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9-Day Vibrant Ethiopia Danakil & Lalibela Tour

9 Days

Discover the striking contrasts of Ethiopia on this 9-Day Vibrant Ethiopia Danakil & Lalibela Tour, a journey that blends vibrant culture, otherworldly landscapes, and ancient spiritual heritage into one unforgettable experience. Your adventure begins in Addis Ababa with a fascinating city tour that introduces you to Ethiopia’s rich history, lively markets, and cultural landmarks.

From here, travel through the breathtaking Great Rift Valley, where scenic lakes and dramatic escarpments guide you toward Logiya Town and onward to the remote Danakil Depression—one of the hottest and most surreal places on Earth. At Ahmed Ela, you’ll step into a landscape unlike any other, where salt flats shimmer under the sun and Afar camel caravans create timeless desert scenes.

Your exploration of the Danakil Depression continues with visits to the colorful sulfur springs and mineral formations of Dallol, a natural wonder painted in vivid yellows, greens, and reds. You’ll then journey to the legendary Erta Ale, where a glowing lava lake offers a rare and thrilling spectacle under the night sky. The adventure continues to the serene Lake Afrera, where you can relax and float in its mineral-rich waters before heading to Semera to witness the soothing Alolobad Hot Springs.

The journey then shifts from dramatic desert landscapes to spiritual wonder as you travel to Lalibela, home to the world-famous Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela. These extraordinary monolithic churches, carved directly into the rock centuries ago, offer a deeply moving and awe-inspiring cultural experience.

Your tour concludes with a return flight to Addis Ababa, where you’ll enjoy a vibrant cultural dinner featuring traditional music, dance, and Ethiopian cuisine—an ideal finale to this diverse and captivating journey. This 9-Day Vibrant Ethiopia Danakil & Lalibela Tour adventure promises a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and unforgettable moments in one of Africa’s most unique destinations.

Cost per person:

Starting from: $4800 (Mixed Accommodation) per person based on two travelers sharing

 1 Person2 People3 People4 People5 People6 People
Jan-April$5700$4800$4600$4500$4400$4300
May-August$5900$5000$4800$4700$4600$4500
Sept-Dec$5800$4900$4700$4600$4500$4400

Cost Per Child (Discount)

Age0-2 years old3-6 years old7-10 years old11-13 years old14+ years old
Discount Rate100%65%50%15%0%

 

  • East Africa Safaris, Ethiopia
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Budget Lodges
  • English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, Italian, and Chinese speaking guides
  • Safari Van/ 4X4 Landcruiser
  • 1-100 people
  • 1-90 years old
  • January - December
  • Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
  • Addis Ababa Bole International Airport

Why This Tour?

9-Day Vibrant Ethiopia Danakil & Lalibela Tour

Get ready for an epic Ethiopia adventure blending highlands, rift valleys, and ancient wonders! Our 9-Day Vibrant Ethiopia Danakil & Lalibela Tour starts with a city tour of Addis Ababa's highlights. Then head into the Danakil depression – Africa's hottest place – visiting Logiya Town, Ahmed Ela, the colorful Dallol, active Erta Ale volcano, and Lake Afrera's salt flats. Experience Semera's Alolobad hot springs before heading to Lalibela to marvel at the rock-hewn churches. End with a cultural dinner in Addis Ababa, wrapping up an unforgettable Ethiopia journey.

Ethiopia Tours

You will visit Addis Ababa, Danakil Depression, and Lalibela.

Set out on an extraordinary journey through the heart of Ethiopia with this 9-Day Vibrant Ethiopia Danakil & Lalibela Tour, a carefully crafted adventure that flows from vibrant city life to surreal desert landscapes and ends in timeless spiritual wonder.

Your experience begins in Addis Ababa, where a guided city tour introduces you to Ethiopia’s rich cultural tapestry. Explore bustling markets, historic landmarks, and museums that bring the country’s ancient traditions and modern energy to life—offering the perfect foundation for the adventure ahead.

Leaving the capital behind, you journey through the breathtaking Great Rift Valley, a dramatic corridor of lakes, escarpments, and ever-changing scenery. This scenic drive leads you toward Logiya Town and deeper into the Afar region, where the landscapes grow increasingly rugged and remote.

By the time you reach Ahmed Ela in the heart of the Danakil Depression, you are immersed in one of the most unique environments on Earth—an otherworldly expanse of salt flats and desert beauty, where traditional Afar salt mining and camel caravans paint a timeless picture.

From here, the adventure intensifies as you explore the vibrant geothermal fields of Dallol. This surreal landscape, alive with colorful mineral deposits and bubbling springs, feels almost alien in its appearance. The journey continues to the iconic Erta Ale, where a thrilling trek leads you to the rim of one of the world’s few permanent lava lakes. Watching the molten lava glow against the night sky is a truly unforgettable highlight.

The pace softens as you travel to the tranquil Lake Afrera, where you can unwind and float effortlessly in its warm, mineral-rich waters—a refreshing contrast to the rugged terrain. Your route then takes you to Semera, with a stop at the soothing Alolobad Hot Springs, offering a relaxing interlude amid the desert heat.

From the stark beauty of the Danakil, you transition to Ethiopia’s spiritual heart as you journey to Lalibela. Here, the awe-inspiring Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela await—an architectural and religious marvel carved entirely from solid rock. Exploring these sacred sites provides a deep cultural and historical connection, rounding out your journey with profound meaning.

Finally, you fly back to Addis Ababa, where your adventure concludes with a vibrant cultural dinner. Enjoy traditional Ethiopian cuisine, music, and dance—an uplifting celebration that perfectly captures the spirit of your journey.

This 9-Day Vibrant Ethiopia Danakil & Lalibela Tour flows seamlessly from urban discovery to raw natural wonder and spiritual heritage, offering a rich and diverse Ethiopian experience that is as thrilling as it is unforgettable.

Highlights

  • City Tour
  • Logiya Town Tour
  • Ahmed Ela Visit
  • Visit Erta Ale Volcano
  • Visit Lake Afrera
  • Visit Rock Hewn Churches
  • Nature Drive

Tour Plan

  • Day
    01

    Arrive In Ethiopia | City Tour

    On arrival in Ethiopia in the morning hours, you will be welcomed and picked by our Kubwa Five Safaris guide who will be holding an A4 paper with your name printed on it at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and be transferred to your hotel to check in and have lunch.

    Later that evening you will do a city tour and visit the National Museum, Grand open market Merkato and also drive on the main tourist route of the city.

    Meals and overnight at Avi Pension/ Mad Vervet Hostel/ Addis Amba Hotel addis.

  • Day
    02

    Travel To Logiya Town

    After breakfast, you will be driven to Loggia town through the great African rift valley, land of volcanic formation of various types. Be ready to capture so many beautiful pictures therefore, make sure that you phone is fully charged.

    Meals and overnight Budget Camping.

  • Day
    03

    Transfer To Ahmed Ela In Danakil Depression

    After breakfast, drive to Ahmed Ela. It is the last small village before Dallol and it is beautiful to look at. From here we have about 20 km to reach our destination wonder of the world.

    Meals and overnight Budget Camping.

  • Day
    04

    Transfer To Dallol | Transfer To Erta Ale

    After breakfast, we will have a morning visit to Dallol and Asale 136 Metres below sea level is the second lowest point of Africa after lac Asal in Djibouti.

    After noon drive to Erta Ale. As the sun goes down you will start the 20 minutes hike up to the crater rim of the Erta Ale volcano. The Erta Ale volcano has been in a constant state of eruption and registered as one of the few lava lakes of our planet.

    (visit of Erta Ale: once we arrive and sun goes down we walk the 20 minute and arrive top of the mountain, ’ walk to the edge of the crater. We stay about 2-3 hours admiring the activities, lava fountains, edge collapse if there are then leave).

    Meals and overnight Budget Camping.

  • Day
    05

    Drive To Lake Afrera

    After having breakfast early in the morning, we will drive to Lake Afrera (a salt lake that is located in the heart of Danakil Depressions and in this lake you may a chance of the natural hot springs then later you had swimming around this lake.

    Lake Afrera is the worlds most salty lake and home to many bird species.

    Meals and overnight Budget Camping.

  • Day
    06

    Drive To Semera | Visit Alolebad

    After breakfast, you will be driven to Semera, have lunch and proceed to Alelobad. Another fantastic colorful Afar attraction in Ethiopia a volcanic geysers and thermal springs, we call it the small yellow stone of Afar.

    Drive back to Semera.

    Meals and overnight at Leva Afar Semera Resort/ Dini Hotel/ Ruftana Hotel.

  • Day
    07

    Drive To Lalibela | Visit The First Group Of Churches

    You will have a delightful breakfast then you will start your journey to Lalibela which will take most of the day, but it's a good chance to view the changing landscapes of the highlands and to see day-to-day life in rural Ethiopia.

    At the end of the 12th and beginning of the 13th centuries, King Lalibela organized the construction of a series of rock hewn churches which are now One of the wonders of the world. Lalibella contains 11 monolithic churches that were built in the 12th century and are carved out of the pink granite rock.

    7-Day Ethiopia and Madagascar Thrilling Adventure

    Your visit will take your to the first group of churches in the morning that is Bet Medehanialem, Bet Maryam, Bet Michael & Gologota and finish on the most famous cross shaped church Bet Giorgis with sun set.

    Meals and overnight at Hill Top Lodge Lalibela/ Top Twelve Hotel/ Lalibela Hotel.

  • Day
    08

    Visit The Second Group Of Churches

    In the morning after having breakfast we go to visit the second group of churches in the town that includes Bete Gebriel, Bete Mercorios, Bete Amanuel, Bethlehem and Bete Aba Libanos. You will have a full day of sightseeing in and around Lalibela. Lalibela is one of Ethiopia's holiest cities and a centre of pilgrimage.

    Meals and overnight at Hill Top Lodge Lalibela/ Top Twelve Hotel/ Lalibela Hotel.

  • Day
    09

    The Last Day With Us | Fly To Addis Ababa | Cultural Dinner | Fly Back Home

    After having a delightful breakfast, you'll take a flight from Lalibela to Addis Ababa. In the afternoon, you'll have time for shopping souvenirs and the best Arabica coffee.

    In Addis you will have a farewell dinner at cultural restaurant enjoying at same time live music from the different tribes of
    Ethiopia.

    Later you will be transferred to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

    All good things must come to an end and this is the moment when your safari with us draws to a close.

Inclusions

  • Services of an expert guide
  • Airport transfer (Airport pick up and drop off)
  • Flight tickets from Lalibela to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
  • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Ground transportation (4×4 safari Land Cruiser / minivan with pop-up tops)
  • Full board accommodation and en route meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Park fees and relevant government taxes.

Exclusions

  • Airfares
  • Visa fees
  • Personal insurance
  • Expenses of personal nature, such as drinks, tips, laundry, telephone, and cigarettes
  • Accommodation and meals not indicated in the itinerary

Accommodation

Throughout this exciting journey, you will be accommodated in a variety of accommodations.

The accommodation is appropriate and will be determined by your budget. Kubwa Five Safaris offers the best service at every level. Kubwa Five Safaris reserves the right to substitute comparable or superior accommodations. If an equivalent standard hotel is not available, Kubwa Five Safaris may substitute the next best quality hotel or suggest a superior for an additional fee. Hotels and lodges provide free Wi-Fi.

Please see the list below for more information on the safari lodges in each national park/destination included in this tour package.

How to Get There

Arrival by airplane

Please book your flight to arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.

Kubwa Five Safaris will cater for your Airport/Hotel transfers i.e pick-ups and drop-offs provided they are to happen within your safari days with us

After your thrilling vacation in Ethiopia, Kubwa Five Safaris will drop you off at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

Visa Applications and Flight bookings

Please write to us for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is included in the safari package cost?

The cost covers all accommodations, meals as specified, park entrance fees, scenic drives, guide services, and ground transportation throughout the safari.

3. What should I pack for this 9-day safari?

Essentials include lightweight clothing, hiking boots, a jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. A full packing list will be shared upon booking.

4. Is this safari suitable for families with children?

Yes it is.

5. What type of accommodations are provided?

We use clean, safe, and comfortable lodges. All accommodations have private self-contained rooms; bathrooms are inside the rooms/tents.

6. Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes. We cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Please let us know your preferences in advance.

7. How physically demanding is the safari?

While most of the tour involves vehicle-based drives and scenic travel, the walking on the dunes requires moderate physical fitness due to the sandy uneven terrain.

8. Is travel insurance required?

Yes. We strongly recommend that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

9. What is the group size?

Our private safari is tailored to provide an intimate and immersive experience for small groups. We accommodate groups of 4 to 24 travelers, ensuring that each participant receives personalized attention and a unique safari experience.

10. Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes, we can tailor this safari to fit your schedule, interests, or accommodation preferences. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Is Ethiopia safe to visit?

The parts of Ethiopia you will be visiting are famous for hosting tourists from all over the world. They are free from political issues and ethnic unrest.

We offer expertly curated safari experiences in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Namibai. Whether you’re planning a luxury vacation, a honeymoon safari, or an adventure-packed wildlife tour, we have the perfect package tailored just for you.

+256 774313798
info@kubwafive-safaris.com

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