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Timket Festival Ethiopia Tour 8-Day Signature Itinerary

Gondar, Amhara, Ethiopia
Not Rated
Duration

8 Day 7 Nights

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

20 people

Languages

___

Overview

Immerse yourself in one of Ethiopia’s most spectacular religious celebrations with our Timket Festival Ethiopia Tour. Timket, the Ethiopian Orthodox celebration of Epiphany, commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ and takes place annually on January 19th (or January 20th in a leap year). This vibrant festival is renowned for its colorful processions, sacred rituals, traditional music, and community spirit. Our expertly crafted itinerary blends the awe-inspiring Timket festivities with visits to Ethiopia’s iconic historical and cultural landmarks, providing international travelers with an unforgettable spiritual and cultural journey. Enjoy the perfect balance of festive immersion, cultural exploration, and comfortable, safe travel.

Highlights

  • Witness spectacular Timket ceremonies featuring priests in dazzling robes bearing the Ark of the Covenant replicas
  • Experience colorful processions, ritual baptisms in rivers, and joyous communal celebrations
  • Explore the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Tour the historic castles of Gondar and the charming town of Bahir Dar
  • Visit Lake Tana with its ancient monasteries and scenic boat cruises
  • Enjoy authentic Ethiopian cuisine, traditional music, and cultural interactions
  • Travel with seasoned local guides and enjoy comfortable accommodations throughout your stay

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
#Discount groupFrom adultTo adultValue
1Price per person (double occupancy)14 0%
2Group Size610 10%
3Group Size1116 12%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

  • Welcome at Bole International Airport and transfer to your upscale hotel

  • Cultural orientation briefing on Timket and Ethiopian Orthodox traditions

  • Welcome dinner featuring traditional cuisine and live music

Day 2: Addis Ababa & Pre-Timket Festivities
Day 2: Addis Ababa & Pre-Timket Festivities

  • Guided tour of Addis Ababa including the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and vibrant Merkato Market

  • Evening free for exploring local cafes and preparing for festival events

Day 3: Fly to Bahir Dar & Lake Tana Monasteries
Day 3: Fly to Bahir Dar & Lake Tana Monasteries

  • Morning flight to Bahir Dar, gateway to Lake Tana

  • Afternoon boat cruise on Lake Tana visiting ancient island monasteries with magnificent frescoes and religious artifacts

  • Dinner and overnight at a lakeside hotel

Day 4: Bahir Dar to Gondar & Timket Festival Preparations
Day 4: Bahir Dar to Gondar & Timket Festival Preparations

  • Morning scenic drive to Gondar

  • Explore the Royal Enclosure with castles and bathing pools used in Timket celebrations

  • Preparation day for Timket, with optional visits to local markets and churches

  • Overnight in Gondar

Day 5: Timket Festival in Gondar – Grand Celebrations
Day 5: Timket Festival in Gondar – Grand Celebrations

  • Full-day immersion in Timket festivities with vibrant processions, chanting priests, and ritual baptisms in the Fasiladas Bath

  • Witness the reenactment of Christ’s baptism and communal celebrations with food and music

  • Evening cultural show and traditional dinner

Day 6: Fly to Lalibela – Explore Rock-Hewn Churches
Day 6: Fly to Lalibela – Explore Rock-Hewn Churches

  • Morning flight to Lalibela

  • Guided tour of Lalibela’s 11 monolithic churches, marveling at the engineering and spiritual significance

  • Evening visit to local markets and cultural cafes

Day 7: Timket Festival in Lalibela or Free Day
Day 7: Timket Festival in Lalibela or Free Day

  • Experience Timket celebrations in Lalibela (depending on timing) or optional excursions such as village visits, hiking, or additional church explorations

  • Relaxing evening with cultural performances

Day 8: Return to Addis Ababa & Departure
Day 8: Return to Addis Ababa & Departure

  • Early morning flight back to Addis Ababa

  • Last-minute shopping or city tour if time allows

  • Transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure

Included/Excluded

  • Airport transfers and all domestic flights (Addis Ababa–Bahir Dar–Gondar–Lalibela–Addis Ababa)
  • 7 nights’ accommodation in hotels or lodges (double occupancy)
  • Daily breakfast
  • Private transportation and transfers with experienced drivers
  • Professional English-speaking tour guides throughout
  • All entry fees to sites, Timket festival access, and boat cruises on Lake Tana
  • Traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony experience
  • International flights to and from Ethiopia
  • Ethiopian visa fees
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal expenses, tips, alcoholic beverages
  • Optional activities not outlined in the itinerary

Tour's Location

Gondar, Amhara, Ethiopia

FAQs

Q: When is the best time to book a Timket Festival tour?

A: Booking 4–6 months in advance is recommended due to high demand and limited accommodations.

Q: How physically demanding is the Timket Festival tour?

A: Moderate; expect walking during festivals and sightseeing, some uneven terrain, but no intense hiking is required.

Q: What should I wear to Timket celebrations?

A: Modest, comfortable clothing suitable for warm daytime and cooler evenings; it’s respectful to dress conservatively.

Q: Is it safe to attend the Timket Festival in Ethiopia?

A: Yes, the event is family-friendly and safe with guided tours and local support, though caution is advised in large crowds.

Q: Can the itinerary be customized?

A: Yes, extensions or tailor-made packages can include additional cultural sites, trekking, or wildlife tours.

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from $3,250.00

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Information Contact

Email

booking@tourhubethiopia.com

Website

www.hubethiopiatour.com

Phone

+251-912-784-747

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