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E-Brochure 2014-2015 SENAIT Ethiopia Tours (Sunny) www.senaitethiopia.com

SENAIT Ethiopia Tours (Sunny) Around Megenagna, on the way to Bole Airport, kokeb BLDG, 1st Floor, # 104, P.O BOX 29977 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Tel: +251 118 60 23 43 Mob: +251 911 94 38 12 / +251 930 01 43 76 Email: info@sunnyethiopiatours.com OR sunnyethiopiatours@gmail.com Skype: sunnyethiopia1 www.senaitethiopia.com / www.sunnyethiopiatours.com

ETHIOPIA, located in the Horn of Africa

F.ederal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (F.D.R.E)

About Us Senait Ethiopia meaning ‘Beautiful Ethiopia, Excellent Ethiopia’ in

Amharic, the official language of Ethiopia, is a private Ethiopian owned tour company which has been operating since 2008 that offers wide selections of tour package, tailor-made and customized tours throughout the beautiful & sunny country of Ethiopia. Senait Ethiopia Tours believe in high standards of service, but charge very competitive price. It is a well-organized company with experienced travel staff who facilitates travel and will give you unforgettable memories.

SET operates on a serious belief that it’s making and breaking is in the

hands of its customers. This is not just a hollow slogan. For a service provider such as SET, the recommendations of our satisfied customers have more lasting effects than tons of literatures and promotional materials.

SET Mission

Maintain ethical Client-Oriented Business by providing best valued, most cost effective, reliable and responsible tour services for the benefit of the local community.

The tour division is run by well experienced management, tour operators, professional and polyglot tour guides who have certified from Catering and Tourism Training Institute which is one of the affiliate member of World Tourism Organization, offering a variety of package and tailor made tours for individual and group travelers.

SET offers reasonable rates and reliable travel advice based on years of travel experience in Ethiopia.

Unique features of SET

» Competitive prices » Flexible payment options » Quality service » Highly qualified and friendly staff » Secured payment plan » Range of tourist class insured vehicles

SENAIT ETHIOPIA TOURS Senait Ethiopia Tours cooperates with all other service principals; Airline companies, travel agents, Hotels, Car Rentals, National Parks, Game reserves, Museums, Churches, Mosques, and is very close to attractive host communities.

Hence, our clients are welcomed everywhere and treated as friends. We respect and abide by rules and regulations. It provides a great contribution for the economic growth and promotion of the country.

Senait Ethiopia has strong connections with local community-based aid organizations. We can help you arrange visits of schools, health centers and orphanages, etc.

Price and Cost Effectiveness No hidden costs and no late pricing surprises.

We want our customers to exactly know what they are getting for their money. We want you to know our strengths, limitations as well as the conditions and environments of the various sites to be visited.

In case of tight schedule There are times when you have a very tight schedule to keep, and very little time to keep it in. Even in such bottleneck situations, the experiences we have acquired, the dedication of our team, the smooth and cordial working relationship that we have developed with various local administrations and service providers, give us the ability to be flexible, adjust situations, and optimize results even while actually conducting the tours.

Our Legality

Senait Ethiopia Tour is licensed by The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Ministry of Trade and Industry; Business license No. 721/2001 and an accredited company from Ethiopia Ministry of Culture and tourism.

You are the welcome

Why travel and tour to Ethiopia?

The joy of traveling is that it can be enjoyed virtually anywhere in the world. Indeed one of the best recommended countries for all breathtaking scenery, rugged but majestic mountains, exotic flora, fauna (mainly endemic mammals, birds, plants) and pristine cultural diversity maintained by perpetual history is undoubtedly Ethiopia. Located in the northeastern Horn of Africa, equidistant to the equator and the Tropic of Capricorn, Ethiopia is the oldest nation in Africa.

Its bedrock belongs to the earth’s first continent, a continent known by geologists as Gondwanaland.

Africa forms the largest intact remnant of this.

Lucy, the oldest hominid, whose remains were found in Ethiopia’s part of the Great Rift Valley in the place called HADAR, lived among her companions. Being huge, Ethiopia represents an amusing natural, cultural and historical diversity. Its favorable climatic conditions and landscape make Ethiopia the home of bird life and mammals. After the rains, it is decked with flowers and with more native plants than most countries in Africa.

Ethiopia’s awe-inspiring diversity is well represented in our tailor-made and package tours. There are options of an exciting adventure, off-road safaris, mobile camping, and guided trekking as well as cultural. Prices range from budget to family, luxury and truly exotic vacation travel!

SPECIALIZATIONS

Historical holidays Family Adventure Bird watching holidays Trekking / walking vacations Adventure holidays Off-road Safari Educational trip Photography safari Cultural holidays (Festival, ceremonies, events ) Ecological tours Pilgrimage tours Arrangement for documentary films Special interest holidays Flight and Hotel bookings Car rentals ...

The country is endowed with peerless geological formations, varying from 116 meters below sea level that is the radiant sulfuric inferno. The Danakil Depression to the alpine peaks in the rugged Semien Mountains only the phenomenal Great Rift Valley cuts Ethiopia in two, forming a series of marvelous lakes, thriving with opulent in all life forms.

Authentic Service! Authentic Experience!

SENAIT Ethiopia Tours (Sunny)

Around Megenagna, on the way to Bole Airport, Kokeb BLDG, 1st Floor, # 104, P.O BOX 29977 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Tel: +251 118 60 23 43 Mob: +251 911 94 38 12 / +251 930 01 43 76 Email: info@sunnyethiopiatours.com OR sunnyethiopiatours@gmail.com Skype: sunnyethiopia1

Proposed Itineraries

The Grand Historic Route of Ethiopia LEGEND has it that Emperor Menelik I, the son of the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon, brought the Ark of the Covenant from Jerusalem to Axum, Ethiopia, where he settled and established one of the world’s longest known, uninterrupted monarchical dynasties.

This is only one example of Ethiopian’s magnificent history, which encompasses legend and tradition, mystery and fact, from a powerful and religious ancient civilization.

The well trodden path through Ethiopia’s famous and fascinating historical places takes you through a scenic, magnificent world of fairy tale names, such as Axum, Lalibela, Gondar and Bahirdar.

AXUM

The northern Ethiopia ancient city of Axum, regarded as the cradle of Ethiopian culture and Christianity, is the country’s oldest extant urban settlement. From around 200 BC to 700 AD, Axum was the seat of an empire that extended across the Red Sea to Arabia, traded with India and China, had its own alphabet, constructed great engineering works and which, in the 4th century, was one of the four great powers of the world.

LALIBELA

Perched at an altitude of 2630 m, among wild craggy mountains and vast rocky escarpments, Lalibela is a strikingly singular town famed for its 12th century rock-hewn churches. No matter if you’ve visited other rock-hewn churches in the rest of the world; nothing will prepare you for these.

At the end of the 12th and beginning of the 13th centuries, King Lalibela of the Zaghwe dynasty

built a series of rock hewn churches, carved into the rugged mountainsides. There are 11 churches in the town named after him, with others in the surrounding countryside.

GONDAR

The next stop on the historic route, with its strategic hilltop location at an altitude of 2200 m in the Southern foothills of the Simien Mountains , is the graceful city of Gondar , site of numerous castlelike palaces, dating back from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.

The city was founded by Emperor Fasilidas in the 17th century and remained the capital of Ethiopia for the next two centuries. It’s known for its many medieval castles and the design and decoration of its churches. Among the dozen edifices found on the precinct of the royal compound the earliest of the castles was created by Fasilidas himself and is still in such an excellent state of repair that it is still possible climb its stairs all the way to the roof which commands a breathtaking view over much of the city.

monasteries. Blue Nile Falls locally known as ‘Tis Isat’ (the water that smokes), about 30 km after it exits Lake Tana, plunges over a 45 m high rock face to form one of Africa’s most spectacular waterfalls.

Lake Tana , with the surface area of 3,673 sq km, is the largest lake in Ethiopia . Besides being the source of the Blue Nile, Lake Tana is renowned for its varied birdlife as well as housing on its islands and peninsulas more than 20 monastic churches most of which were founded in or before the 15 th century, and are still in service today.

Semien Mountain

The Simien mountains massif is one of Africa’s principal highlands, rising to Ras Deshan (4,535m),the fourth highest peak on the continent. Situated 100km north of Gondar, the mountains provide an excellent trekking area, with defined paths and spectacular scenery. There is a good variety of wildlife including baboons, ibex, the Ethiopian wolf and a variety of birdsof prey such as the lammergeyer. The National Park is made up of a rocky massif - cut by streams and gorges - which slopes down to grasslands It comprises of three general botanical regions. The lower cultivated and grazing slopes; the forested alpine regions (up to 3600m),and the higher mountain grasslands with red hot pokers and giant lobelia. The park was created BAHIR DAR Ethiopia is associated first and primarily to protect the Walia Ibex, foremost with desert and drought a type of wild goat, and over 1000 – not a little ironic, when you con- are said to live in the park. There sider that the fertile Nile basin, are also large families of the Gelaon which Egypt depends, receives da baboon and the rare Simien fox.

90% of its water from the Ethiopi- The Simien fox, although named an highlands particularly this Blue after the mountains, is rarely seen by the visitor.

Nile River .

Bahir Dar, set at an altitude of 1830 m, is a comfortable base for excursion by land and water to the Blue Nile waterfalls and a number of historic lake-side churches and

Tour to The Grand Historic Route of Ethiopia by Air Tour Code: SET 010 Duration: 7days/ 6nights Means of Transport: Flight and Drive Description: Visit the Historic part of the country and over four World Heritage sites Day 01: Arrival in Addis Ababa Flight from your country, arrive at Bole International airport, meet our staff member and transfer to your Hotel.

Day 2, Fly Addis Ababa/Axum Early morning flight to Axum. The most striking relics here are the giant obelisks that are believed to be thousands of years old. They are carved from single blocks of granite and the tallest was more than 100 feet high. Axum is also the centre for Ethiopia’s Orthodox Christians.

Ethiopia is one of the oldest Christian countries in the world, and you visit the remains of a church dating from the fourth century. Nearby is a 16th century church where the crowns of the Ethiopian emperors are stored. The Ark of the Covenant is reputed to be here, and some of the ruins are associated with the Queen of Sheba. There’s plenty of time to see these fascinating sights, and you’ll have a local guide to show you around.

Overnight Hotel.

Day 3, Fly Axum/Lalibela Morning flight to Lalibela, the world heritage city.

After 40 minutes flight, you will arrive at Shimshaha ( Lalibela Airport),transfer to hotel and start to visit the 1st group churches which are included Bieta Medhanialem (Chapel of Holy Savior) which is the biggest and Bieta Mariam (Chapel of Mary): three aisled with mural paintings and a covered pillar containing inscriptions about the end of the world according to the gadl (act )of saintly king. Further visit of Bieta Denagel (Chapel of the Virgins), Bieta Meskel (Chapel of the cross) and finally, the “double – church” of Debre Sina and Bieta Golghotha (women are not allowed in the latter since it’s where the remains of King Lalibela are and also because it contains the tabernacle of the Holy Trinity). PM Visit of the second group of rock-hewn churches that are namely: Bieta Gabriel and Raphael, Bieta Merquorios, Bieta Emmanuel with unprecedented Axumite style and the Bieta Abaa Libanos (said to have been built by King Lalibela’s consort Meskal Kebra and visit the Bieta Ghiorghis which is the cruciform chapel of St. George. Overnight hotel.

Day 5, Drive to Bahirdar Morning drive 180km to Bahirdar, one of the lake shore town. On the way admire the beautiful landscape the Amhara people’s way of life and castle of Guzara. P.M drive 70KM round trip to visit Tississat named after the water falls of the Blue Nile River (the life blood for the Sudanese and Egyptians). Be informed that clients will walk about 30 minutes to arrive near to the water falls on Blue Nile. So they are expected to wear appropriate clothes that match with hot weather and good shoes. Back to Bahirdar Overnight hotel.

Day 6, Bahirdar In the morning, take a boat trip on Lake Tana and visit the old island monasteries of Ura Kidane-Mihret, and Kebran Gabriel (closed for women). Most of the monasteries decorated with frescoes and staffed with religious as well as historical treasures. There are 37 islands scattered about on the 3000 square kilometer lake which is the source of the Blue Nile.

About 20 of these islands house, the churches and monasteries that are of immense historical and cultural interest. On the lake, be sure to notice the Tankwa boat, little papyrus boats that appear so flimsy yet are capable of carrying passengers and their goods around the lake as they have done for many centuries. Late afternoon window shopping and Bahirdar market with some city tour. Late afternoon drive to Bezawit palace for panoramic view of the town of Bahirdar, Lake Tana and Blue Nile River. Overnight hotel.

Day 7, Bahirdar/Addis Morning after breakfast departs to airport for the flight back to Addis and Attend farewell dinner in the famous Ethiopian Traditional Restaurant with live music and delicious meal, transfer to Bole International airport for flight and it will be the end of the tour.

The Grand Historic Route with Semien Mountains

Tour Code:: SET 011 Duration: 6days/ 5nights Means of Transport: Flight and Drive Description: Historic North Ethiopia and Mountain Trekking

historical and cultural interest.

On the lake, be sure to notice the Tankwa boat, little papyrus boats that appear so flimsy yet are capable of carrying passengers and their goods around the lake as they have done for many centuries. Late afternoon window shopping and Bahirdar market with some city Day 01: ADDIS ABABA - BAHIR tour. Late afternoon drive to Bezawit palace for panoramic view of DAR the town of Bahirdar, Lake Tana After breakfast transfer to the Air- and Blue Nile river Dinner and port for your flight to Bahir Dar. overnight in your hotel.

In the morning, take a boat trip on Lake Tana and visit the old island Day 02: BAHIR DAR - GONDAR monasteries of Ura Kidane-Mihret, and Kebran Gabriel (closed for After breakfast Drive to Gondar. women). Most of the monasteries Lunch will be followed by an afdecorated with frescoes and staffed ternoon city tour of the 17th cenwith religious as well as histori- tury town of Gondar with its castle cal treasures. There are 37 islands compound. You will visit also one scattered about on the 3000 square of the beautiful churches “Debre kilometer lake which is the source Birhan Sellassie� very known for of the Blue Nile. About 20 of these its mural paintings as well as drive islands house the churches and for a short visit of the village of the monasteries that are of immense former Ethiopian Jews. Overnight

in your hotel.

Day 03: Gonder -Semein Mountain Enjoying the beautiful landscape of the area and before about 6 km from Gonder you will visit little village of Wolleka (Falasha Village), once the home of a thriving population of Falashas or Ethiopian Jews. Before Christianity arrived, Judaism was for centuries the dominant religion of most of north-western Ethiopia. Further Drive in the Semien Mountain N.park until Chenek (about 3600 meter above sea level) enjoy the Roof of Africa, endemic animals like Walia Ibex, Semien Fox, Chilada Baboon, Klipsprings etc. Overnight in your hotel.

Day 06: AXUM - ADDIS Morning after breakfast departs to airport for the flight back to Addis and it will be the end of service. Attend farewell dinner in the famous Ethiopian traditional restaurant with live music and delicious meal, transfer to Bole International airport for flight and it will be the end of the tour.

GONDAR

LALIBELA

Day 04: GONDAR - LALIBELA Morning Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lalibela, the world heritage city. After 40 minutes flight, you will arrive at Shimshaha ( Lalibela Airport),transfer to hotel and start to visit the 1st group churches which are included Bieta Medhanialem (Chapel of Holy Savior) which is the biggest and Bieta Mariam (Chapel of Mary): three aisled with mural paintings and a covered pillar containing inscriptions about the end of the world according to the gadl (act )of saintly king. Further visit of Bieta Denagel (Chapel of the Virgins), Bieta Meskel (Chapel of the cross) and finally, the “double – church” of Debre Sina and Bieta Golghotha (women are not allowed in the latter since it’s where the remains of King Lalibela are and also because it contains the tabernacle of the Holy Trinity). PM Visit of the second group of rock-hewn churches that are namely: Bieta Gabriel and Raphael, Bieta Merquorios, Bieta Emmanuel with unprecedented Axumite style and the Bieta Abaa Libanos (said to have been built by King Lalibela’s consort Meskal Kebra and visit the Bieta Ghiorghis which is the cruciform chapel of St. George. Overnight hotel.

Day 05: LALIBELA - AXUM Early morning flight to Axum. The most striking relics here are the Giant Obelisks that are believed to be thousands of years old. They are carved from single blocks of granite and the tallest was more than 100 feet high.

Axum is also the centre for Ethiopia’s Orthodox Christians. Ethiopia is one of the oldest Christian countries in the world, and you visit the remains of a church dating from the fourth century. Nearby is a 16th century church where the crowns of the Ethiopian emperors are stored. The Ark of the Covenant is reputed to be here, and some of the ruins are associated with the Queen of Sheba. There’s plenty of time to see these fascinating sights, and you’ll have a local guide to show you around.

Overnight hotel.

AXUM

Tour code: SET 012 Duration: 13 nights/14 Days Means of Transport: Surface Description: It is the highlight of the Classic Historic Route that includes Ethiopian ancient and historical towns of Lalibela, Axum, The semien Mountain, Gonder , Bahirdar and the surrounding attractions.

Day 01, Arrival in Addis Ababa Flight from your country, arrive at Bole International airport, meet our staff member and transfer to Overnight hotel.

Day 02, Addis/ Kombolcha Full day drive to Kombolcha through a scenic landscape over viewing the western edge of the escarpment of the Ethiopian Rift Valley, up on arrival transfer to overnight hotel.

Day 03, Kombolcha/ Lalibela Drive to Lalibela, one of the eighth

wonder of the world en route over view Lake Hayq. This lake hosts an important monastery Overnight hotel.

Day 04, Lalibela AM visit the first group of rock hewn churches which are included Bieta Medhanialem (Chapel of Holy Savoir) which is the biggest and Bieta Mariam (Chapel of Mary): three aisled with mural paintings and a covered pillar containing inscriptions about the end of the world according to the gadl (act )of saintly king. Further visit of Bieta Denagel (Chapel of the Virgins), Bieta Meskel (Chapel of the cross) and finally, the “double – church” of Debre Sina and Bieta Golghotha (women are not allowed in the latter since it’s where the remains of King Lalibela are and also because it contains the tabernacle of the Holy Trinity.

PM Visit of the second group of rock-hewn churches that are namely: Bieta Gabriel and Raphael, Bieta Merquorios, Bieta Emmanuel with unprecedented Axumite style

and the Bieta Abaa Libanos (said to have been built by King Lalibela’s consort Meskal Kebra ) and visit also the Bieta Ghiorghis which is the cruciform chapel of St. George.

Overnight Hotel.

Day 05, Lalibela Early morning you will have optional mule ride to Asheten Mariyam Church situated at a very hill top to see the town of Lalibela and the surrounding attractions. Return to the hotel for lunch.

PM drive to the charming semicave church of Nakutoleab, a church of the early 13th century and bearing the name of its builder. One amazing thing about this church is the year round water that wells from it’s ceiling that is said to have curative power. Overnight Hotel.

Day 06, Lalibela/ Mekele Lalibela - Mekele Drive to Alamata, Korem, Maichew and Mekele with some stopover at Yimrehane Christos Church on the way. Overnight hotel.

Day 07, Day trip on the way to Danakil depression This day you will visit the Atsbi claster churches and the Camel caravan on the way to Danakil Depression. Here you will see many camels in line who load salt from Danakil Depression. Overnight Hotel.

Day 08, Mekele/ Axum Drive Mekelle-Axum, on the way visit Abraha- Atsbaha church, one of the Tigry rock hewn churches , Alnejashi mosque, over viewing Debredamo Monastery, & also visit Yeha Temple which is dated as early as of the 5th century BC ( according to researchers made by Heinrich Mueller, it might even date of the 8th century BC). In its compound is also found the church of Abba Afse ( one of the nine Syrian saints ) further drive to Adwa, if we have time you will have some visit of the hospital otherwise we will back the next day. Overnight Hotel.

Day 09, Axum (Optional) Morning drive to Adwa to visit the hospital and back to Axum after 3-4 hour to visit Axum, once the centre of a great empire and the seat of learning for the ancient Ge’ez language and literature.

Axum is the prime historical site in the North of Ethiopia. Take a city tour of Axum that includes : The St. Mary church (where the Arc of the covenant is said to be kept), and the Stele Park. Further visit of the archaeological Museum of Axum, the ruins of the former palace of Queen of Sheba (Dungur Palace ), the ruins of the former tomb of King Kaleb and his successor king Gebre Meskal Overnight Hotel.

AXUM Abyssinian landscapes, spectacular scenery, a taste of Ethiopians remarkable wildlife, home to a variety of endemic animals ,birds , plants and has been declared a world Heritage Site by UNESCO o/n Semein lodge at Semien Mountain N.park. Overnight hotel.

Day 11, Semein Mountain/ Gonder Early morning Drive & trek in the Semien Mountain N.park until Chenek (about 3600 metre above see level) enjoy the Roof of Africa, endemic animals like Walia Ibex, Semien Fox, Chilada Baboon, Klipsprings etc Tis day you will have trekking for abou two hours around Chenek. Then late afternoon drive to Gonder. overnight hotel.

Day 12, Gonder/ Bahirdar Early in the morning start to visit the castle compound where you can see the Medieval castle of king Fasilidas, King Yohannes, King Eyasu, Kind Dawit, King Bakaffa and Queen Mentewab. Further visit of the churches of Debre Birihan Silassie with awesome wall paintings and the bath of King Fasilidas before proceeding to the visit of the Qusqwam monastery that was being built by Queen Mentewab and Gondar city tour. Afternoon drive 180 km to Bahirdar one of the lake side town in the country & sun set viewing on Lake Tana Overnight hotel.

Day 13, Bahirdar A.M Boat excursion over Lake Tana to the Zeghie peninsula and visit of two beautifully painted churches that are found hidden in the small forest; Azoa Mariam and Ura Kidane Mihret on the way visit Kibran Gabriel and Entos monastery. P.M drive 70 km round trip to visit Tississat named after the Water Falls of the Blue Nile (the life blood of the Sudanese and Egyptians) of Bahirdar, window shopping & relax. Overnight Hotel.

Day 14, Bahirdar/ Addis Ababa Full day drive to Addis, over viewing the Blue Nile Gorge which has a spectacular view & is wider than the Grand American Canyon, the 1st bridge for the country( Portuguese bridge) Attend farewell dinner in the Day 10, Axum/ Semein Mountain best Ethiopian restaurant with live music and Ethiopian delicious dish Full day drive via Tekeze valley ( with free of charge, ( It will be a good opportunity to meet with Mr. TadLimalimo ) to the Semien Moun- dese to take your feedback about your Ethiopia tour while you are havtain , the most marvellous of all ing dinner with him) then transfer to the airport for the night flight and it will be end of the service.

Omo Valley (Cultural Tours) The Lower Omo Valley is situated within Africa’s famous and, geologically-speaking, rapidly expanding Great Rift Valley. Here, in south-west Ethiopia’s awkwardly named “Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Region”, bordering Kenya and Sudan, the great Omo River dominates this dry savanna valley, resulting in some of Africa’s most well developed and best preserved arid-zone riverine forests. The Omo River rises from the Shewan highlands and flows 470 miles (750 kms), mostly southwards, before entering Lake Turkana (previously Lake Rudolf) near the Kenyan border.

The importance of the Lower Omo Valley has been recognized

by UNESCO, which has declared it a cultural World Heritage site. It also contains two expansive national parks and several Important Bird Areas. This vast, scenic valley is however most famous for its staggering cultural diversity. Over a dozen distinctive ethnic groups exist here, many of whom live lives little touched by the modern world. This is largely due to the area’s remoteness and prior near-inaccessibility, forming a natural barrier to modernization and the detribalization of the Omo Valley. Our tour aims to spend time with the Dorze, Konso, Arbore, Hamar, Benna, Karo, Ari and Mursi tribes (all now justly famous for their dress, body adornments and unique culture) and we will also encounter other tribes when visiting market villages. In addition, we will of course take time to enjoy the spectacular scenery and wildlife of this remote and fascinating region.

Tour Code: SET 013 Duration: 8days/ 7nights Meaning of Transport: Surface Description: Tour to Omo valley:-

and Benna tribes. If the day falls on a Thursday, you will visit the colorful market at key Afer. Dinner and overnight Hotel.

Day 04: Arbaminch- Jinka In the morning on a boat sailing on Lake Chamo to see pelicans, hippos and the world’s largest crocoDay 01, Depart from your country, diles. and drive to Jinka (290km), arrival at Bole International airport one of the relatively big towns in and transfer to hotel. the Omo Valley. On the way you will enjoy the Konso, Derashe, Aria Day 02, Addis- Arbaminch and Benna tribes. If the day falls on Drive with 4x4 Land cruiser south a Thursday, you will visit the colorwest of Addis Ababa via Hossana ful market at key Afer. Dinner and , over viewing the Oromo and the overnight hotel.

Gurage tribes way of life with their thatched roof circular house sur- Day 05: Jinka-Mursi- Turmi rounded by enset “ false banana” This morning we do have an extrees. Overlooking lake Abaya and cursion drive to the Mursi village lake chamo , one of the fertile and through Mago National park. The evergreen place in the country o/n Mursi inhabit northwestern part of Hotel. the National Park and classified as the Omotic language. These people Day 03: Arbaminch- Jinka known for their lip plating, body In the morning on a boat sailing on decorating and stick fighting culLake Chamo to see pelicans, hip- ture. Women are still wearing lip pos and the world’s largest croco- plates by splitting their lower lip diles. and drive to Jinka (290km), in order to beautify themselves. one of the relatively big towns in The lip-plates are purely symbolic the Omo Valley. On the way you and made of clay. Further drive to will enjoy the Konso, Derashe, Aria Turmi. Dinner and overnight hotel

Day 06: Turmi- Omorate- Turmi Drive to Oromorate a small village on the border with Kenya to visit the Dascenetch people and their fascinating local hut and culture of the Dasenech. The Dasenech have a decorative sense similar to the Karo tribe. The Dasenech people occupy the land on both side of the Omo River and the northern age of Lake Turkana. Back to Turmi and in the afternoon visit the Hammer village or if today is Monday visit the color full market of the Hammer tribes. Dinner and overnight Hotel.

Day 07: Turmi-Arbaminch Drive from Turmi to Arbaminch via Arbore. Visit the Arbore people at their town named Arbore and proceed to Konso. Visit the village of Konso (UNESCO World Heritage Site) – The people of Konso are well known for their intricately terraced hillsides, fine woven materials, carved totems made of wood, decorated graves (mainly the king & his wife), impressive village, etc.

Proceed to Arbaminch Dinner and overnight Hotel.

Day 08: Arba Minch - Addis Ababa After breakfast, embark on a full day’s drive to Addis, visiting several Rift Valley Lakes, rich in aquatic birdlife, along the way. Evening a fare well dinner party in one of the traditional Ethiopian restaurant with dances from different ethnic groups. Afterward, transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

OMO VALLEY, Cultural Route

Tour Code: SET 014 Duration: 10 nights/11 days Means of Transport: Drive Description: It is the highlight of the far southern part of the Omo valley with its immense cultural attractions of the country.

Day 1, Flight from your country, arrive at Bole International airport, meet our staff member and transfer Overnight hotel.

Day 2, drive to Arbaminch Drive with 4x4 Land cruiser south west of Addis Ababa via Hossana , over viewing the Oromo and the Gurage tribes way of life with their thatched roof circular house surrounded by enset “ false banana” trees. Overlooking lake Abaya and lake chamo , one of the fertile and evergreen place in the country Overnight hotel.

Day 06, Turmi – Murulle - Turmi Drive to Murulle to visit the Karo people, with their interesting body decorations and scarification; admire the view of the Omo River from Kortcho village back to Turmi overnight Hotel.

Day 07, Murulle – Omorate-_ Turmi

P.M drive to Abijata – shalla national park, enjoy the scenery of the area, animals like Gazelle, Dik dik and the natural hot spring on shalla lake. Further drive to the Birding. The place is one of the famous birding are in Ethiopia with many endemic aquatic birds. ProMorning excursion to Omorate, on ceed to lake langano, the Golden the banks of the Omo river, to visit lake in the country with free of the Dassanech people. Then back Bilharzia, sanding, walk around to Turmi for the colorful Monday the beach area Overnight Hotel. market if today is Monday visit the Hamer, Karo and Dassanech Day 11, Langano – Addis Ababa people. Witness Hamer dances Late Morning drive to Addis via (Evangadi) and seasonal marriage the Rift Valley over viewing the ceremonies with bull-jumping if rift valley lakes of Shalla, Abyata you are lucky Overnight hotel. and Langano, Zeway and Koka admiring wonderful views, enDay 08, Turmi –Yabello demic birds, pelicans, flaminVisit the Erbore villages and make goes shopping some traditional a stop to admire the agricultural goods, attend farewell dinner in terracing practices of the Konso. the famous Ethiopian traditional Further visit of the Konso village, restaurant with live music and Gargesiyo, “ the southern New delicious meal, transfer to Bole InYork”, a place which is the out ternational airport for flight and it come of food for a long period of will be the end of the tour. time and looks like the previous New York sky sculpture buildings in USA Overnight local hotel.

Day 03, Arbaminch – Jinka Proceed to Jinka, admiring the Derashe, Tsemay, Ari and Benna people on the way. If today is Thursday, you can visit the very colorful market for the Tsemay and Erbore Day 09, Yabello- Yirgalem people at Key Afer Overnight ho- Drive to Yirgalem via Yabello, visit the Sidama people way of life, tel. enjoy the evergreen place of the Day 04, Jinka –Mursi/Mago-Jinka country, one of the most known Enter Mago National Park to visit coffee plantation field proceed the Mursi people and their villag- to Dila, the place that you will es. Here for beauty women insert explore the archeological site of round clay plates in their lips. The Tutiti and Tutufela. Further drive men practice scarification based to Yirgalem for overnight at Aron the number of enemies or wild egash Lodge, a place which is full animals they have killed in battle of Jingle with animals and beautiful birds. Overnight Hotel.

Overnight hotel.

Day 05, Jinka - Turmi Drive to Turmi, and if today is Saturday you can see the colorful Hamer, Karo and Dassanech people at the market in Dimeka.

Proceed to the Hamer villages and Overnight hotel.

attractions.

Day 10, Yirgalem – Langano Morning drive to Awassa, visit the biggest fish market in the country.

Drive up to Mount Tabor for the panoramic view of Awassa town.

Lake Awassa and the surrounding

Omo Valley Cultural Route with Bale Mountain

BALE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Tour Code: SET 015 Duration: 14days/ 13nights Means of Transport: Surface Bale Mountains National park is Description: Touring in the Omo the largest are of Afro-Alpine habi- valley & Bale Mountains:tat in the whole of the continent. It gives the visitor opportunities for Day1, Depart from your country, un surpassed mountain walking, arrival at Bole International airhorse trekking, scenic driving and port and transfer to Hotel. chance to view many of Ethiopia’s endemic mammals, in particular Day 2, Addis- Arbaminch the mountain Nyala and Simien fox Drive with 4x4 Land cruiser south and birds , such as the thick-billed west of Addis Ababa via Hossana raven, wattled ibis, blue winged , over viewing the Oromo and the goose, Rouget’s rail. The high rain Gurage tribes way of life with their fall in the Bale Mountains, together thatched roof circular house surwith the great variation in altitude rounded by enset “ false banana” and topography, result in rich in trees. Overlooking lake Abaya and diversity in the vegetation. Bale lake chamo , one of the fertile and Mountain is accessible by car driv- evergreen place in the country o/n ing, Horse trekking and walking.

Hotel

DAY 3, Arbaminch In the morning on a boat sailing on Lake Chamo to see pelicans, hippos and the world’s largest crocodiles. Afternoon we go to the village weavers chencha to meet with representatives of the nation Dorze familiarity with their life o/n hotel.

DAY 4, Arbaminch- Turmi Morning drive to Turmi. On the way visit the Konso, Tsemay, Erbore tribes and arrive in afternoon.

Then you will visit the beautiful market of the hamer tribes and together with other tribes of the benna, ari and karo. After the market, if you are lucky you will see the bull Jumping ceremony around Turmi.

Overnight hotel.

into the lower lip plate, and the men inflict a scar on the forearm by the number of killed enemies or wild animals. Back to Jinka and drive to see market in key Afer.

Night at the hotel.

DAY 5, Turmi- karo - Turmi We’re going to Murulle to meet with the tribe Karo, whose members are known for their adorn bodies with which the various patterns and scars. Then go back to Turmi for lunch and drive to Dimeka to visit the colorful market of Dimeka. Overnight hotel.

DAY 6 , Turmi- Jinka Moving in Jinka. Along the way, you can see the decorated tribal Benna, Ari and their village .

Overnight at the hotel.

DAY 7 , Jinka – Mursi/Mago parkJinka Moving in national park Mago.

Meeting with the Mursi tribe!

Women have taken mursi inserted

DAY 12, Bale Mountain- Langano In the morning start driving to Langano. On the way visit the Oromo people’s way of life, their village and the beautiful scenery of the area. Up on arrival transfer to Lodge near to Lake Langano.

DAY 8, Jinka- Konso Lake Langano is the only bilharzias In the morning we go to Konso and free like in Ethiopia that people can see their market. In the afternoon swim. Relax near to the beach side. visit the village people Konso - Overnight Sabana lodge near to Gargesie. Near the village lies a gi- the lake. ant cleft, within which many rock formations resembling the outline DAY 13 Langano of their forms in New York. Night In the morning after breakfast at hotel. drive to Abjata Shalla national park. Enjoy the aquatic birds near DAY 9 , Konso- Yirgalem to the lake of Abjata and Shalla.

Going to a Yargalem Yabello, on Enjoy the hot spring water and the the road watching the original life beautiful view. Or drive to Wenof the people of Sidamo, which are dogenet to swim in the natural hot mainly engaged in breeding camels spa and enjoy the evergreen natuand cultivation of coffee. Calls in ral forest. Afternoon free to relax Deal, where the newly discovered in lake Langano to swim. ancient steles. We came to lodge Aregash who hid in the jungle. Do DAY 14 , Back to Addis not miss the 7chasov evenings to Morning after breakfast drive to come visit you are the real wild hy- Addis through the East Africa Rift enas. Night at the hotel. valley. Overview the Rift valley lakes of Abjata, Shalla, stopover in DAY 10 , Yirgalem- Bale Mountain lake Zeway and Koka for birding.

After breakfast you will see the Further drive to Debrezeit for see fish market in Awassa and goes our the creator lakes of Hora and Bishway to the mountains of Bale. In oftu. Proceed to Addis Ababa, southe afternoon we will have to make venir shopping, we are waiting for a trek during which you can meet dinner at one of the most famous some of the endemic animals such restaurants of Ethiopia. You will as mountain nyala, Menelik ante- see the dances of various peoples of lope, warthogs, and a wide variety Ethiopia, transfer to airport, flight of birds. Overnight at the hotel. to your country and it will be end of the trip.

DAY 11 , Senetie plateau In the morning we go on the plateau of Seneta, habitat simian fox wolves, and then we visit Mount Tulu Dimtu (4377m), the secondhighest mountain in Ethiopia. We will also visit Harenn forest, in order to see lots of birds and watch the locals grow coffee. Overnight at the hotel.

DAY 3, Arbaminch In the morning on a boat sailing on Lake Chamo to see pelicans, hippos and the world’s largest crocodiles.

Afternoon we go to the village weavers chencha to meet with representatives of the nation Dorze familiarity with their life o/n paradise Lodge.

DAY 4, Arbaminch- Turmi Morning drive to Turmi. On the way visit the Konso, Tsemay, Erbore tribes and arrive in afternoon. Then you will visit the beautiful market of the hamer tribes and together with other tribes of the benna, ari and karo. After the market, if you are lucky you will see the bull Jumping ceremony around Turmi. Overnight splendor lodge.

Omo Valley, Bale Mountain & Awash Park

DAY 5, Turmi- karo - Turmi We’re going to Murulle to meet with the tribe Karo, whose members are known for their adorn bodies with which the various patterns and scars.

Then go back to Turmi for lunch and drive to Dimeka to visit the colorful market of Dimeka. Overnight splendor lodge.

DAY 6, Murulle –Omorate-_Turmi Morning excursion to Omorate, on the banks of the Omo river, to visit the Dassanech people. Then back to Turmi for the colorful Monday market if today is Monday visit the Hamer, Karo and Dassanech people. WitTour Code: SET 016 ness Hamer dances (Evangadi) and Duration: 14days/ 13nights seasonal marriage ceremonies with Means of Transport: Surface Description: Touring in the Omo valley, Bale Mountains: and Awash bull-jumping if you are lucky. Otherwise you will visit the hammer tribe’s National Parkvillage and their way of life o/n hotel.

Day1, Depart from your country, arrival at Bole International airport DAY 7, Turmi- Jinka and transfer to Dreamliner hotel.

Moving in Jinka. Along the way, you can see the decorated tribal Benna, Day 2, Addis- Arbaminch Drive with 4x4 Land cruiser south west of Addis Ababa via Hossana Ari and their village . Overnight at , over viewing the Oromo and the Gurage tribes way of life with their the hotel Jinka Resort. thatched roof circular house surrounded by enset “ false banana” trees.

Overlooking lake Abaya and lake chamo , one of the fertile and ever- DAY 8, Jinka – Mursi/Mago parkJinka green place in the country o/n paradise Lodge Moving in national park Mago. Meet-

ing with the Mursi tribe! Women have taken mursi inserted into the lower lip plate, and the men inflict a scar on the forearm by the number of killed enemies or wild animals. Back to Jinka and drive to see market in key Afer. Night at the “Jinka Resort”.

DAY 9, Jinka- Konso In the morning we go to Konso and see their market. In the afternoon visit the village people Konso - Gargesie.

Near the village lies a giant cleft, within which many rock formations resembling the outline of their forms in New York. Night at New Kanta Lodge.

DAY 10, Konso- Yirgalem Going to a Yargalem Yabello, on the road watching the original life of the people of Sidamo, which are mainly engaged in breeding camels and cultivation of coffee. Calls in Deal, where the newly discovered ancient steles.

We came to lodge Aregash who hid in the jungle. Do not miss the 7chasov evenings to come visit you are the real wild hyenas. Night at the “Aregash Lodge” DAY 11, Yirgalem- Bale Mountain After breakfast you will see the fish market in Awassa and goes our way to the mountains of Bale. In the afternoon we will have to make a trek during which you can meet some of the endemic animals such as mountain nyala, Menelik antelope, warthogs, and a wide variety of birds. Overnight at the hotel “Goba” DAY 12 , Senetie plateau In the morning we go on the plateau of Seneta, habitat simian fox wolves, and then we visit Mount Tulu Dimtu (4377m), the second-highest mountain in Ethiopia. We will also visit Harenn forest, in order to see lots of birds and watch the locals grow coffee. Overnight at the hotel “Goba” DAY 13, Bale Mountain- Awash National park Morning drive to Awash National Park via Asela and Bekoji, the birthplace of many of the Ethiopian athletes.

Visit the Oromo people’s way of life and the Arsi-Bale rugged mountains. Overnight Fuafuate Lodge inside the park.

DAY 14 , Back to Addis Visit Awash National Park in the morning. We’ll see oryx, baboons, Soemmerring’s gazelle, greater and lesser kudus, warthogs etc. Then take an easy drive to Debrezeit for see the creator lakes of Hora and Bishoftu. Proceed to Addis Ababa, souvenir shopping, we are waiting for dinner at one of the most famous restaurants of Ethiopia. You will see the dances of various peoples of Ethiopia, transfer to airport, flight to your country and it will be end of the trip.

HISTORIC ROUTE, SEMIEN MOUNTAIN AND OMO VALLEY Tour Code: SET 017 Duration: 12 nights/13 days Means of Transport: Surface Description: It is the highlight of the far southern part of the Omo valley with its immense cultural Attractions of the country.

Day 1, Addis Ababa and depart to bahirdar Depart from Belgium flight to Addis arrive at Bole International airport meet our company representative and drive to Bahirdar on the way visiting the Amhara and Oromo people way of life, the Portuguese bridge and Blue Nile Gorge with nice scenery o/n hotel. Breakfast and Dinner Day 2, Blue Nile Falls and Gonder Morning drive 70KM round trip to visit Tississat named after the water falls of the Blue Nile River (the life blood for the Sudanese and Egyptians). Be informed that clients will walk about an 30 minutes to arrive near to the water falls on Blue Nile. Back to Bahirdar for lunch and drive to Gonder

once the capital of Ethiopia in the 17th century. Overnight hotel.

Breakfast and Dinner Day 3, Drive Gonder – Semien Mountain Morning you will be taken to visit the castle compound where you can see the medieval castle of king Fasilidas, King Yohannes, King Eyasu, King Dawit, King Bakafa and Queen Mentewab further visit of the churches of Debre Birhan Selassie with awesome wall paintings. P.M drive to Semien Mountain to visit the marvelous scenery of the Semien Mountain , the endemic animals of Walya Ibex, Chilada Baboon and birds. Overnight in semien Lodge.

Breakfast and Dinner Day 4, Semien Mountain “ Roof of Africa” After breakfast, drive to Sankaber and trek around.

Sankaber lies within the Park and found at an altitude of 3825msl. It is the place to see troops of Gelada Baboon on the way. They are very attractive and so taking picture of

them is unforgettable. These are a different primates found only in Ethiopia and live on vegetables and soft roots. Walk to the wonderful view points around Sankaber. Lunch box will be taken on the site/view point. Later, drive to Chenek and walk around to see the scenic mountains and views in the surrounding. Chenek lies at an altitude of 3800 m ASL in the valley at the bottom of the second highest pick called Buahit 4000 m ASL. It is the ideal place to see one of the endemic mammals found in the park, the Walia Ibex. They adapt living in the gigantic cliff age and high altitude. This adaptation comes from habitat loose because in the past they used to live at around 2500 m ASL. The males are big in size while the females are smaller. With such a colossal horn curved to the back, the males are easily spotted sleeping on the rock or standing near the giant lobelia. They are very solitary, the female are very close to each other and the family is organized by the dominant mother. It is very com-

over viewing the rift vally lakes of Koka, Zeway, and Langano with their aquatic birds. On the way enjoy the oromo peoples way of life. This day you can visit the Abjata- Shalla National park with the aquatic birding life and some wild life animals. Overnight Resort.

Day 7, Awassa- Konso Drive to Konso via Yabello , visit the Sidama people way of life, enjoy the evergreen place of the country, the scenic landscape and one of the most known coffee plantation field around Yirgachefe, visit the borena peoples with their herd of cattle Overnight Kanta Lodge. Breakfast and Dinner

mon to see one of the high altitude plant called giant Lobelia. When it grows fully, it reaches a height of 9 to 12 meters with a flowering part on the top. For this plant it is quiet a struggle to grow at such high altitude where the weather is very difficult. But nature has it all in it.

Overnight in semien Lodge.

Day 5, Semien Mountain- Axum Morning view of the beautiful scenery of the Semien and drive to Axum Enjoying the western side of the dramatic Simien Mountain, Pass Limalimo, the most challenging road in Ethiopia but awesome landscape, cross the Tekeze Valley and arrive in Axum. If we have time you will visit the historical sites of Axum including the St. Mary church (where the Arc of the covenant is said to be kept) and the stele park. Overnight hotel.

Breakfast and Dinner Day 6, Flight Axum to Addis and drive to Wassa Morning flight back to Addis and drive to Langano via Rift valley

Day 8, Konso- Jinka In the morning visit the village of Konso people - Gargesie. Near the village is a huge crevice, inside of which a lot of rock formations resembling the shape of its forms in New York. Proceed to Jinka, admiring the Derashe, Tsemay, Ari and Benna people on the way. o/n Jinka Resort hotel.

Breakfast and Dinner Day 9, Jinka –Mursi/Mago-JinkaTurmi Enter Mago National Park to visit the Mursi Tribe. known for their lip plates and face painting. The women first started using the lip plates as a way to disfigure themselves so the slave traders would be appalled by the way they look and not take them into slavery… later it became a sign of beauty used to get a husband. Then afternoon drive to Turmi. The Hamar women are striking; wearing beautiful colorful beaded skins, ornate necklaces, and metal bangles around their wrist and ankles.

Famous for their hairstyle — a crown of long dread-lock braids covered in ocher — the Hamer women are the most decorated of

the Omo people If today is Thursday, you can visit the very colorful market for the Ari, Benna tribes at Key Afer. We will over night lodge.

Breakfast and Dinner Day 10, Turmi – Karo – Turmi Drive to Murulle to visit the Karo people, with their interesting body decorations and scarification; admire the view of the Omo River from Kortcho village. Then back to Turmi for lunch. And Afternoon visit the Hammer village. overnight lodge.

Breakfast and Dinner Day 11, Turmi- Arbaminch Today we drive to Arbaminch and on the way we go to the village of the tribe Arbor. Admire the Konso, tsemay, derashe tribes again and their way of life. Further drive to Arbaminch overnight Similar.

Breakfast and Dinner Day 12, Arbaminch Morning boat trip on Lake Chamo to see crocodile, Hippopotamus and aquatic birds and afternoon visit the Dorze people & their house at a place called Chencha . overnight Lodge Breakfast and Dinner Day 13, Arbaminch – Addis Morning drive back to Addis via Hossana ( different route). This is one of the most fertile and evergreen scenic road and people enjoy the landscape. Then attend farewell dinner in the famous Ethiopian traditional restaurant at Habesha 2000 with live music and delicious meal, you will be transfer to Bole International airport for the night flight that depart at after mid night and it will be the end of the tour.

Trekking to The Simien Mountains National Park

The Simien Mountains National Park is located in the northern edge of the central plateau of Ethiopia overlooking the Tekeze Gorge. It is a part of Simien mountains massif in Northern Ethiopia, which lies at elevations between about 2000m and 4543 m of above sea label, taking in Ras Dejen, the highest peak of the Horn of Africa. The park is found in the northern parts of the North Gondar Zone of the Amhara National Regional State.

The geographic location extends from 1309’57” to 13019’58” North latitude and from 37054’48” to 38024’43” East longitude. With its present total area of about 13,178 hectare, the park lies in three woredas of the zone, namely, Debark, Adiarkay and Janamora. The Simien Mountains National Park is one of the smallest national parks in Ethiopia with a core area of around 140km2.

The Simien Mountains National Park is 130 km from Gondar, the capital of North Gondar zone of

ANRS and about 882km from Addis Ababa. It covers both the highlands and the lowlands. The steep escarpments separating these two significant landscapes were formed by volcanic activities and subsequent erosion over millions of years. They give the mountain scenery spectacular appearance.

Tour Code: SET 018 Duration: 7 days/ 6 nights Means of Transport: Surface & Trekking Description: The Simien Mountains National Park abd Trekking.

land areas to the north and west.

You will most certainly encounter troops of the endemic gelada baboons. The gelada baboon, only found in Ethiopia, is often referred to as the bleeding heart baboon or the lion monkey because their coat is shaggy resembling a lion, whilst their chest has a marked red heart or patch.

The gelada baboon can be found in good numbers is quite easy to approach. Sankaber camp is situated at an altitude of 3250 meters on an impressive view point between the northern escarpment and the southern wazla. Before you arrive the camp you have about 2hrs. Walk.

Day 1, Gonder/Sankaber Morning flight to Gonder. The flight depart at 7:00 am. We will meet you in the morning at Gonder Airport or your hotel in Gonder. Drive to the first camp (Sankaber) via Debark (the small town) you will be rewarded with very impressive views of the low

Day 2, Sankaber - Geech From Sankaber Camp the path to Geech Camp will stretch for approximately ten kilometers.

(5-6hrs). The initial stages of this path lead through extensive areas of highland grasslands and heather forests. This path offers some of the most impressive

ty years, at which point they first flower before dying.

Day 3, Geech- Chenek This day we will be waking to the best viewpoints in the National park. First we walk to Imetegogo, the view here enables one to look 360 to all directions this one of the best view in the national park. We trek to Chenek, we will be walking through the Giant lobelia trees and under these trees African field Rats are common. After picnic lunch we walk on the edge of Enatye escarpments (4000m. above sea level), which is another breathtaking view in the national park; finally we descend to Chenek. Chenek is the best place to see the endemic Waliya Ibex and more Gelada Baboon. It takes 6 - 7 hours walk.

O/n Camping at Chenek.- (3600m) views of the escarpement. One of the best views is of the Jinbar Wenz waterfall which plummets down the Geech Abyss. After descending down to the Jinbar Wenz River a short ascent remains to Geech village. In this area, cultivation is done in a two-year cycle. One side of the valley is planted whilst the other side lies fallow. You will notice extensive soil erosion in this area as a result of the combination of such factors as slope steepness, cultivation, overgrazing, erosive rainfall and limited land resources.

We pause in Geech village as we are invited into one of the local houses for a coffee ceremony. Here you will participate in this very important social tradition of Ethiopia as well as gain an insight into the traditional lifestyle. Just above Geech village is the campsite which will serve as your base for two nights.

The campsite has great views of the mountains and is characterized by giant Lobelia plants. These plants can grow up to 10 meters in height and may live for as long as twen-

Day 4, Chenek- Ambiquo We walk to Ambiquo climbing Buhit (14530ft/4430m) Mountain the 2nd highest peak next to Ras Dashen in Semien Mountain ranges, giving excellent views over the whole area. After refreshment at the summit, you descend towards Chero Laba crossing the Mesheha River, we will reach to Ambiquo and resting for the night here, before the big day on Ras Dashen.

The walk of this day takes 7- 8 hours. O/n Camping at Ambiquo (10496ft/3200m).

Day 5, Ambiquo - Ras Dashen – Ambiquo- Chiroleba : Very early morning start walking toward mount Ras Dashen.You get up in the pre dawn chill for what will be the most challenging day of the Trek. To reach the summit can take up to 6 hrs. You will head up the valley from campsite to the small village of Mizma, from where you will climb steeply up wards, eventually reaching an impressive amphitheatre made up of

three major buttresses of expanded rock, one of which is your goal, Ras Dashen. It is then an easy scramble to the summit, Ras Dashen, which is the fourth highest peak in Africa (14901ft/4543m). After taking in the impressive views descend back to Ambiquo for an overnight. The whole round trek takes from 8-10 hours .O/n Camping at Chiro leba.

Day 6, Chiroleba- Chenek and drive to Gonder Morning start to trek to Chenek.

You will arrive at Chenek around 1 pm and then the vehicle can reach the campsite of Chenek, so they will drive directly from Chenek campsite via Debark to Gondar.

Overnight Hotel.

Day 7, Flight to Addis Morning relax in the hotel and at 10:00 am, transfer to Gonder airport for the flight to Addis. Arrive in Addis Ababa bole airport at 1:40 and it will be end of the service.

Bale Mountain Trekking

Tour Code: SET 019 Duration: 7 nights/ 8 days Means of Transport: Drive/Trekking Description: Bale Mountains National Park (BMNP) is the largest re-

maining alpine habitat on the African continent. It was declared in 1970 and is currently 2200km2 in area. The Park contains the biggest continuous area of Afro-alpine (~1000 km2, circa 17.5% of all Afro-alpine) and a large proportion of the second largest moist tropical forest in Ethiopia. Bale Mountains National Park gives you opportunities for unsurpassed mountain walking, horse trekking, scenic driving and the changes to view many of Ethiopia’s endemic mammals, in particular Ethiopian wolves/ Semien fox, Menelik’s Bushbuckand Mountain Nyala. It supports the largest population of Ethiopian wolves (~350 individuals, 55% of the global population), Mountain Nyala (~1000 individuals, 50% of the global population), and many other endemic species and important populations like giant mole-rats, the Bale monkey are found in the park.

In the park, birds such as the Thick-billed Raven, Wattled Ibis, Bluewinged Goose, Rouget’s Rail, etc. scenic driving and the changes to view many of Ethiopia’s endemic mammals, in particular the Mountain Nyala and Semien Fox, and birds such as the Thick-billed Raven, Wattled Ibis, Blue-winged Goose, Rouget’s Rail, etc can easily be seen in Bale Mountains National Park. Bale is the southern-most breeding population of golden eagles, wattled cranes and a large breeding population of bearded vulture. The wetlands and forests of Bale are the source of major rivers which provide a significant proportion of the perennial water supply to approximately 10 million people in South-eastern Ethiopia and Somalia.

Day 1: Arrive Addis Ababa and transfer to the Hotel, city tour: A representative from Senait Ethiopia Tours welcomes you on your arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and transfer to hotel. After refreshment, city tour of Addis Ababa. O/n Dream liner/ Similar Hotel.

Day 2: Bale Mountains - Dinsho Lodge: After breakfast, we start a full day’s drive to the Bale Mt. National Park, traveling thorough the southeast part of the capital, where fertile land is cultivated by the Oromo people. We arrive at Dinsho (Park HQ) in the afternoon, in time for a walk around to see three of the endemic mammals: Menelik’s Bushbuck, and Mountain Nyala.

And birds Blue-winged goose, Spot-breasted lapwing, Abyssinian long claw, Wattled ibis, Blackheaded siskin, Rouget’s rail, and of course other species, too. Over-

night camping that is surrounded by juniper trees and flowers. The Everlasting plant can be seen in several numerous species of wildlife. forms, but the grey bushes of H. splendidum are the most striking with their yellow flowers. Several rodent Day 3: Dinsho - Geysay Valley. species are found in the area. O/n camping The whole day visit around Dinsho and Geysay Valley.

In time hike to see three of the endemic mammals: Me- Day 7: Sanetti Plateau to Goba Town - Wabe Shabele nelik’s Bushbuck, Mountain Nyala and Ethiopian wolf. hotel: The rest of the day arranges the trekking staff. O/n After breakfast we trek for 5 hrs to the highest peak in Camping. the Bale Mountains, Tullu Deemtu (4377m, 14357ft) which is part of the Sanetti Plateau. The vistas are simDay 4: Wolla Valleys (Kotera) - Camping: ply unbelievable and so photogenic. Here you will find Accompanied by your guide, a scout and packhorses small alpine lakes and typical afro-alpine vegetation we trek 5 hrs through the lush highland vegetation to that includes the Giant Lobelia and shrubs such as our first campsite. The air here is clean and crisp and ‘Everlasting’. Vistas reach out to the strange pinnacles the scenery utterly stunning. O/n camping. of Chorchora Peak and across the sheer-sided Tegona River Gorge. There are views to the steep-sided volDay 5: Wassema Valley – Camping: canic plug of Konteh Tullu and the long, craggy ridges After breakfast we resume trek that will last for approx. of Mount Batu. The car will meet us here and drive 7-8 hrs. The trek offers the chance to see Ethiopia’s en- us down to Goba town for an overnight stay at Wabe demic Abyssinian Wolf. Overnight camping at the base Shebele Hotel. of Wassema Mountain. O/n camping Day 8: Drive back to Addis evening Departure: Day 6: Gebre Guracha – Camping: Today we trek Drive back to Addis Ababa with stops on the way at through the highlands, crossing Batu mountain on rift valley Lakes. Evening a fare well dinner party in the way to Gebre Guracha. Wild flowers abound, the one of the traditional Ethiopian restaurant with dancdominant plant being the Helichrysm, or ‘everlasting’ es from different ethnic groups. Then transfer to The Airport for your flight back home.

Bird Watching Tours

Ethiopia, with more than 800 bird species in which some are the endemic birds and most the endemic birds are found in the southern part of Ethiopia to the Jima river valley, the rift valley lakes, the hot spring of Wondogenet area, in the Bale mountain area, the Awash national park. Yabello, the Nech sar park and in the north to the Debre Birhan, the Nile gorge Debre Libanos area and the lake Tana areas. Our bird watching itineraries can be mixed with historical route or Omo valley tour programs. However, the programs here under are the most know bird watching tour program including in the search of Ethiopian Endemic birds.

Tour Code: SET 020 Duration: 11 days/ 10 nights Means of Transport: Surface Description: It is the highlights of the best birding tours that include the area of Addis Ababa, Geferssa, Sululta & Debre-Libanose monastery Debralibanose, Rift valley Lakes Region, BaleMountain, Negelle , Yabello and the surrounding area.

Day 1, Flight from your country, arrive at Bole International airport, meet our company representative and transfer to hotel Day 2, A day tour to Debra Libanose Monastery via Sululta plains, which holds large number of wintering paratactic passerines and a variety of Afro tropical species. The endemic Abyssinian sis kin, Whit billed starling, Rupell’s Black chat, Lanner Falcon, Verreaux’s and Tawny eagle are one the target birds. The Egyptian and White backed vultures, Lammergeyer, Erick’s francolin, Rufus breasted sparrow hawk, little and common rock Thrush, Red collared window bird, Abyssinian woodpecker, White Backed black Tit, White Winged cliff chat

and Brown woodland warbler are amongst the species we may see.

Beside, the beautiful endemic Gelada Baboon can be easily seen at the edge of Debra Libanose gorge .we drive back to Addis Ababa in late afternoon. hotel.

Day 3, Leaving Addis Ababa we drive down to the lakes region.

We shall have launch lake Ziway, where we are spending more time this afternoon. Lake Ziway is one of the bird paradises in the Ethiopian rift valley. It accommodates a great number of aquatic birds.

Lesser black backed and Great headed and gulls, lesser jacana, skimmer, red shank, black heron, African pygmy Goose , Temminck’s and little stints, common snipe, woodland king fisher and black tailed Godwit are some of the species can be seen here .Late after noon we drive down to Langano resort for an over night staying. En route we may have one short stop at the acacia Wood land of the cattle development ranch for few species like the Black billed and Black wood Hoopoes, Yellow vented Eremomela, Grey flycatcher, Oliveceous and buff bellied Warbles, Red faced Crombec, wood headed Buffalos weavers and ring necked dove. Overnight Lodge Day 4, A pre breakfasts birding in the acacia woodland near by Langano resort. This woodland provides many birds like the Black checked and common Waxbills, Abyssinian black Wheatear, Dederic and Klaas’s Cuckoos Doran and Rattling cist colas. The red billed and Von de Deck en’s hornbills, Banded Barbet, Spotted Eagle Owl, Red headed weaver, African pygmy kingfisher, Nubian and Bearded woodpeckers, Brubru, Grey flycatcher, Northern Black Tit, Hempric’s Hornbill and some of the species we expect in this

productive compound. After breakfast, we drive to Bale Mountains. The elegant endemics of Mountain Nyala and Menelik’s Bushbuck are the beauty of the Bale Mountains NP, in addition to the bird life. Overnight hotel

and Red breasted Wryneck. The Woodland and Grey Kingfisher, Spotted creeper, Painted snipe, Purple swamp Hen, Western banded Snake eagle, Giant Kingfisher, African Thrush, Senegal Thick knee, Green shank, Black headed Batis, Little and Spectacled weavers, Red shouldered Cuckoo shrike and Day 5, Today we shall have a full day binding in the Beautiful sunbirds are one of the most interesting forests near Goba and on Sanattie plateau. Sanattie birds inhabiting Lake Awassa and the surrounding is the largest moorland tract in the whole Africa and woodlands. Overnight hotel it is the home to the rare Ethiopian Wolf and the Giant mole Rats. Abyssinian Woodpecker, Abyssinian Day 10, Drive to Wondo Genet forests at the mid-day. catbird, White backed Black Tit, Abyssinian Ground The Yellow fronted Parrot, Abyssinian woodpecker, Thrush, Yellow crowned Canary, Somali chestnut Double-toothed barbet, Yellow fronted thinker bird winged starling, Olive Pigeon, Mountain Buzzard, Af- ,Half collared kingfisher, Narina’s Trogon, White rican snipe, Thekla Lark, Malachite sunbird, Mottled checked Turaco, Red shouldered and emerald cuckand Alpine swifts, Moorland Francolin, Golden Eagle, oo, Yellow bellied waxbill, Scaly francolin, AbyssiniLanner Falcon, Watteled Crane, Cinnamon Bracken an ground Thrush, Spectacled and Grosbeak weaves, Warbler, Ruddy shelduck, Verreaux’s’ Eagle, Yellow Lemon and Tambourine Doves are one the species bellied and common waxbills, Tropical Bouboo, Rufus inhabiting in Wondogenet. Ayer’s hawk Eagle, Fanbreasted. Sparrow Hawk, Abyssinian Slaty Flycatcher, tailed and Thick billed Ravens, African Little sparBlack winged Lovebird, Bale Parisoma and Slender row hawk, Crested Eagle, African Harrier Hawk, billed Starlings are amongst of interesting birds of the Sharp’s starling, Broad billed Roller, Blue headed Bale Mountains National Park. The beautiful Ethiopian Coucal, Scaly and Lesser Honey Guides are Some of Wolf (endemic), Abyssinian Hare, Klipspringer, Giant an excellent birds we are expecting to see in this lush Mole Rats and different species of grass rats are some of forest. Overnight Resort the mammals that we expect in this magnificent moorland region. We return to Goba this evening. Overnight Day 11, After early birding and breakfast we drive hotel back to Addis Ababa. En route, we shall have few stoppages at Lake Abjata Shalla which is one of the Day 6, Proceed to Negelle Borena (some 285 km) via best birding area in the rift valley, Lake Ziway, Koka Harenna forest. En route, stop at Ganalle River for the and Hora creator. Attend the farewell dinner in the rare and localized endemic species of Prince Ruspoli’s best Ethiopian traditional restaurant with live music Turaco. Our day drive to Negelle brings us to great va- and delicious dish, transfer to airport for the evening rieties of the low land species like Shelly’s & Golden- flight. breasted Starlings. Overnight Local hotel Day 7, A full day bird watching in and around Negelle area; the localized Sidamo Lark and Salvador’s Serine are our target birds for today. Overnight Motel Day 8, Drive to Yabello (265 km) with many roadside stops. The Red-napped Shrike, Black caped Social Weaver, Lesser Kestrel, eastern violet backed Sunbird, the endemics White-tailed Swallow and Steersmen’s Bush Crow are one of the best birds we are looking for along this productive rout. Overnight Motel Day 9, After morning birding around Yabello, we drive to Lake Awassa, the smallest and shallowest lake of the Ethiopian Rift System. Today we may not have any special stoppage unless we see special things in order to get enough time in Awassa this afternoon. The Huegljne’s Robin Chat, Willow and Lesser swamp Warblers

ETHIOPIA BIKING TOURS The best Biking to the desert

This trip includes the biking to Danakil Depression, the active volcano ( Ert’ale), tha salt lake of Afdera and the Gheralta cluster churches

Tour Code: SET 021 Duration: 15 days/14 nights Means of Transport: Bike DAY 1—Arrival in Addis flight to Mekele Flight from your country, arrive in Bole International airport and take another domestic flight to Mekele.

Not the most interesting city on the planet but has a pretty cool vibe as this is the town where jeep caravans taking tourists into the Danakil starts from. It is also a pretty big city with some cool side streets and an area with nice restaurants and cobbled streets.

Also an old castle and museum can be visited. A few cool local bars for those that want some cold beers and dance with the locals to Ethiopian music can be found [highly recommended]. what is coming we need to be rested and prepared for the best mountain biking tours. Overnight hotel.

tough climb out of Mekele and onto a plateau and flat for 25kms or so where we turn off onto a wild dirt road that leads to Berhale and the Danakil. A long epic, and i truly mean epic, downhill waits. We may start seeing camels and some Afar people walking the road. At the bottom is a flat road into Berhale but passing by some small Afar villages and huts. Berhale is where the caravans arrive to drop off the salt and is like a Wild West town but with camels and Afar homes. As the day goes on camels arrive by the hundreds with their loads and camp beside us. Go wander and enjoy this spectacle.

Overnight Camping.

DAY 3--Short Trail ride to small Afar village Sunrise and all the camels are gone. The caravans leave in the dark to beat some of the relentless sun. Easy day so we have a chance to wander the village and see the wild wells they have carved as well as the making of goat bladders for desert water bottles. A water bottle with legs and a neck and the neck is the drinking spout.

DAY 2 --125KMS to Berhale---Camp We are on ancient camel trails now for the next 2 days.

By the end of this day you will have entered into a Hundreds of years of camel hooves and now fat, knobby new world, one you didn’t know existed and the days tires--enjoy as we ride among the caravans coming and that follow even more so. We start the day with a semi going. Real easy and short day camp in a real Afar vil-

N.B- This trip is recommended from late October to End of February.

Have a wonderful biking,

lage. A chance to start immersing into their culture, they are called the toughest tribe in the world as they survive in the world’s most inhospitable place. Caravans meander past our camp until night. Overnight Camping.

DAY 4--The Epic Canyon trail ride into the Danakil. This is a magical and tough day. 1 km down the road we enter a canyon with rock so old you feel it. A small stream runs all the way through it so as we gradually keep going lower we ride through the stream and rocky trails that years of camels have grooved out. I cannot describe this experience but we were all in awe and for the mountain bikers is like being a kid in a candy store. Winding through this ancient canyon, twisting between narrows in the canyon, passing loads of camels coming and going from the Danakil. And yes it is getting hotter and hotter now. As the canyon ends we hit a gravel/lava road that takes us to Hamed Ella. You are officially on the moon now, enjoy.

Things turn surreal immediately as you enter the world’s most inhospitable terrain. This road is rough, it there are no trees and Afar huts occasionally dot this alien surface.

It is officially really hot now.

A tough 15kms or so brings us to Hamed Ella. A remote

A tough 15kms or so brings us to Hamed Ella. A remote outpost village here for only 8 months. We have huts for shade. This is our base camp for the next 2 1`/2 days Later in the day your guides will take you to a desert reef. This was the Red Sea at one time. And as you stand on ancient sea fans and nothing but lava and desert surrounding you, the camel caravans come rolling past. Surreal and wonderful. Enjoy as this was well earned.

NOTE--Hydration now is incredibly important. Our 4x4’s are loaded with water.

There is a military camp here with a generator where you can find a cold beer and cokes. The generator cannot keep up with the blazing heat but at least the drinks are not +40 C. Your definition of a cold drink is about to change. Your first desert sunset as the camels and workers roll right past camp as they come in from the salt mine. Overnight Camping.

sulfur lake. It will stun you visually and physically.

And you get a chance to tip toe over it on sulfur that has crusted over. Remember it is 50C out, sulfur wafting around you and the heat from the sulfur lake. It takes its toll on you but will be one of most memorable days of your lives, guaranteed! We get down and find the only shade for miles in a nearby small desert canyon. Lunch and recover before biking salt flats back to camp. Sunset and camels ends the day. Overnight Camping.

DAY 6--Ride to salt mine and to a large bubbling sulfur pool. Another memorable day as we finally see this ancient salt mine still used to this day and where all the salt you have seen on camels for 3 days now, comes from. Visioning lines of camels in wavering desert air, just like the movies but no couch and AC but popping corn here is easy. Time itself stands still here. Enjoy ,Off to a large sulfur pool and some great freeing salt flat riding and then off to a small outcropping of rock that sits like a ship in a calm sea. We set up tarps and shade here. Sun is relentless now. Food/water and a break before getting back to camp and our last sunset here. Overnight Camping.

DAY 5---Desert riding from base camp to Dallol sulfur volcano Sunrise and the Afar chief handing out salt orders to the awaiting caravans starts the day before breakfast. Wander and enjoy this scenario. We then hit a brutal rocky road for about 10kms to a sulfur/salt/potash road that is a way smoother and leads us through endless salt/potash desert to Dallol about another 8kms away. We have tribal elders and local military guards DAY 7/8--To Erta Ale. The world’s largest lava lake. with us as this is mandatory rules when traveling here Approximately 50kms/day as so remote. We get to the base of the volcano and climb for maybe 15 minutes to its top. There awaits a Dali painting for you to enter. Nothing like this on the planet. Mushroom sulfur and twisted, tortured rock surround you as you walk until you hit the

These are the two days of some of the toughest riding in the world. A combination of sand, salt and lava takes us to a small Afar village in the middle of the desert where we camp and negotiate with the tribal chief to go through his land. These 2 days are bike and hike days as when the sand gets to thick you have to carry or walk it. But this is why we are here. To do what nobody has done, ride the heart of the Danakil. On the second day much the same but less bike/hiking but the last 10kms is a lava road up to the base of the volcano where we camp. You wanted tough, here it is.

You can see about 6-7 other ancient and dead volcanoes. The miles of lava stretching to the sand came from all of these. Its truly wild and raw. Overnight Camping.

not too much hike/biking. We will camp outside of town on the beach with palm trees and a small natural hot springs to soak in or swim in the salt lake. A few volcanoes surround the lake. Cold beers are shipped in from the town, and these are actually cold and well earned. Dinner in this outpost town with real Ethiopian food. Overnight Camping.

Day 10 Wet salt process tour. Day off to relax at the “SPA”

DAY 11---Ride to Tribal village and leaving the Danakil Semi tough day but starts easy on paved flats but we have to get out of the world’s lowest spot and that takes some climbing. No a lot today but the road gets pretty rough but DAY 8---Hike up to top and camp stay in a really cool tribal village We are up real early to beat the sun that is worth experiencing. Has and arrive on top shortly after sun- electricity and some good local rise. Takes three hours but what food and tribal dress. Overnight you are about to see is the true, raw Camping. power of earth. We camp on the edge of the walls created from the DAY 12--Tough day to Gheralta explosion and can see the ancient and the beautiful Ghealta Lodge dried lava flow work its way to the Climbing and more climbing to desert floor. We have huts to stay start the day and a good part of out of sun, camels bring our food the day. A few valleys and wild and water and bags. Day trip to the rough scenery until we get to the crater. A path takes us down the paved road the leads to Mekele walls and hike on the lava flow to but we turn off to Gheralta and its Ertale crater. Only 4 in the world unique and almost Arizona like and none of them can you stand on mountains where its churches its edge and look into hell. A night lay often in its cliffs edges. Very hike to its edge is even wilder. En- peaceful. Support trucks there joy as this part of the world has no always if need them The Gherrules, feels incredible and freeing. alta Lodge is a stunning lodge Overnight Camping. overlooking Gheralta mountains.

Beautiful rooms and food. OverDAY 9 To Lake Afdera--a true salt night Camping. lake We have 4 x 4’s and for those wearing out you can sit in the truck DAY 13--50-80KMS-Ride/Hike anytime. We will try to get as far as to two churches we can today and leave the moun- This is a great days riding and tains edge before sunrise. The road a pure joy after all we just went near the lake was being paved. But through. We ride to two churches before that is desert riding with today. One we bike to at base of

mountains and passing through local villages, past cactus and Gheralta’s magical mountains all around.

Very very different than the highlands. The other is back the way came with a turn off and a hike up to a cave like church overlooking when we came. You can get in the truck to do this last section Back to the Lodge for Sunset and drinks as they are marvelous here. Overnight Camping.

DAY 14---ABUNE YEMATA This is the end of our trip and what a spectacular way to finish it with a short ride to the wild trail/climb Abune Yemata. Gheralta’s most well known church. This church and entrance lay on a ledge 2,000ft off the ground and yes the hike up is at times not for the faint of heart.

Our local guides will get you there safe but your heart maybe up a few notches. The final few feet are across a flat ledge that dead ends and this is where they carved this incredible cave like church almost 900 years ago. Stunning paintings and pillars inside all while you look out over the drop. We have arranged a priest drum ceremony here and we can think of no better place and experience to end this wild adventure. Back to the lodge for a great meal and sunset drinks.

Tomorrow is back to Mekele and flying to Adiss. Overnight Camping.

DAY 15--FLIGHT TO ADISS AND DEPARTURE Morning flight to Addis, relaxes in the hotel, attend farewell dinner in the best traditional restaurant with live music and decision meal.

Transfer to the airport for the night flight.

TRIP RATING WILL BE GIVEN UP ON ARRIVAL.

Danakil and Erta’le Active Volcano Tour

Danakil Depression and Ert’ale is recommended from late October to mid April.

Ert’ale and Danakil Depres- akil Depression, the active volcano ly mean epic, downhill waits. We ( Ert’ale), the afar people may start seeing camels and some sion: The Danakil Desert is located between the Ethiopian plateau and the Red Sea. The salt plain near Dallol is the lowest part at 116 metres below sea level. In prehistoric times, the territory was in the form of a gulf. According to geologists, this is a sea bed that emerged for a brief moment in the history of the planet; the Afar depression will in fact form a future ocean with the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

This geological anomaly means that the entire area is very unstable.

There are numerous active volcanoes and frequent earthquakes, together with secondary manifestations such as the stupendous colors of the salt surfaces, caused by the geysers with their various different chlorides. This inhospitable territory is home to nomadic sheepherding Afar people.

This trip includes the trip to Dan-

Afar people walking the road. At the bottom is a flat road into BerhTour Code: SET 022 ale but passing by some small Afar Duration: 4 nights/ 5 days villages and huts. Berhale is where Means of Transport: Surface the caravans arrive to drop off the salt and is like a Wild West town DAY 1— Flight to Mekele and but with camels and Afar homes. drive to Ahmed Ella.

Further drive to Hamed Ella overMorring domestic flight to Me- night camping. kele. Not the most interesting city on the planet but has a pretty cool DAY 2--To Erta Ale. The world’s vibe as this is the town where jeep largest lava lake. caravans taking tourists into the Today we drive to Ert’ale. Stop Danakil starts from. It is also a Over in Kursewad for the permit. pretty big city with some cool side A combination of sand, salt and streets and an area with nice res- lava takes us to a small Afar village taurants and cobbled streets. You in the middle of the desert where will have entered into a new world, we camp and negotiate with the one you didn’t know existed and tribal chief to go through his land. the days that follow even more so. To do what nobody has done, visit We start the day from Mekele and the heart of the Danakil. The last onto a plateau and flat for 25kms 10kms is a lava road up to the base or so where we turn off onto a wild of the volcano where we camp. You dirt road that leads to Berhale and wanted tough, here it is. You can the Danakil. A long epic, and i tru- see about 6-7 other ancient and

dead volcanoes. The miles of lava stretching to the sand came from all of these. Its truly wild and raw. Overnight Camping.

DAY 3--The Epic Canyon trail into the Danakil. Early morning descend Ert ale, have your breakfast at Waydodom where the base of the area and drive to Ahmed Ella o/n local Camping DAY 4--- Visit the desert Desert from base camp to Dallol sulfur volcano Sunrise and the Afar chief handing out salt orders to the awaiting caravans starts the day before breakfast. Wander and enjoy this scenario. We then hit a brutal rocky road for about 10kms to a sulfur/salt/potash road that is a way smoother and leads us through endless salt/potash desert to Dallol about another 8kms away. We have tribal elders and local military guards with us as this is mandatory rules when traveling here as so remote. Nothing like this on the planet. Mushroom sulfur and twisted, tortured rock surround you as you walk until you hit the sulfur lake. It will stun you visually and physically. And you get a chance to tip toe over it on sulfur that has crusted over. Remember it is 50C out, sulfur wafting around you and the heat from the sulfur lake. It takes its toll on you but will be one of most memorable days of your lives, guaranteed! We get down and find the only shade for miles in a nearby small desert canyon. and afternoon drive to Mekele. Overnight Hill top hotel.

DAY 5- - Morning flight to Addis Ababa, city tour in Addis including Mount Entoto, national Museum, the resting place of our famous LUCY, Merkato, the biggest open market in Africa, monuments and souvenir shopping. Attend farewell dinner in the best traditional restaurant, transfer to airport for the flight and it will be end of the service.

USEFUL INFORMATION Ethiopia is located in the Horn of Africa between the tropic of Cancer and the Equator. The country covers an area of 1,251,000 square kilometers and has 75 million inhabitants. In contrast to most African countries, Ethiopia was never colonized and has long enjoyed its independence. This has meant that the country has taken on a prestigious role in the context of Africa as a whole; in fact, the African Union has its headquarters in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa.

1. Safety: Ethiopia is a safe destination. Nevertheless, when travelling in any developing country, common sense is a traveler’s best friend. Safety is one of the main factors that are considered while Senait Ethiopia Tour organizes its trips.

2. Most Popular Sites: Senait Ethiopia offers several untouched historical and natural sites.

Every site has got its uniqueness depending upon the interest of the tourist. However, the most famous sight is perhaps Lalibela, an ancient rockhewn church and Axum steles.

Other famous areas include: Lake Tana in Bahr Dar, the ancient cities of Gondar and Harar, as well as the southeastern area of the peoples of the Omo valley.

The Jimma area is interesting for those who wish to know the origin of Coffee.

3. Health Requirement: Visitors must have vaccination certificates against Yellow Fever. Any person who visited or transited cholera-infected countries within six days before arrival, is required to have a vaccination certificate against Cholera.

Malaria occurs in most parts of the country, especially the lowland. Visitors should take preventive dose against malaria, before, during and after the tour.

4. Clothing: Visitors should take light, summer clothes for the day time and something warm for the evenings, like a sweater or jacket. The temperature drops quite rapidly towards sunset. Simian or Bale Mountains trekkers should bring warm clothes and water proofs for un seasonal rains.

Shoes must always be removed before entering churches and mosques.

5. Drink: Tella, a traditional beer brewed from barely or corn and hops, is a local drink generally unavailable in modern hotels and restaurants.

Fermented sorghum known as borde is a dualpurpose food- drink among Ethiopia’s lowland peoples and pastoralists. In Addition, there are bottled Ethiopian beers, local wine and mineral water that most find to their liking.

6. Photography: In the smaller towns the locals may expect a small payment in return for being photographed. Video photography in famous tourist attractions occasionally carries a small charge. Photography may be prohibited on the bridge and near military camps.

7.Tipping: In most hotels and restaurants, a 10 per cent service charge is added to the bill. Tipping is a fairly frequent custom, but amounts are small.

8. Land: Ethiopia, as large as France and Spain combined, has an area of 1,112,000 square kilometers. About 65 percent is presently cultivated.

Cities: Capital--Addis Ababa (pop. 4 million).

Other cities--Dire Dawa (237,000), Nazareth (189,000), Gondar (163,000), Dessie (142,000), Mekele (141,000), Bahir Dar (140,000), Jimma (132,000), Awassa (104,000).

Terrain: High plateau, mountains, dry lowland plains.

9. Climate: Throughout most of the country there are two seasons: the dry season prevails from October through May; the wet season runs from June to September. Temperate is cold in the highlands and hot in the lowlands.

10. Topography: Ethiopia has an elevated central plateau varying in height between 2,000 and 3,000 meters. In the north and center of the country there are some mountains whose peaks rise over 4,000 meters. The most famous Ethiopian river is the Blue Nile (or Abbay), which runs a distance of 1,450 kilometers from its source in Lake Tana, to join the White Nile at Khartoum.

11. Economy: About 85 percent of the populations earn their living from the land, mainly as subsistence farmers. Agriculture is the backbone of the national economy and the principal exports from the sector are coffee, chat, oil seeds, pulses, flowers, vegetables, sugar and foodstuffs for animals. There is also thriving livestock sector, exporting cattle on the hoof and hides of skins.

12. People: Ethiopia’s population is estimated around 77 million. Ethiopia is composed of about 83 ethnic groups. Based on the language they speak, they can be divided into Semitic, Cushitic, Nilotic and Omotic stocks.

Annual growth rate: 2.7%.

Ethnic groups (est.): Oromo 40%, Amhara 25%, Tigre 7%, Somali 6%, Sidama 9%, Gurage 2%, Wolaita 4%, Afar 4%, other nationalities 3%.

13. Religion: Three of the world’s major religions Judaism, Christianity and Islam have had their followers here since they were founded and thus have

grown with indigenous expressions and protected in Ethiopia before anywhere else.

Religions (est.): Ethiopian Orthodox Christian 40%, Sunni Muslim 45-50%, Protestant 5%, remainder indigenous beliefs.

Today, almost 99 % of Ethiopians are adherents of one of these three main religions with the rest followers of animist traditional sprit or ancestral worship of one kind or another.

14. Airport: The main Airport is Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa. It has various international connections. Domestic flights are also available to various regions of the country. The Historic route has daily flights from Addis Ababa, in the sites as Bahir Dar, Gondar, Lalibela, Axum and Dire Dawa South (Arbaminch and Jinka and South-west some cities are also connected (Jimma, Tum. Tepi and Gambella).

There is USD 20 departure tax for international flights and 10 birr embarkation fee for domestic flight in each airport.

15. Hotels: Addis Ababa has hotels that cater for all pockets, from the luxurious Sheraton and Hilton hotels to the tourist class hotels.

Outside Addis, mainly in the ‘Historic Route’, there are best available standard hotels. However, to visit the remote and the people of the wilderness, some new lodges are operating and beside our camping equipments are of high standard.

Terms & Conditions 1. Bookings: - Contracts and agreements will be valid consequent to Senait Ethiopia Tour (SET’s) confirmation of the booking by fax, e-mail, letter or telephone. At the time of confirmation, a deposit of 30% of the total cost is requested. The remaining amount of the total cost shall be paid 30 days before the commencement of the tour. Unless prior arrangements have been made, SET is not indebted to conduct the tour if complete payment has not been received.

2. Cancellations: - Abolition of confirmed bookings received more than 30 days prior to departure are subject to a cancellation fee of US $50 per person. Cancellation received between 30 and 15 days prior to departure will be subject to a penalty of 50% of the total rate of the tour. Cancellations received less than 15 days prior to departure will be subject to relinquishment of the entire tour rate. SET strongly recommends trip cancellation insurance.

3. Responsibility and Liability: - Only the laws of Ethiopia govern SET’s liability to passengers transported in its own vehicles and all claims are subject to the jurisdiction of the court of Ethiopia in which the cause of action arises. Although every possible care is taken to safeguard you and your property,

SET accepts no liability for loss or damage of any personal effects. SET will dispose its best efforts to assist visitors when dealing with third parties such as hotels, air lines and other transport companies and travel agents.

However, SET cannot be held responsible for any loss or harm such as sickness, injury, death or additional costs incurred due to denied boarding, overbooking, cancellation or delay caused by the third party.

4. Prices: - SET’s tour prices can be provided upon request.

5. Itineraries: - Only selected itineraries are arranged here, however, numerous types of tours that suit the traveler’s convenience can be organized. Combined tours can also be arranged on request.

6. Itinerary Changes While every effort is made to adhere to the specifics mentioned in the agreed itinerary, changes may be required at times. However, we honestly and professionally try to meet the conditions of the original program.

7. Insurance Getting travel insurance, which is available from your own country, is strongly recommended.

Around Megenagna, on the way to Bole Airport, Kokeb BLDG, 1st Floor, # 104, P.O BOX 29977 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Tel: +251 118 60 23 43 Mob: +251 911 94 38 12 / +251 930 01 43 76 Email: info@sunnyethiopiatours.com OR sunnyethiopiatours@gmail.com Skype: sunnyethiopia1