Day 1: Addis Ababa – Semera – Erta Ale Volcano
Early morning fly to Semera, the capital of Afar region. Then drive to Erta Ale through the changing landscape of solidified lava, rock, and sand and occasional palm lined oasis. On the way, visit Lake Afdera and the salt mining center. Lake Afdera is the largest salt lake in Ethiopia located at an altitude of below sea level. Late in the afternoon, hike about 40 minutes to the rim of the volcano, to watch the dramatic action of the boiling lava. Erta Ale contains the world’s only permanent lava lake. Overnight in basic Camping.
Day 2: Erta Ale – Dallol (Hamed Ela)
In the morning walk back to the summit of the volcano to have a final look before driving to Dallol. In the afternoon, visit Salt Mountain, Lake Assale swimming Pool and the stunning Sunset in Dallol. Overnight at basic camping in Hamed Ela.
Day 3: Dallol (Hamed Ela) – Mekelle
Early in the morning visit a colorful sulfur field of Dallol, a bubbling Hypersaline Lake, traditional salt mining practiced by Afar people and camel caravan. In the afternoon drive to Mekelle. Overnight in Axum Hotel.
Day 4: Mekelle – Hawzen
In the morning, drive from Mekelle to Hawzen. Then take an excursion to the foot of Geraltha Mountains. Visit the 5th century Abuna Yemata monolithic rock-hewn church. Abuna Yemata church is the highest church in Ethiopia situated at a height of 2,580 meters (8,460 ft.) and known for its dome and wall paintings dating back to the 5th century. Visit Maryam Korkor church, another nearby church dated back to the 6th century. Overnight in Vision Hotel Hawzen.
Day 5: Hawzen – Axum
In the morning drive from Hawzen to Axum. On the way visit Debre Damo Monastery and Yeha Temple. Overnight in Sabean Hotel.
Day 6: Axum
Take a full day tour of Axum city. Axum is a city with more than 2500 years of history. It was a center of a great empire and ancient civilization and home to the original Ark of covenants. Explore the city of Axum; visit St. Mary Zion Church, Chapel of the Tablet, Stele Park, Tomb of Kaleb and his son Gebre Meskel, Ezana’s Inscriptions, Queen of Sheba’s Bath, Queen of Sheba’s palace ruins and Axum Museum. Overnight in Sabean Hotel Axum.
Day 7: Axum – Shire – Addis Ababa
In the morning drive from Axum to Shire and fly back to Addis Ababa. In the afternoon have time for shopping or afternoon at leisure. In the evening attend a folkloric farewell dinner. Experience the rich cultural heritage of Ethiopia with a traditional dance performance live from stage. Transfer to airport for your departure.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE QUOTE
- All transfers and ground transportation with fuel and driver allowance
- All entrance fees according to the program
- Accommodations
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Bottles of drinking water throughout the tour
- Multilingual professional guide
- Government tax
WHAT’S EXCLUDED
- Any flight (Domestic Flights can be arranged upon request)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Travel insurance
- Any other expenses which are not mentioned under what’s included section