This adventure trek is retracing the footsteps of General Napier and the British Army’s fascinating 1868 campaign against the Emperor of Abyssinia.
TOUR CODE: AAT –TT-56
DURATION: 12 DAYS/ 11 NIGHTS
SITE: LALIBELA, MEQDELA
TRANSPORT: BY AIR & SURFACE
Tour Highlights
- Get off the beaten track and walk through the beautiful but seldom visited countryside passing
Lake Hashengie and hilly mountains and gorges - Camp on the edge of the escarpment of Mount Maqdela watching the beautiful sunset
- Enjoy indigenous flora and fauna as well as millet, barley and wheat fields
- Shop the stalls of Mercato, the largest open-air market in Africa
- Traditional Ethiopian farewell dinner with “coffee ceremony” and traditional dances of different ethnic groups
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Itinerary
Background to the Napier Expedition
This is an expedition to retrace the footsteps of a unique chapter in British Imperial history- the fascinating campaign of General Robert Napier against the Abyssinian monarch, Emperor Theodore II in 1868. It was in effect, the first British hostage rescue mission.
In 1862, King Theodore II of Abyssinia made a request to the British for munitions and military experts. He was a Coptic Christian who was regularly engaged in warfare with his Muslim neighbours. He thought that an infusion of expertise from the British could help his realm in this turbulent part of the world. With this in mind he dispatched a letter to Queen Victoria asking for help.
As time passed by, it became clear that the British Foreign Office had completely ignored this particular request. This did not please the King at all. He became even further infuriated when he found out that the British Consul, Captain Charles Cameron, had just returned back to Abyssinia after a visit to neighbouring Egypt; A country that the King considered to be one of his enemies. Exasperated by this antipathy of the British, King Theodore decided to hold Captain Cameron, and others, as hostages until he received a reply to his letter.
At the time of this event, Gladstone and the Liberals were the ruling party in Britain and they were deeply reluctant to get involved in any imperial adventures. This was despite the fact that their own inaction had helped to create this particular problem. Letters from Captain Cameron to the British press, and the fact that British women and children were numbered amongst the hostages, meant that the profile of this incident was high in the public imagination.
A relief expedition was organised and the British Indian army landed at a bay in what is now Eritrea. The march took two and a half months before the army successfully stormed the kings fortress high in the Simien Mountains. General Napier lead this expedition accompanied by infantry, artillery, cavalry altogether about 13000 British and Indian soldiers, 26000 camp followers and 40000 pack animals, including camels and elephants. The 390 mile long expedition began in Kumayli, at the Red Sea, crossing Eritrea, along Lake Hashengie and ended finally in Magdala. Tewodros II committed suicide when he was defeated by the English troops.
Departure: Guaranteed Departure with 10 participants minimum
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
WELCOME TO ETHIOPIA. On arrival in Addis Ababa our representative will meet you at Bole
International Airport. After transfer to your hotel an overview of the program will be given. The rest of the day visit historical sites in Addis Ababa including the National Archaeological Museum, where the 3,6 million year old skeletal remains of “Lucy” rest, which were discovered in 1974. Proceed to the Unity Park at the National Palace, the Holy Trinity Cathedral and Mount Entoto, which rises up to an altitude of 3200 meters and offers a panoramic view of the metropolis. Overnight in 4-star hotel.
Day 2: Fly to Mekele, Fly to Lalibela
After breakfast transfer to the airport and flight to Lalibela. The town of Lalibela, lies among the Lasta Mountains at 2630 m above sea level and remains until today a place of pilgrim and devotion for Ethiopian Christians. The construction of the eleven rock-hewn churches is attributed to king Lalibela of the Zagwe Dynasty. Some of the 12th century churches are monolithic, carved from a sloping mass of red volcanic scoria under laid by dark grey basalt and interconnected by a maze of tunnels and passages with openings to hermit caves and catacombs. Some are of the basilica type, having archaic features and imitating architectural elements from earlier periods, yet they differ in design and style. The Lalibela churches are included in the World Heritage List since 1978 Overnight Mezena Lodge
Day 3: In Lalibela, Drive to Muja
In the morning visit the other groups of rock churches in Lalibela. Bet Giyorgis, the most elegant church, lies somewhat isolated in the southwest part of the village on a sloping rock terrace. It can only be reached through a tunnel. The group of four, south of the Jordan River, comprise of Bet Emanuel, Bet Mercurios, Bet Abba Libanos and Bet Gabriel-Rufa'el. In the afternoon drvie to Muja. Camping outside the town.
Day 4: Trek to Santerra Plain
Resting days are over, back on with the walking boots and back on the trek. Pass the Muja village and walk down to cross the Tekezze River. After the river the path ascends gently up to the Santerra plain. At the top enjoy a picnic lunch and the fantastic views. From here it is less than an hour to the campsite. Camping near Turk Village
Day 5: Trek to Talet Mariam Village
Full day trekking along the Napier expedition route of 1868 and through
the hilly landscape. Camping near the village
Day 6: Trek to Betehor (also called Kon)
The scenery is nice to experience on this seldom visited trek. An other day of trekking along the Napier route. Camping in Kon
Day 7: In Betehor (Kon)
Enjoy a day of rest with possibility for washing some clothes. Camp on the edge of a wonderful escrapment offering great views.
Day 8: Trek to Delanta Plain
Descend for about four hours down the gorge, while the air is getting hotter and drier. At the bottom of the gorge cools off in the Jita River before starting your long and steep ascent. Here is a good place to spot Gelada Baboons blustering through the bush. Walk to the top onto the Delanta plain to the campsite near the village of Ketcho. This is a good spot for a wonderful sun set.
Day 9: Trek through the Beshlo Gorge
After about an hour we reach the other side of the Delanta plain, which offers a great look across the Beshlo gorge. From here it is a long way down, sometimes across quite steep slopes. As you
descend, the temperature rises. We cross a river where we stop for lunch, swimming or resting. From here it is about 2 hours to the campsite.
Day 10: Trek to Maqdela
Today we start the trek walking uphill to Mount Maqdela. Maqdela is a mountain with three plateaued high points. It was used as a fortress by Emperor Tewodros II and was the scene of his final battle. On top you will see an old church and a 20 tonne cannon, which Tewodros II wanted to use in the battle against the English. Unfortunately the casing split on the first firing. Tewodros II committed suicide after being defeated by General Napier. Walk around the tabletop plateaus and enjoy the stunning view across the escarpment. You will see Gelada Baboons, bats and different species of birds. Camping on one of the other tops, where Emperor Tewodros II had his palace viewing the Sebastopol Cannyon.
Day 11: Trek to Tenta, Drive to Kombolcha
On the last trekking day there is still a four-hour walk across another
mercilessly deep gorge to the town of Tenta where you find cold beer and our waiting vehicles. Then drive to the town of Kombolcha. Overnight hotel.
Day 12: Drive to Addis Ababa,
After breakfast drive back to Addis Ababa. En route you will cross some misty highlands. In the
evening have a fare well dinner party in a traditional Ethiopian restaurant with dances from
different ethnic groups. Afterwards transfer to the airport for departure.
Trip Information
Inclusions
We respect your personal preference on what is to be included and not included on the tour cost.
But as a standard included in our given prices are meet and greet at airport, All accommodation, Meals in Addis, on bed and breakfast basis, Meals out of Addis, on full board basis, All entrance fees at sites, churches, parks and villages, All ground transportation according to the itinerary and Guide service.
Exclusions
International flights, Lunch and Dinner in Addis Ababa , Any drinks including local non-alcoholic beverage and alcoholic drinks, Video filming and photography fees, Incidental meals, snacks and drinks and Tips and items of personal nature like laundry, souvenirs, etc
Visa and Immigration Requirements
Most nationals require a visa for entry into Ethiopia. The easiest way to get Ethiopian Visa is to get it on line thttps://www.evisa.gov.et/ . Again visa can be obtained at Ethiopia’s diplomatic missions overseas.. The last option is to get visa on arrival at Bole International Airport; nationals of 33 countries are now allowed to receive their tourist visas on arrival in Ethiopia at the regular charge. The list includes Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greek, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Thailand, citizens of United Kingdom and United States.
How to get in to Ethiopia
Addis Ababa is a major hub for international airlines. Ethiopian Airlines, the national airline of Ethiopia, provides excellent links with East, West and South Africa, Europe and the Middle East, with connections to America and the Far East. The national airline also offers domestic services to the major towns in Ethiopia, as well as most regional centers. All international services arrive at Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa. Other airlines serving Ethiopia include: Kenya Airways, Emirates, Egyptian, Alitalia, British Airways, Lufthansa, Saudi, Aeroflot, Yemeni, and Turkish Airways.
Luggage on tour
your luggage should not exceed 20kgs (44lbs). One large suitcase/rucksack, and one small hand luggage rucksack is acceptable. Soft rolling bag (we usually use a 22 inch roll aboard) are recommended.
Weather and Climate
There are two seasons: the dry season prevails from October through May; the wet season runs from June to September.
Generally except for June, July and August, most part of Ethiopia will be sunny and pleasant temperature to travel around.
When you travel to the north you are staying in higher altitude towns (Example Addis Ababa, Gondar, and Lalibela) the daily average Temperature is from 20 – 25 degrees and the temperature drops quite rapidly towards sunset. Evenings are fairly cold and you are advised to bring something warm for the evenings, like a sweater or warm Jacket.
Those travelling to the Southern Omo Valley of Ethiopia, the weather of this region will be sunny, hot and dry; the average temperatures is about 30 degrees. During the day the sun is strong. Shorts, Hats, sun glasses, sun creams, light cotton summer clothes and layers of clothes are recommended. Although the daytime temperatures are not very high, the sun is strong and people coming pale and pasty from a European winter should be careful of sunburn -long sleeved shirts may be advisable.
Currency
Travelers are advised to travel with American Dollar or Euro. Australian dollar cannot be exchanged in Ethiopia. There is ATM machine In Most of the Regions and one can withdraw money Visa or Master Card. Banks are places to exchange money.
Accommodation
Hotel rooms are basic but generally clean with en suite toilet and bath facilities (usually shower only). In many places hotel accommodation is limited; we utilize the best tourist class properties available. Hotel in Addis is 3-star international standard.
Transport
We will be using 4WD Land Cruisers, 4WD mini buses or Coaster buses depending on the conditions of the roads and the size of the group. All our vehicles are Air- conditioned.
For internal flights, we use the national airline Ethiopian Air lines, which offer excellent domestic services to the major towns in Ethiopia.
Greetings:
Handshaking is the usual mode of greeting, although friends or families who have not seen each other for some time will kiss on each cheek. (Displays of sexual intimacy, kissing or hugging, will arouse embarrassment among most Ethiopians.) Usually a handshake greeting is accompanied by a pleasant discussion on personal matters before getting down to business. The offer of tea or coffee is normal, and time is not that important. Smoking is not popular amongst traditional people, or in front of priests. Shoes are often taken off on entering churches, and always on entering mosques.
Security
Despite years of the civil wars in the previous regime, in terms of crime and robbers, Ethiopia is still a very safe country to visit, and Addis Ababa is still one of the safest capitals in Africa. Visitors should of course take the usual precautions, not carry large amounts of money with them and leave particularly valuable items with hotel reception. Both men and women visitors should be careful about hand and money bags, keeping them close at hand in crowded places. Like everywhere else, pick pockets and snatch thieves like to create some kind of diversion before making their move, so visitors should walk purposefully and be cautious about sudden introductions in the street.
Price includes
- Special qualified guide as well as mandatory local guide and scout fees in parks and villages
- 4-star hotel in Addis Ababa and the best available hotels outside of Addis Ababa
- All accommodation based on twin room occupancy
- All camping gear, trekking staff and packing animals
- Meals in Addis, on bed and breakfast basis
- Meals out of Addis, on full board basis
- Farewell dinner in Addis to enjoy traditional Ethiopian food and music
- All entrance fees at parks and villages
- All transfers and visits according to the itinerary
- All ground transportation with 4WD Vehicles including insurance, fuel and all costs of the drivers
- A traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony at a convenient time in the program
- Government taxes
Price doesn’t include
- International flights
- Lunch and Dinner in Addis Ababa
- Any kind of drinks, alcoholic or non-alcoholic
- Video filming and photographing fees
- Incidental meals, snacks and drinks
- Tips and items of personal nature like laundry, souvenirs, etc.
- All what is not included in the list above