This 4-day trekking adventure offers an immersive journey through one of Ethiopia’s most dramatic and historically rich landscapes—Tigray’s iconic Table Mountains—culminating in the ancient city of Axum. The route connects remote mountaintop villages, deep valleys, and centuries-old trails, offering both cultural encounters and breathtaking scenery.
Beginning in Addis Ababa, the tour quickly transports you north to Mekele, the gateway to Tigray. From there, the journey unfolds on foot and by vehicle, as you explore rugged highlands, sandstone cliffs, and traditional communities that remain largely untouched by mass tourism. Along the way, encounter native wildlife such as Gelada baboons and Lammergeiers, visit local guesthouses run by community members, and experience daily life in remote villages like Shimbreyti and Siheta.
The trek winds through valleys and over high plateaus, leading you to ancient religious and historical sites, including the Temple of Yeha—Ethiopia’s oldest standing structure. The program ends in Axum, the heart of Ethiopia’s ancient civilization, where towering obelisks, legendary ruins, and sacred churches reveal the country’s deep-rooted heritage.
Perfect for active travelers and culturally curious explorers, this short trekking expedition combines adventure, nature, and history in one of Ethiopia’s most awe-inspiring regions.
Early Morning: Catch a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Mekele (approx. 1.5 hours). Upon arrival at Mekele Airport, you’ll be met by your guide and driver.
Drive to Edaga Arbi: Begin a 3-hour scenic drive northwest through the dry plains and rugged cliffs of Tigray, passing small villages and farmlands before reaching the town of Edaga Arbi.
Trekking to Table Mountains: From Edaga Arbi, start a 2-hour trek into the Table Mountains. Enjoy sweeping views of the Gheralta region’s rocky plateaus. Along the way, spot Gelada baboons, rock hyraxes, and possibly Lammergeier vultures soaring overhead.
Evening: Arrive in Shimbreyti, a peaceful mountaintop village. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the Shimbreyti Community Guest House, run by local families.
Trekking: Continue trekking for 4–5 hours, passing terraced fields, streams, and small farms. The trail winds through ancient footpaths used by local communities for generations.
Afternoon: Arrive at Siheta, a small village nestled in the hills. Settle into the Siheta Community Guest House. Spend the evening resting or exploring the area on foot.
Pickup and Drive to Axum: From Sagren, meet your driver and continue with a 3-hour drive to Axum, the ancient capital of the Aksumite Empire.
En Route Visit: Stop at the Temple of Yeha, Ethiopia’s oldest known standing structure (dating back to around 700 BCE). Explore the temple ruins and nearby monastery, both significant to Ethiopia’s pre-Christian history.
Evening: Arrive in Axum and check into your hotel. Optional: Take a short guided walk to get a glimpse of Axum’s historic town center.
The Obelisks of Axum, towering granite monuments from the 4th century
The Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed by many to house the Ark of the Covenant
The ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s Palace and ancient royal tombs
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local Axumite restaurant.
Afternoon Flight: Transfer to Axum Airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, end of the tour.
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