This private full-day tour of Gondar is ideal for first-time visitors to the city who want an overview. The itinerary can be customized to suit your needs and interests. As it’s a private tour you can go at your own pace. Learn about Gondar’s long history, its unique culture, and the nearby Simien Mountains National Park. Visit castles, palaces, churches, and viewpoints where you can take great photos.
Itinerary
You will meet our staff at the hotel or airport and you will begin your visit to the Royal Capital of Ethiopia. Gondar was founded in 1636 by Emperor Fasiledes
Castle of Gondar Because of its historical importance and architecture, the fortress was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The complex of buildings includes Fasilides' castle, Iyasu I's palace, Dawit III's Hall, Empress Mentewab's castle, a chancellery and library from Yohannes I, a banqueting hall from the emperor Bakaffa.
Debre Birhan Selassie (The Enlightening of Trinity) It was founded in the late 17th century by Iyasu I, but the building had to be rebuilt after fire and lightning. Most other churches in Gondar were destroyed by the Dervish of Sudan; Debre Birhan Selassie escaped because it was protected by brave bees. The walls contain biblical stories, depicting several scenes of the life of Christ and various saints. Some of the scenes are brutal, beheadings are depicted with bloody detail, and the devil also made it to the colorful walls.
Fasiledes Bath is a significant historical and cultural site in Gondar. It's a square Embattlement pool with a two storied palace situated within and it plays a crucial role in the celebration of Epiphany, the Timkat festival. The compounds walls have been slowly engulfed by the thick slithering roots of ancient badian trees that are now intertwined with the crumbling brickwork.
