Ethiopian Explorer Northbound Itinerary

Travel to Kenya and start the adventure in the busy streets of Nairobi.

Relax beside Lake Naivasha and watch hippos wallowing on the shore.

A favourite spot with birdlife, Lake Nakuru is a shimmering sea of pink flamingos. Listen for the chatter of black and white colobus monkeys in the treetops above.

Travel through stunning scenery on the way to the slopes of Mt Kenya.

Witness traditional Samburu dancing, and learn about tribal life and customs from the locals. Venture into this vast reserve to try and spot Africa's iconic Big Five.

Traverse a surreal, black lunar landscape and pass spectacular craters and termite mounds on the drive to Ethiopia.

Pick up a souvenir at the local market or perhaps take time to admire the traditional houses in the area.

The colourful markets and villages are a delight to explore in Ethiopia's picturesque Omo Valley. Meet friendly tribespeople and learn about their fascinating culture.

In free time, why not cycle around scenic landscapes, embark on a boat trip or visit a crocodile farm.

Recuperate travel-weary bodies in the hot springs of Wendo Gennet, encased in a beautiful panorama with a rich endowment of forest, wildlife and abundant water. Head to Awassa the following day, a city nestled on the shores of a great lake, and home to the Awassa Children's Project, which promotes AIDS prevention.

Venture out on game-spotting expeditions in this stunningly diverse park.

The natural habitat of the Lake Abiata-Shala National Park is an ornothological paradies with an astounding array of birdlife year-round.

Visit Ethiopia's bustling capital, Addis Ababa, and indulge in spicy, traditional cuisine at a local restaurant or cafe.

Visit the Blue Nile Gorge en route to Dejen.

Board a reed boat bound for the ornately decorated monasteries on Lake Tana's isolated islands and peninsulas.

Hidden among the hills of northern Ethiopia, Lalibela is home to monolithic churches hewn from the surrounding rocks. Take a walk through the structures with a local guide to unlock the fascinating history of this area.

Journey through the rolling Ethiopian countryside and camp beneath the stars.

Admire the clusters of churches sculpted into caves and a dramatic cliff-face in Tigray.

Get acquainted with the once-mighty city of Aksum, and discover its towering ancient obelisks, crumbling palaces and web of underground tombs.

Wind through the Ethiopian countryside on the way to one of the country's greatest natural habitats.

Ethiopia's stunning Simien Mountains are home to a wealth of animals. Hike through the rugged terrain and pass eroded volcanic cores, raging rivers and jagged peaks.

Discover the castles, churches and palaces of Gonder, often referred to as 'Africa's Camelot' - a grand way to end this Ethiopian Explorer adventure.