t h e NO rthern CIRCUIT
The Northern Circuit was visited Roxy Cox of Aardvark Safaris, Caroline Bayly from Classic Escapes and Richard Latham of Zeta Tours, experiencing Ethiopia’s religious buildings and picturesque landscapes. They set off on a 6 day trip exploring the historic regions of Gondar and Lalibela, along with the stunning scenery of the Simien Mountains.
Caroline Bayly described her favourite part of the trip as “An afternoon spent in the middle of over a hundred Gelada Baboons” She’d recommend two days in the Simien Mountains “to make the most of the baboons, the hikes and the birding.”
Axum is the start point for the country’s ancient historic route, but due to poor weather conditions, the group was unfortunately not able to make it up this far north. In fact, Dinknesh don’t ever recommend travelling to Axum during the months of July and August.
Roxy Cox was equally taken with the Geladas. “They’re an extraordinary sight, and there is something really captivating about being able to sit amongst these fine creatures observing their antics and general behaviour.”
They did however visit Lalibela, to witness the well-sculpted rock-hewn churches. Roxy went of to tell us, “Each church was so impressive, carved straight from the rocks, and you wonder how on earth these magnificent buildings were created without the machinery and modern day tools.”
These operators described Limalimo Lodge as the most topend accommodation they visited in Ethiopia. The property boasts beautiful panoramic views and a unique spot overlooking the Simien Mountains.
They stayed at the Goha Hotel in Gondar, which Roxy praised as being in a ‘great location to see the Churches’.
The group also visited the Jupiter Hotel, Mayleko Lodge, Mountain View Hotel, Golden Tulip Hotel and The Sheraton in Addis Ababa. 8