Arrive in Semera and Drive to Erta Ale Volcano

Afdera - Upon arriving at Semera airport, meet the tour guide and prepare for the journey to the Danakil Depression. Drive from Semera to Lake Afdera, stopping at local villages to experience Afar culture and enjoy the scenic desert landscapes. After a lunch break, relax at Lake Afdera, a saltwater lake surrounded by natural hot springs. In the afternoon, drive to Erta Ale volcano.

Erta Ale - Arrive at Erta Ale Base Camp in the late afternoon. After a brief rest, embark on a 40-minute to 1-hour moderate trek to Erta Ale Volcano. Reach the crater to witness the glowing lava lake, one of the few continuously active lava lakes in the world. Spend time near the crater, capturing photos and enjoying the surreal environment.

Drive from Erta Ale to Dallol (Hamed Ela)

Drive from Dallol to Mekele

Mek’ele - By midday, return to Hamed Ela base camp for lunch and pack up. Then begin the drive to Mekele through a breathtaking vast desert (approx. 3 hours). In the evening, explore Mekele, the capital city of the Tigray region and the largest city in northern Ethiopia.

Drive from Mekelle to Hawzen (Gheralta) and visit Abune Yemata Church

Abune Yemata Church - In the morning, the guide will pick you up from your hotel in Mekele. Begin the drive to Hawzen (Gheralta area), where the churches are located. Arrive in Hawzen by noon. After a lunch break at a local restaurant, visit Abuna Yemata Guh church, one of the most famous rock-hewn churches in Tigray. The church is carved into a cliffside at an altitude of about 2,580 meters (8,460 feet) above sea level. It requires a challenging hike and a bit of climbing, but the views and the experience are unforgettable. An assistant will accompany you during the climb. Abune Yemata Guh church was built in the 5th or 6th century by Abune Yemata, one of the Nine Saints who spread Christianity in Ethiopia. Inside the church, the walls and ceilings are adorned with well-preserved frescoes dating back centuries. In the late afternoon, drive back to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Visit the Church of Mariam and Daniel Korkor and drive back to Mekele

• Disclaimer: Domestic air ticket (if option is included)
• Unlimited bottles of drinking water
• Ground transportation by 4WD or Minivan with fuel and driver allowance
• All entrance fees
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Local guides fee
• All accommodation and Camping nights

• Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

A 5-day tour of the Danakil Depression and Tigray Churches offers one of Ethiopia’s most extraordinary travel experiences, blending surreal landscapes, historic rock-hewn churches, and thrilling adventures.

Tour Highlights:
Danakil Depression
✔ Erta Ale Volcano: Observe one of the planet’s few constant lava lakes.
✔ Dallol Sulfur Springs: Stroll across acid pools and salt formations.
✔ Lake Afdera: Enjoy effortless floating in the saline lake.
✔ Salt Caravans & Afar Culture: Engage with the Afar community and see camels transporting salt slabs.

Tigray’s Rock-Hewn Churches
✔ Abuna Yemata Guh: Ascend to the breathtaking cliffside church.
✔ Maryam & Daniel Korkor: Discover ancient sanctuaries carved into majestic rock faces.

Why Choose this Tour?
✔ All-Inclusive: No hidden fees! Entrance fees, meals, accommodation (including camping at Erta Ale), and guide fees are included.
✔ Expert Local Guides: Travel securely with knowledgeable guides.
✔ Small Group Experience
✔ Once in a Lifetime Memories: From volcanoes to ancient churches!

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.