At South Ethiopia
Essence Ethiopia Tours
- Office In:
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2018)
- Tour Types:
- Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $994 to $9,945 per person per day (MXN, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
PL
Email Lukas | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing Danakil Depression Experience
I recently joined the 3-day tour to the Danakil Depression with Essence Ethiopia Tours, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. The landscapes were absolutely surreal — from the vibrant sulfur springs of Dallol to the lava lake at Erta Ale, every day offered something unique and spectacular.
The tour was very well organized from start to finish. The logistics were seamless, and everything ran on time. Our drivers were excellent — skilled, friendly, and always helpful, even on the rough off-road sections. The vehicles were in good condition and surprisingly comfortable, considering the harsh terrain. The guides were knowledgeable and eager to share information about the geology, local culture, and history of the area.
One of the highlights was the chance to interact briefly with the Afar people and see how they extract salt in the traditional way. Sleeping under the stars in such a remote and alien landscape was also a one-of-a-kind experience.
However, travelers should be prepared for extremely basic camp conditions. There were no proper toilets, no running water, and no showers available at any of the campsites. Some shelter from the wind would have been appreciated, especially at Erta Ale where strong winds made the night rather uncomfortable. While this is understandable given the remoteness of the area, it’s important to set expectations accordingly.
Overall, I highly recommend this tour for adventurous travelers looking for a raw, otherworldly experience. Just make sure to pack wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and be ready to rough it a little — the payoff is absolutely worth it!
SA
Email Maria | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Do not miss it
The overall trip was a great experience. The tour operator Tsehaynew, although he was not at tge trip, he well organized everything and was following up the group closely. He responded immediately to my text, questions, requests for info.
Tge lalibea tour guide, Wendy, he was unbelievable... he had knowledge of history and religion.
Addis, is not so interesting place. 2 days are enough. Danakil Depression is AMAZING place to visit.
National museum is closed due to renovation.
Note: Although you can pay with USDs or EURs, currently, exchanging currencies into USDs or EUR is not legal / ot allowed in Ethiopia, even in banks.
TR
Email Mustafa & Yulia | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Excellent organization and unforgettable experiences in Ethiopia
We visited Ethiopia from Turkey and had an unforgettable journey through Lalibela, Danakil Depression, Erta Ale Volcano, Omo Valley and Harar.
Some of these destinations are among the most remote and challenging places to visit in Ethiopia, but thanks to the excellent organization and professionalism of the team, everything went smoothly from beginning to end.
The guides were knowledgeable, friendly and always ready to help. They responded quickly to every question we had and solved every issue immediately. We were especially impressed by how efficiently they managed transportation and logistics under difficult conditions.
Even when our plans changed unexpectedly, they reacted very quickly and professionally. They adjusted the itinerary without any problems and helped us with flight ticket changes and other arrangements in a very responsive and efficient way. Their flexibility and ability to adapt to changing circumstances made a huge difference to our trip.
The entire journey was perfectly organized, and we always felt safe and well taken care of. The service offered excellent value for money, combining professionalism, flexibility and genuine hospitality.
We highly recommend this company to anyone planning to explore Ethiopia. Thank you for making our Ethiopian adventure so memorable. We hope to come back again someday!
— Visitors from Turkey 🇹🇷
Email Carol | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
MEMORIES LAST A LIFE TIME
My name is Carol and i am from Uganda. Traveling is one of my best hobbies especially when i get in connection with the best tour operator.
I have travelled to 4 countries and Ethiopia was my 5th country. Honestly speaking ,traveling with Essence Ethiopia Tours was the best decision i made and i promised to return very soon.
When you travel with them you are guaranteed to get the best memories of all times. They are always on time and move on schedule,they have very affordable prices and can work within your budget. They booked me the best accommodation that had the best service and the trips were what i can say one of the best.
Ideally no one can recommend any agency but with Essence Ethiopia Tours ,they come highly recommended and you can expect to get the best of the best with them. You will not regret it.
Bravo to you Tsehaynew.
Email Phillemon kiggwe | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Tsehaynew the best tour operator in Ethiopia.
Traveling with essence Ethiopia tours was an experience that gave me the time of my life. First the time and attention that he provides as we planned the trip was very good with the best advice on the places to visit.
The prices were very affordable and fit in the budget .
Tsehaynew is a very exquisite person because he fulfills what he promises. The accommodation was to die for and they had the best meals and wifi was also provided.
During the trip I had a very memorable time because alot of care was offered on the trip and the transportation was good and always on time.
I would highly recommend essence Ethiopia tours for all your Ethiopian trips and I guarantee that you will be super amazed.
Big up to you guys and thank you for giving me the best time in Ethiopia. I will surely plan to visit again.
Email Debjani Kundu | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Our Ethiopia tour made excellent by Essence
We booked our one week intense Ethiopia tour including 3 locations with Essence. We found them helpful, flexible and always ready to go the extra mile to make our tour enjoyable. At the last minute we had to drop gondar visit and Essence was excellent in managing that disruption. Our Lalibela tour was excellent. Wandeley a priest of one the rock churches was our guide and he was superb. Our team of driver, chef and guide for Danakil was also a great team. Specially guide Rovel is a gem. Overall excellent management and conducting by Essence to make our Ethiopian adventure memorable. I recommend Essence to anyone planning a tour of Ethiopia specially solo female travellers
It’s Extraordinary!!!
I had a wonderful day at Addis Ababa with Essence Ethiopia Tours. They organize a perfect and hassle free trip. I have a future plans to return to see the other destinations.
MX
Email Claudio Ortiz | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Increíble excellent
All ok no problems excellent traveling with them was great
Email Arlene | 65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Efficiently provides exactly what you ask for.
When I discovered Essence Ethiopia, I wrote to them about a solo tour. I was not flexible on the time but the company made it work. Within seconds I was responded to with choices of places to see. It was truly tailored made. I saw all the wonderful things I wanted to study. The guides in each city were very knowledgeable and ensured I had the best possible time. If I had to choose a tour operator in Ethiopia, Essence Ethiopia, would be my go to choice.
MY
Email Karyna | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Responsible & reliable
The boss went with us for the trip, explained in details & advised what to bring & what to avoid especially during our visit to tribe, we were well prepared