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| Addis Ababa, Gondar, Lalibela, Axum, Bahir Dar, Harar | |||
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| One of the most compelling reasons to visit Ethiopia is the passion and beauty of the religious festival celebrations. The most important event of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church's annual calendar is the festival of Timket, a celebration of the baptism of Christ. There is no better place to experience the commemoration of this holy event than the city of Gondar, set in the foothills of the Simien Mountains. Start with a night in Addis Ababa before flying to Gondar for two nights, arriving on Timket Eve. On this night, priests bring out the sacred tabots in preparation for their ritual immersion on Timket Day. After the celebrations in Gondar, travel to Lalibela for two days exploring the famed rock-hewn churches. Axum, Ethiopia's oldest city, is the next stop on the itinerary. After a night in Axum, fly to Bahir Dar, set on the banks of Lake Tana in the cultural heart of the Christian Amharic people. Spend a night here and visit the churches and monasteries on the lake. Fly to Addis for one night before continuing on to Dire Dawa, from where you will drive to the ancient walled city of Harar, one of Islam's most sacred cities. Spend a night in Harar before returning to Addis for your onward flight. | |||
| This is simply a suggested itinerary and can easily be customized to suit your schedule, budget, and interests. |
