November Itinerary

After all your preparations and fundraising - the journey finally begins!

On arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, clear immigration and customs, exit the terminal, and proceed to the car park, where you’ll be met by our local Ethiopian representative holding a “Hamlin” sign. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel. Afternoon at leisure.

Dinner at a local restaurant.

Jupiter Hotel Bole

Meals: D

The day begins with a coffee at Tomoca Cafe before setting off to explore Addis Ababa. This morning we visit the Marketo Market, the largest open-air market in Africa and continue to Mount Entoto which rises to an altitude of 3200m and offers a panoramic view of the metropolis. 

If time allows, we will also visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses the 3.6 million year old remains of“Lucy”, discovered in Ethiopia 40 years ago. Dinner at the famous Louver Restaurant.

Jupiter Hotel Bole

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast we set off to visit Hamlin's Addis Ababa fistula hospital on the western side of the city. We will have morning tea with key personnel and enjoy a tour of the grounds followed by lunch with the nursing and theatre staff.

Later visit Sabahar to see traditional Ethiopian weavers and spinners at work. Dinner at the Union Hotel with great views over the city and Maskil Square.

Jupiter Hotel Bole

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, we’ll visit the world-renowned Hamlin College of Midwives, where you’ll have the opportunity to tour the campus and enjoy lunch with key members of the college staff. The afternoon is spent at Desta Mender (Joy Village), a farm and training centre for long term fistula patients. Meet staff and residents and learn about education, reintegration and microfinance programs.

Later we’ll head out to a mountain community where the women create the Hamlin “Bullets to Beads” jewellery, made from melted down bullet casings found on Ethiopian farm land.

Jupiter Hotel Bole

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Dire Dawa. On arrival, we’ll drive to the historic walled city of Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant markets.

Harar is considered one of the most important centres of Islamic culture in Africa, with over 80 mosques and a maze of narrow laneways to explore. Later, you may have the opportunity to wander through the colourful markets and experience the Royal Hotel Harar (or similar)

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we’ll visit a Hamlin-supported midwifery clinic near Harar, where you’ll gain insight into the vital role midwives play in improving maternal health in rural communities. You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about Hamlin’s work in prevention, education, and care for women in the region.

After lunch, we’ll continue to a second nearby clinic, offering further perspective on the reach and impact of Hamlin’s programs and the challenges faced in more remote areas.

Royal Hotel Harar (or similar)

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we’ll continue our visits to additional Hamlin-supported clinics in the Harar region,deepening your understanding of the vital work being done to improve maternal health and prevent obstetric fistula.

Throughout the day, you’ll meet dedicated healthcare workers and gain further insight into the challenges faced in remote communities, as well as the life-changing impact of accessible, quality care.

Royal Hotel Harar (or similar)

Meals: B,L,D

Step into the ancient walled city of Harar (Harar Jugol), a UNESCO World Heritage-listed treasure and one of the most important cultural and spiritual centres in Ethiopia.

Wander through a maze of narrow laneways lined with traditional Harari houses, their colourful interiors reflecting a unique and deeply rooted way of life. Explore bustling local markets filled with spices, textiles, and everyday trade, offering a vivid glimpse into the rhythm of daily life.

Along the way, you’ll visit historic mosques and shrines—Harar is often referred to as the “City of Saints”—and learn about its long-standing role as a centre of Islamic scholarship and culture in East Africa.

In the evening, there may be an opportunity to witness the famous Hyena Man feeding ritual just outside the city walls—an extraordinary and centuries-old tradition unique to Harar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, depart Harar and journey by road toward Awash National Park (approx. 6 hours), travelling through ever-changing landscapes of farmland, small villages, and open plains that offer a glimpse into everyday life in eastern Ethiopia.

On arrival, settle into Doho Lodge, a peaceful retreat set on the edge of the park and known for its natural hot springs. Surrounded by rugged scenery, the lodge offers a chance to unwind after the day’s drive—perhaps with a soak in the warm mineral pools, taking in the quiet beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Overnight at Doho Lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

Set out on a day trip to Aledeghi Wildlife Reserve, a vast and lesser-visited protected area known for its open savannah, volcanic landscapes, and striking views of Mount Fentale in the distance.

This remote reserve offers a sense of wild, untouched Ethiopia, where you may encounter a variety of wildlife including Beisa oryx, Soemmerring’s gazelle, gerenuk, warthog, and, with luck, sightings of ostrich and other birdlife that thrive in this arid environment. The wide, open plains and dramatic light make for a truly atmospheric experience.

Beyond the wildlife, the day provides insight into the delicate balance between conservation and the pastoralist communities who live alongside the reserve, adding a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural and environmental significance.

Return to Doho Lodge in the afternoon, where you can relax and enjoy the natural hot springs.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, drive back to Addis Ababa. This afternoon you are free to enjoy Addis Ababa or relax at the hotel. Tonight we’ll celebrate the end of an incredible journey with a fabulous cultural experience of food, wine and traditional dance at the Yod Abissinya restaurant.

Drive 230kms - approx 3.5 hours on sealed road 4WD

Jupiter Hotel Bole

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, you’ll be transferred to the start line of the Great Ethiopian Run 10km—Africa’s largest and most vibrant road race.

Join tens of thousands of local and international runners as you make your way through the streets of Addis Ababa, surrounded by music, colour, and an electric atmosphere. Running alongside members of the Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia team, elite athletes, and a sea of enthusiastic participants, this is far more than a race—it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and joy.

For those who prefer not to run, you’ll be perfectly placed to cheer from the sidelines and soak up the incredible energy of the day, making it an unforgettable experience for all involved.

In the evening, we’ll come together for a celebration dinner at a local restaurant in Addis Ababa, reflecting on this powerful and uplifting experience.

Jupiter Hotel Bole 

Meals: B,L,D

This morning is free before we head to the Makush Art Gallery to check out local artists and do some last minute shopping, followed by an early lunch at the Art Gallery. 

At midday we check out of our hotel and transfer to Addis Ababa airport for your flight home.

Meals: B