Ethiopia: Tour Itinerary

The 17-day, 16-night tour focuses on the historically important regions of Bahir Dar, Gondar and Lalibela, which weave the story of a once great and powerful kingdom. This photographic tour will have you traversing an amazing national park where the Simien Mountains provide a habitat for some of Ethiopia's endemic wildlife. It is not unusual to walk among a large congress of Gelada baboons, or spy the Walia ibex on cliff faces and hear or observe some of the country's many birds. Combined with this is the chance of interacting with rural villagers, gaining deep insight into their daily lives, as well as visiting some very colourful tribes in the south.

Days 1 & 2

Arrive at Addis Ababa, where you will be met at the airport. We will explore the capital city with its many churches and museums.

Days 3 & 4

Fly to Bahir Dar. We visit the Blue Nile Falls, explore a bustling colourful market, and take a cruise on Lake Tana to visit the ancient island monasteries and examine the venerable manuscripts and treasures.

Day 5

We take a scenic drive to Gondar, where we visit the Gondar Castle and the ancient Debre Birhan Selassie Church. Time permitting, we can explore the local town market.

Days 6 & 7

Drive to the Simien Mountains. We stay at the Simien Mountains Lodge from which we explore the dramatic scenery and landscape. The Gelada baboons will be your neighbours.

Days 8 & 9

Fly to Lalibela, allowing plenty of time to explore and photograph the incredible rock hewn churches of the region.

Day 10

Fly to Arba Minch, the gateway for visiting the various tribes of the Omo Valley. There are great opportunities over the next few days to photograph the tribes, spending time in their villages and markets.

Days 11 & 12

Drive to Jinka, one of the main areas to see the Mursi tribe, famous for its lip disks and painted bodies.

Days 13 & 14

Drive to Turmi where we visit the Hamar and Karo tribes, which also feature elaborate body decoration.

Day 15

Return to Arba Minch, visiting en route the UNESCO heritage cultural araea of Konso.

Day 16

Spend the morning in Arba Minch, then fly back to Addis in the afternoon. Later we'll experience the local cuisine and amazing cultural dancing.

Day 17

We spend the morning in Addis for last-minute shopping and exploring before heading to the airport for our departure.

---

The tour price includes for the full tour duration:

• All internal flights, airport transfers and ground transport.
• All accommodation in good quality hotels and lodges.
• All breakfasts and dinners and some picnic lunches.
• All photographic tuition, workshops and critiques.