After a hearty breakfast, the spiritual energy of Timket envelopes the day. In the early morning, join the celebrations in Addis Ababa as churches hold masses and sermons in preparation for the blessing of water. Return to Jan Meda, where the patriarch blesses the water and thousands of locals—dressed in dazzling white—are ritually baptized. The infectious rhythm of hymns and music fills the air. Later in the afternoon, fly from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, transitioning from the bustling capital to the serene landscapes of the Blue Nile region.

Accommodation:Jacaranda Hotel

Begin your day gliding across the tranquil waters of Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake and the source of the Blue Nile. Visit the island monastery of Ura Kidane Mehret, adorned with 14th–16th century murals,its walls cloaked in ancient Christian murals and its air scented with candle wax and incense. On the Zege Peninsula, walk through primeval coffee forests, serenaded by birdsong and shaded by trees whispered to be centuries old.

In the afternoon, journey to the legendary Blue Nile Falls, locally known as Tis Abay—“the Smoking Water.” Trek to its edge and watch in awe as a curtain of white thunder plunges into the riverbed below. Rainbows dance above the mist, and time briefly forgets to move. Return to your hotel, changed by the sheer power and grace of water.

Accommodation: Jacaranda Hotel

As your journey winds through the scenic highlands between Bahir Dar and Gondar, you'll pause for an enriching visit to Awramba, a remarkable village known for its egalitarian values and progressive way of life. This short stop offers a rare cultural encounter with a self-sustaining community that defies traditional norms—where gender equality, education, and cooperative living are central to daily life.

Upon arrival, a local guide warmly welcomes your group and shares the inspiring story of Awramba’s founding and philosophy. Clients will tour the village’s communal weaving workshops, where men and women work side by side creating intricate textiles. They’ll engage with residents to learn about their unique social practices, including conflict resolution without violence and a shared commitment to supporting the elderly and orphans.

Accommodation: Goha Hotel

Begin your day with an early breakfast before a guided tour of Gondar’s royal legacy. Explore the UNESCO-listed Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi) founded by emperor Fasilades in the 17 century, admire the engineering marvel of Fasilides’ Bath, and marvel at the intricate beauty of Debre Berhan Selassie Church. A visit to the Gondar Women’s Ploughshare Project deepens your connectivity to local traditions.

Begin your afternoon with a scenic drive from Gondar toward the mighty Simien Mountains, where rolling farmlands gradually give way to rugged highlands and sweeping vistas.Along the way, enjoy a sunset stop at a panoramic viewpoint, offering the perfect golden-hour photo opportunity. Upon arrival near the park, guests are welcomed with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony—an intimate cultural immersion hosted by locals at a mountain hamlet or lodge.

Accommodation: Simien Lodge

Wake up above the clouds and enjoy breakfast at Simien Lodge, surrounded by towering peaks and the morning songs of highland birds. Then set off for an unforgettable day inside Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your guided hike leads you across dramatic escarpments and alpine meadows in search of endemic wildlife—most notably the Gelada baboons, known for their expressive faces and social behavior, and the elusive Walia ibex, Ethiopia’s iconic cliff-dwelling antelope.

Enjoy picnic breaks, photo stops, and fascinating insights into the park’s ecology and geology throughout the day. By late afternoon, descend from the highlands and begin your return journey to Gondar, bringing with you lasting memories of Ethiopia’s mountain magic.

Accommodation: Goha Hotel

Your morning begins with a flight from the imperial echoes of Gondar to the ethereal highlands of Lalibela, often called the “New Jerusalem.” As the plane descends, the jagged landscape unfolds like a painting—hills cloaked in mist and mystery. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by the town’s haunting silence and spiritual air before checking in at Sora Lodge, perched overlooking the town and valley below.

Soon after, step into one of the world’s most remarkable sacred landscapes: the first cluster of rock-hewn churches. Chiseled straight from volcanic rock in the 13th century, these marvels speak in silence—about perseverance, devotion, and unshakable faith. Carved passageways, ceremonial trenches, and towering stone facades greet you at every turn, as your local guide reveals the stories, secrets, and symbolism carved into every crevice. It’s more than a tour—it’s an initiation into a living legend.

Accommodation: Sora Lodge

After a sunrise breakfast with mountain views, depart on a scenic drive through rugged countryside and fragrant eucalyptus groves en route to Yemrehanna Kristos Church, hidden inside a limestone cave and considered a masterpiece of Aksumite architecture. This 11th-century structure, constructed of layered wood and stone rather than carved, rests on a foundation of legend. The quiet inside the cave chapel is nearly otherworldly—hundreds of ancient pilgrims are buried just beyond its walls.

Returning to Lalibela in the afternoon, continue with the second group of rock-hewn churches, each with its own haunting personality. Marvel at their dramatic architecture and distinct purpose—churches for baptism, monastic reflection, or celebration. Don’t miss Bet Gabriel-Rufael, once believed to be a royal palace, or Bet Giyorgis, the famous cross-shaped church iconically photographed from above, standing resolute and alone in its sunken courtyard.

Accommodation: Sora Lodge

Today’s adventure takes you further back in time. Fly north to Axum, cradle of Ethiopia’s ancient civilization and a city drenched in mystery and myth. After check-in at Sabean Hotel, begin your immersion with visits to the ancient tombs of Axumite kings, whose reign stretched across continents and whose influence shaped early Christianity in Africa.

The day culminates at the sacred St. Mary of Zion Church, considered by many to be the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. Though the Ark remains hidden from public view, the aura surrounding the chapel is electric with reverence. Whether you come for belief or curiosity, the weight of centuries is palpable here—this is Ethiopia’s spiritual core.

Accommodation: Sabean Hotel

After breakfast, set out on a full-day archaeological odyssey through one of the most influential cities of the ancient world. You’ll walk among towering stelae fields—megalithic obelisks intricately carved with multilevel tomb markers, believed to have once stood as tall as 33 meters. Venture into Queen of Sheba’s Palace ruins and inspect timeworn inscriptions that served as imperial announcements and genealogies.

Your guide will unravel myths and facts, pointing out foundations of early Christian churches, ancient reservoirs, and stone thrones left behind by rulers whose reach extended into Arabia and beyond. This is a day for those who love stories carved in stone and whispers carried by dust.

Accommodation: Sabean Hotel

This morning, fly back to Addis Ababa, where ancient legacies meet a fast-changing future. For those interested, enjoy an optional visit to Unity Park and Jubliee Palace, a celebration of Ethiopia’s diversity and resilience, blending botanical gardens, historical buildings, and modern art into one cultural landmark.

As evening falls, gather for a festive farewell celebration—a special cultural dinner featuring live traditional music and dance, where the rhythms of the highlands, lowlands, and everything in between come to life. Let this evening be a sensory tapestry of everything you’ve seen, heard, tasted, and felt. Afterward, transfer to Bole International Airport for your international departure, hearts full and memories etched forever.

Accommodation: None

At Hoya Tour Ethiopia, our 11-Day Timket (Epiphany Festival) Tour is meticulously designed to immerse you in the rich tapestry of Ethiopia’s religious and cultural heritage. Join us as we traverse ancient cities, witness sacred ceremonies, and experience traditions that have thrived for centuries.
Seize the moment—secure your transformative Ethiopian Epiphany adventure today!