3 days Addis Ababa, Blue Nile and Tiya-Adadi from US$580.-pp

This action packed suggested itinerary includes Addis Ababa sights as well as full day excursions to Tiya-Adadi and Debre Libanos.

Itinerary can be adjusted to your time frame in Addis.

AccommodationDestinationBasisRoom TypeDuration
Best Western Plus Addis AbabaAddis AbabaFB+1x Standard Room2 Nights

Key
B&B: Bed and Breakfast
FB+: Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities

Price

US$580.- per person, sharing occupancy;

Included

Accommodation, meals and activities as per package; entrance fees for sights in the itinerary, tour vehicle and experienced, english speaking guide, airport welcome and transfers,

Excluded

International flight to/from Addis Ababa, visa fee, photography and video fees,

Day 1:            Best Western Plus Addis Ababa, Addis Ababa        

Ethiopia

Situated in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia boasts extraordinary natural features, a vast range of wildlife, and a captivating historical and cultural heritage. An increasing number of visitors are frequenting this treasure trove filled with unique attractions. Popular attractions include: the medieval castles of Gondar; the walled city of Harar; and Lalibela, a pilgrimage site known for its ancient monolithic churches, hewn into the area’s steep rocky hillsides. Ethiopia’s stunning natural landscapes are the real tourist drawcard. From the lush Simien Mountains to the sulphur vents of the Danakil Depression, the country’s outstanding natural environment is unforgettable. Bahir Dar, located on Lake Tana, is popular as a base from which to explore the fascinating monasteries situated on the numerous islands dotted around the lake, as well as the Blue Nile Falls, which are arguably the most spectacular falls in North Africa.

Addis Ababa

Located in the highlands fringing the Great Rift Valley, Addis Ababa serves as the political, cultural and commercial centre of Ethiopia. This sprawling city rests in the foothills of the Entoto Mountains and features a mix of traditional homes, elegant villas, and tall office buildings. Visitors can look forward to a selection of wonderful activities including: visiting the National Museum, displaying local art, traditional crafts and prehistoric fossils; exploring the copper-domed Holy Trinity Cathedral, a Neo-Baroque architectural landmark; and sampling rich Ethiopian coffee as well as the memorable cuisine featuring spicy stews and Ethiopia’s signature Injera bread.

Day Itinerary

Arrive in Addis Ababa in the morning.

Visit Trinity Cathedral, resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. Visit the National Museum, home of the 3 million year old skeleton “Lucy.” visit the Ethnographic Museum, a great introduction to Ethiopian culture and history. Take buffet lunch at the oldest hotel in Ethiopia “Taitu”.at 12:30pm. Climb by car to Entoto hills for an over view of the city and Mariam church on top. Stop at Sheromeda traditional market. visit the Mercato, one of Africa’s largest outdoor markets. Return to hotel at 5pm.

Trinity Church, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Trinity Cathedral

Overnight: Best Western Plus Addis Ababa

Ideally located in the heart of the commercial and entertainment district of Addis Ababa, the Best Western Plus Addis Ababa is within walking distance of shopping, restaurants, and bars. The spacious accommodation includes room service, cable TV, in-room movies, work desks, high-speed internet, coffee and tea makers, and minibars. Guests are treated to complimentary breakfast daily, and an on-site restaurant is available for lunch and dinner. An atmospheric sports bar which offers a 360-degree view of the city is available for drinks. The hotel also features a gym and a spa.

Basis

Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities

Day 2:            Best Western Plus Addis Ababa, Addis Ababa        

Day Itinerary

Drive to Tiya via Butajira at 7am. ( 50 miles) En route visit En route visit Adadi Mariam, a 12th century rock-hewn church; and Tiya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its mysterious stelae, thought to be grave markers, dating from the 12th century..Lunch in Butajira at 12:30pm. Return to Addis Ababa in time for a late afternoon arrival  about 5pm.

Basis

Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities

Day 3:            End of Itinerary     

Day Itinera

Leave Addis Ababa at 7:30 in the morning for the 13th century Monastery, Debre Lebanose, built by the Ethiopian Saint,Abune Teklehaimanot. Although the original church was destroyed , it is still an important ant pilgrimage site for the Ethiopian Orthodox Church . Troops of the endemic Gelada baboon are often seen nearby. Further down the road, an overlook provides outstanding views of the famous Blue Nile Gorge. Enjoy lunch at the Ethic- Germany lodge at 12:30pm. Visit Portuguese bridge and the river cliff. Return to Addis in time for Late afternoon arrival ( 5pm). In the evening, 7-10pm Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring dancers and musicians representing some of the country’s many ethnic groups. Depart for airport.

Blue Nile Gorge
View of Blue Nile Gorge

Basis

Bed and Breakfast