Ethiopia in May

Experience Ethiopia's northern circuit in style. Explore the incredible highland scenery, visit ancient monuments, discover unique cultural traditions, and break up your journey at luxury lodges set amongst incredible backdrops.

Explore the Simien Mountains from a luxury lodge perched high in the escarpment, discover the architectural remains of ancient civilisations, and watch the sun set over the sandstone cliffs of Tigray. The Historic North Circuit is a flagship itinerary in the northern highlands of Ethiopia, combining all the highlights north of Addis Ababa along a perfectly paced trip.

Fusing history, culture, landscapes and wildlife along a perfectly paced circuit, this trip is a synthesis of the very best experiences on offer in Ethiopia’s northern highlands. Explorations of the ancient cities Axum, Gondar, Bahir Dar and Lalibela are broken up by hikes in the Simien Mountains National Park and community trekking in the rural plateaus of Tigray.

Every city in Ethiopia has a story to tell. In under 10 days, discover some of Ethiopia's most important towns, each different from the last in so many ways.

This trip packs in a myriad of history, culture and some of the best scenery in Africa. Explore the palaces of Gondar, the world-famous rock-hewn churches in Lalibela, and the sweeping plateaus of the Simien Mountains. Leave enough time either side to explore the bustling capital city on your way in or out.

The classic northern trail extends south into the Omo Valley, passing through the Rift Valley Lakes and highland peaks of the Bale Mountains. A once in a lifetime adventure combining the very best that Ethiopia has to offer.

This classic route is perfect if you're looking for an introduction to Ethiopia, but don't have a lot of time. The focus is on the historic cities, monuments, and culture of northern Ethiopia, with plenty of wildlife and vistas along the way.

A true adventure across the northernmost reaches of Ethiopia. Experience community trekking on the plateaus of Tigray, where horizons stretch for miles, distant mountain peaks morph into hazy silhouettes lit by the evening sun, and pockets of light and shadow dance on the undulating surface of the Tigrayan valleys below. Discover the alien environment of the Danakil Depression, home to lava lakes, acid springs, and sprawling salt lakes. With stunning scenery matched only by the charm and warmth of local Ethiopian hospitality, this trip is a sensory experience that’s as emotionally arresting as it is visually striking.

Our community trekking routes are among our favourite experiences in Ethiopia. Offering a unique insight into rural Ethiopia through trails off-the-beaten-track, we're yet to find anyone who isn't blown away by the beauty of the rolling hills of Lalibela, the sun-glazed panoramas of Tigray, and the kindness and hospitality of the local communities.

The Omo Valley is one of the most culturally diverse and fascinating destinations on the planet. This premium itinerary takes you deep into the Omo Valley, exploring the length and breadth of the region with overnights at camps offering exclusive access into some of the world's most untouched regions.

Hike across electric landscapes of thick forests, Afro-alpine moorland, peaks and plateaus, and jungle thickets. An extraordinary outdoor adventure, with high altitude hikes unlocking staggering viewpoints, beautiful clearings, and endemic wildlife. At night, the sky is ablaze with starlight in this beautiful, untouched wilderness. Few travellers are aware of the camping opportunities in the Bale Mountains, so you'll likely have the park all to yourselves.

The Simien Mountains are one of Ethiopia’s most stunning destinations. With its diverse flora and fauna, immense views and extraordinary geography, it’s an exceptional place that can be enjoyed by hardy trekkers and afternoon strollers alike. A couple of nights at the beautiful Limalimo Lodge at either end transforms this 3-day trip into an unforgettable 5-day experience.