Danakil Depression & Gheralta

Departure - add
Return - add
  • Duration 9 Days

Tour Plan

Danakil Depression & Gheralta Combination Tour – 9 Days

Discover the stunning contrasts of Ethiopia in this 8-day combination tour of the Danakil Depression and the Gheralta Mountains. Start your adventure in the Danakil Depression, where you’ll experience one of the hottest places on Earth, with its vibrant sulfur springs, salt flats, and active volcanoes. Then, journey to the Gheralta region, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and ancient rock-hewn churches. This tour offers a unique blend of extreme natural wonders and rich cultural heritage, making it a perfect choice for adventurous travelers and photography enthusiasts alike.

Day 1

Arrival

Upon your arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide, who will assist you with your transfer to your hotel. After checking in, you will embark on a city tour of Ethiopia’s capital. Your exploration will include visits to the National Museum, home to the famous Lucy fossil, and the vibrant Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. You will also visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, an important religious site. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, where you can savor local dishes and experience cultural performances. Overnight in Addis Ababa.

Day 2

Fly Addis – Semera / Erta Ale

After breakfast, you will transfer to the airport for your flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, the capital of the Afar Region. Upon arrival in Semera, you will meet your driver and begin the drive towards Erta Ale, a journey of approximately 3-4 hours. The route takes you through striking landscapes and the arid terrain of the Danakil Depression. Arriving at the base of Erta Ale in the late afternoon, you will prepare for the hike to the volcano. As the sun sets, you will hike to the rim of Erta Ale, witnessing the mesmerizing lava lake. Spend the night camping near the crater, experiencing the unique atmosphere of this active volcano.

In the evening, you will enjoy a luxurious camping experience, complete with comfortable tents featuring showers, bathrooms, electricity, and fridges. The best camping chefs will prepare delicious meals, ensuring that you have a delightful culinary experience while surrounded by nature. After a fulfilling day of natural exploration, you can relax under the stars at your luxury campsite.

Overnight: Camping

Day 3

Drive Erta Ale to Hamed Ela / Explore

In the early morning, you will have the opportunity to take in the stunning views of the lava lake as the sun rises. After breakfast, you will descend from Erta Ale and drive towards Hamed Ela, a small settlement in the Danakil Depression. The drive will take approximately 3-4 hours, where you can enjoy the stark beauty of the landscape. Upon arrival in Hamed Ela, you will check into your accommodation and have lunch. In the afternoon, you can explore the surrounding area, meeting local Afar people and learning about their unique lifestyle. You will spend the night in Hamed Ela.

In the evening, you will enjoy a luxurious camping experience, complete with comfortable tents featuring showers, bathrooms, electricity, and fridges. The best camping chefs will prepare delicious meals, ensuring that you have a delightful culinary experience while surrounded by nature. After a fulfilling day of natural exploration, you can relax under the stars at your luxury campsite.

Overnight: Camping

Day 4

Explore Dallol / Drive to Afdera

On the fourth day, you will set out early to explore Dallol, one of the hottest places on Earth and known for its colorful hydrothermal fields and salt formations. The vibrant colors of the sulfur springs and salt flats create a surreal landscape, providing excellent photographic opportunities. After exploring Dallol, you will drive to Lake Afdera.  

In the evening, you will enjoy a luxurious camping experience, complete with comfortable tents featuring showers, bathrooms, electricity, and fridges. The best camping chefs will prepare delicious meals, ensuring that you have a delightful culinary experience while surrounded by nature. After a fulfilling day of natural exploration, you can relax under the stars at your luxury campsite.

Overnight: Camping

Day 5

Drive Afdera to Mekele

After breakfast, you will begin your journey to Mekelle, the capital of the Tigray Region, which you will venture deeper into in the coming days. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you will relax and refresh for the exciting tour ahead.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 6

Drive Mekele to Hawzien

You will depart from Mekelle in the morning and embark on a scenic drive to Hawzien, which takes approximately two hours. Upon arrival, you will prepare for an invigorating trek to Mariam Korkor Church. The climb offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, allowing for ample photography opportunities. After reaching Mariam Korkor, you will explore the church, known for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere. As evening approaches, you will set up camp on the mountain, enjoying dinner under the stars and the peaceful sounds of nature. Overnight camping will provide a unique experience, complete with comfortable tents featuring showers, bathrooms, electricity, and fridges. The best camping chefs will prepare delicious meals, ensuring that you have a delightful culinary experience while surrounded by nature. After a fulfilling day of exploration, you can relax under the stars at your luxury campsite.

Overnight: Camping

Day 7

Trek from Mariam Korkor to Abuna Yemata Guh Church

On the seventh day, you will wake up early to enjoy breakfast amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery. After packing up your campsite, you will begin your trek towards Abuna Yemata Guh Church, a remarkable site known for its dramatic cliffside location and stunning frescoes. The hike will take you through picturesque landscapes, and you will have the chance to capture incredible photographs along the way. Once you reach the church, you can explore its interior and learn about its historical significance. After your visit, you will begin the descent back to Hawzien. Upon arrival in Hawzien, you will check into a hotel for a comfortable overnight stay, allowing you to rest and recharge after an active day.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 8

Drive from Hawzien to Axum: Drive from Hawzien to Axum

On Day 8, you will have a leisurely morning in Hawzien before departing for Axum, which is approximately a two-hour drive. As you journey to Axum, you will enjoy the scenic landscapes of the Tigray region. Upon arrival, you will begin exploring Axum, an ancient city known for its archaeological wonders and historical significance. You will visit key sites, including the famous Obelisks of Axum, the Church of St. Mary of Zion, and the ruins of ancient palaces. Each site offers a glimpse into Ethiopia’s rich past and its role in early Christian history. After a day of exploration, you will check into a hotel in Axum for an overnight stay, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 9

Further Exploration of Axum and Return to Addis Ababa

On your final day, you will have the morning free to explore more of Axum. You can visit the Axum Museum, which houses artifacts that tell the story of this ancient civilization, or take a stroll through the town to appreciate its unique architecture and local culture. After your morning activities, you will return to your hotel to check out and prepare for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Addis before heading to the airport. Your adventure in Northern Ethiopia concludes with your flight back to Addis Ababa, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this remarkable journey.

 

This itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure through one of the most remarkable landscapes on the planet. Prepare for a journey filled with awe-inspiring sights and unique cultural experiences!

Book this tour
//
Click Ethiopia Experts
|
//
Let's Chat!