ET Holidays 2017

2017 EDITION

TREKKING Ethiopia remains one of the few unspoiled places in the world for true adventurers. See our trekking tour packages on page 6 for details.

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www.ethiopianholidays.com

Explore ETHIOPIA and

BEYOND

WELCOME TO ETHIOPIAN HOLIDAYS! Welcome to the Land of Origins!

I want to take a moment to share with you the beauty and diversity of our beautiful country, Ethiopia. Ethiopia is probably the last best kept secret with historical, cultural and natural riches yet to be fully discovered by the rest of the world.

Ethiopia is endowed with astonishing assets: from the sites where the world’s oldest hominid fossils were discovered to the towering Axum obelisk from pre-Christian era, the magnificent walled city of Harar of the 9th century, the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela dating back to the 12th century, the splendor of the castles of Gonder of the 17th country, the jaw-dropping mountainous landscape of Simien National Park with its endemic animals unique to Ethiopia, the beautiful Konso cultural site, the impressive Tiya Stones in the south, the breathtaking Bale Natural Park with its variety of wild animals, and the delightful kaffa region from where coffee originated first and later spread to the rest of the world carrying the name of the region to this day. Ethiopia has everything to offer as your next holiday destination.

With a view to enable you to enjoy these leisure, cultural , historical and natural sites, we have revamped our in-house tour operations department, Ethiopian Holidays, by availing accessible, affordable and attractive tour packages that will meet your high expectations, from start to finish.

We invite you all to travel to Ethiopia and beyond with the Ethiopian Airlines holiday program.

Ethiopian Holidays provides hotels and tour packages, which range from one day stop over options to full scale journeys, at the best tourist destinations of Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and other tourist destination countries on its network.

The Ethiopian Airlines holiday program provides flexibility in travel planning, precision in the itinerary development and guarantee access to large fleet of air and ground transportation, access to the best guides, hotel rate and quality assurance for our partners, and for Ethiopian Airlines travellers who entrus t us to craft their journeys throughout the world.

ON T H E C OVER Explore the unique wildlife found in the Simien Mountains National Park.

Ethiopian Holidays website with its online booking system offers convenience for leisure as well as business travelers. Our website will provide prearranged inclusive tour packages that include airfare, hotel, ground transfers and tour services. For those travellers who wish to cater their own holidays by themselves, we offer all types of hotels with best rates in all holiday destinations, activities that suite a variety of traveller interest, transfers and car rentals.

This issue of Ethiopian Holidays magazine focuses on the many exciting destinations, trips and bundle itineraries available in the incredible country of Ethiopia, home of nine UNESCO world heritage sites. Ethiopia is truly a land of contrasts and extremes from the mountains that soar over 14,896 feet (4543 meters), to the lowest and hottest depths of the Danakil depression situated below116 meter below sea level. Ethiopian Holidays will take you on unique Ethiopian cultural tours adventurous explorations including but not limited to the Omo Valley, classic tours of northern historical routes, safaris through Ethiopia’s national parks known for exotic Flora and Fauna, endemic wild life, on bird watching tours, mountain trekking expeditions and so much more. You will indeed find your travel in Ethiopia a marvelous, memorable and exquisite, as you experience the warm hospitality of the charming Ethiopia people.

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Flying Made Simpler than Ever

Reward Yourself Everytime You

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08 ETHIOPIA

CONTENTS

TOURS

HISTORIC ROUTE > Rock-hewned church, Lalebela, Ethiopia

04

26

E T H I OPI A N TO U RS

TREKKING

MIDDLE E ASTE R N AN D ASIAN TOU RS

06

U.A.E.|ISRAEL|

HISTORIC ROUTE 08 HOLIDAYS

&

ADDIS

FESTIVALS ABABA

LAKES DANIKIL OMO

17

18

FIRE

VALLEY

20 22

16

24

BANGKOK|INDIA| CHINA|SINGAPORE

AF RICAN TOU RS

UGANDA|TANZANIA|KENYA

C ON TAC T US TO B O OK YO U R TOU R TODAY !

SEYCHELLES|EGYPT| SOUTH

AFRICA

Email: ET-Holidays@ethiopianairlines.com

Web: www.ethiopianholidays.com Phone: +251-11-665-6666

ETHIOPIA TREKKING Ethiopia remains one of the few unspoiled places in the world for real trekkers.

The mountain, valley and lowland routes create unforgettable memories. Take in spectacular views of landscape and wild animals as you wander through the stunning Simien Mountains National Park or the breathtaking Bale Mountain National Park. Get ready for an adventure, and explore the wilderness of Ethiopia on one of these Ethiopian Holidays trekking tours. [ D E TA I L S O N T H E N E X T PA G E ]

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AN TOURS

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ETHIOPIA

TREKKING > T R E K K I N G : N I N E - D AY B A L E M O U N TA I N S T O U R DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

Meet and assist. Addis Ababa city tour sightseeing.

Overnight at selected hotel.

DAY 02 / ADDIS ABABA - ETHIOPIAN RIFT VALLEY - DINSHO

Drive through spectacular mountain scenery to Dinsho, headquarters of Bale Mountain National Park. Enjoy the rest of the day hiking and spotting rare animals.

> T R E K K I N G : S E V E N - D AY B A L E M O U N TA I N S T O U R

DAY 03 / DINSHO - GEYSAY VALLEY - DINSHO

DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

DAY 04 / DINSHO - WEIB VALLEYS - FINCHA ABERA

Meet and assist. Addis Ababa city tour sightseeing.

Overnight at selected hotel.

Drive to Senetie Plateau, one of the highest peaks in the park Trek through Senetie to discover the endemic Ethiopian wolf or red jackal. In the afternoon, drive to Goba for an overnight stay.

Trek through dramatic highland scenery to Geysay Valley, observing various vegetation along the way.

DAY 02 / ADDIS ABABA - ETHIOPIAN RIFT VALLEY - DINSHO

Drive through spectacular mountain scenery to Dinsho, headquarters of Bale Mountain National Park. Enjoy the rest of the day hiking and spotting rare animals.

DAY 05 / FINCHA ABERA - MERERO- WASEMA

Trek beneath the peaks of Merero. See and taste mineral springs before making the steep ascent from the valley to the Senetie Plateau.

DAY 03 / DINSHO - GEYSAY VALLEY - DINSHO

Trek through dramatic highland scenery to Geysay Valley to observe various plant species.

DAY 06 / WASEMA - BATU – GARBAGURACHA LAKE

Climb Mt. Batu (4203 m) and then camp beside breath taking Garba Guracha Lake, set beneath towering cliffs at the head of the Tegona Valley.

DAY 04 / DINSHO - SENETIE PLATEAU - GOBA

Drive to Senetie Plateau, one of the highest peaks in the park.

Trek around Senetie to discover the endemic Ethiopian wolf, or red jackal. In the afternoon, drive to Goba for an overnight stay.

DAY 07 / GARBA GURACHA - KONTHE- GOBA

Trek across the plateau, enjoying stunning highland scenery scattered with small lakes. before reaching the peak of Konthe. In the evening, drive to Goba.

DAY 05 / GOBA - WENDO GENET

In the morning, drive to Wendo Genet. Take a relaxing trek through mountains covered by natural forest. Stay overnight in Wabe Shebelle Hotel.

DAY 08 / GOBA - WENDO GENET – HAWASSA

Drive to Wondo Genet for a day of relaxed trekking on a forested mountain late afternoon, drive to Hawassa for overnight stay.

DAY 06 / WENDO GENET - DEBRE ZEIT

After breakfast, drive to the Rift Valley lake city of Debre Zeit for a day of refreshment at Kuriftu Resort and Spa.

DAY 09 / HAWASSA - ADDIS ABABA

Drive to Addis Ababa for a day of shopping followed by farewell traditional Ethiopian dinner before transfer to the airport.

DAY 07 / DEBRE ZEIT - ADDIS ABABA

Visit the Debre Zeit lakes in the morning, then drive to Addis Ababa for a day of shopping followed by traditional Ethiopian dining before transfer to the airport.

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TREKKING

ETHIOPIA

> T R E K K I N G : S E M I E N M O U N TA I N S T O U R

> T R E K K I N G : S E M I E N M O U N TA I N S T O U R

DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

Meet and assist. Addis Ababa city tour and sightseeing.

Overnight at selected hotel.

Meet and assist. Visit historic sites on an Addis Ababa city tour. Overnight at selected hotel.

DAY 02 / ADDIS ABABA - LALIBELA

DAY 02 / GONDAR - SANKABAR

Fly to Gondar, then drive to Sankabar for overnight camping.

Fly to Lalibela in the morning to spend the day touring the worldfamous, 13th-century rock-hewn churches, including the iconic, cross-shaped Bet Giorgis.

DAY 03 / SANKABAR - GEECH

Spend half the day trekking to Geech, and take in stunning views from the mountain.

DAY 03 / LALIBELA - MEREBARBU

Trek to Merebarbu, with a stop along the way at the 13thcentury Asheten Mariam monastery.

DAY 04 / GEECH - IMETGOGO - GEECH

Journey to Imetgogo, one of the best views of the Simien Mountains National Park.

DAY 04 / MEREBARBU - WEDEBYE DAY 05 / GEECH - CHENEK

Take a four-hour trek from Merebarbu to Wedebye for overnight camping.

Trek to Chenek, where you can spot some of the region’s rarest species, including Walia Ibex.

DAY 05 / WEDEBYE - ABUNE YOSEF DAY 06 / CHENEK - AMBIQO

Continue trekking for four hours to reach Abune Yosef. Enjoy dramatic views of the mountain and watch for rare species: gelada baboon and Ethiopian wolf.

Trek to Ambiqo to climb Mt. Buhit. Ethiopia’s second highest peak.

DAY 07 / AMBIQO - RAS DASHEN - AMBIQO

Trek from Ambiqo to Ras Dashen, the tallest mountain in Ethiopia.

DAY 06 / ABUNE YOSEF - DEGOSACH - YIMRHANE KIRSTOS

Your route from Abune Yosef will take you to the plateaus of Degosach. Along the way, stop at local villages. At Yimrhane Kirstos, you will visit the 12th-century cave church, known for its unique style of architecture and decoration.

DAY 08 / AMBIQO - CHENEK

As you trek to Chenek, watch for the Ethiopian Wolf along the way.

DAY 09 / CHENEK - GONDAR

Spend the day sightseeing in the historic Gondar.

DAY 07 / YIMRHANE - ARBATU ENSESA - LALIBELA

In the morning, walk downhill to visit Arbatu Ensesa, a rockhewn church from the 4th century. Drive back to Lalibela in the afternoon.

DAY 10 / ADDIS ABABA

Fly back to Addis Ababa and enjoy shopping in Addis Ababa followed by farewell traditional dinner before transfer to airport.

DAY 08 / LALIBELA - ADDIS ABABA

Fly back to Addis Ababa, spend rest of the day at leisure. Farewell traditional Ethiopian dinner before transfer to the airport.

C ON TACT US TO B O O K YO U R TOUR TO DAY !

Email: ET-Holidays@ethiopianairlines.com

Web: www.ethiopianholidays.com Phone: +251-11-665-6666 07 7 E T

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HISTORIC ROUTE > LALIBELA

> Francisco Alvares, a Portuguese explorer in the 16th Century described Lalibela as “history and mystery frozen in stone.” Lalibela’s eleven churches, each carved out of a single block of granite, are an unparalleled architectural marvel, and recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

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HISTORIC ROUTE > LALIBELA

The churches date back to the 12th or 13th century and were constructed under the aegis of King Lalibela, a leader of pious zeal. . These amazing edifices were not constructed as such, but were chipped out of solid rock with only hammers and chisels.

As legend has it, angels worked along side his stonemasons for twenty-four years to complete the churches. Owing to the holiness and grandeur of these churches, worshippers from as far away as Jerusalem used to travel on foot on pilgrimage to Lalibela.

Lalibela’s mountainous and undulating landscape is a beautiful backdrop for visiting these churches. Visits to Lalibela include guided tours of the 11 churches as well as trekking tours in the outskirts of the town.

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HISTORIC ROUTE > AXUM

> Axum is the oldest city in Ethiopia, home of the towering obelisks, monolithic stele and royal tombs that date back to the 1st century. These structures have a series of inscriptions that are both intricately sophisticated in design as well as multilingual, textual encryptions that hold clues about ancient Ethiopia.

The engineers of these architectural masterpieces belong to the Axumite Civilization, one of the most glorious empires of the past. This Empire rules horn of Africa from the 10th to the 1st centuries BC. Axumite Empire is one of the first dynasty to accept Christianity and also acknowledged to be the first dynasty to have its own written language in the country: Geez.

Among the other wonders of Axum is the Cathedral of the St. Mary of Zion where a monk is said to be in custody of the true Ark of the Covenant. Menelik I, son of Queen Sheba and King Solomon, is said to have brought the Ark to Ethiopia after visiting his father in Jerusalem.The other tourist attraction of Axum city include the Grave of King Kaleb and the Grave of King Gabre, the reputed Bath of the Queen of Sheba, Museum and ruins of Queen of Sheba’s palace.

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HISTORIC ROUTE > GONDAR

Gondar is a year-round destination for its century worth of power manifested in its architecture. The centerpiece of the city is the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebi). This expansive fortress compound is where Emperor Fasiladas and his successors built their castles in large compound over the course of 236 years. Despite extensively looted by the Sudanese Dervishes and further damage sustained by British bombs during the liberation campaign of 1941, the castles rise and stand proud for centuries. These magnificent castles compound become major tourist attraction in country. Beside the castles and bath of Fasiladas where colorful timket festival take place and the church of Debre Berhan Selassie (Light of the trinity) is another tourist site in the city.

Owing to the Emperor Fasildas, Gondar was established as the capital of Ethiopia in 1636 and sustained its place as the capital of Ethiopia for two centuries. The city was a hub for art, music and literature in Ethiopia.

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HISTORIC ROUTE

> HARAR

> of its houses, twisted alleys, its intricate basketry, and hyena feeding and most of all it is city full of Charming people and colorful oldest cities in the country, was founded in the 7th century A.D Harrar was a major trading crossroad and a center of Islamic learning. Fortified against invaders, its provocative five gate wall (Jugol) was built narrow winding streets of Harrar contain over 90 mosques and many consider it to be the fourth holiest city of Islam.

C ON TAC T US TO B O OK YOU R TOU R TODAY !

Email:

ET-Holidays@ethiopianairlines.com

Web: www.ethiopianholidays.com Phone: +251-11-665-6666 12 E T

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HISTORIC ROUTE > BAHIR DAR

> Palm-lined avenues and pretty lakeside panoramas make Bahir Dar a decidedly attractive town. The city situated on shore of Lake Tana is well known for its wide avenues lined with palm trees and a variety of colorful flowers. Bahir Dar is also gate to visit Blue Nile Falls (Tis-Isat).

Bahar Dar’s main attraction is the collection of Ethiopian Christian monasteries which are found on some 20 of Lake Tana’s 37 islands. Most of the Lake Tana monasteries date from the 16th and 17th centuries and have changed little since their founding. Bahar Dar’s other attraction, the Blue Nile Falls, is about an hour’s ride out of town. Along the way you will enjoy the local life style and typical countryside of Ethiopia. Up on arrival hike through the beautiful scenery and cross over Portuguese bridge to the waterfall. Enjoy the fall and on the way back cross by boat the legendary Blue Nile river.

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HISTORIC ROUTE

ETHIOPIA

E T H I O P I A T O U R PAC K AG E S

AXUM T I G R AY

D E B R E DA M O G E R A L’ TA MEKELE

SEMIEN M O U N TA I N S

SUDAN

G O N DA R

AS H T O N M O U N TA I N

A FA R

LALIBELA B A H I R DA R

B DJI

OU

TI

KO M B O LC H A

AMHARA BENESHANGUL GUMUZ

DIRE DAWA

SOMALIA ADDIS ABABA

HAR AR

DEBRE ZEIT GAMBELA

SOMALI

SOUTHERN N AT I O N S N AT I O N A L I T I E S AND PEOPLES O M O VA L L E Y

OROMIA

KENYA

> NORTHERN ROUTE TOUR

> ADDIS ABABA & LALIBELA TOUR

> AXUM & LALIBELA TOUR

DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

DAY 02 / BAHR DAR

DAY 02 / LALIBELA

DAY 02 / AXUM

DAY 03 / GONDAR

DAY 03 / ASHETEN MARIAM-LALIBELA

DAY 03 / LALIBELA

DAY 04 / LALIBELA

DAY 04 / ADDIS ABABA

DAY 04 / LALIBELA DAY 05 / ADDIS ABABA

DAY 05 / AXUM DAY 06 / ADDIS ABABA

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HISTORIC ROUTE

ETHIOPIA

E T H I O P I A T O U R PAC K AG E S > BAH R DAR & LALIBELA TOUR D E B R E DA M O

AXUM

DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

G E R A L’ TA

T I G R AY

DAY 02 / BAHIR DAR

MEKELE

DAY 03 / LALIBELA

SEMIEN M O U N TA I N S

DAY 04 / ADDIS ABABA

G O N DA R

AS H T O N M O U N TA I N

A FA R

BENESHANGUL GUMUZ

LALIBELA BAHIR DA R

DJ

U I BO

TI

DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

KO M B O LC H A

AMHARA

> CLASSIC HISTORIC ROUTE W/ HARAR

DAY 02 / AXUM DAY 03 / LALIBELA

DIRE DAWA

ADDIS ABABA

DAY 04 / GONDAR DAY 05 / BAHIR DAR

HA R A R DAY 06 / DIRE DAWA DAY 07 / HARAR

DEBRE ZEIT

DAY 08 / ADDIS ABABA

> CLASSIC NORTHERN ROUTE TOUR

> CLASSIC HISTORIC ROUTE TOUR

DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

DAY 01 / ADDIS ABABA

DAY 02 / BAHR DAR

DAY 02 / LALIBELA

DAY 03 / GONDAR

DAY 03 / LALIBELA

DAY 04 / SEMIEN MOUNTAIN

DAY 04 / AXUM

DAY 05 / LALIBELA

DAY 05 / GONDAR

DAY 06 / AXUM

DAY 06 / ADDIS ABABA

AFRICA ETHIOPIA

DAY 07 / ADDIS ABABA

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H O L I D AY S & F E S T I V A L S

Step back in time as you witness the colorful and ancient religious and cultural festivals that are celebrated in Ethiopia throughout the year. a church service that goes on throughout the night. At Lalibella, it is celebrated with greater devotion, chanting, dancing, and singing around the historic rock-hewn churches.

MESKEL (THE FINDING OF THE TRUE CROSS) / ADDIS ABABA

One important festival is Meskel which falls on September 27th and celebrates the finding of the True Cross by St. Hilena, the wife of Constantine the Great. Vast bon fires are lit country wide the night before the celebration, and on the day itself, there are dances and feasts for everybody present. Especially at Addis Ababa Meskel Square large crowd attend the festival.

TIMKET (EPIPHANY) / GONDAR

Ethiopian Epiphany (Timket) which will be celebrated on January 19th 2017 has rituals and ceremonies involving the replicas of the Ark of the Covenant. In this procession, the replicas of the Original Ark (Tabots) from each Orthodox churches will be removed and are carried by priests under huge colorful umbrellas, Deacons also carry processional crosses, religious paintings and bells. In the occasion, a lot of people will sing, dance and ululates accompanying the Tabots all the way to the place where the Tabots are supposed to make their Overnight. The following morning, the church officials assemble around the Tabot and sprinkle holy water over all the faithful present and receive the renewals of their vows.

After this is done, the congregation follows the bishops, elders and clergy as the Tabots (the replicas of the original Ark) are also carried back to the church from where it came.

IRECHA RITUAL / DEBRE ZEIT

Irecha is Oromos people annual ritual of celebrating nature and thanksgiving to their god the creator called Waqa. This festivity is celebrated on Sunday that comes following meskel. At the beginning of September, as sunshine rules the land, the Oromo people of Ethiopia go out to celebrate this great natural cycle with the spirit of worshiping God (WAQA).The celebration involves making offerings on designated big tree and making recitations of good wish, blessing and sprinkling what is considered holy water on the participants. to your hotel for an overnight stay.

GENNA (ETHIOPIAN CHRISTMAS) / LALIBELA

ID AL FATR / ADDIS ABABA

Genna, the Ethiopian Christmas holiday (also called Lidet) falls on the 7th of January. This holiday comes after 43 days of fasting, known as Tsome Gehad (Advent), and is celebrated seriously with

Ramadan is one of the holiest periods in the Islamic calendar.

Life changes dramatically during fasting month of Ramadan.’ Id Al Fatr which marks the end of the fasting is the greatest Muslim feast of the year. This Holy month of celebrations, Ramadan for Muslims last for 29 to 30 days. The date fall in different date each year based on lunar calendar. Ethiopian Muslim each year celebrates Ramadan at Addis Ababa Stadium with various religious assortments.

ASHENDA FESTIVAL.

This is a feast colorfully celebrated in the northern part of Ethiopia in the month of August by the Tigre and Amahra people after two weeks fasting period called “Filseta”.It has a socio-cultural significance for the locals and is unique in a way that girls and young women await this yearly feast and dress up from top to bottom with an array of jewelries in their most attractive and colorful attire made from cotton woven by hand.

FICHE-CHAMBALALA / HAWASSA

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Fiche Chambalal, which has been registered by UNESCO as an intangible heritage, marks the start of the new year of the Sidama people in the Southern part of Ethiopia. During these festivities people from the surrounding area gather in a plot of land named “Gudumale”.and hence the locals will participate in this event irrespective of age, gender and social status in a traditional song and dance dressed up with the traditional Sidama cloth.

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ETHIOPIA

ADDIS ABABA

Visit Ethiopia's thriving capital city, the commercial and cultural heart of the country and Africa's diplomatic capital.

The name Addis Ababa means “New Flower” in Amharic, and the city is truly blossoming in many ways. Ethiopian Holidays offers one, two and three-day tour packages that include visits to the city’s major historic and cultural attractions, as well as half day stop over tour if you have long layover in Addis.

> ADDIS ABABA OUT & ABOUT “AZMARI BET” / literally means “house of Singers”, the unique feature of this house is the teasing lyrics from the Azmari toward any person in the crowed. Whether you understand the lyrics or not you will definitely enjoy the harmony.

BOSTON DAY SPA / Enjoy a relaxing massage, manicure, pedicure or hairstyling at one of Addis Ababa's top day NATIONAL MUSEUM / Famous for being the home of “Lucy,” a skeleton believed to represent the oldest human ancestor, this museum also contains a diverse collection of Ethiopian art and antiquities.

MERKATO /

INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANTS / As one of biggest diplomat base city in the world, you will find countless international restaurants; European dish, Mediterranean, Arabic, Indian, Mexican or Chinese; your choice!

Known as “Africa’s largest open marketplace.”

Built to commemorate the Ethiopian liberation from Italian occupation, this Ethiopian Orthodox Church is known for its Architecture and stained-glass artwork, and for being the burial place for many prominent Ethiopians, including members of the Ethiopian royal family.

TRINITY CATHEDRAL /

In any given night you can get many Bars or lounge with great music and inexpensive drinks. Clubs in Addis mostly open from Thursday to Saturday when you will enjoy Addis night life at its best.

ADDIS NIGHT LIFE /

Recently opened “All in one” spot where you can find precious stone jewelries with its work shop, an art gallery, Souvenir shop and work shop where you can witness how Ethiopian traditional cloth is made while enjoying the coffee ceremony.

with the aroma from roasted coffee beans Tomoca Café Serve the best coffee in the city.it should be on your must do list.

COFFEE AT TOMOCA /

YEABZER SOUVENIR AND ART GALLERY /

your visit to Addis should include dining in one of the traditional restaurants with live music, here you will experience in glimpse the country diverse and colorful cultural.

SPA SERVICE / Enjoy a relaxing massage, manicure, pedicure or hairstyling at one of Addis Ababa’s top day spas Boston Day Spa.

TRADITIONAL CUISINE AND MUSIC /

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L A K E S & E XC U R S I O N S NEAR ADDIS ABABA

> W O N C H I C R AT E R L A K E Wonchi Crater Lake is the beautiful legacy of a once powerful volcano which located on the mountain range between the town of Ambo and Woliso. This beautiful lake is situated at altitude of about 3000m above sea level. Wonchi contains hot springs, waterfalls and breathtaking valleys and scenery. In the island, an old monastery named Cherkos is found. Beside all this Wonchi is the home of indigenous forest reserves. Wonchi is a paradise for trekkers. The panorama to the right and left side of the gravel road is breathtaking. Once you arrive at the Crater Lake you would be totally overtaken by the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the freshness of the air.

Relax, recharge and be rejuvenated with a visit to one of Ethiopia’s peaceful lakeside cities around Addis. From Debre Zeit, home to Six volcanic crater lakes, to Hawassa popular resort city, Ethiopia’s lakeside resorts offer a

C ON TAC T US TO B O OK YOU R TOU R TODAY!

blend of breathtaking natural beauty and luxurious hospitality.

Email: ET-Holidays@ethiopianairlines.com

Web: www.ethiopianholidays.com Phone: +251-11-665-6666

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ETHIOPIA

L A K E S & E XC U R S I O N S NEAR ADDIS ABABA

> D E B R E L I B A N OS M O N AS T E RY A N D J E M M A VA L L E Y

> LANGANO Lake Langano is 200 km, about three hours drive by road south of the capital, Addis Ababa, popular with tourists and city dwellers for its swimming, water sports, horse riding, forest walking and mountain biking activities. The lake is brown in color and surrounded by a number of resort hotels and lodges. Visitors can also experience a variety of wildlife around the lake, including hippos, monkeys, baboons, warthogs, and a huge variety of birds.

Drive 110 kms north from Addis over the Entoto Mountains passing through the Sululta Plains to the Monastery of Debre Libanos founded in the 13th century by Abune Tekle Haymanot. The church with its magnificent murals it is surrounded by stunning and overwhelming scenery. The Jemma River is one of the tributaries of the Nile, and there is a drop of nearly 1000 meters to the valley below. The scenery is stunning, and it is very peaceful.

> Z I WAY

> DEBRE ZEIT “BISHOFTU” A town lying south east of Addis Ababa with an elevation of 1,920 metres, and about 45 kilometres southeast of Addis Ababa along its route. The town lies within a circle of six crater lakes, makes it a very popular resort with a pleasant climate. Full day enjoy at the magnificent resort and visit the crater lakes.

The town of Ziway lies on the lake’s western shore. There are five islands which include Debre Sina, Galila, Bird Island and, perhaps most notably Tullu Gudo, home to a monastery said to have housed the Ark of the Covenant around the ninth century. The lake is known for its population of birds and hippopotamuses as well as supporting a local fishing industry. Recently the city is also become home for different winery farms.

> H AWA S S A Hawassa located 275 km South of Addis Ababa which is now accessible with daily 30min flight from Addis. Lake Hawassa is a idyllic lake that is surrounded by rolling hills everywhere. It is a freshwater lake full of fish and home to a group of hippos usually located in the southeast side of the lake Stop (near t The town and lake of Hawassa form a popular resort for local and visitors.

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ETHIOPIA

DANAKIL FIRE

Experience the dynamic landscape of Ethiopia with a tour to the country's fiery peaks. With many stops along the way, these tours promise to introduce you to the staggering natural beauty of Ethiopia.

LAST VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS OF DANAKIL VOLCANOES (BY YEAR)

Dallol: 1926 / Erta Ale: 1967—2013 / Afrera: 1907

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ETHIOPIA

DANAKIL FIRE

› FAC E T H E F I R E

› JOURNEY OF FIRE

DAY 01 / ARRIVE ADDIS ABABA

DAY 01 / ARRIVE ADDIS ABABA

Your guide will welcome you by taking you on a brief tour through some of the city’s highlights: the National Museum, Trinity Cathedral and Africa’s largest open—air market, Merkato.

Meet your guide upon arrival, and finish your day with a tour that takes you to significant sites throughout the city.

DAY 02 / ADDIS ABABA-MEKELLE

DAY 02 /

After an early breakfast, head back to the airport to fly to Mekelle, where a city tour awaits you.

ADDIS ABABA-MEKELLE

Enjoy an early breakfast before jetting to Mekelle. A city tour will include the Palace of Emperor Yohanes IV.

DAY 03 / MEKELLE-WUQRO-GERALTA DAY 03 / MEKELLE-AMEDILA

Drive to Amedila village. There, join a salt—carrying camel caravan while enjoying scenic views. Camp overnight in Amedila.

Drive from Mekelle to Geralta, home to several rock-hewn churches that include Michael Debre Selam, Michael Imba and Medhanialem Adikisho. Stay overnight at Geralta Lodge.

DAY 04 / AMEDILA

DAY 04 / GERALTA-MEKELLE

Drive atop a salt lake en route to the Dallol depression, the world’s lowest point. Explore markets before returning to Amedila for overnight camping.

Take in spectacular views from the rock-hewn churches of Tigray.

Overnight at Mequelae Axum Hotel.

DAY 05 / MEKELLE-AMEDILA

DAY 05 / AMEDILA-DODEM-ERTA ALE

Drive to Amedila village, where you will encounter a salt-carrying caravan of camels and camp overnight.

Drive to Dodem in the morning and to Khorsabad desert village in the afternoon. Trek to Erta Ale, Ethiopia’s “Smoking Mountain,” and watch the volcano’s lava lakes. Camp overnight in Erta Ale.

DAY 06 / AMEDILA

Visit the lowest place on earth, the Danakil Depression, and experience driving on top of salty lake Asale. Return to Amedila for overnight camping.

DAY 06 / ERTA ALE-DODEM-AFRERA

Return to Khorsabad and drive to Afrera volcano for a half day.

Visit Lake Afrera, a salt—producing lake, in the afternoon. Camp overnight in Afrera.

DAY 07: AMEDILA-DODEM-ERTA ALE

Leave the Rift Valley Desert region for the central market city of Awash. Lodge at Genet Hotel.

A route over the desert will take you from Amedila to Dodem for a half day. In the afternoon, continue to Khorsabad desert village and walk to Erta Ale volcano for a lava show. Camp overnight in Erta Ale.

DAY 08 / AWASH-DEBRE ZEIT

DAY 08 / ERTA ALE-DODEM-AFRERA

In the morning drive to Debre Zeit to rejuvenate at the five-star, eco—friendly Kuriftu Resort and Spa.

After a walk back to Khorsabad, drive to Afrera for a half day.

In the afternoon, visit the region’s lake, one of the country’s salt production sites. Overnight camping in Afrera.

DAY 07 / AFRERA-AWASH

DAY 09 / DEBRE ZEIT-ADDIS ABABA

Visit Debre Zeit lakes in the morning and then drive to Addis Ababa for a day of shopping and an evening of traditional Ethiopian dining before transfer to the airport.

DAY 09 / AFRERA-AWASH

Drive from the Rift Valley Desert to the city of Awash. Encounter local people and their customs and stay overnight in Genet Hotel.

DAY 10 / AWASH-HARAR

Drive from Awash to Harar for a city tour. One of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, Harar offers a glimpse into history with its ancient wall. Tour museums and stay overnight in Ras Hotel.

> S H O R T E R T O U R V E R S I O N S AVA I L A B L E Shorter tours of Danakil fire is available, please contact us at ET-Holidays@ethiopianairlines.com or call us on +251 6656666

DAY 11 / HARAR-DEBRE ZEIT

In the morning drive to Debre Zeit in the Rift Valley Lakes region to rejuvenate at Kuriftu Resort and Spa. DAY 12 / DEBRE ZEIT-ADDIS ABABA

After a morning visit to the Debre Zeit lakes, drive to Addis Ababa for a final day of shopping. In the evening, experience traditional dining at an Ethiopian restaurant before transfer to the airport.

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O M O VA L L E Y

Step into a world of beauty, unique peoples, and ancient traditions and rituals. More than 15 tribes occupy the Omo Valley, each with its own languages and customs. You’ll have the opportunity to meet the Hammar people (with their body decorations), Kara males (with hairstyles meticulously crafted with redochre clay), and Mursi women (with clay lip plates), as well as many other ethnic groups.

> L I V E I N O M O V A L L E Y C U LT U R E DAY 01 / ARRIVE ADDIS ABABA

Your journey starts with a tour of the capital city of Addis Ababa, Africa’s diplomatic capital. Later in the afternoon you’ll visit the National Museum and the ethnographic museum to see the different lifestyles of the major Ethiopian ethnic groups.

DAY 02 / ADDIS ABABA - ARBA MINCH

Drive to Arba Minch, which means "forty springs." During the 510 kilometer drive, you’ll visit the villages of the Oromo, Welayeta and Halaba Tribes.

DAY 03 / ARBA MINCH

In the morning, drive to the village of Chencha to see the unique houses and culture of the Dorze people. The villagers cultivate ensete (“the false banana”) from which they make their traditional bread, kotcho. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip on Chamo Lake, keeping an eye out for crocodiles, hippos and other river wildlife.

DAY 04 / JINKA

Drive to Jinka, travelling through various villages and ethnic groups such as the Konso, Tsemay and Bena. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Konso. Your journey continues with a stop at Tsemay and Bena villages. If it is Thursday, you will visit the spectacular Key Afer market, where different Omo Valley ethnic groups meet to trade with each other.

C ON TAC T US TO B O OK YO U R TOUR TO DAY !

DAY 05 / JINKA - MURSI

Travel to the visit Mursi people via Mago National Park. The Mursi have unique customs. For example, women wear geometrical lip plates and the men practice fierce stick fighting. In the afternoon, drive to Turmi en route visit Bena village.

Email: ET-Holidays@ethiopianairlines.com

Web: www.ethiopianholidays.com Phone: +251-11-665-6666

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ETHIOPIA

O M O VA L L E Y

DAY 06 / TURMI - MURULLE

Excursion to Kortcho villages to visit the decorated tribe of Kara and be treated to a spectacular view of the Omo River. If it is Saturday, you will visit the spectacular Dimeka Market.

DAY 07 / TURMI - OMORATE

Continue to Omorate for a visit to the Dasenech people, crossing the Omo River in a wooden boat. Then return to Turmi and, if it’s a Monday, visit the market.

DAY 08 / YABELLO

On the way to Yabello, you’ll visit Erbore villages. After having lunch in Konso, drive to Yabello through the Konso lowlands with a visit of the Borena Oromo people.

DAY 09 / YABELLO - YERGALEM

In the morning, continue to “Chewbet” for a view of traditional salt production from the top of the mountain. In the afternoon you’ll drive to Yergalem, visiting the Sidama and Gedeo people.

End the day in Yergalem for an overnight stay at the densely forested compound of Aregash Lodge, known for its excellent cuisine and on-site coffee farm.

DAY 10 / YERGALEM - ADDIS ABABA

In the morning, drive to Hawssa for a visit to the fish market, and later continue to Addis with a stop at the Rift Valley lakes of Zewai and Bishoftu. Late in the afternoon you’ll arrive in Addis for a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant. In the evening, you'll transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

> S H O R T E R T O U R V E R S I O N S AVA I L A B L E Shorter 8-day and 9-day tours of the Omo Valley are also available.

The shorter tours exclude the Yabello/Yergalem visits, and your visit to Abraminch is also shortened. For more information, contact us at reservation@et-holidays.com, or call +251 116 184 360.

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AFRICAN TOURS > UG AN DA

> B O T S WA N A Home to some of the greatest areas to explore the African wildlife on land as well as in water. Whatever Botswana package you choose will leave you with a camera stocked full of exceptional photos and an experience unlike any other.

Hike up to a hill known as “The Top of the World” for panoramic views of Fort Portal Town. On our longer tour options, live on the edge as you drive around craters, encounter the famed treeclimbing lions of Ishsaha, and cruise alongside crocodiles and hippos. However long you choose to travel with us, prepare to soak up sights of lush landscape and exotic wildlife.

> ZIMBABWE

> TA N Z A N I A Tanzania offers visitors the opportunity to witness the raw, unspoiled beauty of the Serengeti, which boasts the highest concentration of plains wildlife in Africa. Visitors to Tanzania can also take in the sensory delights of Zanzibar, the “spice island,” and the beauty of the Indian Ocean coastline.

A nation of spectacular natural beauty, friendly people and rich culture. Victoria Falls – known to locals as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the sheer power of this massive body of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Lake Kariba, with its game-rich shores and islands; Hwange National Park and a kayak trip down the Zambezi through the Mana Pools National Park will be waiting for you.

C ON TAC T US TO B O OK YOU R TOU R TODAY! Email: ET-Holidays@ethiopianairlines.com

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Web: www.ethiopianholidays.com Phone: +251-11-665-6666

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AFRICA

AFRICAN TOURS

> K E N YA

> S E YC H E L L E S

Travel with us to Kenya to experience some of the world’s richest wildlife sanctuaries, including Maasai Mara, home to the annual migration of zebra, wildebeest and gazelle. Our Kenya tour packages also include the option to visit the spectacular beach resorts of Mombassa and the Swahili coast.

From sandy white beaches to adventure-laden forests, the islands of the Seychelles are a tropical travelers dream. Our Seychelles tour packages include stays at luxurious oceanfront resorts and tours of all the natural beauty that Seychelles has to offer.

> SOUTH AFRICA

> EGYPT

Welcome to a nation where you can go on safari and visit the beach without having to travel great distances. Tours in this country will take you to a variety of different locations that celebrate diversity in both culture and landscape. This nation is renowned for its wide open skies and welcoming locals, making it a popular destination all year round.

Discover first-hand the marvelous wonders of the ancient civilizations of Egypt. Our Egyptian tour packages include visits to museums and archeological sites, as well as tours of the worldfamous pyramids in Giza.

C ON TAC T US TO B O OK YOU R TOU R TODAY! Email: ET-Holidays@ethiopianairlines.com

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Web: www.ethiopianholidays.com Phone: +251-11-665-6666

ASIAN TOURS + MIDDLE EASTERN

> U N I T E D A R A B E M I R AT E S

> INDIA

Explore the diversity of the United Arab Emirates with one of our U.A.E day packages. From the glittering lights of Dubai to the rocky mountain landscape of Ras Al Khaimah, our tour packages give you numerous ways to explore this amazing, fast-growing country.

Welcome to India, a country bordered by northern Himalayan peaks, carved with rivers and flanked by oceans. Encounter rolling hills of tea gardens in Darjeeling or experience the architectural marvel of the Taj Mahal. Stand amid snow-capped mountains in the Kashmir region, visit a Bishnoi village to learn about traditional crafts, or visit the colorful city of Mumbai option.

Ethiopian Holidays offers a wide variety of tour packages that cover the length and breadth of this vast, fascinating country.

> ISRAEL Take a pilgrimage to the Holy Land with a unique, blended 12-day itinerary. Divide your time between Ethiopia and Israel — with tours first in Ethiopia: stunning rock-hewn churches in Lalibela, impressive castles in Gondar and 14th-century monasteries on Lake Tana’s islands. These historic and religious sites will set the stage for your journey to Israel, where you will encounter the homeland of major world religions. Highlights include a visit to Nazareth, the Mount of Olives, the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem and a walk along Via Dolorosa, the supposed final path of Jesus.

> JA PA N Japan is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. It is a unique blend of traditional and modern, with many temples and buildings from the past co-existing with modern achievements in architecture and technology. Visitors can be immersed in Japanese history and culture one day and get a glimpse of the future through technological developments the next. Almost all of the historical sites are still used for their original purposes while remaining open to the public.

C ON TAC T US TO B O OK YOU R TOU R TODAY! Email: ET-Holidays@ethiopianairlines.com

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Web: www.ethiopianholidays.com Phone: +251-11-665-6666

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MIDDLE EAST +ASIA

MIDDLE EAST+ASIAN TOURS

> THAILAND

> CHINA

Thailand welcomes abundant visitors every year, and it doesn’t take long to realize why. From bustling urban shopping and culinary delights to serene temples and amazing natural beauty, Thailand has attractions to appeal to nearly every taste.

Discover the Far East with an excursion to China. With a selection of tours almost as varied and vast as this country, choose a route that appeals to your sense of adventure.

Tours range from three to 13 days. So, whether you’re tight on schedule or looking for a leisurely pace, pack your bags for a rich, cultural journey. As you make your way through China by air or by land, stop for exploration in booming cities like Guangzhou or in ancient centers like Xian. With stunning palaces, ancient cities, impressive museums and traditional music performances, China beckons you to visit, learn and enjoy.

> M A L AY S I A Malaysia is clearly one of the people’s choicest destinations in the world for almost all Holiday needs. The Kuala Lumpur Tower, Petronas Twin Towers, Picturesque mountains, National Monuments and National Museum, wild forests and beautiful rivers, stunning mosques and temples, contemporary skyscrapers, …

To know Malaysia is to love its beauty - A thought truly justified when you decide to travel to this magical country

> SINGAPORE Join us for a trip to Singapore, the world-famous Lion City. A mix of natural parks and modern city-centers, Singapore invites you into a world of sophisticated beauty and breathtaking modern technology. As you travel with us, we’ll take you to see the best that this city-state has to offer.

You will have plenty of opportunities to sample the flavorful Chinese, Malay and Indian cuisines that make up Singapore’s famous food culture. Let Ethiopian Holidays introduce you to the cultural, natural and architectural marvels of Singapore.

> INDONESIA Encompassing over 17,000 islands, 300 languages and just as many ethnic groups, the vast and varied archipelagic nation of Indonesia is anything and everything, all at once. Indonesia offers a wonderful blend of culture and scenery, appealing to sun seekers and adventurers.

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AT 35,000 FEET TASTE ETHIOPIAN COFFEE WITH A SMILE