NOTE: This excursion can also be added to the end of other tours that go todifferent parts of the country, such as the Omo Valley or Historic North.

This tour does not always have pre-scheduled departure dates.

Overview

Day 01: Addis Ababa – Mekelle

Arrive early and start the day with an optional morning visit to the Ethnographic and National museums in Addis Ababa. In the afternoon, a flight with Ethiopian Airlines will bring you to Mekelle – where the real adventure begins.

Overnight Hotel (L, D)

Day 02: Mekelle – Ahmedela

Meet and greet your drivers, who’ll take you to Ahmedela by way of Berhaile. Make camp in Ahmedela, and watch as the camel caravans pass you by, against a backdrop of an awe-striking sunset.

Overnight Camping (B, L, D)

Day 03: Lake Asale and Dallol Excursion

Venture to Lake Asale, where you can watch the salt workers chop out bricks of salt directly from the lake bed. The salt bricks are then sold on the market and loaded on camel caravans for transportation to the highlands. Continue to Dallol to view the spectacular and vivid geological formations caused by the hot springs rich in sulfur, potash, and salt.

Overnight Camping (B, L, D)

Day 04: Trek to Erta Ale

Start the day with a drive to Dodom, and then continue with a lengthy 15-kilometer trek to the Erta Ale volcano lake (613m above sea). Arrive at Erta Ale around midnight, and walk to behold the outstanding volcanic eruption. Set camp for the night and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Overnight Camping (B, L, D)

Day 05: Return to Mekele

Trek back to Dodom. And then relax during the return trip to Mekelle (entirely by car).

Overnight Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 06: Mekelle – Addis Ababa

Fly back to Addis with Ethiopian Airlines. Enjoy the evening and savor a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, which features dancers and musicians representing some of the Nation’s numerous ethnic groups.
And if needed, your driver will transfer you to the airport for your late-night departure.

(B, L, D)