Unveiling the Hidden Gem of Africa: An Enchanting Ethiopia Adventure

Ethiopia, a land of ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, has long been a fascinating destination for travelers. My recent journey to this captivating country exceeded my expectations, and I'm eager to share my experiences, expenses, and insights to help you plan your own Ethiopian odyssey. Day 1-2: Arrival in Addis Ababa We arrived in Addis Ababa, the capital city, and explored the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous Lucy fossil. We also visited the stunning Holy Trinity Cathedral. Expenses: - Flights from New York to Addis Ababa: $800 - Accommodation (3-star hotel): $30 per night - National Museum entrance fee: $10 - Holy Trinity Cathedral entrance fee: $5 Day 3-4: Bahir Dar and Lake Tana We flew to Bahir Dar and explored the picturesque Lake Tana, source of the Blue Nile. We visited the magnificent Tis Issat Falls and took a boat tour to explore the lake's ancient monasteries. Expenses: - Flights from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar: $100 - Accommodation (4-star hotel): $40 per night - Lake Tana boat tour: $30 - Tis Issat Falls entrance fee: $10 Day 5-6: Gondar In Gondar, we discovered the impressive Imperial Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explored the vibrant local market. Expenses: - Taxi fare from Bahir Dar to Gondar: $50 - Accommodation (3-star hotel): $35 per night - Imperial Castle entrance fee: $20 Day 7-8: Simien Mountains National Park We trekked through the breathtaking Simien Mountains, home to the endangered Walia ibex. Expenses: - Entrance fee: $30 - Guided trek: $50 - Accommodation (basic lodge): $20 per night Day 9-10: Axum In Axum, we explored the ancient Kingdom of Axum, including the iconic Stelae of Axum. Expenses: - Flights from Gondar to Axum: $150 - Accommodation (3-star hotel): $40 per night - Stelae of Axum entrance fee: $20 Day 11-14: Lalibela We visited the incredible rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Expenses: - Flights from Axum to Lalibela: $150 - Accommodation (4-star hotel): $50 per night - Rock-hewn churches entrance fee: $30 Total Expenses: - Flights: $2,200 - Accommodation: $1,400 - Transportation: $500 - Attractions: $250 - Food: $500 - Total: $4,850 Ethiopia has left an indelible mark on my heart, with its ancient mysteries, captivating landscapes, and warm people #internationaltravel #ethiopiancoffee #ethiopian