stage, are more than 1,300 feet wide. We will take a small boat across the Blue Nile and then walk to the falls where the gorge it has created is home to a small rainforest. After lunch in a restaurant overlooking Lake Tana and serving traditional Ethiopian food, board a boat for a cruise on the lake to visit several monasteries, including the most impressive of the southern monasteries, Ura Kidhane Mihret, located on the forested Zege Peninsula. The walls of the church are completely covered with remarkable 16th century murals that offer a revealing look into medieval Ethiopia. (B/L/D)

Day 12 Fly to Lalibela, tour Lalibela

Fly from Bahir Dar to Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lalibela is often called the Eighth Wonder of the World as it contains towering churches that were carved below the earth’s surface from the soft, volcanic tuff in which they stand and filled with lively paintings and carvings. Some churches lie almost completely hidden in deep trenches, and others stand in open quarried caves. Within this mystical world, priests go about their daily prayers, seemingly oblivious of the outside world. A complex labyrinth of tunnels and narrow passageways with crypts, grottoes, and galleries connects them all, and we walk through this maze to explore several exquisite churches. Standing 38 feet tall with seventy-two pillars, Medhane Alem is not only the largest in Lalibela, it is the largest monolithic rock-hewn church in the world. The oldest of the churches, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Bet Maryam is the only Lalibela monolith with a porch. The remains of stunning early frescoes can be seen on the ceiling and upper walls, and there are many elaborately carved details on the piers, capitals, and arches. Bet Golgotha houses remarkable reliefs of figures, early Christian art rarely seen in other parts of Ethiopia. Some consider the cruciform-shaped Bete Giorgis the most perfect and beautiful church here; its interior is dominated by depictions of Saint George killing the dragon. Overnight for two nights at the Mountain View Hotel with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. In the evening, those interested can witness one of the most important ceremonies of Easter in one of the biggest rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, Bete Medhanialem. The rock-hewn churches will be filled with people who have been fasting for 55 days and have come here to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. There will be prayers and candlelight ceremonies accompanied by chanting and dancing of the priest until 3am! (B/L/D)

Day 13 Yemrehane Khrestos

Today will be very special as we drive into the remote countryside through breathtaking scenery. Along the way we will have opportunities to experience the local culture – men building thatched roof houses, women weaving, and with luck, enjoy a traditional coffee making ceremony. Our ultimate destination is Yemrehane Khrestos, a striking church and residence constructed using alternating layers of wood and stone and built into an enormous rock overhang.  ( Note: To reach this church we must hike a short distance up rather steep terrain. ).  Return to Lalibela this afternoon with some free time to return to the churches or relax at the hotel. Dinner is on our own this evening.  (B/L)

Day 14 Return to Addis Ababa, Evening departure

This morning’s flight takes us back to Addis Ababa.  Following lunch, visit a traditional black pottery workshop operated by a woman’s cooperative.  Rooms at the Hilton Hotel are confirmed with late checkout prior to our departure for the airport in the evening and for flights home. ( Participants going on the Omo Valley extension will overnight at the Hilton Hotel. )  Dinner is on our own.  (B/L)

Day 15 Arrive Home

Arrive Home.

Omo Valley Post-Trip Extension

The Omo Valley of southern Ethiopia is one of the last undiscovered places on our planet. Three of Ethiopia’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites are found here and more than 200,000 people representing many different tribes call the area home. The many ethnic groups inhabiting the hills and banks along the Omo River are so cut off from the rest of that world that they have no written languages or calendars.

This region is also rich in natural beauty. The wildlife here is spectacular – the region displays the outstanding biodiversity of Ethiopia with more than 80 large mammal and over 300 bird and species. In this refuge see elephants, hippopotamuses, crocodiles, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, gazelles and much more!

Learn about this unique land on this six-day post-trip extension.

Day 1 Overnight in Addis Ababa

At the conclusion of the main tour, overnight at the Hilton Hotel in Addis Ababa. Dinner is on our own.

Day 2 Fly to Arba Minch, Chencha Mountains: Dorze Village

Sleep in or spend a leisurely morning exploring the area around the hotel before catching the afternoon flight to Arba Minch, meaning ‘Forty Springs’ in Amharic. Nestled along the banks of two large lakes, this small town is exceptionally lush and picturesque. Nearby are the villages of the Oromo peoples, the largest tribal group in Ethiopia. Continue on to the Chencha Mountains to visit a Dorze village, made up of beehive-shaped dwellings made of local grasses and wood that can reach heights of 18 feet. Weaving is a primary profession for many Dorze, however, they are also skilled farmers. Their traditional technique for terracing mountainsides ingeniously prevents soil erosion. Overnight at the Paradise Lodge. (B/L/D)

Day 3 Boat across Lake Chamo, Konso, Jinka

This morning we will embark on an exciting boat trip across Lake Chamo. Its northern shores border the Nechisar National Park and the lake itself is home to a spectacular concentration of Nile crocodiles and is popular with herds of hippopotamus! Next, continue on to Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape. With dry stone terraces, an innovative water system, and fortified settlements, it constitutes an amazing example of a living cultural tradition that stretches back more than 400 years. Anthropomorphic wooden statues, grouped to represent respected members of their communities and particularly heroic events, are an exceptional living testimony to funerary traditions that are on the verge of disappearing. In the towns, also view a complex system of stone steles that mark the passing of generations of leaders.  Continue to Jinka, located in the hills above Mago National Park, and overnight in Eco Omo Lodge in one of the safari tent rooms with an en suite bathroom. (B/L/D)

Day 4 Visit the Mursi tribeswomen, Turmi; Hamer tribe

Today visit the Mursi tribeswomen who continue to practice the custom of inserting wooden or terra-cotta discs into the ear lobes and stretching of their lower lips to accommodate large ceremonial plates. Generally speaking, the larger the lip plate the more desirable the wearer. In the afternoon we shall journey to Turmi to meet the Hamer tribes. The Hamer are a semi-nomadic, pastoral people. They put up their round huts for a few months wherever there is enough grass for their cows. When the grass has been grazed, they move on to new pasture grounds. Overnight at the Turmi Buska Lodge. (B/L/D)

Day 5 Koricho, Dimeka market

Journey to Koricho and enjoy lofty views of the Omo River. This place is a settlement for the Karo ethnic groups. Experts in body painting, these groups use clay and locally available vegetable pigments to trace intricate patterns on their faces, chest, arms and legs. Karo men also sculpt and shave their hair into extravagant shapes topped off with several ostrich feathers. Stop by the Dimeka market and experience a stimulating dose of African cultural diversity and tradition, mingling with the different trading tribes. Transfer back to Konso and overnight at the Kanta Lodge overlooking the verdant hills. (B/L/D)

Day 6 Fly to Addis Ababa; Evening flight home

Return to Arba Minch in time to catch the afternoon flight to Addis Ababa and the Hilton Hotel.  Enjoy a free afternoon to rest prior to the late evening transfer to the airport for flights home.  Dinner is on our own. (B/L)

Day 20 Arrive home

Arrive home. 

Tour Information

Tour cost & inclusions.

Price is based on double occupancy and includes:

• Internal flights during the trip (if applicable)
• The accompaniment of your scholar throughout the entire trip
• Local English-speaking guide
• Hotel accommodations (3 or 4 stars; or best available based in the area)
• Ground transportation
• Airport transfers for arrivals and departures
• Most meals as noted in the itinerary
• Entry fees to all included sites and museums
• Gratuities to guides, drivers, and restaurant and hotel staff
• Coordination for any private presentations or tours

Trip prices are based on a minimum number of participants. If this minimum number is not met, trip prices are subject to change. Should the prices need to change, Far Horizons will reach out to registered guests to discuss directly.

Single Supplement

Should a roommate be requested and one not be available, the single supplement must be charged.

• International round trip airfare
• A separate donation check of $150.00 per person to a designated donation project
• Passport or visa fees
• Required vaccines or tests
• Airport or departure taxes
• Alcoholic drinks, beverages or food not included on set menus
• Excess baggage charges
• Personal tips and hotel incidental expenses
• Laundry or other items of a personal nature

Donation Checks

As a tour company that benefits from the cultural and natural riches of our destinations, we have a policy of donating to the scientific and cultural sites and projects which we visit. This has created a bond between Far Horizons and the academic and local communities that has helped us establish an extensive list of lecturers and contacts in each of our destinations. We ask that each participant donate to the noteworthy project we designate. The donation amount is $150.00 per person. Note that the donation is required as part of your registration for the trip and that it is non-refundable.

Exchange Rate Fluctuations

Prices are based on currency exchange rates keeping below a projected level. While it is unlikely, if the exchange rates should change substantially, Far Horizons reserves the right to charge an additional amount to the trip cost.

Registration

A deposit of $1000 per person is required along with your registration & health forms, which will be linked in the email confirmation you receive once you pay your deposit on our booking platform. Final payment is due 120 days before departure. Prior to departure, you will be sent a reading list and a tour bulletin containing travel information.

Cancellation

Cancellations received in writing at least 120 days before departure will receive a refund less a $500 per person administrative fee. Cancellations received less than 120 days before the departure date will not receive a refund. If for any reason you are unable to complete the trip, Far Horizons will not reimburse any fees. Upon registering for the tour, the purchase of travel protection with both trip cancellation and emergency evacuation is strongly advised. Links to recommended insurance policies will be included in the email you receive confirming receipt of your deposit.

Air Ticketing

International round trip flights are not included in the cost of the trip. If Far Horizons must change the trip dates or cancel the trip for any reason, Far Horizons is not responsible for any air ticket you may have purchased. Please send your complete air schedule as soon as you have it. NOTE: Please contact Far Horizons if you would like for us to handle your air ticketing.

Private Tours and Talks

The private tours of archaeological sites and talks by specialists are scheduled in advance and include a donation to each. Specialists working at these sites are excited about showing their work to interested enthusiasts. However, please be aware that there may be times when the director or a member of the staff may not be on site when our groups arrive due to other commitments.

Walking and Standing

Far Horizons expects all participants to be physically active and able to walk and climb independently throughout the full touring days. This includes walking over uneven terrain (uphill and downhill) for 2 miles or more at each site. You should expect to be on your feet for much of each day, averaging as much as 5 miles of walking per day. As such, each participant should be able to walk unaided at a pace of 3 miles per hour for at least an hour at a time, and to stand unsupported for at least 60 minutes. Bearing this in mind, we suggest that, if you have not already done so, you begin walking several miles every day, ideally including stairs and hills. If you have questions about your ability to keep up with the group or the strenuous nature of this trip, please contact the Far Horizons staff.

Travel in This Part of the World

This tour is designed for flexible, energetic people who like to be active, have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. We have designed this trip to be as comfortable as possible, while also aiming to visit some remote or unique sites that other companies do not attempt to include in their itineraries. There may be days where we have very long drives and the conditions of the roads may vary. Hotels and transportation in some remote areas may not be up to western standards. There may be times when no bellhops are available; please pack with the understanding that you need to be able to handle your own luggage at times. At times we may be walking over uneven trails for a mile or more; hiking boots are strongly recommended. Not every meal will not be haute cuisine and several lunches may be picnics or box lunches. By maintaining a flexible attitude we will soon be captivated by the beauty of the natural scenery, the hospitality of the local people, and the fascinating sites we will see. Your flexibility and patience will be appreciated.

Itinerary Changes

Changes in our itinerary, accommodations, and transportation schedules may occur. While we are committed to keeping as close to the published details as possible, sometimes it is simply not possible. Weather events, government affairs, or other factors out of our control sometimes come into play. A good book to read as well as patience, flexible attitude, and a sense of humor are essential.

Travel Insurance

Travel in ethiopia.

This itinerary has been designed to be as comfortable as possible, but Ethiopia is under-developed and the infrastructure is not what we have learned to expect in more modern countries. Our bus is well maintained, but may not be new and there may be some long days with travel over unpaved or partially paved roads. We have carefully chosen hotels that are the best available, but they are frequently not up to Western standards. Within the past two years, the government has privatized most of the old hotels and improvements have been made to make them more comfortable. And there have been many new hotels constructed and we are using several of them. Many of the religious buildings in Ethiopia are not open to women, and we have included sites in which all are welcome. Walks of approximately 20-40 minutes may be required to reach some areas, including walks over steep gradients and over poorly maintained paths.

Related Tours

Sudan History Tour: An Exploration of Ancient Kush

Majesty of Ancient Egypt Tour

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Travel To Southern Ethiopia

November 22 – december 3, 2024.

Prices from

single & double occupancy available

Ethiopia – The Southern Route

– elevate, enlighten & escape –.

Ethiopia is located in the ‘Horn of Africa’ along the northeast region of the continent and contains more than 70% of Africa’s mountains. Ethiopia, also known as the Cradle of Mankind, is home to the oldest humanoid on earth, the ancient Aksumite Empire, Ark of the Covenant, and countless historical museums and churches including Debre Birhan Selassie I Church.

The capital of Ethiopia is Addis Ababa, which means ‘New Flower’, is often referred to as the ‘Political Capital of Africa’ as it is the headquarters for the African Union. The flourishing capital of Ethiopia offers a variety of authentic restaurants, theaters and the burial grounds of Emperor Selassie I.

On this tour will travel throughout Southern Ethiopia and explore cultural, historical, and ecological sites in the areas of Arba Minch, Jinka, Turmi and ending in Konso before returning to Addis Ababa.

Add-Ons Available

Please schedule a phone call or send us a message to inquire about international round trip flights.

Covid-19 Travel Restrictions

Covid-19 Updates for Ethiopia

Visa Requirements

View Passport Index

Day to Day Itinerary

Arrive to Ethiopia and Unwind

Friday, November 22, 2024

After landing at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport in Ethiopia, your private Away to Africa driver will transport you to your lodging. If time allows, go on a sightseeing tour of Addis Ababa that includes:

Visiting Mount Entoto – the highest peak in Addis with an altitude of 3200 meters, which was the site for the first palace of Emperor Menelik-II.

Exploring local weaving – here you will view the weavers during the process and products they are selling.

  Golden Tulip Addis Ababa.   Dinner Included

Drive to Langano

Saturday, November 23, 2024

After breakfast, leave for Lake Langano via Hossana visiting the Melka Kunture archaeological site, 12th century unique Tiya steles, and the Gurage & Oromo villages. We shall also visit the rift valley lakes of Ziway and Langano.

  Sabana Beach Resort .   Dinner Included

Drive to Bale Mountains

Sunday, November 24, 2024

After breakfast, drive to Bale Mountains National Park with a stop at Dinsho – the head quarter of Bale Mountains National Park.

Here, you will have the best opportunity to spot the Mountain Nyala, Menelik Bush buck warthogs, and different birds like Abyssinian cat bird, Abyssinian long eared owl, and white backed black tit.

  Goba Wabe Shebelle Hotel .   All Meals Included

Bale Mountains National Park

Monday, November 25, 2024

​Today we will depart early, to ascend the Bale massif onto the Sanetti Plateau, which is an area that supports seven globally threatened species of birds and the elusive Ethiopian or Simien Wolf.

In the afternoon, we will make a wildlife excursion in Harena, known for its mammals, amphibians and birds, including many endemic species. This remarkable forest is the largest intact forest block in Ethiopia and the largest protected Afro-alpine forest on the continent.

Drive to Awassa

Tuesday, November 26, 2024

After breakfast, drive to Sennete for another attempt at spotting the endemic Ethiopian wolf before going to Awassa.

  Haile Resort Hawassa .   All Meals Included

Drive to Arba Minch

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

After breakfast, visit the Fish market in Lake Awassa, before driving to Arba Minch with a stop at Alaba and Dorze tribal villages.

Dorze people are known for their weaving culture which is reflected in their beautiful cotton clothes, fences, and beehive shaped bamboo huts.

  Paradise Lodge Arbaminch .   All Meals Included

Travel to Jinka

Thursday, November 28, 2024

In the morning, have a remarkable boat ride on the southernmost Rift Valley Lake of Ethiopia – Lake Chamo, to spot Hippos and Giant Crocodiles.

In the afternoon, drive to Jinka, and if time allows you will visit the Omo Valley Cultural Museum.

  Eco-Omo Lodge .   All Meals Included

Friday, November 29, 2024

​After breakfast, leave Jinka and drive to Mursi village to visit and appreciate the very attractive culture of the Mursi tribe.

They are renowned for their custom where women who on reaching maturity, have their lower lips slit and circular disks inserted.

Spend the day with a Mursi family to see their way of life.

Travel To Turmi

Saturday, November 30, 2024

After breakfast, visit the Ari People, who inhabit the northern part of the Mago National Park and are known to paint and scar their bodies as part of their culture.

Then drive to Turmi, visiting the weekly market of the Benna and Hamer tribes, known for their traditional bull jumping is a rite of passage for men coming of age.

  Paradise Turmi Lodge .   All Meals Included

Visit Turmi

Sunday, December 1, 2024

In the morning, you will make an excursion trip to Murulle – the village of Karo people, known for their symbolic and ornamental expressions in the painting of their body and face decorations.

In the afternoon, visit the Dasenech people, who are pastralists, but due to the harsh territory, they have moved south to grow crops and fish.

Travel to Konso

Monday, December 2, 2024

In the morning, make your way to Konso. where you will visit the Konso village which is recently registered as the 9th UNESCO World heritage site in Ethiopia.

The Konso people are noted for their rock terracing and colorful hand woven cotton clothes.

  Kanta Lodge .   All Meals Included

Depart Mama Africa

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

After breakfast, drive to Arbaminch. In the afternoon, fly back to Addis Ababa for souvenir shopping and a farewell dinner before transferring to the airport for your international departure back home.

  Traveling .   Breakfast Included

“When the webs of the spider join, they can trap a lion.”

– ETHIOPIAN PROVERB

Your investment, we offer flexible & custom payment plans, contact us for a quote with flights included, single occupancy, single room for one person. couples are considered double occupancy., deposit $250.

For alternate payment options including direct deposit & PayPal please contact us.

Custom Payment plans available at booking

Double occupancy, one room with two beds. paired travelers will share a room.*.

*If booking a double room as a solo traveler we will attempt to pair you with another solo traveler. If we’re unable to match within 60 days of tour, you must upgrade and pay a single traveler supplement (single occupancy).*

Our tour to Ethiopia includes enjoying diverse cultural expeditions throughout the country based on single/double occupancy ensuite for all lodging.

• Swag Bag including our ‘I Met God’ T-shirt upon arrival
• All Lodging Accommodations.
• One way flight ticket from Arbaminch to Addis Ababa. (The inclusion of listed flights is contingent on your selected tour package).
• Specified Meals throughout the entire tour.
• An Away to Africa Tour Representative that travels with you 100% of the time on the ground during the duration of the tour.
• All Transportation Costs which includes Personal Driver and Airport Pickup & Drop-off.
• Entry Fees into all Excursions and all lounges we attend as a group.
• Pricing is contingent on the time which tickets are purchased.

Not Included

• International Round Trip Flight Add-On is available for each departure.
• Required travel documentation (Valid Passport &/or Visa).
• Parties and Events not included in package.
• Transport outside of tours.
• Gratuities for Guides & Drivers.
• Travel Insurance (More Info About Insurance) . *affiliate link*
• Hotel Room Charges, Personal Telephone Calls on Hotel Phones & Laundry.
• Souvenirs & Snacks, Lunch, Dinner & Alcoholic drinks.

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International Edition

Djibouti: Thirty-Eight Migrants Found Drowned After Shipwreck Off Djibouti

Thirty-eight bodies, including those of children, have been found after a shipwreck off the Horn of Africa nation of Djibouti, the UN's International Organisation for Migration said on Tuesday.

The IOM said in a post on X that at least six other people were missing and presumed dead after the "tragic shipwreck", while 22 survivors were being helped by its Djibouti office as well as the local authorities.

The Ethiopian embassy in Djibouti said the accident occurred on Monday and involved a boat that was carrying 60 Ethiopian migrants from Djibouti to Yemen.

International Organization for Migration on shipwreck off Djibouti coast: - 38 bodies, including those of children, recovered- 6 others are missing, while 22 survivors are being assisted by IOM and local authorities pic.twitter.com/DFUMmgX6ds -- TRT World Now (@TRTWorldNow) April 9, 2024

Hundreds of thousands of African migrants each year brave the perilous "Eastern Route" across the Red Sea and through war-scarred Yemen to reach Saudi Arabia, a desperate ploy to pull their families out of grinding poverty.

The IOM's Djibouti office said on X that almost 1,000 migrants have died or gone missing on the Eastern Route since 2014.

(With agencies)

Read or Listen to this story on the RFI website.

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