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Ethiopia: Ancient Kingdoms & Sacred Landscapes

ก.ย. 12, 2026

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Ethiopia: Ancient Kingdoms & Sacred Landscapes

Ethiopia is situated in Eastern Africa, and it is a land where some of humanity’s earliest history, ancient civilisations, extraordinary religious traditions, and living cultures come together. From the fossil remains of Lucy, one of the world’s most famous early human ancestors, to the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, Ethiopia offers a remarkable exploration of human history, faith, and culture.

Our journey begins in the north at Bahir Dar and Lake Tana to discover ancient island monasteries and centuries-old manuscripts. From there, we travel to Gondar to explore the imperial castles of the Royal Enclosure and the painted walls of Debre Birhan Selassie Church, followed by the dramatic highlands and unique wildlife of the Simien Mountains. The undisputed highlight of the expedition is Lalibela. Often hailed as one of the architectural wonders of the ancient and medieval world, Lalibela’s magnificent monolithic churches were carved entirely downward into living rock over eight centuries ago—serving as a supreme testament to human devotion, artistic mastery, and medieval Ethiopian engineering.

Heading south, the expedition continues with the enigmatic stone stelae at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tiya and an immersive cultural visit to a rural Gurage village, before concluding in Addis Ababa, with visits to the National and Ethnological Museums.

The Siam Society, under the leadership of Dr Navamintr Vitayakul, is pleased to invite members and friends to join a historical and cultural journey to Ethiopia from 21 to 31 January 2027. Discover one of the world’s oldest Christian nations and a remarkable cradle of ancient civilisations. Ethiopia occupies a unique place in world history, where ancient traditions, sacred art, remarkable architectural heritage, and deeply rooted spiritual traditions have endured through the centuries. This journey offers an opportunity to explore Ethiopia’s extraordinary historical and cultural heritage, from its ancient kingdoms and rock-hewn churches to its distinctive Christian traditions and vibrant living culture.

When

Thursday, 21 to Sunday, 31 January 2027

Leader

with Dr Navamintr Vitayakul

Council Member and Chairperson of the Lecture Committee of The Siam Society

Booking

See information below

Or contact Khun Thun

studytrips@thesiamsociety.org

 

The tentative programme will be as follows:

Day 1: Thursday, 21 January 2027: Bangkok
23:00 Meet at Suvarnabhumi Airport, Ethiopian Airlines check-in counter.
   
Day 2: Friday, 22 January 2027: Bangkok – Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar
01:35 Depart Bangkok for Addis Ababa by Ethiopian Airlines flight ET629.
06:05 Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, clear immigration control, collect your luggage, and transfer to the domestic terminal to check in for your connecting flight to Bahir Dar.
11.40 Depart Addis Ababa for Bahir Dar by Ethiopian Airlines flight ET188.
12.50 Arrive at Bahir Dar Airport, transfer to Avanti Blue Nile Resort.
Noon: Lunch at the resort.
Afternoon: Check in and relax until dinner.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at Blue Nile Resort, Bahir Dar.

 
Day 3: Saturday, 23 January 2027: Bahir Dar
  Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Take a relaxing boat cruise across Lake Tana toward the Zege Peninsula, a lush and tranquil area renowned for its ancient monastic traditions. Visit some of the region’s historic Orthodox Christian monasteries, including Azwa Mariam and Betre Mariam, where centuries-old religious treasures, illuminated manuscripts, and remarkable biblical paintings have been carefully preserved. The monasteries are particularly famous for their colourful wall and ceiling paintings depicting biblical stories, saints, and religious figures in the distinctive artistic style of the Ethiopian Orthodox tradition.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Explore Bahir Dar, one of Ethiopia’s most attractive cities, situated on the southern shore of Lake Tana, the country’s largest lake. Known for its palm-lined avenues, pleasant climate, and beautiful lakeside setting, Bahir Dar is also an important gateway to the historic monasteries of Lake Tana.
  Dinner and overnight at Blue Nile Resort, Bahir Dar.

 
Day 4: Sunday, 24 January 2027: Bahir Dar – Gondar
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Check out of the hotel and depart Bahir Dar for Gondar, travelling through the scenic highlands of northern Ethiopia. The journey offers beautiful views of rolling hills, cultivated farmland, and traditional rural landscapes.
– En route, make a brief photo stop at Guzara Castle, one of the historic stone structures associated with Ethiopia’s medieval royal history. Enjoy photographs of the atmospheric castle and surrounding highland landscape before continuing toward Gondar.
– Continue to Gondar, often referred to as the “Camelot of Africa.” Established as the permanent capital of the Ethiopian Empire in the 17th century by Emperor Fasilides, Gondar flourished as a centre of royal power, religion, and culture. Its historic monuments reflect a fascinating blend of Ethiopian, Portuguese, and other architectural influences.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Visit the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former royal compound. Explore its impressive stone castles and palaces, including the famous castle of Emperor Fasilides, which provides a remarkable glimpse into Ethiopia’s imperial history.
– Visit Fasilides’ Bath, a historic royal bathing pavilion surrounded by a tranquil compound. The site is particularly significant during the annual Timkat (Epiphany) celebrations, when the pool becomes an important centre of religious festivities.
– Then visit Debre Birhan Selassie Church, one of Gondar’s most celebrated churches. The church is renowned for its beautifully painted interior, particularly its spectacular ceiling decorated with rows of angelic faces, as well as its colourful biblical and religious artwork.
Evening Dinner and overnight at Gonder Hills Resort, Gondar.
   
Day 5: Monday, 25 January 2027: Gondar
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Proceed for a full-day excursion to Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Ethiopia’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Often referred to as the “Roof of Africa,” the park is renowned for its dramatic mountain peaks, deep valleys, sheer escarpments, and breathtaking panoramic views.
– Enjoy a scenic drive of approximately 3 hours from Gondar into the Simien Mountains, with stops along the way to admire the spectacular scenery and take photographs.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Upon arrival, embark on a short nature walk of approximately 1–2 hours. The walk is generally moderate, with opportunities to enjoy panoramic viewpoints and experience the unique Afro-Alpine landscape. Along the way, look out for the park’s endemic wildlife, particularly the Gelada monkeys, often seen in large groups grazing on the mountain slopes. With some luck, you may also spot the rare Walia ibex, an endangered species found only in the Simien Mountains.
  Altitude Note: The Simien Mountains are situated at high altitude, with many of the areas visited during the excursion above 3,000 metres (9,800 feet). Although the walking distance is relatively short, the altitude, uneven terrain, and occasional inclines may make the walk feel more strenuous than usual. It is recommended to walk at a comfortable pace, stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and allow time to enjoy the scenery. Those who prefer not to walk extensively can enjoy the viewpoints and scenery with shorter walks and photo stops.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at Gonder Hills Resort, Gondar.
Day 6: Tuesday, 26 January 2027: Gondar – Lalibela
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Check out of the hotel and transfer to Gondar Airport.
09:55 Depart Gondar for Lalibela by Ethiopian Airlines flight ET122.
10:25 Arrive at Lalibela Airport and transfer to the restaurant.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Begin exploration of the first group of Lalibela’s remarkable rock-hewn churches, carved directly into the volcanic rock during the Zagwe dynasty in the 12th and 13th centuries.
– Visit Biete Medhane Alem (House of the Saviour of the World), the largest and one of the most impressive monolithic churches in Lalibela.
– Further visits include Biete Denagel (House of the Virgins), Biete Meskel (House of the Cross), and the remarkable Biete Golgotha and Debre Sina complex. Biete Golgotha is traditionally associated with the tomb of King Lalibela and contains important religious features, including the Tabot of the Holy Trinity.
  *Women are traditionally not permitted to enter Biete Golgotha.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at Maribela Hotel or Sora Lodge, Lalibela.
   
Day 7: Wednesday, 27 January 2027: Lalibela
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Drive to the charming semi-cave church of Na’akuto La’ab, traditionally dated to the early 13th century and associated with King Na’akuto La’ab, one of the successors of the Zagwe dynasty. Inside the church, discover a collection of ancient religious and royal artefacts traditionally associated with Na’akuto La’ab, including crowns, gold-painted drums, crosses, an old illuminated Bible, and a large painted canvas depicting ancient kings. The monastery is also known for its natural holy water, which collects in ancient stone receptacles from water dripping from the roof of the cave.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Continue with the exploration of the second group of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, including Biete Gabriel and Raphael, Biete Merkorios, Biete Amanuel, renowned for its distinctive Aksumite architectural style, and Biete Abba Libanos, traditionally believed to have been built by King Lalibela’s wife, Queen Meskel Kebra.
– Conclude the day with a visit to Biete Ghiorgis (Church of St. George), Lalibela’s most iconic monument. Carved downward into the rock in the shape of a cross, this extraordinary church is considered one of the finest achievements of Ethiopian medieval rock-hewn architecture.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at Maribela Hotel or Sora Lodge, Lalibela.
   
Day 8: Thursday, 28 January 2027: Lalibela – Addis Ababa
– Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a leisurely morning.
11:00 Check out of the hotel and have an early lunch at the hotel. Then transfer to Lalibela Airport.
13:35 Depart Lalibela for Addis Ababa by Ethiopian Airlines flight ET121.
14:50 Arrive at Bole International Airport and transfer to the hotel.
Evening: Dinner at your own arrangement.
  Overnight at Hyatt Regency Hotel, Addis Ababa.
Day 9: Friday, 29 January 2027: Addis Ababa – Tiya – Addis Ababa
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Check out of the hotel and proceed to Tiya, one of Ethiopia’s most important archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tiya is renowned for its mysterious carved stone stelae, dating back several centuries. Decorated with symbolic engravings, these ancient monuments provide a fascinating insight into the beliefs, traditions, and burial practices of a civilisation whose history remains only partially understood.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Continue to the Gurage region, home to one of Ethiopia’s culturally rich ethnic communities. Visit a traditional Gurage village and experience aspects of local rural life, learn about local customs and family traditions, and observe traditional farming practices. The Gurage people are particularly known for cultivating enset, sometimes called the “false banana,” a staple crop that plays an important role in their traditional economy and cuisine.
Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.
  Overnight at Hyatt Regency Hotel, Addis Ababa.
   
Day 10: Saturday, 30 January 2027: Addis Ababa
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Check out of the hotel and leave your luggage at the hotel.
– Begin the final day of sightseeing with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to an important collection of Ethiopia’s archaeological, historical, and cultural heritage, including the famous fossil remains of Lucy (Dinkinesh).
– Continue to the Ethnological Museum, located in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie on the campus of Addis Ababa University. The museum provides an introduction to Ethiopia’s diverse ethnic traditions, while the former imperial living quarters offer a glimpse into the country’s royal history.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Continue the city tour with a visit to St. George’s Cathedral, one of Addis Ababa’s historic churches, known for its distinctive octagonal architecture, religious paintings, and connections with Ethiopia’s imperial history.
– Then visit Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets and one of Addis Ababa’s busiest commercial centres. Explore the colourful market area and experience the energy of everyday life in the capital. For guests who prefer not to walk extensively, a shorter visit or drive-through experience can be arranged.
Evening: Farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
– Transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
23:55 Depart Addis Ababa for Bangkok by Ethiopian Airlines flight ET608.
   
Day 11: Sunday, 31 January 2027: Bangkok
12:30 Arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
   

The Siam Society reserves the right to change the programme as necessary.

Important notes:

– The Siam Society may utilise photos taken from study trips, lectures, performances, and other activities as part of its public relations and marketing campaign. These photos, which may sometimes contain image(s) of activity participants, can also be featured on The Society’s website and other online social media channels.

– As part of our effort to address the issue of global warming, The Siam Society strongly supports the reduction of plastic waste. We kindly recommend bringing your own water flask during the trip, if possible.

Booking:

Contribution of THB 164,000 (THB 169,000 for non-members). Single room surcharge of THB 18,500. A deposit of THB 50,000 and a photocopy of the identification page of your passport must accompany the booking. Your reservation will be confirmed as soon as the deposit has been made. Payment in full will be required 60 days before the start of the trip (i.e. by Sunday, 22 Nov 2026). There is a 4% surcharge for credit/debit card payment to cover bank charges. Please pay by cash or cheque payable to “The Siam Society Under Royal Patronage”. Transfer can also be made to The Siam Society travel account at TMBThanachart Bank (ttb), saving account no. 053-2-18000-7, swift code: TMBKTHBK or by scanning the QR code on your right. Once the payment has been made, please e-mail the deposit or transfer docket to us.

Inclusions:

  • The contribution includes accommodation (sharing basis), meals as mentioned in the programme, transfer and sightseeing cars, entrance fees, gratuities and other costs incurred to make this trip possible.
  • Basic travel insurance, which will only cover participants travelling from and back to Thailand.

Exclusions:

  • All air tickets are not included in the price (Bangkok – Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar, Gondar – Lalibela, Lalibela – Addis Ababa and Addis Ababa – Bangkok). The approximate airfare for the full route on Ethiopian Airlines, economy class, is THB 49,000 (approximate price as of September).
  • Dinner on day 8.
  • Visa fees (if any), personal expenses, personal food and beverage consumption, etc.

Tourist Visa Policy for Ethiopia

All nationalities are required to obtain a tourist visa before travelling to Ethiopia. Travellers may apply for an electronic single-entry tourist visa issued by the Ethiopian Government for tourism and other non-business-related purposes, which is the most convenient option and can be completed from home.

Under normal circumstances, the processing time for a tourist visa is approximately three days. Travellers are therefore advised to submit their applications at least three days before their intended date of arrival in Ethiopia. Please note that the visa validity period begins on the intended date of entry into Ethiopia.

The visa fee for a single-entry visa is approximately USD 62 for a stay of up to 30 days.

For more information and to apply for the visa, you may visit the following website: https://www.evisa.gov.et/

Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirements

Ethiopia is considered a country within the Yellow Fever risk zone under the International Health Regulations, and Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended for international travellers aged 9 months and over.

Ethiopia does not require every traveller entering the country to present a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. However, travellers returning to Thailand from Ethiopia are required to present an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (Yellow Card) in accordance with Thailand’s health regulations. It is therefore strongly recommended that travellers receive the Yellow Fever vaccination before the trip and carry their Yellow Card when travelling to Ethiopia and returning to Thailand.

Important Information and Requirements:

  • Vaccination in advance: Travellers must receive the Yellow Fever vaccination at least 10 days before departure. The International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (Yellow Card) becomes valid 10 days after vaccination.
  • One-time vaccination provides lifelong protection: Under current World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations, a single dose of WHO-approved yellow fever vaccination provides lifelong protection for most travellers and the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (yellow card) is valid for life.

 

Cancellation charges:

76 days before the start of the trip (before Friday, 6 Nov 2026): Deposit forfeited
75 – 61 days before the start of the trip (Saturday, 7 to Saturday, 21 Nov 2026): 50% of the tour cost
Less than 60 days or cancellation without notice (Sunday, 22 Nov 2026 onwards): No refund

*The cancellation charges will also depend on the date we pay the deposit to our travel agent. If we have to pay the deposit to the travel agent before the 60-day period prior to the start of the trip, our officer will send an email to inform every participant before we make the payment, as only a partial amount of the deposit can be refunded after that point.

For further information and bookings, please contact Khun Thun at 02-661-6470-3 ext 205, or studytrips@thesiamsociety.org.The Society’s office is open from 09:00 to 17:00, Tuesday to Saturday.

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