Expedition to Danakil depression and Tigray Rock hewn Churches

Expedition to Danakil depression and Tigray Rock hewn Churches

 

Duration = 10 days/ 9 nights

Route = Danakil Depression and Tigray Rock Hewn Churches

Transportation: — 4x4 vehicles

Itinerary:

Day 1 – Arrival + Addis

Be welcomed by your guide on arrival at the airport, and transfer in to your hotel. O/N- Hotel (4*).

 

Day 2 – Addis – Axum

Fly to Axum and have a sightseeing tour of Axum which includes visiting the Archeological museum of Axum, the Cathedral of St. Mary of Zion which is believed to be the last resting place of the Original Ark of the Covenant, and in the afternoon visit the famous ‘Stele field’ (4^th Century AD and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ruin palace and tomb of King Kaleb and King Gebre Meskel (5^th and 6^th Century AD) and the residence of the legendary Queen of Sheba (9^th century BC). O/N — Yeha or Remhai Hotel (3* Hotel)

 

Day 3 – Axum – Hauzien

Visiting the ancient Temple of Yeha (5^th Century BC), and the rock-hewn church of Tigray, Michael Milhazhengi on the way, drive to Hauzien. On your way, enjoy the scenic and historic range of Adowa Mountains. From your lodge, you can enjoy the sunset behind the picturesque Gerhalta Mountains. O/N – Gerhalta Lodge

 

Day 4 – Hauzien – Mekelle

Visiting the rock-hewn churches of Mariam Korkor, Abune Yemata, and Wukro Cherkos, drives 150 km to Mekelle – the regional capital of Tigray. O/N – Axum Hotel

 

Day 5 – Mekelle – Ahmed Ela

With an early start drive to Ahmed Ella visiting the people of Tigre and the nomadic people of Afar. At Ahmed Ella, visit the deep-water wells used by the nomadic people of Afar, and the interesting Camel Caravans, which transport bars of salt to the Tigray Highlands. O/N – Camping

 

Day 6- Ahmed Ela-Dalol (In Danakil Depression) — Ahmed Ella

In the morning, drive to one of the lowest points on earth, Dalol (116 meters below sea level) to see the wonderful and colorful formation of sulfur and phosphorus. And after lunch you will visit the salt lake of Asale and discover how people get salt in traditional ways. O/N – Camping

 

Day 7 – Ahmed Ela – Dodom — Erta’ ale

Drive to Dodom, and after arranging mules to transport luggage and camping gear, and around the sunset start hiking to the active volcanic eruption of Erta’ ale, which takes about 5 – 6 hours. Spend, the rest of the night at the rim. O/N – Camping

 

Day 8 – Erta’ ale – Afdera

Trek back to the place where you left your cars, and drive to the salt lake of Afdera. O/N – Camping

 

Day 9 – Afdera – Semera

Visiting Lake Afdera in the morning, drive across the desert landscape to Semera. On your way, stop to visit hot springs. O/N – Camping or local Hotel

 

Day 10 – Semera – Addis — departure

Drive back to Addis. Have a farewell dinner at one of the best traditional restaurants of Addis where you can taste the variety of Ethiopian meals, and see the folkloric dances of the Ethiopians.

Then, be transferred to the airport for your departure

The price is inclusive of: - • Accommodation on a twin room-sharing basis • Three meals a day out of Addis, and only breakfast in Addis • All entrance fees • Transfers • Two Air conditioned, and comfortable 4 X 4 Toyota Land Cruisers with fuel, insurance and drivers’ allowance • Professional English speaking guide with all his expenses • Camel Hire at Erta’ ale • Portage fees • Professional Cook for the camping days • Domestic air fare • Air fair for the guide • All local guides • Armed scouts

Price exclusive of: -  Lunch and dinner in Addis  Any alcoholic drinks  Personal expense like souvenirs, laundry, etc  Tips  Any expense which is not stated in the ‘Included List’ above.

For cancellation up to 3 days, a full refund will be given. For cancellation up to 1 days, 50% refund will be given.