Back to All Events
We have not offered this destination since 2018. We are really excited to go back!
Ethiopia Highlands Trek & Sacred Churches Adventure (6 Days)
Lalibela • Axum • Simien Mountains (Ethiopian Highlands)
Step into Northern Ethiopia on a six-day expedition that blends true wilderness trekking with some of Africa’s most incredible heritage. Hike along dramatic cliffs and high-altitude valleys in the Simien Mountains, spot wildlife, and dive into living history at the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the ancient ruins of Axum.
This is the perfect trip for travelers who want big landscapes, remote trails, crisp mountain air, and unforgettable culture—all in one journey.
Trip highlights
Highlands trekking in the Simien Mountains: epic viewpoints, deep gorges, and ridge-line walks
Wildlife encounters: Baboons, ibex, and rare highland species
Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches: iconic monolithic churches carved into stone, including the famous cross-shaped church
Axum (Aksum): monuments, royal tombs, and the legacy of an ancient empire
Adventure + culture balance: wilderness days paired with guided historical exploration
6-Day itinerary Departure Friday morning
Friday: Day 1 — Fly to UAE from Dubai. Arrive in Addis Ababa
Arrive late morning, with time for visit to the museum and dinner in the city. Overnight in hotel.
Saturday Day 2 — Fly north to Gondar + transfer to the Simien Highlands
Morning flight to Gondar, then drive into the highlands toward the Simien region. Begin your first hike with warm-up trails and dramatic cliff-edge panoramas. Overnight in a mountain lodge/camp.
Sunday Day 3 — Full trekking day in the Simien Mountains (best viewpoints + wildlife)
A big, scenic trekking day along ridges and across open highland plateaus. Expect wide canyon views, iconic escarpments, and strong chances of wildlife sightings. Overnight in the highlands.
Monday Day 4 — Trek out + travel to Lalibela
Morning hike to complete your Simien trekking section, then transfer back toward Gondar for onward travel to Lalibela (flight routing dependent). Evening at leisure in Lalibela.
Day 5 — Lalibela: rock-hewn churches + optional highland hike
Guided exploration of Lalibela’s legendary rock-hewn churches—an architectural and spiritual masterpiece.
Day 6 — Fly to Axum: + departure connection
Fly to Axum for a guided visit of the key archaeological and historical sites—stelae fields, royal tombs, and the foundations of an ancient kingdom.
Good fit for Beginner/ New hikers
This itinerary is designed for travelers who enjoy active days outdoors. Trek distances and difficulty can be tailored (shorter scenic hikes or longer ridge walks), but expect uneven terrain, altitude, and full days of movement.
How hard is Mt Kenya?
Mt Kenya requires good fitness! Its a great test for anyone who wants to climb Kilimanjaro. This is everything that you need to learn and experience before Kilimanjaro. You will be climbing to 5000 m, over 4 days, around 5-6 hours per day. This is a test of your endurance, the same as you will have to do on Kilimanjaro. So, if you can do it on Kenya, you can do Kilimanjaro. The summit is a lot of fun, less painful than Kilimanjaro, not as crowded with a lot less pressure.
Itinerary and Route
We will be taking the Chagoria Siramon Traverse Route for 5 days.
All Inclusive Package: 8500 Dh
2 nights hotel Stay in Dusit Princess in Single Room (exclusive of dinner)
Transfers and travel to Mt Kenya
English speaking leaders
Single Tent on the mountain
Toilet tent for the group
4 Training Treks before you go to get ready
Down jacket, air mattress, down sleeping bag from UAE Trekkers
Budget Package: 6800 Dh
Pay for your own hotel stay at Dusit Princess
Rental of gear additional charges
Pay for your training treks