Ethiopian Explorer Northbound
Trip Details
Discover fascinating places and beautiful scenery on this journey across the heart of Ethiopia. Experience a land like no other, from the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the untouched wilderness of the Simien Mountains, to the sophistication of Gonder and the history of ruin-peppered Aksum. Feel the mist rise from the Blue Nile Falls and spot Africa's iconic Big Five in Kenya. Along the way, encounter friendly Rastafarians, proud Samburu warriors and the rarely visited tribespeople of the Omo Valley. Travelling through a rarely visited and very special part of the continent, this is an adventure like no other.
Itinerary
Day 1 Nairobi
Start the adventure in the busy streets of Kenya's capital.
Day 2 Lake Naivasha
Relax by the lake and watch hippos wallowing on the shore.
Days 3-4 Lake Nakuru
A favourite spot with birdlife, Lake Nakuru is a shimmering sea of pink flamingos. Listen for the chatter of black and white colobus monkeys in the treetops above.
Day 5 Mt Kenya
Travel through stunning scenery on the way to the slopes of Mt Kenya.
Days 6-7 Samburu National Reserve
Witness traditional Samburu dancing, and learn about tribal life and customs from the locals. Venture into the vast reserve to try and spot Africa's iconic Big Five.
Days 8-9 Marsabit/Moyale
Traverse a surreal, black lunar landscape and pass spectacular craters and termite mounds on the drive to Ethiopia.
Days 10-11 Konso
Pick up a souvenir at the local market or perhaps take time to admire the traditional houses in the area.
Days 12-15 Omo Valley
The colourful markets and villages are a delight to explore in this picturesque valley. Meet friendly tribespeople and learn about their fascinating culture.
Days 16-17 Arba Minch
In free time, why not cycle around scenic landscapes, embark on a boat trip or visit a crocodile farm?
Days 18-19 Shashemene
Learn about the Rasta lifestyle and philosophy at a Rastafarian community school and museum.
Days 20-22 Bale Mountains National Park
Venture out on game-spotting expeditions in this stunningly diverse park.
Day 23 Lake Abiata-Shala National Park
Soak in hot springs surrounded by the twitter of birdlife.
Days 24-25 Addis Ababa
Arrive in Ethiopia's bustling capital and indulge in spicy, traditional cuisine in a local restaurant or cafe.
Day 26 Dejen
Visit the Blue Nile Gorge en route to Dejen.
Days 27-29 Bahir Dar
Feel the sheet of mist rising from the mighty Blue Nile Falls before boarding a reed boat bound for the ornately decorated monasteries on Lake Tana's isolated islands and peninsulas.
Days 30-32 Lalibela
Hidden among the hills of northern Ethiopia, Lalibela is home to monolithic churches hewn from the surrounding rocks. Take a walk through the structures with a local guide to unlock the fascinating history of this area.
Days 33-34 Mekele
Admire the clusters of churches sculptured into caves and a dramatic cliff-face in Tigray.
Days 35-36 Aksum
Get acquainted with this once-mighty city and discover its towering ancient obelisks, crumbling palaces and web of underground tombs.
Days 37-41 Simien Mountains National Park
These stunning mountains are home to a wealth of animals. Hike through the rugged terrain, passing eroded volcanic cores, raging rivers and jagged peaks.
Days 42-44 Gonder
Discover the castles, churches and palaces of this city often referred to as 'Africa's Camelot' - a grand way to end the adventure!