At Spectrum Ethiopia Tours, our Combined Tours are designed to offer a complete and meaningful journey across Ethiopia’s most iconic regions. These tours blend the ancient wonders of the Northern Historic Route with the vibrant cultures of the Omo Valley, giving travelers the rare opportunity to experience both timeless history and living traditions.
You’ll explore majestic highland landscapes, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, and meet diverse communities who have preserved their customs for generations. From legendary churches and royal castles to tribal ceremonies and village life—every step of the journey is crafted to connect you with Ethiopia’s rich heritage and its people.
Day 1 – Welcome to Addis Ababa
Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you’ll be greeted by a representative from Spectrum Ethiopia Tours and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a guided city tour, including visits to the National Museum, the stunning Holy Trinity Cathedral, and Merkato—Africa’s largest open-air market.
Overnight: Addis Ababa (Hotel)Day 2 – Lake Tana & Blue Nile Falls (Bahir Dar)
Fly to Bahir Dar and take a boat trip on Lake Tana to explore the ancient monasteries of the Zege Peninsula. In the afternoon, hike around the spectacular Blue Nile Falls, a true natural wonder.
Overnight: Bahir Dar (Hotel)Day 3 – Gondar’s Castles & Churches
Drive to Gondar, the 17th-century imperial city. Tour the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO site filled with medieval castles, then visit Debre Birhan Selassie Church and the historic Fasilides Bath.
Overnight: Gondar (Hotel)Day 4 – Simien Mountains National Park
Travel to the breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park for a light trek. Marvel at dramatic escarpments and keep an eye out for gelada baboons and other unique wildlife.
Overnight: Gondar (Hotel)Day 5 – Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela
Fly to Lalibela, home to the legendary rock-hewn churches, carved from solid rock in the 12th century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Eight Wonders of the World.
Overnight: Lalibela (Hotel or Lodge)Day 6 – Monastery Trek & Local Traditions
Hike to Asheton Maryam Monastery, perched high in the mountains. Later, take part in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and learn how to prepare injera, Ethiopia’s iconic flatbread.
Overnight: Lalibela (Hotel or Lodge)Day 7 – Back to Addis Ababa
Fly to Addis Ababa. In the afternoon, head to the Entoto Mountains for panoramic views of the capital and a breath of fresh highland air.
Overnight: Addis Ababa (Hotel)Day 8 – Rift Valley Drive to Arba Minch
Begin the southern leg of your adventure with a scenic drive along the Great Rift Valley Lakes, passing farmlands and rural life en route to Arba Minch.
Overnight: Arba Minch (Hotel or Lodge)Day 9 – Lake Chamo & Konso Culture
Visit Nechisar National Park and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Chamo, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and birds. Later, drive to Konso and explore its stone-walled villages, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Overnight: Konso (Lodge)Day 10 – Erboré & Hamer Tribes (Turmi)
Descend into the Omo Valley, beginning with a visit to the Erboré tribe near Lake Chew Bahir. Continue to Turmi to meet the Hamer people, known for their rich traditions and unique style.
Overnight: Turmi (Hotel or Lodge)Day 11 – Dassenech & Karo Tribes
Cross the Omo River by local barge to meet the Dassenech tribe, whose life revolves around the river. Later, travel to Murule to visit the Karo tribe, famous for their artistic body painting.
Overnight: Turmi (Hotel or Lodge)Day 12 – Ari Tribe & South Omo Culture (Jinka)
Head to Jinka, surrounded by green hills. Visit the Ari tribe, known for their craftsmanship and farming, and explore the Ethnographic Museum to gain deeper insight into the Omo cultures.
Overnight: Jinka (Hotel)Day 13 – Mursi Tribe & Mago National Park
Drive into Mago National Park to meet the Mursi people, where women are recognized for their traditional lip plates—a powerful symbol of identity.
Overnight: Jinka (Hotel)Day 14 – Return to Addis & Farewell
Fly back to Addis Ababa. In the evening, enjoy a farewell traditional dinner hosted by Spectrum Ethiopia Tours, featuring live music and dance from Ethiopia’s many ethnic groups.
End of Tour
MAP OF THE ROUTE
Included
- Accommodation in 3/4* hotels (double/twin room basis) with breakfast
- Fuel expenses and daily allowance of drivers
- Local English-speaking guides
- Permits and scout required for the National Parks
- Service charge
- Ground transportation using 4x4, minibus or Coaster bus (depending on number of travelers)
- Domestic flights with Ethiopian Airlines in economic class
- Entrance fees to all sites
- Boat trip in Lake Tana
- Government taxes
Not Included
- Visa fee
- International flights
- Meals (lunch and dinner) and beverages
- Any other personal expenses during the trip
- Travel insurance
- Photo or video fees
- Tips to drivers and/or guides (at your discretion)