Ethiopia 8-Day Cultural Journey

8 Days of Ancient Wonder

Step into the ancient heart of Africa and discover Ethiopia—a land where history, spirituality, and culture converge in ways that will leave you forever changed. From the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the vibrant traditions of the Omo Valley tribes, this 8-day journey is an invitation to witness living history and connect with communities whose stories stretch back millennia.

Investment: $3,000 per person

Deposit: $200

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Addis Ababa

Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and time to refresh, enjoy an evening cultural experience showcasing the vibrant spirit of Ethiopia.

In the evening, attend the Yod Abyssinia Cultural Feast & Rhythm Show, featuring traditional music, dance, and a delicious Ethiopian dinner.

Overnight: Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, Addis Ababa

Day 2

Addis Ababa City Tour

Begin your full-day city tour of Ethiopia's capital:

Holy Trinity Cathedral (Silase Trinity Cathedral)

Visit one of Ethiopia's most important religious sites and the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie and Empress Menen Asfaw. The cathedral's impressive architecture and historical significance make it a must-see landmark.

National Museum of Ethiopia

Explore the museum and view the famous fossil remains of Lucy, the 3.2-million-year-old early human ancestor.

Merkato Market

Experience Africa's largest open-air market, where you can observe daily life and shop for coffee, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Entoto Hills & Entoto Maryam Church

Drive to Mount Entoto for panoramic views of Addis Ababa. Visit Entoto Maryam Church, where Emperor Menelik II was crowned, and explore Menelik's old palace and small historical museum.

Overnight: Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, Addis Ababa

Day 3

Addis Ababa – Lalibela

1-hour flight, approx. 40-minute drive

Fly to Lalibela, home of the famous rock-hewn churches. After hotel check-in and lunch, begin exploring the Southeastern Cluster of Churches, including:

• Bete Gabriel-Rufael
• Bete Merkorios
• Bete Amanuel
• Bete Abba Libanos

Conclude the visit at Bete Giyorgis (Church of St. George), the most iconic church, carved in the shape of a Greek cross and dedicated to Ethiopia's patron saint.

Overnight: Mezena Lodge, Lalibela

Day 4

Lalibela – Addis Ababa

Early morning visit, approx. 1-hour flight

Early in the morning, attend the daily Mass service in one of Lalibela's churches. Continue with visits to the Northwestern Cluster of Churches, including:

• Bete Medhane Alem
• Bete Maryam
• Bete Meskel
• Bete Danaghel
• Bete Mikael
• Bete Golgotha (entry not permitted for women)

After completing the visits, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa.

Overnight: Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, Addis Ababa

Day 5

Addis Ababa – Jinka – Key Afer – Turmi

1-hour flight, approx. 3-hour drive

Fly to Jinka, the gateway to the Omo Valley. After a short coffee break, drive toward Turmi. En route, stop near Key Afer to observe Bana tribe boys walking on stilts.

Arrive in Turmi in the afternoon and visit a Hamer tribe village, where you may witness traditional hairstyles, daily life, and possibly an evening cultural gathering with dancing and a campfire.

Overnight: Emerald Lodge, Turmi

Day 6

Turmi – Nyangatom – Karo Tribe – Turmi

Approx. 2–3 hours' drive

In the morning, drive to Kibish to visit the Nyangatom (Bume) tribe, semi-nomadic pastoralists living near the Omo River. Learn about their traditional lifestyle and seasonal movements.

Continue to Korch Village, home of the Karo tribe, settled along the banks of the Omo River. The Karo are known for their elaborate body painting, lip piercings, and beadwork. Enjoy scenic views of the river and, if desired, participate in body or face painting.

In the afternoon, return to Turmi and visit the Hamer weekly market. If available, attend a Hamer bull-jumping ceremony, an important coming-of-age ritual for young men.

Overnight: Emerald Lodge, Turmi

Day 7

Turmi – Jinka – Addis Ababa

Approx. 3-hour drive, 1-hour flight

After breakfast, drive back to Jinka Airport for your domestic flight to Addis Ababa. The remainder of the day is free to relax. In the evening, gather for a special farewell dinner to celebrate your Ethiopian journey.

Overnight: Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, Addis Ababa

Day 8

Departure

After breakfast and hotel check-out, enjoy time for last-minute shopping or relaxation before your transfer to Bole International Airport for your onward international flight, marking the end of your Ethiopian cultural and historical adventure.

What's Included

• All airport pick-up and drop-off transfers
• All overland transportation and fuel
• Domestic Ethiopia flights (2 flights)
• Professional driver, guide, and translator
• Accommodation in resorts, lodges, and hotels
• All meals and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the tour
• Unlimited drinking water
• Entrance fees to all rock-hewn churches of Lalibela
• Entrance fees to attractions in Addis Ababa (National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Entoto Mountain)
• Government taxes and fees
• Cultural restaurant entrance fees

What's Not Included

• International flights to/from Ethiopia
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses and tips

This is your invitation to walk through history, to connect with ancient traditions, and to witness the beauty of Ethiopia. Welcome to the family. Welcome to Africa.