Ethiopia | Storytelling and Cultural Photography Experience

      Lalibela, Ethiopia

      TW
      The Wind Collective
      • Email address verified
      10 reviews
      Apr 29 - May 6, 2024
      Group size: 1 - 10
      Ethiopia | Storytelling and Cultural Photography Experience
      Lalibela, Ethiopia

      The Wind Collective
      • Email address verified
      10 reviews

      Apr 29 - May 6, 2024
      Group size: 1 - 10

      About this trip

      Embark on a journey to Ethiopia, the cradle of humanity, for an extraordinary adventure centered around Fasika, the Ethiopian Easter. This vibrant celebration opens a window into the country's rich cultural and religious heritage, marked by colorful processions and communal feasting. Led by local Ethiopian creatives and international photographers and storytellers Svenja (@storiesmatter) & Clé (@alivelikethewind), with a belief that all stories matter, this trip invites you to capture the spirit of Ethiopia through responsible storytelling. Join us as we dive into the heart of Ethiopian traditions, guided by those who know it best, and discover the true essence of this ancient land. Together, let's explore, learn, and connect on a journey that transcends the ordinary. Find a visual invitation here.


      Route: Addis -Lalibela - Addis



      INCLUDED 

      • Expert local guides for an immersive experience
      • Comfortable accommodations** with breakfast
      • Airport transfers
      • Welcome dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine
      • Cultural explorations including Merkato Market and Fendika Cultural Center
      • transport to Addis Ababa and Lalibela experiences
      • Culinary journey food tasting experience
      • Round-trip flight to the historic town of Lalibela
      • Access to Lalibela's rock churches with photography permits
      • Participation in the vibrant Fasika celebration and Midnight Mass
      • Traditional coffee ceremony 
      • Engaging workshops on responsible storytelling and local culture
      • Conceptual photoshoots for unique photographic opportunities
      • Engaging storytelling panels for a deeper understanding of Ethiopian narratives


      NOT INCLUDED

      • International airfare to Ethiopia
      • Travel insurance
      • VISA
      • Meals not mentioned as included in the itinerary
      • Drone permits for photography
      • Personal expenses and tips
      • Optional activities and excursions


      * The itineraries we advertise are created with care and in good faith. However, as they are planned well in advance, we occasionally may need to make minor adjustments. We reserve the right to modify the itinerary if necessary. While Lalibela is considered a safe destination, it's important to acknowledge that no trip is without risk, and traveling in Ethiopia may carry a bit more risk than a summer holiday in the South of France. However, we believe that the unique stories and experiences Ethiopia has to offer are well worth engaging with. For this reason, travel insurance and acceptance of these risks are mandatory for all participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.


      ** Accommodation is typically in double occupancy en-suite rooms, with two beds per room (2 guests per room). If you prefer a single room, please inquire about availability and additional costs.


      *** Please be aware that our trips are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or natural events beyond our control. While we strive to adhere to the planned itinerary, we will keep you informed of any changes that may occur.


      **** Please find the Cancellation Policy here.

      Is this trip for you?


      This Trip is for You if -

      • You're Fascinated by Different Cultures: You possess a deep curiosity about lifestyles, traditions, and customs different from your own and approach learning about these with openness and respect.
      • Responsible Travel Matters to You: The impact of travel on local communities, traditions, and the environment is important to you, and you're keen to be part of a journey that embraces these principles.
      • Photography and Storytelling Excite You: Whether you're a beginner or have experience, the idea of capturing and sharing stories through images or narratives is something you find appealing.
      • Seeking More Than Just a Holiday: For you, travel is a pathway to personal growth, learning, and forging meaningful connections, beyond just a break from daily life.
      • Intimate Group Dynamics Appeal to You: You appreciate the unique experiences and personal connections that come from traveling in a small, like-minded group.
      • Adventure and Spontaneity Are Your Travel Companions: You welcome the unpredictability of travel, especially in vibrant and diverse settings, seeing these moments as opportunities for discovery and storytelling.
      • No Experience Required: Expertise in travel, photography, or deep cultural knowledge isn't necessary. Curiosity, an open mind, and the desire to engage and share are all you need.
      • Community and Connection Drive You: The idea of journeying with a group that shares your enthusiasm for discovery, supports one another, and creates shared memories excites you.

      What’s included

      • Expert local guides
        Our local guides provide access for an immersive experience
      • 3-5 star comfort hotel**
        Hotel selections are based on amenities, comfort and proximity to the action**
      • All breakfast meals
      • Welcome dinner
        Your first taste of traditional Ethiopian cuisine
      • Merkato Market Tour
        Guided tour to Merkato Market with local Ethiopian creatives
      • Fendika Culture Tour
        Visit the Fendika Cultural Center for an immersive night of Ethiopian art, music and culture
      • Tranfers
        Transfers include Airport transfers and transfers to itinerary activities in Addis Ababa and Lalibela
      • Food Tasting Tour
        Culinary journey and food tasting tour
      • Internal flights
        Round-trip flight from Addis Ababa to Lalibela
      • Access to churches
        Guided access to Lalibela's rock churches and ceremonies
      • Photography Permit
        You'll need a permit to photograph the celebration but we'll sort this out for all attendees (except drone license/permits). If you wish to use your drone, you can buy one in Lalibela.
      • Access to celebrations
        Guided access to exclusive ceremonies and celebrations in Lalibela
      • Access to Midnight Mass
        Guided access to exclusive candlelight Midnight Mass celebration
      • Coffee Ceremony
        Traditional Coffee Ceremony and hike to a mountain lodge
      • Engaging workshops
        Engaging workshops on responsible storytelling and local culture
      • Photography Workshops
        Workshops and conceptual photoshoots for unique photographic opportunities
      • Storytelling panels
        Engaging storytelling panels for a deeper understanding of Ethiopian narratives
      • Meet with a Priest
        Meet with an Orthodox priest for a cultural interaction and conceptual photoshoot

      What’s not included

      • International airfare
        International airfare to/from Ethiopia (however all internal flights are included)
      • Travel insurance
        Please choose travel insurance that is valid for Ethiopia
      • VISA
      • Additional Meals
        Meals not mentioned as included in the itinerary
      • Drone permits
        Drone permits for photography and video (however camera and photography permits for Lalibela are included)
      • Personal expenses/tips
      • Optional activities
        Optional activities and excursions

      Available Packages

      Trip Price
      Available until April 28, 2024

      Join an extraordinary adventure in Ethiopia, centered around the vibrant Fasika (Ethiopian Easter), led by Ethiopian creatives alongside passionate storytellers Svenja (@storiesmatter) and Clé (@alivelikethewind). This unique journey through Addis Ababa and Lalibela offers a deep dive into Ethiopia's rich cultural and religious heritage, featuring colorful processions, communal feasting, and immersive experiences like the Merkato Market, Fendika Cultural Center, and the ancient rock churches of Lalibela. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, traditional cuisine, and a variety of cultural and photographic explorations designed to foster responsible storytelling and deep connections with Ethiopia's ancient wonders. This package includes expert local guides, cultural explorations, culinary journeys, round-trip flights to Lalibela, participation in Fasika celebrations, and more, ensuring a transformative experience that transcends the ordinary. Note: Excludes international airfare, travel insurance, visas, and personal expenses.

      $4,650
      Deposit: $500

      Available options

      Itinerary

      Day 1
      Welcome to Ethiopia

      Begin your immersive journey into the heart of Ethiopia, a land where traditions are vividly alive. From the moment you arrive, you're welcomed into a world of cultural richness, starting with a traditional Ethiopian dinner to awaken your taste buds and introduce you to the communal spirit of dining. The evening continues at Fendika, a cultural center that's a hub for artists, musicians, and culture keepers, where the language of music and dance invites you to connect and engage with the vibrant culture around you.

      Your Organizer


      TW
      The Wind Collective
      10 reviews
      We are a global travel community expressing freedom through adventure and creativity. We travel not to escape but to truly discover how to be better, do more and embrace this beautiful place that we call Earth. We host monthly group travel experiences and private trips for the constantly curious, who have a sense of wonder about the world and know life is too short not to explore it. Every trip is crafted alongside local partners and our Creative Explorers in our destinations in collaboration with our creative team.

      Reviews

      LB
      Traveling to India has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember but as a solo female traveler, I craved authentic experiences outside of the typical tourist trail but also safety and comfort. I found all of that with the Wind Collective! Clé curated a dream trip that included all of the beautiful highlights with additional unique experiences that I wouldn’t have found on a solo trip. His creativity felt contagious in the best way and all of us walked away with once-in-a-lifetime memories and gorgeous photos. Ritik, our local guide, took care of our high-energy group with ease, making sure we were always safe, happy and carefree. His passion to share the beauty of his country through our many unique excursions felt like we were traveling with close friend. This was my first experience with group travel and I feel so lucky to have connected with so many like-minded souls that live to travel! I have made lifelong friends. I know this is only the beginning of my journey with Wind Collective and I cannot wait for the next trip!
      By Lauren B for Experience a Vibrant India on Apr 09, 2024
      Lauren!! Thank you so much for your feedback and for joining us on this trip. Can't wait for you to travel with us again soon!
      By The Wind Collective on May 03, 2024
      TW
      JM
      I had an incredible time! Traveling to India and experiencing Holi there has always been a dream of mine, but I've been intimidated to do it as a solo female traveler. Windcollective curated an amazing itinerary, hitting all the must-see spots for a first time trip, and made sure our group felt safe the entire time! I think our Holi experience was as authentic as it can get-- we were at a temple with 100s (maybe 1000s) of locals in a sacred area known for its many legends of Krishna's life. Holi is chaotic and messy, but our local guides were with us the whole time and made sure we felt safe. Also, I don't know what it is about windcollective trips, but this is my second one and each time the group has been amazing-- great, like-minded, easy to get along with people! Final cherry on top-- Cle has a way of capturing everyone's beauty and we all left with not only fond memories but also beautiful photographs! I can't wait for my next trip with y'all!
      By Johanny M for Experience a Vibrant India on Apr 02, 2024
      Thank you Johanny, always a vibe having you! See you soon for another adventure!
      By The Wind Collective on May 03, 2024
      TW
      India has always been a country I wanted to visit and one I did not want to attempt to travel solo to. Traveling with Wind Collective was AMAZING and has changed my perspective on group travel. The highlight for me was being able to connect with a group of people who looked like me and shared the same passion for travel. In addition, an itinerary that emphasizes authentic local interactions and unique experiences. Traveling with Wind Collective felt like I was traveling with friends and family vs strangers. Grateful for the memories, wonderful pictures (Thanks Cle) and continued friendships that came out of this group trip. Looking forward to traveling with Wind Collective again!
      By Annette Ethel B for Experience a Vibrant India on Apr 01, 2024
      Thank you Annette, was a real pleasure having you - see you soon family!
      By The Wind Collective on May 03, 2024
      TW
      AW
      Awesome time with a great group of people. Well thought out itinerary to 5 amazing cities, comfortable accommodations, food, transportation and activities. Thank you Wind Collective for this fantastic experience!
      By Alecia W for Experience a Vibrant India on Mar 30, 2024
      Thank you Alecia, glad you had a time with us!!
      By The Wind Collective on May 03, 2024
      TW
      We had a great time! Our "travel family" was a well-put-together group of people of varied ages and backgrounds. Boats2Beaches was genuine in its efforts to ensure any of our needs and wants were always met or addressed. The accommodations were at a quaint boutique hotel located close to the airport. Kwame', our tour guide was excellent! He was dedicated to his mission of showing his beloved Ghana in its true and beautiful light. He not only showed us the sights but colorfully illustrated the true stories behind the scenes. The tour unknowingly evolved into a spiritual journey of awareness and self-reflection. We were "home".
      By Sean H for Boats2Beaches TRAVEL LLC, Ghana 2023/24 by The Wind Collective on Jan 30, 2024
      Show More Reviews

      References

      Indian 2024 was my second trip with Windcollective and it won’t be my last. The itineraries are well thought out, the hotels are a vibe, and there always seems to be a great group of people on these trips! Highly recommend!
      By Athena K on 31 Mar, 2024
      Traveled with Cle and the wind collective to India for Holi. What an amazing trip, I’ll have a lifetime of memories! A very special curated trip with local cultural immersion, adventure (rafting) and historical site seeing with local knowledgeable guides. Cle is friendly, and outgoing and a genius behind the lens. Can’t wait to book my next trip!
      By Asia R on 29 Mar, 2024
      MS
      Overall, Samora demonstrated strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. He was able to re-strategize and turn what would have been deemed as stressful situations (i.e.: the shortage and suspension of Suica cards and lost then delayed luggage) into a learning environment for our travel group. His positive attitude reflected on us as a group and even locals we’d meet throughout the trip. I’d highly recommend going to Japan with Samora and The Wind Collective as your hosts! So far, this has been the best international trip. We look forward to visiting Japan again in the future.
      By Mary S on 03 Sep, 2023