Ancient Kindoms of Ethiopia

Upon arrival to Ethiopia, we’ll head north towards the city of Axum. Along the way stop to visit two rock-hewn churches.

Axum is known for its tall carved obelisks and relics of the ancient Kingdom of Aksum. The Northern Stelae Field is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend the day exploring the Field, an archaeological museum, St Mary of Zion Church and the Chapel of the Tablet. It will be a day full of stories and rich history!

We’ll drive west to visit the ruins of Queen Sheba’s palace and walk in the footsteps of the queen herself! Taking time to enjoy nature along the way, walk up the Gobedra Hill to see the mysterious Lioness of Gobedra. Along the way, we’ll pass a stone quarry, the birthplace of Ethiopia’s famous obelisks.

Enjoy your morning with a traditional Ethiopian breakfast. Today we’ll drive to the Tombs of Kings Kaleb and Gebre Meskel. Your guide will dive into the history of these two kings.

After a short flight to Lalibela, we’ll visit the magnificent rock-hewn churches built by King Lalibela, which have been active since the late 12th century. Here you’ll discover why this place is often called the “New Jerusalem”.

Spend the day exploring the many churches of Lalibela. Many of the churches are connected through a system of underground tunnels. Your guide will tell you the stories of the people who built them.

We’ll head to the airport for another short flight to Gondar. Enjoy lunch in the city and head up into the Simien Mountains for a nature getaway.

Rise early to enjoy a sunrise over the mountain range. Today you’ll explore Simien Mountain National Park. Be whisked away to another world as you spot the endemic Gelada baboons and numerous species of birds perched overhead.

Back into the bustling city of Gondar, we’ll tour the Royal Enclosure, Fasiladas Bath, and the Debre Birhan Selassie Church. Gondar was once the city of Ethiopia!

After a day balanced by nature + city, we’ll return to the airport for your departure home.