The History and Landscapes of Ethiopia

This interesting tour includes a visit to the National Museum, which houses several hundred pieces of bone fossils representing 40% of the skeleton of a female of the hominin species, known as Lucy. You'll also see the Ethnological Museum and get the chance to witness a traditional coffee ceremony, as well as discover the city's churches, Unity Park and Merkato.

Lalibela is Ethiopia's holiest city and a site of pilgrimage for many Orthodox Christians. The 900-year-old church of Bet Giyorgis - church of St. George - is located on the western side of the cluster of 11 churches. It was carved from a single piece of rock 40 feet into the ground in the shape of a Greek cross. There is a curtain that shields the Holy of Holies, in front of which usually stands a priest displaying scripture and paintings.

Yemrehana Krestos is a stone and wood church in the Aksumite style, located inside a dark cave 12 miles north east of Lalibela. Until 15 years ago, this church, could only be reached after a long and difficult journey by foot or donkey. You will also enjoy the sunset from Ashetan Monastery, with truly remarkable views.

Mingle with the locals in this popular bar where you can taste the local delicacy, Tej. This libation is a kind of Ethiopian mead, a delicious honey wine with a herby flavour. Patrons can also enjoy a traditional azmari song and dance until the early hours.

Very little is known about the origin of the 120 churches carved into the rock and cliffs, or their architectural history. Local tradition attributes most of the churches to the 4th century Aksumite Kings, Abreha and Atsbeha. Access to the churches involves some interesting hikes up the steep, and sometimes sheer, cliff faces. Inside many of the churches are colourful frescoes, hundreds of years old. The priests who live on these mountains follow a simple life that revolves around the Orthodox Christian calendar.

Abuna Yemata is known as Gheralta's church in the sky and is one of the most inaccessible place of worship on earth, perched on top of a vertical spire. Carved by hand from the rock in which it stands, this 5th century monastery is decorated in exquisite frescoes, and is so sacred that mothers bring their newborn babies up here to be baptised, and bodies have been laid to rest on this mountain.

The monastery of Abune Gebre Mikael has a modest whitewashed entrance set within the natural rock, with old wooden window frames. It opens into a beautiful and classical place of worship, cruciform in plan with dome ceilings, pillars and arche, covered in amazing unspoiled frescos of Christian saints and biblical scenes.

Rectangular in shape with six freestanding pillars, Debre Zion is known for its architectural features, including decorated dome ceilings, bas-reliefs and carved crosses on the walls. It also has beautiful, though faded murals and a unique ancient ceremonial fan.

Arriving at Saba River, you'll settle into camp with a good lunch before setting out in the afternoon for an exploratory trip to the salt harvesters. Sitting on the edge of Lake Ase Ale, you’ll have sundowners and watch the camel trains make their way with their loads of salt off the flats and on towards the distant highlands.

This morning, you’ll arise early and head across the lake to the sulphur pools. Incredible sculptures and colours abound in this constantly growing hillock. Salt pillars grow like stalagmites out of the lake bed and hot springs bubble in crystal-clear pools.

You'll then return to camp via the salt harvesters for a late brunch.

Embark on a scenic and memorable walk up the Saba River, deep into the treeless mountains. The watercourse is quite spectacular and is the route for the camel trains to reach the distant highlands. During this walk, you will also visit small Afar communities for an impression of the local cultures and traditions.

Wander around this expansive capital of Ethiopia, which is the country’s cultural and commercial core and the fourth-largest city in Africa. Enjoy some shopping before feasting on delicious local delicacies.