Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

Highlights:

• Arrive in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia.
• Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia to learn about Ethiopia’s rich history and culture, including the famous fossil of Lucy.
• Explore the Ethnological Museum to understand Ethiopia’s diverse ethnic groups and their traditions.
• Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner with live music and dance at a local restaurant.

Evening:

• Overnight in Addis Ababa.

Day 2: Timkat Celebrations in Addis Ababa

Morning:

• Begin your day with the spectacular Timkat (Epiphany) Festival in Addis Ababa, where you’ll witness the grand procession of the Tabot (a replica of the Ark of the Covenant).
• Join the thousands of Ethiopians who gather at Church of St. George or Holy Trinity Cathedral to see the Tabot carried to a nearby river or lake for the baptismal ceremony.
• Watch as the crowds sing, dance, and pray, creating a spiritual and joyful atmosphere.

Afternoon:

• Head to Lake Tana or Holy Trinity Cathedral, where the baptismal rituals take place.
• Experience the energetic music and colorful dances as the faithful participate in these sacred rituals.

Evening:

• Enjoy the lively celebrations in Addis Ababa, including traditional Timkat dances, chanting, and prayers.
• Overnight in Addis Ababa.

Day 3: Timkat in Lalibela (Rock-Hewn Churches)

Morning:

• Take an early flight to Lalibela (approximately 1 hour).
• Arrive in Lalibela and visit the famous Rock-Hewn Churches, which are carved into the mountainside and are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Witness the Timkat processions at the Bete Medhane Alem and Bete Giyorgis churches, where religious rituals are performed.

Afternoon:

• Explore the local celebrations and enjoy traditional Ethiopian dances and singing that accompany the festival.
• Participate in the communal feast with locals, enjoying injera (flatbread), doro wat (chicken stew), and t’ej (honey wine).

Evening:

• Overnight in Lalibela, where you can continue enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Day 4: Timkat in Gondar

Morning:

• Take a flight to Gondar (about 1 hour).
• Experience the Timkat Festival in Gondar, also known as the “Camelot of Africa,” where religious processions are celebrated in Fasiladas Bath (the royal bath).
• Participate in the baptismal ceremonies that are conducted in this ancient bath, historically used by the Ethiopian emperors.

Afternoon:

• Visit Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its frescoes and connection to the Timkat festivities.
• Watch the Demera (bonfire ceremony), a symbolic lighting of bonfires to commemorate the event of baptism. Local priests bless the bonfires with incense and prayers, adding to the spiritual ambiance.

Evening:

• Immerse yourself in more traditional celebrations in Gondar, including music, dances, and religious rituals.
• Overnight in Gondar.

Day 5: Timkat in Axum and Departure

Morning:

• Take a flight to Axum (about 1 hour).
• Visit St. Mary of Zion Church, one of the most sacred sites in Ethiopia and the home of the Ark of the Covenant (although it’s hidden, it is deeply revered by Ethiopians).
• Experience Timkat celebrations in Axum, where processions and prayers take place in honor of the baptism of Jesus Christ.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Stelae Field, where monumental obelisks are scattered throughout Axum, adding a unique historical touch to the celebration.
• Attend the religious services and witness the cultural performances surrounding the festival.

Evening:

• Return to Addis Ababa in the evening for your departure.
• Transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure flight.