As one of Africa's most fascinating countries, Ethiopia offers a unique culture with a long history and astounding scenery. Rock-hewn churches, ancient obelisks and the forbidden medieval town of Harar tell of past glories, while views vary from the impressive Blue Nile Falls to the rugged mountains of the Simien range. We follow the Historic Route on this in-depth cultural journey.

Blue Nile & Gondar Castles
From Addis Ababa we fly to Bahar Dar on the banks of Lake Tana. Close by is the source of the Blue Nile and the Tississat Falls, a 45m drop which is the start of a 1000 mile journey to Khartoum. In the lively market town of Gondar we'll visit 17th century castles, once the centre of a unique and powerful kingdom unlike anything else found in Africa. From Gondar we drive up to the high plateau and the impressive scenery of the Simien range. The range is home of the Gelada baboon and rare Simien fox. We have a day to explore some of the easier trails and appreciate some of the dramatic views.

Sacred Axum & Rock-Cut Churches
Next, we drive through spectacular sculpted mountains to the sacred city of Axum to spend a day touring giant stelae (obelisks), palaces and churches. We fly on to Lalibela one of the world's most remarkable archeological sites. Buildings here are hewn from granite leaving rock-cut churches isolated from the surrounding strata, yet still part of it. We explore several of these 800 year-old works of art before taking a mule trek in the surrounding mountains to a remote mountain church.

Exploring Medieval Harar
Finally, we fly to Dire Dawa and drive up to Harar. The people here are quite different from other parts of Ethiopia. We take a walk around the old town which has a North African flavour with Moorish gateways, ancient walls, narrow alleyways and jostling crowds. The market here is one of the most colourful in Ethiopia.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Addis; city tour. 2 Fly Bahar Dar; view source of the Nile. 3 In Bahar Dar; visit Tississat Falls; boat trip on Lake Tana. 4 Drive Gondar; visit Debre Berham Selassie Church and Fasiliadas Castle complex. 5 Drive Debark in Simien Mountains. 6 Optional day walk in Simien Mountains. 7 Drive through Tekeze Valley to Axum. 8 In Axum; visit Palaces, Baths, Stelae Field, Market and Museum. 9 Fly Lalibela; visit rock-cut churches on foot. 10 In Lalibela; mule trek to Ashatan Maryam Church. 11 Fly via Addis Ababa to Dire Dawa; drive Harar. 12 In Harar; walking tour. 13 Drive Dire Dawa; fly Addis Ababa; end Addis Ababa. Note: Itinerary may vary due to internal flight time changes.

Accommodation: 12nts hotel; 12 breakfasts included.
Transport: Internal flights/Bus/Boat/Mules/ Easy walks.
Comment: A fascinating cultural and scenic experience in one of Africa's least explored countries. Come prepared for poor roads and some simple accommodation, although the warm welcome more than compensates for any discomfort.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s), boatmen, mule tenders and some local guides.
Trip Reference: ET