Addis Ababa in 15 Days for Friends - Addis Ababa city tour and Mercato
In Collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour . Updated on February 7, 2026.
Active, social 15-day itinerary through northern Ethiopia—Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar (Lake Tana), Gondar, Simien Mountains trek, Lalibela and Axum—designed for friends who like history, hiking and lively local evenings. Uses the tour's agenda items as the core plan.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour , inspired by the tour "15-Day Northern Ethiopia: A Journey Through Time". Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Addis Ababa city tour and Mercato
- Boat trip to Lake Tana monasteries (Ura Kidane Mihret)
- Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure) and Gondar's historic churches
- Multi-day Simien Mountains trek (Sankaber, Geech, Chenek, Ras Dashen)
- Rock-hewn churches of Lalibela (Bete Giyorgis)
- Axum stelae field and St Mary of Zion
- National Museum (Lucy) and farewell cultural dinner in Addis
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival, Addis Ababa orientation: city sites, markets and a lively dinner with traditional music — easy pace to recover from travel.
Arrival & welcome transfer (meet at Bole)
Meet your guide at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (driver with banner). Private transfer to hotel and short orientation.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the driver to take a quick detour to a local coffee stall for your first Ethiopian coffee — great group ice-breaker.
- Keep passports and flight info handy; your guide will confirm domestic flight times for the next days.
- If you’re arriving late-night, request the hotel's group check-in to speed things up.
Hotel check-in & freshen up
Settle into your rooms and meet the group for a short briefing.
Tips from local experts:
- Request adjoining or nearby rooms when possible for easy socializing.
- Drop heavier luggage; you’ll only need daypacks for city walking later.
- Confirm wake-up and pick-up times for tomorrow's domestic flight with reception.
Holy Trinity Cathedral (short guided visit)
Visit Addis Ababa’s most important modern cathedral and the mausoleum of Emperor Haile Selassie.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered); photography is allowed in some areas — ask the guide.
- Good spot for group photos under the cathedral's high domes — golden-hour light in late afternoon is flattering.
- Accessible for groups with limited mobility — there are flat approaches and places to sit.
Ethnological Museum at Addis Ababa University
An engaging, well-displayed overview of Ethiopia’s ethnic groups, artifacts and history — a perfect intro to the trip.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide to focus on interactive, visually striking displays for lively group conversation.
- There are shaded outdoor areas for a relaxed coffee break and group photos.
- The museum has steps in parts—if someone in your group prefers an easier route, request the accessible path at the entrance.
Lunch — casual group lunch
Relaxed lunch at a friendly bistro with options for sharable platters.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose shareable plates — great for tasting local and international dishes as a group.
- If you prefer injera and traditional stews, ask the server for milder options for those sensitive to spice.
- Split bills centrally or rotate who pays — many friends groups prefer a single check.
Entoto Hills & Maryam Church viewpoint
Short drive up Entoto for sweeping views of Addis and a visit to the historic Entoto Maryam Church.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light jacket — Entoto is noticeably cooler and breezy; perfect for group skyline photos.
- Walk around the viewpoint in small groups to avoid crowding near best photo spots.
- Local vendors sell fresh honey wine (tej) — taste small servings and share among friends.
Merkato stroll (local open-air market)
Brief guided walk through Merkato — Africa’s largest open-air market — for a lively, colorful experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Travel light and keep a small daypack; markets are lively and easier to navigate without bulky bags.
- Bargain as a group activity — split into pairs to explore different stalls and compare prices.
- Stick with your guide through dense areas for safety and to spot authentic local souvenirs.
Dinner & cultural show — Yod Abyssinia
Lively evening with traditional music, dancers and a communal dinner — a great first-night group experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Book tables together in advance for the group show and communal seating.
- Try a variety of traditional dishes to share — the performance pairs well with tasting menus.
- Arrive early for the best seats near the performance area; shows are energetic and perfect for photos.
Overnight at hotel — group relax
Overnight rest at hotel; luggage stored for early morning departure if needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Group checklist: confirm tomorrow’s domestic flight times and pack daypacks with water, hat and sunscreen.
- Ask reception for a quiet floor if the group prefers early bedtimes after travel.
- Charge cameras and devices overnight — long days and hikes ahead.
Day 2
Fly to Bahir Dar; afternoon boat to Lake Tana monasteries and sunset viewpoint — relaxed lakeside evening.
Domestic flight: Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar
Morning transfer to Bole Airport and short domestic flight to Bahir Dar (approx. 1 hour).
Tips from local experts:
- Pack daypack with sun protection and medications — checked bags may be slow to arrive in regional airports.
- Keep boarding passes and ID together to speed group boarding.
- Window seats offer aerial views of the Ethiopian highlands — swap seats among the group if desired.
Hotel drop-off & quick refresh
Drop luggage and prepare for the Lake Tana boat trip; light snack if needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a lakeside room if available — great for morning group photos.
- Confirm boat meeting point and life-jacket sizes for everyone.
- Bring small bills for buying local snacks from vendors near the pier.
Lake Tana boat tour — monasteries on Zege Peninsula
Scenic boat ride visiting two monasteries (commonly Ura Kidane Mihret and another), exploring unique wall paintings and island life.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry a light waterproof layer — the lake breeze can be cool in the afternoon.
- Respect monastery rules: women may be restricted from some interior areas — follow your guide's instructions.
- Rotate camera duties: plan a few group shots on the boat mid-ride when the light is best.
Sunset viewpoint — Bezawit Hill (Blue Nile overlook)
Short drive to a lakeside hill for sunset views over the Nile River outflow and lake.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small flashlight for the short walk back after sunset; group headlamp sharing works well.
- This is a great moment for a group toast — bring small bottles or ask your guide about local drinks.
- Arrive 20–30 minutes before sunset to secure best photo positions.
Dinner — lakeside group dinner
Fresh fish and regional dishes near the lake — relaxed atmosphere for debriefing the day.
Tips from local experts:
- Order shared platters to sample local freshwater fish dishes.
- Ask for a table with a lake view; group photos at twilight look great here.
- If someone avoids fish, many restaurants will offer injera with vegetarian stews — request early.
Overnight — Bahir Dar
Overnight at a comfortable lakeside hotel — prepare for early transfer next morning.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm wake-up and breakfast time with reception one day ahead with the whole group.
- Charge electronics and pack a small daypack for tomorrow’s short flight/drive.
- If anyone wants a later breakfast, ask hotel staff about packed breakfast options.
Day 3
Short flight to Gondar; afternoon exploring the Royal Enclosure, Debre Birhan Selassie and Fasilides' Bath.
Morning transfer to Bahir Dar Airport and flight to Gondar
Short domestic flight to Gondar and transfer to town.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep hats and sunglasses handy — Gondar can be bright and sunny at midday.
- Confirm local pickup times with the hotel the night before to avoid group delays.
- Flights are short but may have limited overhead space — keep essentials in a small daypack.
Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure) guided tour
Explore Gondar’s UNESCO Royal Enclosure with its castles and historical context.
Tips from local experts:
- Hire a local guide at the entrance for stories and architectural details you won’t get from signs.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes — stone paths can be uneven but manageable for groups.
- Plan a group photo in front of Fasilides' castle — arrive mid-afternoon for softer light.
Lunch in Gondar (group-friendly restaurant)
Shared lunch near Meskel Square — local dishes and cold drinks.
Tips from local experts:
- Try communal plates to sample multiple stews — great bonding for friends traveling together.
- Ask for local non-alcoholic drinks if someone prefers a milder option for altitude.
- Reserve a long table in advance for easy group seating.
Debre Berhan Selassie Church visit
Famous for its painted ceiling of angels — short, must-see stop.
Tips from local experts:
- This church limits photography in select areas; follow your guide’s instructions.
- Quiet reflection areas make a nice break after the morning’s walking.
- Wear modest clothing and be prepared to remove hats inside sacred spaces.
Fasilides’ Bath viewpoint
See the historic royal bath (baptism site during Timkat) and learn its traditions.
Tips from local experts:
- If your visit is during Timkat (January), expect large crowds—plan accordingly.
- Evening light is nice for photos of the pool and surrounding buildings.
- Ask your guide for the history of Timkat ceremonies to better appreciate the site.
Dinner & overnight — Gondar
Group dinner and relax after the day’s exploring.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan a short post-dinner stroll as a group around the hotel if energy allows.
- Check tomorrow’s pickup time for Simien transfer and confirm packed lunches for trekking start.
- Double-check camera batteries and memory cards before the trekking section begins.
Day 4
Drive to Debark and enter Simien Mountains National Park — meet trekking team and camp at Sankaber.
Drive Gondar to Debark & Simien Park HQ (meet trekking team)
Early departure to Debark (park HQ). Meet mountain guide, scout and porters; final kit check.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry a small daypack with essentials; leave heavy luggage locked in the support vehicle.
- Use this meeting to double-check group kit: sleeping bag liners, warm layers and water bottles.
- Local scouts are great photo-ops and conversation partners — exchange contact or social handles if comfortable.
Transfer & short drive to Sankaber campsite; introductory walk
Drive into the park to Sankaber (first campsite). Short acclimatization walk and wildlife spotting (geladas).
Tips from local experts:
- Take it easy on the first walk to help acclimate — sip water frequently and walk at an easy group pace.
- Gelada baboons are social — maintain distance and watch for guide instructions to get good photos safely.
- Evening at camp is social — bring card games or a portable speaker for a group chill session (but keep volume respectful).
Camp setup & group briefing; overnight Sankaber (camping)
Camp orientation, dinner and early night to prepare for long trek tomorrow.
Tips from local experts:
- Share charging power banks among the group — electricity is limited at camps.
- Pack a small headlamp and an extra battery; group members can trade supplies if needed.
- Swap trekking stories and set a wake-up plan; early starts are easier when everyone agrees.
Day 5
Trek Sankaber to Geech — scenic full-day walk with waterfalls and frequent gelada encounters; camp at Geech.
Day 6
Loop trek: Imet Gogo and viewpoints — 4–5 hour hike with superb panoramas and possible sightings of Walia ibex and Simien wolf.
Trek Geech → Imet Gogo → Kedadit → Seha → return to Geech (4–5 hours)
Moderate day with multiple viewpoints; aim for Imet Gogo’s lookout for sweeping views.
Tips from local experts:
- Pace as a group and take photo stops — the vistas are the highlight, not the speed.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat; exposure on ridgelines can be strong even in autumn.
- Listen for guide calls about wildlife sightings — the group can gather quietly for great shots.
Picnic lunch with views
Park-prepared lunch at a scenic viewpoint — shared meal and relaxed time.
Tips from local experts:
- Share photos while eating — swap camera cards for instant group sharing.
- Carry a small, reusable cup for hot drinks provided by the crew.
- Respect the environment: pack out any non-compostable waste or hand it to the crew.
Day 7
Trek along the escarpment to Chenek — dramatic ridgelines, wildlife sightings and descent to the Chenek campsite.
Trek Geech → Enatye escarpment → descend to Chenek (full day)
Higher altitude walking along the edge with views, then descent to Chenek; possible Walia ibex and geladas.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring lightweight layers—wind at high ridges can be chilly even if mornings are warm.
- Swap small first-aid items among the group (plasters, blister pads) to help anyone in need quickly.
- Share binoculars among the group for wildlife spotting — only a few pairs needed if rotated.
Chenek campsite unwind & sunset watching
Relaxed evening at Chenek; excellent chances to see Walia ibex on nearby slopes.
Tips from local experts:
- Early evening is prime wildlife time — gather quietly at the recommended viewpoint with the guide.
- Keep group conversations low-volume to increase chances of wildlife sightings near camp.
- Share a warm drink from the crew and swap the day's best shots before dinner.
Overnight camping at Chenek
Camp and prepare for a long trek to Ambiquo the next day.
Tips from local experts:
- Make sure sleeping bags are zipped and zipped backups stored inside tents for extra warmth.
- Check-in with the guide about tomorrow’s timetable and any equipment needs.
- Enjoy a brief stargazing session if weather permits — clear skies are common here.
Day 8
Long trekking day to Ambiquo via Mt. Buhit route — a challenging but rewarding day with mountain panoramas.
Day 9
Early summit attempt to Ras Dashen (4,543m) and return to Ambiquo — strenuous but rewarding day with summit scramble.
Early morning trek to Ras Dashen summit (up to 6 hours out-and-back)
Summit attempt to Africa’s fourth-highest peak; tough ascent and rewarding summit views.
Tips from local experts:
- Acclimatization is key—if anyone feels unwell, communicate early to the guide; the group can wait at safe points.
- Carry high-calorie snacks and small warm layers—temps on the summit can be near freezing despite daytime sun.
- If you summit, take a short moment for a group photo and then descend—don’t linger too long where wind is strong.
Day 10
Trek Ambiquo back to Chenek — easier day with comfortable campsite overnight.
Trek Ambiquo → Chenek (bypassing Mt. Buhit) — moderate day
Return route offering different views; moderate trekking with time to stop for photos and wildlife viewing.
Tips from local experts:
- Take the chance to rest on gentler slopes and take longer photo breaks.
- Share gear among group members (sunscreen, spare gloves) to help anyone who needs extras.
- Keep a relaxed pace—this day is ideal for social walking and conversation.
Afternoon at Chenek campsite
Relaxed afternoon to enjoy the surrounding landscape and local hospitality.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a simple travel game for the group—board or card games are perfect for campsite evenings.
- Make a small group slideshow of the trek highlights if battery power permits.
- Use this time to check footing and boots for any needed maintenance before descent to Gondar.
Overnight at Chenek
Camp and prepare for vehicle meeting the next morning for the return to Gondar.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm pickup time and vehicle arrangements with guides for the drive to Gondar tomorrow.
- Organize your kit to ease the return to the vehicle and luggage handover.
- Enjoy a slow evening; altitude and exertion make restful nights valuable.
Day 11
Return to Gondar by vehicle, rest day in Gondar — recover from trekking and enjoy an easy evening.
Morning vehicle pickup and drive Chenek → Gondar
Meet vehicles early and drive back to Gondar; scenic drive with stops for photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Stretch legs at scenic stops and hydrate during the drive — long vehicle stints can be dehydrating.
- Use the drive time to swap contact details and best photos with travel companions.
- Confirm hotel check-in and laundry options to refresh trekking clothes if needed.
Afternoon: relax or optional short city stroll
Free time to explore Gondar's markets, cafes or enjoy hotel facilities; ideal for rest and massage.
Tips from local experts:
- Try local coffee shops for a laidback group catch-up and sampling of regional brews.
- Ask your hotel about a recommended short walk with minimal steps if some prefer easy mobility.
- Consider a group massage at the hotel for sore muscles — pre-book to ensure availability.
Dinner and overnight in Gondar
Group dinner and early night to prepare for the flight to Lalibela tomorrow.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve group seating for efficiency and easier split payments.
- If you’d like live music or a quiet evening, check options with the hotel staff.
- Confirm flight time and luggage arrangements for tomorrow with the group leader.
Day 12
Fly Gondar → Lalibela; visit Lalibela’s world-famous rock-hewn churches and learn about local coffee and injera preparation.
Morning flight Gondar to Lalibela
Transfer to airport and morning flight to Lalibela (approx. 1 hour).
Tips from local experts:
- Keep a sweater handy for the cooler temperatures in Lalibela mornings.
- Have small notes ready for tipping local porters or guides if you plan to.
- Window seats can show dramatic landscape transitions — swap seats so everyone enjoys the view.
Guided tour: Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela (Bete Giyorgis and others)
Tour the monolithic churches carved into the rock — UNESCO World Heritage site and cultural highlight.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the stone steps and uneven surfaces inside passages.
- Carry modest clothing and be ready to remove hats in some sacred areas.
- Plan to split the group into smaller sets if interiors are crowded — that makes the experience more personal.
Injera-making demo & traditional coffee ceremony
Hands-on injera baking demonstration and a social coffee ceremony — great cultural hangout for friends.
Tips from local experts:
- Join the injera demo in small groups to get hands-on experience and group laughs.
- Taste the coffee ceremony's different roasts and compare notes on flavors as a group.
- This is an ideal time to exchange travel stories and ask locals about regional cuisine tips.
Dinner & overnight — Lalibela
Group dinner with views; relax and prepare for the next morning’s short drive to Nakuto La’ab.
Tips from local experts:
- Ben Abeba is a popular spot—reserve early for sunset views and group seating.
- Plan for a casual, social evening—bring a lightweight card game to the table.
- Confirm tomorrow’s pickup time and any special dietary needs with the restaurant/hotel staff.
Day 13
Nakuto La’ab Monastery visit and short panoramic walks around Lalibela — relaxed day with local insights.
Drive to Na'akuto La'ab Monastery (short 5 km drive) and guided visit
Morning drive to the monastery complex around Lalibela for a 3-hour visit and short walk.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear layers; mornings at the monastery can be cool and windy but warm up quickly.
- There are short, steep sections — good idea to travel in small buddy groups for assistance.
- Respect local worship times and remain quiet when services are in progress; your guide will advise group etiquette.
Panoramic walk at Nakuto La'ab viewpoint (short 15–30 minute walk)
Easy walk for sweeping views and group photos before returning to town.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small picnic blanket for a scenic snack-stop if the group wants to linger.
- Short hikes are good recovery; keep a relaxed pace and take in the panoramic views together.
- Collectively decide on a few signature group shots to document the trip (wide, close, candid).
Afternoon free time & optional shopping
Free time to stroll Lalibela’s markets or rest at the hotel; good time for souvenir shopping.
Tips from local experts:
- Split into small shopping groups to cover more ground and compare prices.
- Seek out handmade religious icons and woven textiles—good chance to barter as a group.
- Agree on a rendezvous point and time to regroup; phone signal can be spotty in parts of town.
Dinner & overnight — Lalibela
Relaxed dinner; early night for tomorrow’s flight to Axum.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm early breakfast and airport transfer time with the hotel reception.
- Share a last-minute group highlight reel and plan a small toast to the trip so far.
- If someone wants later departure, ask about packed lunch options for the flight day.
Day 14
Fly Lalibela → Axum; tour the ancient stelae field, museum and St Mary of Zion — archaeological highlights and Axum’s unique history.
Morning flight Lalibela to Axum
Short domestic flight and transfer to Axum’s archaeological sites.
Tips from local experts:
- Check baggage allowances; regional flights may be strict on weight limits.
- Bring a hat and comfortable walking shoes for the site tours.
- Exchange small amounts of local currency for incidental purchases near sites.
Stelae field (Aksum) & archaeological site tour
Walk among the ancient obelisks and learn the history of Aksum’s monumental stelae.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring water and take shade breaks; the site is exposed with limited cover.
- Ask the guide about the best angles for photos of the largest stelae to avoid harsh shadows.
- Respect restricted areas and follow site staff instructions for group movement.
Archaeological Museum of Axum visit
Small, focused museum presenting artifacts from Axum’s ancient civilization.
Tips from local experts:
- A short, guided walkthrough is ideal for keeping the group engaged and informed.
- Museum souvenir stalls often sell small replicas — coordinate purchases among friends to split the cost.
- Check for shaded rest spots near the museum entrance for a group regroup.
Visit St Mary of Zion Church (exterior & surrounding sites)
See the church complex where tradition places the Ark of the Covenant (interior access restricted).
Tips from local experts:
- Interior access is tightly restricted; plan to appreciate the complex’s spiritual significance from allowed vantage points.
- Women should bring a scarf for modesty if entering chapels where required.
- Follow guide advice on photography — some areas are off-limits for cameras.
Overnight in Axum — group dinner and recap
Dinner and relaxed evening; prepare for next-day flight back to Addis.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm tomorrow’s flight and airport transfer time with reception.
- Ask the hotel about laundry turnaround times if you need fresh clothes for return travel.
- Plan a brief group debrief to select top photo highlights to share later.
Day 15
Fly Axum → Addis Ababa; National Museum visit (Lucy) and farewell cultural dinner — transfer to airport for onward travel.
Morning flight Axum → Addis Ababa
Return flight to Addis and transfer to National Museum area.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep small essentials handy for the museum visit (camera, small water bottle).
- Confirm baggage handling arrangements for any onward flights from Addis that night.
- If you have a late international flight, ask the guide about storing luggage securely while visiting the museum.
National Museum of Ethiopia — see 'Lucy' and prehistoric exhibits
Visit the National Museum — must-see exhibit for human history enthusiasts.
Tips from local experts:
- Allocate at least 1.5–2 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and the Lucy skeleton.
- Audio guides or a local museum guide help make the prehistoric displays come alive for groups.
- There are accessible routes for those preferring fewer stairs — ask at the desk for the best route.
Lunch & optional souvenir stop
Group lunch near the museum and last-minute shopping at a recommended craft shop.
Tips from local experts:
- Split into small groups for shopping; compare crafts and haggle politely as a group strategy.
- Try a final platter of local dishes to celebrate the trip’s culinary highlights.
- Confirm pick-up time for tonight’s farewell dinner and airport transfer.
Farewell dinner — cultural show and group celebration
Final night dinner with traditional dancers and musicians — a festive end to the journey.
Tips from local experts:
- Book group seating in advance for the show so the whole party can sit together.
- Allocate small bills for tips to performers if you enjoyed the show.
- Use the dinner time to exchange photos and set plans for a shared online album.
Airport transfer — drop-off at Bole for departures
Private group transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for onward flights (late-night departures as needed).
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm each traveler’s check-in time and terminal; airport counters can be separate for international and domestic flights.
- Have passports and boarding passes ready; consider a single group check of travel documents before leaving the restaurant.
- If you have time, grab a final pack of local snacks or coffee beans in the airport duty-free as group gifts.
Overnight (if required) — Addis Ababa
If your flight is next day, overnight at a hotel near the airport; otherwise this marks the end of services.
Tips from local experts:
- If flying next morning, arrange an early breakfast and transfer with reception to avoid last-minute rush.
- Use this final night to sync contact details and share a group photo album link.
- If leaving tonight, double-check that all personal items are in carry-on bags before hotel checkout.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 15 |
| Highlights | 7 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 9 |
| Restaurants | 9 |
| Total Activities | 46 |
| Total Places | 46 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Hotel, Attraction, Culture, Meal, Shopping, Restaurant, Experience, Outdoor, Sport, Break, Neighborhood |