Old Age Ethiopia
Holding one of the oldest continuous civilizations in the world, this land of Sheba was referred to as Saba (of King Solomon) by the Ethiopians. With Christianity becoming the official state religion of the country in the year 320 (4th century), Emperor Ezana and the Axumite Empire lay claim to the history of a present day Christian stance in Ethiopia.
For a first visit to Ethiopia, we recommend this region as a great insight into what the rest of the country has to offer.
Accommodation type: (hotel)
• Feature Old-Age tour/ Ethiopian History Route 5days/4nights (Using domestic flights) operated by Ethiopian Airlines
From ancient to mystic, these destinations feature the resting place to some of history’s great hidden treasures.
Day1 AM Domestic flight from Addis Ababa (capital) to Bahir Dar (1 hr flight) transfer – Morning boat ride over Lake Tana and crossing the Zeghie peninsula. Visit the ancient island monasteries of Kibran Gabriel and Intos-Yesus (land of Jesus) where you will meet monks, living detached from society. Island churchwardens will brief on the history of each monastery and their amazing artifacts (*historical paintings found here).
PM/ Surface excursion to Tis Issat (Blue Nile falls) source of the Blue Nile (40minute drive). Disembark for a short walk to reach the falls. Visit the surrounding Gorge area and on the way back observe the natural environments of village life in this region of the River Nile source; view the people of the area, who have a culture much kept from past ages. Drive to the town of Gondar (180kms), overnight hotel in Gondar
Day2 City tour of the 16th century capital of Ethiopia including the royal compound (Gondar Castles), Debre Berhan Sellasie church (decorated in typical Gonderine style w/the ceiling of eyes), Fasiledes Bath, lion cage of David the third, overnight hotel in Gondar.
Day3 fly to Lalibela, –visit the eighth wonder of the world & UNESCO world heritage site. Tour the capital city of the medieval Zagwe dynasy, 1st half tour of the rock-hewn churches and hear the amazing stories behind them, afternoon visit 2nd half of rock hewn churches. overnight hotel
Day4 fly to Axum, –tour the most ancient city of Ethiopia (4th century), visit the Stalae park (tallest standing rock-carved obelisk in the world 23 mtrs), St. Mary of Zion church (4th AC), tombs of Kaleb and Remhai and palace ruins of the Queen of Sheba. overnight hotel
Day5 transfer & flight back to Addis Ababa-------------------
Tours include: accommodation, guide service, ground transport & tour logistics
*Road tours for the above destinations and combination tours are available, the above is a sample tour.
