Arid East

The roads east of Addis have a remarkable story to tell. An itinerary bursting with history, culture, and extraordinary landscapes.
11 Days
$3,818

Itinerary Map

Landmarks potentially visited on Arid East

Itinerary

Day 1: Addis Ababa

Arrival at Bole International Airport. City tour Addis Ababa. Welcome dinner in cultural restaurant. 

Overnight: Capital Hotel & Spa


Day 2: Hawzien

Flight Addis Ababa to Mekele. Drive (2 hrs) Mekele to Hawzien, en route visit Tigray historical sites of choice. 

Overnight: Gheralta Lodge


Day 3: Hawzien

Full day exploring Tigray, visiting historical sites of choice. 

Overnight: Gheralta Lodge


Day 4: Danakil Depression

Drive Hawzien to Ahmed Ela. Visit Dallol and Lake Asale. 

Overnight: Camping


Day 5: Danakil Depression

Drive Ahmed Ela to Dodom. Evening hike up to crater rim Erta Ale. Overnight at crater rim. 

Overnight: Camping


Day 6: Semera

Hike down to base camp Dodom. Drive (7 hrs) Dodom to Semera, en route visit Lake Afrera. 

Overnight: Agda Hotel


Day 7: Awash Falls National Park

Drive (6.5 hrs) Semera to Awash National Park. 

Overnight: Awash Falls Lodge


Day 8: Awash Falls National Park

Full day visit Awash National Park. 

Overnight: Awash Falls Lodge


Day 9: Harar

Drive (5 hrs) Awash National Park to Harar. 

Overnight: Wonderland Hotel


Day 10: Harar

City tour Harar. Evening visit Hyena Man. 

Overnight: Wonderland Hotel


Day 11: Return to Addis

Drive (1.5 hrs) Harar to Dire Dawa, en route visit Awaday khat market, Kafira spice market and Dire Dawa Railway Station. Flight Dire Dawa to Addis Ababa. Minibus available for transport around Addis Ababa. Evening transfer to Bole International Airport for international flight.

Prices and Inclusions

Prices are per person based on 2 people travelling together. Prices guideline only, actual price swill depend on final itinerary, accommodation choices, and time of year. 

Includes

  • Domestic flights
  • Airport transfers and road transport around Addis Ababa and Harar by private minibus.
  • Road transport by standard 4WD with English speaking driver/ guide, including fuel, driver allowances and accommodation.
  • Support vehicle in Danakil. 
  • Accommodation based on double/ twin room sharing.
  • Meal plan bed and breakfast. Full board (including mineral water) in Danakil.
  • Fees for entrances, local guides, compulsory scouts/ security personnel for activities mentioned in the itinerary.
  • All government taxes for the services included in the tour price. 

Excludes

  • International flights and visa fees.
  • Lunches and dinners, unless stated as included above.
  • Activities not mentioned or stated as optional in the itinerary.
  • Fees for photos and video.
  • Other personal expenses, souvenirs, tips and gratuities, etc. 

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