From Addis Ababa: 5-Day Lalibela and Danakil Depression Tour

Discover the natural beauty of Ethiopia on this 5-day tour. Swim in the salt lakes of Hamed Ela, visit the colorful landscapes of Dalol, and see the boiling lava of Erta Ale. Explore the Lalibela churches and take a city tour of Addis Ababa.

Day 1: Arrival in Addis- Semera- Denakil
Take a flight from Addis to Semara and drive for about 5-6 hours to reach Hamed Ela. Swim in Lake Afdera and then have your lunch. Visit Lake Asale, a lake with salt flats. Enjoy a drink in the stunning place. Experience swimming in the salt lake. Enjoy open air camping at Hamed Ela.

Day 2: Dalol- Erta ale (volcano)
After breakfast, drive to the colorful attractions of Dalol which is located at -125 below sea level. Visit the different landscapes formed by volcanic activity, Dallol, Lake Assal, and camel caravans. Enjoy driving to Erta Ale for about 4 hours passing through a changing landscape of solidified lava rock and sand after passing several small hamlets scattered here and there in this deserted land. Have your short break and early dinner. Start trek for about 1 hour to Ertale and experience watching the dramatic action of the boiling lava. Trek back to the basic camp basement to spend the night and sleep under the stars.

Day 3: Drive to Afdera
Visit boiling lava again and have your breakfast. Drive to Afdera for about 2 hours. Drive on asphalt road to Semera for about 3:30 hours. Take a flight from Semera airport to fly to Addis. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Explore the first group of Lalibela churches
Take the flight to Lalibela. Upon arrival in Lalibela transfer to hotel for lunch and visit the first group of Lalibela churches: Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Maryam, Bete Meskel, Bete Danaghel, Bete Mikael, and Bete Golgotha which are connected through an underground tunnel. Discover some boasting carved bas-reliefs and colorful frescoes. Take rest and stay overnight in the hotel.

Day 5: Lalibela – Fly Addis Ababa and City Tour
Morning visit remaining churches of Lalibela then transfer to airport take the flight back to Addis. Embark on a city tour in Addis Ababa, where you can shop. Enjoy a farewell dinner and coffee ceremony with traditional folklore music.