Ethiopia is just about the only country in Africa never to have been colonised, and its people claim the longest continuous monarchy in history, 3000 years of kings. The country is also unusual for its rich Orthodox Christian heritage, which the Ethiopians maintained even when all its neighbours embraced Islam in the 7th century. The Ethiopia Signature tour is an in-depth exploration of the unique archaeological treasures of the country. Start in Addis Ababa the capital city, known for the bustling Mercado marketplace where thousands of stalls sell a profusion of goods from the entire country. Fly to Bahir Dar where you tour the island monasteries of Lake Tana, and drive to Gondor to see the royal castles of ancient dynasties. Then fly to Lalibela, a UNESCO world heritage site, to see the famous underground carved churches. These amazing cathedrals were carved from soft lava rock, resulting in a complete building composed of a single contiguous rock. Fly to Axum with its gigantic carved stellar and the holy church that legend claims holds the Ark of the Covenant.

With a growing population of 2 million people, Addis Ababa is the capital and largest city of Ethiopia. Located at the geographic center of the nation the city is the political and cultural center. Founded in 1896 by Emperor Menelik II, Addis Ababa is the last in a succession of capitals of the great Abyssinian empire dating back to the pre-Christian Axum. The city has interesting museums and churches - but most notable is the continent's largest open air market. The Addis Merkato, located in the Addis Ketema district of western Addis Ababa, is the primary retail, wholesale and distribution point for the city and the central highlands.

A private vehicle with English speaking driver will provide a transfer to the airport.

Jupiter International Hotel is a brand new aspiring four star hotel with two superb locations in Addis Ababa to serve you better. Our largest property located in the cazanchise area is a walking distance from the UNECA building on Marshal Tito Road. Our second property in Bole is situated moments away from the airport and located near by major shopping centers.A guest room at Jupiter international hotel is among the capital's largest and designed to ensure your utmost comfort safety and convenience. At Jupiter International Hotel, We are dedicated to provide exceptional accommodations with a hospitable service at affordable price. It is our mission to be the best and preferred hotel by consistently striving for daily improvements in all areas of our business.

Overnight at Jupiter International Hotel.

This full day city tour explores the many highlights and monuments of this special Ethiopian city. Begin with a tour of the Ethnological Museum, boasting many archaeological and historical findings including the famous complete hominid fossil remain of 'Lucy', locally known as 'Dinknesh', which translates to wonderful. Visit the Trinity Cathedral, a beautiful church built in the baroque style, similar to much of the European inspired architecture unique to Ethiopia. Next proceed to Merkato, the largest open-air market in Africa, a fascinating glimpse of the vast range of goods and artifacts available from all parts of the country. Travel to Mount Entoto to admire the stupendous views of the city and its surrounding plains.

Overnight at Jupiter International Hotel.

Bahir Dar is situated on the southern shore of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile and the largest lake in Ethiopia. Remains of ancient Ethiopian emperors and treasures of the Ethiopian Church are kept in the isolated island monasteries. The interior walls of the monasteries are famous for their religous paintings of bible stories. Visitors are welcomed by boat - although some monasteries do not allow women visitors. The Blue Nile Falls (Tis Abay) are located about 30 km to the south of the city.

This flight travels from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

A private vehicle with English speaking driver will provide a transfer to the airport.

Depart the hotel this morning to enjoy a boat trip on Lake Tana. This boat ride visits the 14th century Monastery of Ura Kidane Mehret, one of the most famous monasteries of the area, boasting some very beautiful painted maqdas and priceless collection of crosses and crowns. After the boat ride, drive to the village of Isat to view the nearby Blue Nile Falls.

Bahar Dar is a small town set on the south-eastern shore of Lake Tana. It is just 30 km from the spectacular Tisisat Falls. Here the Blue Nile creates an awe-inspiring sight as it plunges into the gorge below. From Bahar Dar you can explore some of the ancient monasteries that have been built around Lake Tana, or on its many Islands. These include Dek Stephanos with its priceless collections of icons, the remains of several medieval emperors, Kebran Gabriel and Ura Kidane Mehret with its famous frescoes. The colourful local market at Bahar Dar is renowned for its weavers and wood workers. The Tana Hotel, a modern 64-bedroom hotel has rooms with private bath & shower, restaurant with seating capacity of 137 (dining style), well-equipped kitchen, coffee bar and pool side terrace, spacious veranda, telephone, fax, televisions with Satellite reception capabilities, well-equipped laundry, stand-by power generator.

Overnight at Tana Hotel.

Gondar (Gonder) was once the old imperial capital and capital of the historic Begemder province, and is north of Lake Tana. During the seventeenth century, the city's population is estimated to have exceeded 60,000 and was the second largest city in the world. In 1678, the visiting Armenian bishop Hovannes remarked that the city was "twice as big as Istanbul".The most famous buildings in the city lie in the Royal Enclosure, which include Fasilides castle, Iyasu's Palace, Dawit's Hall, a banqueting hall, stables, Mentewab's Castle, a chancellery, library and three churches. Near the city lie Fasiladas' Bath, the Qusquam complex, built by Empress Mentewab; the eighteenth century Ras Mikael Sehul's Palace and the Debre Berhan Selassie Church.

The distance from Bahir Dar to Gondar is 170 kilometers and it is a flat road. Instead of waiting for 2 hours for check-in and 25 minutes for the flight, it is recommendable to drive.  Experience the Ethiopian countryside and see the country by private car. 

This tour explores the many historical sites and monuments of the Ethiopian city of Gondar. Founded by Emperor Fasilidas around 1635, this city has gained fame due to its many medieval castles and elegantly designed and decorated churches. In particular, Debra Berhan Selassie, a representative masterpiece of the Gondarene school of art. Upon completion of the tour a return transfer is provided.

The Goha Hotel stands at the crest of a hill with a commanding view of the city of Gondar, the city with its enchanting and mysterious castles. The Hotel has 4 suites, 60 twin bed rooms, restaurant, 2 cosy bars, well-equipped laundry, stand-by power generator, garden, telephone, fax & satellite TV.

Overnight at Goha Hotel.

Lalibela is a town in northern Ethiopia. Lalibela is one of Ethiopia's holiest cities, second only to Aksum, and is a center of pilgrimage for much of the country. Unlike Aksum, the population of Lalibela is almost completely Ethiopian Orthodox Christian. Lalibela was intended to be a New Jerusalem in response to the capture of Jerusalem by Muslims. Famous around the world for its monolithic churches which set a benchmark for rock-cut architecture. There are 13 churches, assembled in four groups, most are thought to have been built during the 12th and 13th centuries.

This short flight travels between Gondar and Lalibela, Ethiopia. The flight time is approximately 30 minutes.

A private vehicle with English speaking driver will provide a transfer to the airport.

Lalibela is the jewel in the crown of Ethiopia, the most famous churches and the scene of so many major religious ceremonies. Also known as ‘Africa Petra’, Lalibela and its rock hewn churches are arguably Ethiopian’s most famous and remarkable attraction. These churches include Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Mariam, Bete Meskal, Bete Denaghel, Bete Golgotha, Bete Mikael, and Bete Giorgis. You will start your tour this morning and continue in the afternoon.

The Roha Hotel in Lalibela, Ethiopia, is the most comfortable and desirable lodging in town. Snuggled into the bosom of this mountain village, the 64 room hotel and its staff guarantee impeccable service. Try the local food, which is typically made with spicy meats and vegetables along with flat bread and salads. Situated a mile outside of town, you will find yourself taking pictures of the intricate artifacts adorning this attractive, simple space. More humble than the crystal chandeliers and gold-plated walls of more arrogant hotels, the Roha boasts something above high ranked holiday hot spots. With a lush countryside and some of history’s most incredible monolithic churches from centuries of yore, there is little need for spas and tennis courts in this region.

Overnight at Roha Hotel.

This tour begins with a drive to the Nakuto Le’abe Monastery. Nakuto Le’abe was the son of King Gebre Meskel, who abdicated his thorn in 1270 AD, and then began a hermit’s life in a nearby cave. This dramatic cave has ever since became a monastery, housing one of the most interesting collections of ancient crosses, illustrated manuscripts, garments, and other icons, some of which are attributed to its founder Nakuto Le’abe.

Overnight at Roha Hotel.

Axum, or Aksum, is a city in northern Ethiopia named after the Kingdom of Aksum, a naval and trading power that ruled from the region from 400 BC into the 10th century. It was the centre of the (eventual) Christian marine trading power the Aksumite Kingdom, which predated the earliest mentions in Roman era writings (around the time of the birth of Jesus). The Ethiopian Orthodox Church claims that the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion in Aksum houses the Biblical Ark of the Covenant in which lies the Tablets of Law upon which the Ten Commandments are inscribed. This same church was the site Ethiopian emperors were crowned for centuries. Axum is considered the holiest city in Ethiopia and is an important destination of pilgrimages.

Airport transfer with private vehicle and guide.

Relax during this short flight travelling from Lalibela and arriving in Axum, Ethiopia. The flight duration is approximately 30 minutes.

This tour explore the once centre of a great empire, and the highest seat of learning for the ancient Ge’ez language and literature, Axum, a prime historical site located in the north of Ethiopia. Enjoy a city tour that include a visit to the Stelae park, St. Mary’s Church, the sanctuary Chapel which is the repository of the ‘Ark of the covenant’, the coronation yard, the Tomb of Kaleb and his son Gebre Meskel, Ezana’s inscriptions, the Queen of Sheba’s bath, Queen of Sheba’s palace ruins and the Axum Museum.

The Yeha Hotel has 3 suites with private baths, 60 twin bed rooms with private baths, 157 seat restaurant (dining style), 153 seat bar, telephone, fax, satellite TV, well equipped laundry, stand-by generator, garden.

Overnight at Yeha Hotel.

Airport transfer with private vehicle and guide.

This flight departs from Axum and arrives in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

In the evening, attend a folkloric dinner, where several national dishes are provided for sampling.  Enjoy the sights and sounds during the dances of the various ethnic groups of Ethiopia. A traditional coffee ceremony will also be presented.

A private vehicle with English speaking driver will provide a transfer to the airport.

Depart from Bole international airport - end of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart.