This 10-day expedition is a journey of extreme contrasts, taking you from the lowest, hottest points on Earth to the "Roof of Africa." You will begin in the Danakil Depression, a surreal landscape of bubbling sulfur springs at Dallol and the glowing lava lake of Erta Ale, where the Afar people have mined salt for centuries. It is a raw, primordial world that feels more like the surface of another planet than a corner of East Africa.
From the volcanic heat of the desert, you will ascend into the cool, misty heights of the Simien Mountains. Here, jagged peaks and deep escarpments provide a dramatic backdrop for encounters with endemic wildlife, including the friendly Gelada baboons and the rare Walia ibex. This itinerary seamlessly blends geological wonder with alpine majesty, offering a comprehensive look at the diverse soul of Ethiopia.
The Itinerary: 10 Days of Fire and Ice
Included / exclude
- Airport transfers
- Buffet breakfast
- Driver allowances
- Superior accommodation
Photo gallery
Itinerary
Arrival and briefing. Visit the National Museum (home of “Lucy”) and enjoy a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
Morning flight to Mekele. Gear check and drive toward the Danakil. Overnight in a local guest house in Abala.
Drive across the lava desert to the base of the volcano. Evening trek to the rim to witness the active lava lake under the stars.
Descend the volcano at sunrise. Drive to the Hamed Ela campsite. Watch the sunset over the endless white salt crust of Lake Asale.
Explore the neon-colored hydrothermal fields of Dallol, the Salt Canyons, and the oily “Yellow Lake.” Drive back to Mekele for a hot shower.
Scenic drive through Tigray. Visit the Obelisks of Axum and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, legendary home of the Ark of the Covenant.
Drive through the Tekeze River Gorge to Debark, the gateway to the Simien Mountains. Enter the park for a sunset hike at Sankaber.
Trek from Sankaber to Geech Abyss. Stand at the edge of the Jinbar Waterfall, which plunges over 500m into the canyon below.
Hike to Imet Gogo (3,926m) for the park’s most iconic 360° views. Spot Walia ibex on the cliffs before returning to your lodge/camp.
Drive to the “Camelot of Africa,” Gondar, to see its 17th-century castles. Evening flight back to Addis for a farewell dinner.
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