Ethiopia express tour

Planet

Travel and environmental practices

This tour includes flights and journeys in fuel-powered vehicles. These have environmental impacts, and we do not describe the trip as carbon neutral or environmentally friendly.

Before departure, we encourage travelers to consider available flight routes, pack only what they need, and bring a reusable bottle and bag. During the tour, we ask drivers to avoid unnecessary engine idling and stay on permitted routes. In the Danakil Depression, travelers joining a group share a 4x4 vehicle; private tours use a vehicle for their own party. Sharing transport does not eliminate its emissions.

We ask guests to take litter away from natural sites, avoid disturbing wildlife or fragile surfaces, and follow the instructions of local guides and scouts. We advise travelers to clean mud and seeds from their footwear before visiting sensitive areas and not to carry plants or seeds between sites.

Vegetarian and vegan meals can be arranged with advance notice, subject to availability in remote areas.

People

Local employment and businesses

We work with guides in Lalibela and with local guides, scouts, drivers and other service providers for the Danakil portion of the trip. Their roles and the number of people engaged depend on the departure and itinerary.

Where available and suitable for the booking, we use locally owned accommodation and purchase guiding, transport, food and other services from local providers. Accommodation and service providers are confirmed for each departure, so we do not claim that every stay or payment has the same ownership or community benefit.

We encourage travellers to buy crafts directly from makers when they wish to do so. Visits to communities are arranged with local hosts and guides, with respect for their wishes about access and photography.

Accessibility and individual needs

Lalibela’s churches have uneven stone surfaces, steps and narrow passages. Please tell us about mobility or other access needs before booking so we can discuss the route, pace and assistance that may be possible.

The Danakil Depression involves extreme heat, remote travel, uneven ground and limited access to medical facilities. The Erta Ale visit, when included and operating, may involve walking on steep, rocky terrain. We will explain the conditions of your proposed itinerary so you can decide whether it is suitable for you.

We can discuss slower-paced visits, additional guide assistance, and communication needs in advance. Arrangements depend on the route, available staff and local facilities.