Ethiopia: Return to Origins - Hiking Expedition and Timkat Celebrations
Ethiopia is an ancient land, where one can witness the shaping of the world, the birth of coffee, and the emergence of the first humans nearly three million years ago. In the "Back to the Beginning" concept trip, we will explore the roots of human existence through unique experiences. We'll observe water birds and wildlife in the enchanting Awash Nature Reserve, where the first human, Lucy, was discovered. We'll participate in the traditional Timkat celebrations in the ancient imperial city of Axum, explore the intriguing archaeological site of the Ark of the Covenant, and marvel at the colossal architectural monuments of an ancient civilization.From there, we'll ascend to the churches in the Tigray region, hewn into the cliffs at the summit of the mountains, and embark on a safari trip in the Danakil Desert to witness the camel caravans of the Afar tribe and their extraordinary volcanic activity. We'll visit Ethiopia's Petra, the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, and explore the medieval city of Gondar with its stunning castle. The journey continues with a trek in the Simien Mountains, where we'll encounter gelada baboons and breathtaking landscapes.
In traditional villages, we'll engage with locals in the traditional coffee ceremony. Finally, we'll conclude our adventure in the capital city, Addis Ababa, exploring its bustling markets and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
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Our Suggested Itinerary - Explore a past Aujo Travel trip for your next adventure
Day 1 | Addis Ababa - Awash Falls Nature Reserve
Begin the journey by traveling to Awash Falls Nature Reserve, one of Ethiopia's first parks and the site where Lucy, the first human, was discovered. Explore the archaeological site and enjoy an evening ceremony featuring traditional Ethiopian coffee. Overnight stay in traditional tukul houses.
Day 2 | Awash Falls Nature Reserve
Dedicate the day to exploring the fascinating Awash Nature Reserve, home to various wildlife, including two species of baboons, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Take a leisurely walk along the Awash River and witness the unique animal behavior. In the evening, enjoy the beauty of Awash Falls.
Day 3 | Ancient Kingdom of Axum
Fly to Axum, the ancient capital of the Aksumite Kingdom. Visit the obelisks, ancient tombs, the Queen of Sheba's palace, and the Ark of the Covenant. Immerse yourself in the history and mysteries of this ancient civilization.
Day 4 | Timkat Celebration in Axum
Axum is the most captivating focal point during the annual Timkat (Epiphany) celebrations, where local priests unveil the sacred Ark of the Covenant, participating in unique Ethiopian Christian festivities. The celebrations harken back to the days of King Solomon, asserting that the Ark of the Covenant remains in Axum's church to this day. Copies of the Ark from all Ethiopian churches are brought out, displayed before the faithful, and symbolically immersed in a pool or water source during the two-day tour in Axum. Participants actively engage in the celebrations and explore Christian sites in the city, such as the Church of St. Zion. Accommodation and dinner in Axum.
Day 5 | Tigrai Churches at the Peaks of the Gheralta Ranges
From Axum, the journey heads towards Mek'ele, stopping in the Gheralta Ranges' mountains. The stunning red sandstone cliffs stretch for hundreds of meters, and the churches perched atop them are remarkably isolated. Climbing the rock walls with ladders and assistance, visitors reach the Abuna Yemata Guh Church, meeting the responsible monk overseeing the church. Caution is advised near the narrow path close to the cliff, but the breathtaking views and the church's cave are one-of-a-kind. If time allows, a visit to the Mariam and Daniel Korkor Church offers a unique panorama and a fascinating story. From there, the journey continues to Mek'ele.
Day 6 | Jeep Tour in the Danakil Desert – Camping under the Stars
The first day in the Danakil Desert involves a jeep ride from Mek'ele through the rocky slopes of the Tigray Mountains to the Afar village of Ahmed Ela near the Danakil Depression. Descending over 2,000 meters in altitude, the journey goes from Mek'ele at 2,084 meters to the salt flats of the Danakil Depression at minus 130 meters. A midday stop in the village of Berhale, the entrance to the Afar people's land, allows for a visit to the local salt market. The Afar village itself is basic, with residents sleeping in shelters made of wood. The night is spent in a desert camp under the stars, sleeping on wooden beds with provided sleeping bags.
Day 7 | Jeep Tour in the Danakil Desert - Dallol's Sulphur Pools
On the second day in the Danakil Desert, an early morning departure from Ahmed Ela precedes the intense heat. The journey takes visitors to the area where salt is mined and showcases one of the toughest traditional jobs. Observing how salt is broken into square blocks and loaded onto camels, the tour then proceeds to the surreal sulfur pools of Dallol. The volcanic eruption colors the salt flat with vibrant hues of yellow, red, green, and orange. The impressive and unique landscape is unmatched, offering views not found anywhere else globally. After about an hour and a half, the trip continues to a small spring, the Sea of Salt, where water flows underground from the Red Sea. A short drive brings visitors to an area with rocks in interesting shapes. Return to Mek'ele for accommodation and dinner.
Days 8-9 | Visiting Lalibela's Rock-Hewn Churches
From Mek'ele, the journey follows the Ethiopian Highlands to Lalibela, considered one of the most amazing and mysterious historical sites that remain intact and active to this day. King Lalibela carved eleven impressive rock-hewn churches from the red stone. Each church has its own shape and structure, with some carved over three stories deep, and many are active on a daily basis. The city emanates a sense of purity, holiness, and activity, with thousands of monks and priests filling Ethiopian Orthodox Church ceremonies with great devotion. The first part of the day in Lalibela is dedicated to visiting the upper church complex, while the second part explores the remaining churches in the lower complex, culminating in a visit to the iconic St. George's Church.
Day 10 | Visiting Gondar
In the morning, a flight takes you to Gondar, known as the "Flower of Africa," the imperial city from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Explore the Emperor Fasilides' compound, a unique palace built under the influence of Portuguese architectural styles. Visit the significant Debre Berhan Selassie Church with its walls and ceiling covered in biblical and New Testament murals, and the holy water pool of Fasilides, annually filled during the Timkat festival. Accommodation in Gondar.
Day 11 | Jeep Trip to the Simien Mountains - Meeting Gelada Baboon Troops
Early in the morning, travel through the mountainous landscape of Gondar to the town of Debark, the gateway to the Simien Mountains. Begin with a visit to an authentic village at the foothills of the Simien Mountains, experiencing the traditional coffee preparation and tasting the unique Simien monkey-bread. Continue to the viewpoint at Geech, where the impressive Gelada baboon troops roll down the massive cliff to their sleeping caves in the depths of the gorge—an awe-inspiring spectacle. Spend the night in the Simien Mountains National Park.
Day 12 | Summiting Africa - Imet Gogo Peak
Early morning ascent to the viewpoint at Imet Gogo Peak, known as the "Roof of Africa." The Simien Mountain range is called the "roof" of Africa, and it includes some of the highest peaks on the continent. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Simien Range towards Ras Dashen, the highest peak in the Simien, and the beautiful table mountains. Descend through the lowland to the Chennek campsite, then hike back to the entrance of the park through shaded forest paths. From there, travel to the town of Debark and back to Gondar for the night.
Day 13 | Gondar - Addis Ababa
Take a morning flight from Gondar to the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa. Explore the city, including a visit to the Anthropological Museum and a stroll through the famous market of Addis Ababa, one of the largest and most diverse markets in Africa.