Secure Early-Bird Place
Ethiopian New Year celebration in Ethiopia

9–19 September 2026

A transformative cultural immersion through Ethiopia, shared with people who understand why the journey matters.

Secure Your Early-Bird PlaceExplore the journey

Limited To: 30 Places

Early-bird investment is USD $3,999 until 31 July 2026.

Hosted throughout by Omega_Axsal, ChakaBars and 19keys.

Limited To: 30 Places Early-Birds Save $445Book Appointment

More than a holiday

This expedition was never designed to be another sightseeing tour. Instead of rushing between landmarks, you’ll discover Ethiopia through its people, traditions, landscapes and the meaningful moments that stay with you long after you return home.

“The new year begins differently here.”

A deeper way to experience Ethiopia.

Every chapter of the expedition has been shaped around meaning rather than mileage. Cultural immersion, extraordinary landscapes, heritage, wildlife, wellness and shared experiences combine to create a journey that feels both deeply personal and unmistakably Ethiopian.

This is a rare opportunity to experience one of Africa’s oldest cultures alongside a small group of curious, open-minded travellers. Together, you’ll be welcomed into traditions, celebrations and places that many international visitors never experience, creating memories and friendships that extend far beyond the journey itself.

Ethiopian New Year celebration

Why September

Celebrate New Year The Ethiopian Way.

September is when Ethiopia celebrates its New Year, making it one of the most rewarding times to visit. Across the country you’ll experience a genuine sense of renewal as families gather, communities celebrate and centuries-old traditions come to life in a way that most visitors never have the opportunity to witness.

Beyond the New Year celebrations, the expedition opens the door to Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, extraordinary landscapes, unforgettable wildlife, meaningful local encounters and moments of genuine rest and reflection. Together, these experiences create a journey that is immersive, balanced and unlike any ordinary holiday.

Designed for the perfect balance

This trip is designed around a fully tailored itinerary that balances cultural immersion, exploration, adventure, wellness and relaxation. Thoughtful pacing, comfortable travel and dedicated recovery time allow every experience to be enjoyed without feeling rushed or overwhelming.

The experience

Four connected dimensions shape the expedition: culture, wellness, discovery and community.

More than a route.
A complete experience.

Temporary Culture & Heritage campaign image

01

Culture & Heritage

Explore ancient churches, historic landmarks & monuments, learn about local traditions and Ethiopian New Year celebrations that reveal the country’s remarkable cultural heritage.

Temporary Wellness & Recovery campaign image

02

Wellness & Recovery

Recharge with spa experiences, peaceful surroundings, comfortable accommodation and dedicated time to rest, reflect and enjoy the journey at a more relaxed pace.

Temporary Nature & Discovery campaign image

03

Nature & Discovery

Discover dramatic landscapes, remarkable wildlife, scenic viewpoints and unforgettable natural environments that showcase Ethiopia’s extraordinary diversity.

Temporary Community & Connection campaign image

04

Community & Connection

Travel alongside like-minded explorers, share unforgettable experiences and build genuine friendships that continue long after the expedition ends.

Day by day

Eleven days balancing movement, heritage, recovery and shared experience.

Designed for the best experience.

The itinerary balances exploration with comfort, allowing you to experience Ethiopia without feeling rushed while making the most of your time. Plans may occasionally adapt to local conditions to ensure the best possible experience.

Opening chapter

Arrival, Addis and Ethiopian New Year.

Arrive in Addis Ababa, meet the group and begin the expedition by experiencing Ethiopian New Year celebrations, local culture and some of the country’s most memorable food.

Addis Ababa and Ethiopian New Year

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Day 1

Addis Ababa

Stay: Kuriftu African Village

Arrival and Welcome

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Arrival, check-in, group orientation and time to settle into the experience.

Airport collection and transfer to Kuriftu African Village.
Check-in, group orientation and time to settle into the experience.
A gentle opening day designed to help everyone arrive, breathe and meet the group.

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Day 2

Addis Ababa

Stay: Kuriftu African Village

Addis Ababa and Ethiopian New Year

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Museum and market moments, Ethiopian food, cultural experiences and Ethiopian New Year celebrations.

Museum and market moments to ground the day in Addis Ababa.
Ethiopian food, cultural context and New Year celebration energy.
A day designed to experience the New Year atmosphere from inside the country.

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Day 3

Addis Ababa

Stay: Kuriftu African Village

New Year's Day Wellness

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Optional workouts, Kuriftu Entoto, wellness and spa opportunities, lunch and leisure time.

Optional workouts and a softer post-celebration rhythm.
Kuriftu Entoto, wellness and spa opportunities.
Lunch, leisure and recovery time built into the day.

Heritage chapter

Lalibela, One of Africa’s greatest historic cities.

Visit the ancient city of Lalibela and experience one of Ethiopia’s greatest cultural treasures, with time to explore its rock-hewn churches, history and remarkable heritage.

Lalibela heritage and culture

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Day 4

Lalibela

Stay: Lalibela accommodation

Journey to Lalibela

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Fly to Lalibela, settle in and begin exploring selected historic churches.

Fly to Lalibela and settle into the heritage chapter.
Begin exploring selected historic churches.
A travel day shaped to protect comfort while opening the Lalibela experience.

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Day 5

Lalibela / Addis Ababa

Stay: Addis Ababa accommodation

Lalibela Heritage Day

▾

Spend time with Lalibela's major churches and historic setting before returning to Addis Ababa.

Spend time with Lalibela's major churches and historic setting.
A slower heritage-focused day with room for reflection.
Return to Addis Ababa after the Lalibela experience.

Southern chapter

Arba Minch, the Dorze people & Nechisar National Park.

Meet the Dorze people and learn about their unique traditions before exploring the diverse landscapes of Nechisar National Park, home to remarkable wildlife, sweeping viewpoints and two of Ethiopia’s most beautiful lakes.

Arba Minch, Dorze and Nechisar landscapes

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Day 6

Arba Minch

Stay: Kuriftu Arba Minch

Journey to Arba Minch

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Fly south to Arba Minch and settle into the southern chapter of the expedition.

Fly south to Arba Minch and settle into the southern chapter.
A change of pace into landscape, culture and nature.
Arrival time is kept considered rather than overcrowded.

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Day 7

Arba Minch

Stay: Kuriftu Arba Minch

Dorze Village and Nechisar

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Experience Dorze Village and explore the landscapes and wildlife setting of Nechisar National Park.

Dorze Village cultural immersion.
Nechisar National Park and its landscape / wildlife setting.
A fuller southern day balancing movement, culture and natural scenery.

Recovery chapter

Bishoftu, nature, wellness and a relaxed ending.

Slow the pace with time in nature, lakeside surroundings, wellness experiences, meaningful conversations and space to reflect before bringing the expedition to a memorable close.

Bishoftu wellness, lakeside recovery and relaxed closing moments

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Day 8

Arba Minch / Addis Ababa / Bishoftu

Stay: Bishoftu accommodation

Wellness Morning and Bishoftu Transfer

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Begin with a lighter wellness-focused morning, return to Addis Ababa and transfer to Bishoftu.

A lighter wellness-focused morning.
Return to Addis Ababa and transfer onward to Bishoftu.
A transition day designed to avoid an exhausting sprint.

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Day 9

Bishoftu

Stay: Bishoftu accommodation

Bishoftu Wellness and Lake Time

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A recovery-focused day with wellness, spa opportunities, lake experiences and optional Mastermind activity.

Recovery-focused wellness, spa and lake time.
Optional Mastermind activity where appropriate.
A softer day designed to restore energy near the end of the journey.

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Day 10

Bishoftu

Stay: Bishoftu accommodation

Leisure, Water Experiences and Final Gathering

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A final full day with leisure, wellness, selected water experiences and weather-sensitive alternatives where needed.

Leisure, wellness and selected water experiences.
Weather-sensitive alternatives available where needed.
A final full day that closes the journey without overcrowding it.

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Day 11

Bishoftu / Addis Ababa

Stay: Departure

Departure Transfer

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Departure support and transfer from Bishoftu to Addis Ababa airport.

Departure support and transfer from Bishoftu to Addis Ababa airport.
Final logistics handled with care so the trip ends cleanly.

The people behind it

Hosted with
intention.

All three hosts are present throughout the expedition, helping shape its energy, conversations, wellness moments and the collective experience of travelling together.

Expect shared meals, group conversations, cultural reflection and natural connection through the rhythm of the journey, not staged appearances or a conventional conference format.

19Keys portrait

Co-Host · Conversation & Community

19Keys

Globally recognised thought leader, entrepreneur and host of High Level Conversations, known for inspiring millions through discussions on leadership, culture, mindset and personal growth. Throughout the expedition, he’ll help foster meaningful conversations, fresh perspectives and genuine connections that encourage reflection, learning and the development of an exclusive in-trip mastermind.

Chakabars portrait

Co-Host · Wellness & Movement Activation

Chakabars

Internationally recognised wellness advocate, humanitarian and founder of IHeartAfrica, known for connecting the African diaspora with communities across the continent. Throughout the expedition, he’ll lead optional wellness and movement sessions while sharing cultural insight, meaningful conversations and the lived perspective gained from years of working across Africa, including Ethiopia.

Omega Axsal portrait

Expedition Host & Journey Lead

Omega Axsal

Founder of @TheSoulFam and experienced expedition host, historian and author, known for creating culturally immersive journeys that bring people together through heritage, community and shared experiences. Throughout the expedition, he’ll oversee the guest experience from start to finish, ensuring every traveller feels supported while creating a welcoming, well-organised and memorable journey.

Powered by TheSoulFam

A Decade of real group travel experiences.

@TheSoulFam has delivered group travel experiences across Ethiopia, Egypt, South Africa, Jamaica and Thailand over the last 10 years shaped around meaningful connection, cultural discovery and experiences that activate core memories that last forever.

1,000+

travellers hosted

30+

group journeys delivered

2

previous Ethiopia group journeys completed

SoulFam community and Ethiopia journey moments

Approved SoulFam media carousel

Real journeys. Real community. Real proof.

The SoulFam dynamic

Come as strangers. Leave as family.

SoulFam groups bring together adults from different places, backgrounds and stages of life, often connected by shared interests in heritage, culture, wellness, purpose and meaningful travel. The atmosphere is relaxed, considerate and naturally social, without pressure to perform or be constantly switched on.

01

Open to adults aged 18+ with no upper age limit

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A naturally varied mix of personalities, backgrounds and life experience

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Shared meals, laughter, reflection and conversation that make the journey feel personal

04

Organic networking and connection, without a corporate or forced atmosphere

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Space for downtime, rest and your own rhythm alongside the shared experience

Bishoftu wellness and restorative journey moments

The pace matters

“The point isn't just to simply see more. It's to have enough space to experience what you have come for.”

Rest and recovery

Wellness, rest and recovery are part of the journey.

A meaningful journey needs space as well as discovery. Throughout the expedition, moments of movement, stillness and comfort are woven into the pace giving you time to recharge, take in your surroundings and return home feeling restored.

Optional morning movement

Spa and wellness experiences

Leisure and relaxation

Nature and lakeside escapes

A restorative final chapter

Time to slow down and reflect

Hospitality partner

Kuriftu Resorts

The Highest Standard For Luxury Stays In Ethiopia.

Kuriftu Resorts is one of Ethiopia’s leading luxury resort and wellness brands, creating destination stays that bring together unique & premium design, cultural character, comfort and restoration. Throughout the expedition, Kuriftu will provide accommodation and selected spa and wellness experiences bringing continuity, care and a higher standard of comfort to each stage of the journey.

Five planned resort, accommodation and wellness spaces across Ethiopia.

Five hospitality touchpoints

01

Kuriftu African Village

Arrival stay, orientation and the opening group rhythm.

02

Kuriftu Entoto

A planned day above Addis Ababa for wellness, dining and Ethiopian New Year moments.

03

Kuriftu Arba Minch

A southern base for the Arba Minch, Dorze and Nechisar chapter.

04

Kuriftu Bishoftu

Lakeside recovery, wellness opportunities and the expedition's final chapter.

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Maribela Lodge Lalibela

Accommodation arranged through Kuriftu's trusted partner network in Lalibela.

Kuriftu African Village

Touchpoint 01

Kuriftu African Village

Kuriftu Entoto

Touchpoint 02

Kuriftu Entoto

Kuriftu Arba Minch

Touchpoint 03

Kuriftu Arba Minch

Kuriftu Bishoftu

Touchpoint 04

Kuriftu Bishoftu

Maribela Lodge Lalibela

Touchpoint 05

Maribela Lodge Lalibela

Specific room allocations, facilities and final property arrangements remain subject to operational confirmation.

All Tickets Include…

Everything listed below is organised before you arrive, so you can focus on enjoying Ethiopia rather than planning logistics.

What the investment includes

Almost everything is taken care of.

You just need to get here. From the moment you arrive in Ethiopia, almost every part of the journey is organised for you. Accommodation, domestic flights, private transport, restaurants, activities, entrance fees, wellness experiences and host support are all coordinated in advance, so you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the experience.

Simply arrive ready for the adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

✓Accommodation throughout the expedition
✓Private transport throughout the journey
✓All domestic flights within Ethiopia
✓2-3 meals per day, excluding alcohol
✓Curated cultural experiences
✓All entrance fees
✓Wellness experiences
✓Experienced hosts
✓Flight booking support
✓Visa guidance
What is not included+
○International flights
○Travel insurance
○Snacks and drinks outside included meals
○Visa fees
○Personal spending
○Optional upgrades and extras
○Additional wellness services
○Tips and gratuities

Before the Price

Make sure this journey feels right for you.

Before revealing the expedition price, we’d like you to quickly confirm a few important details about the experience. It only takes a moment and helps make sure we’re all on the same page.

View The Price Now

0 of 5 confirmations completed.

Expedition Cost

Complete the five confirmations above to reveal the investment.

This keeps the price connected to what is included, how the expedition works and what happens next.

Application & Onboarding

Every great expedition starts with the right people.

Before confirming your place, every traveller joins a short onboarding conversation. It’s an opportunity to answer your questions, explain what to expect and make sure the expedition is the right fit for everyone, helping create the welcoming and connected group experience that makes these journeys so memorable.

Deposit

Secure your place with a USD $500 deposit once your application has been approved. The deposit is credited toward your total expedition cost.

Flexible balance

Pay the remaining balance in instalments between confirmation of your place and 1 September 2026, giving you time to spread the cost.

No public payment

Payment instructions are shared after approval. No payment is taken through this public website or pre-check process. Payments are confirmed with receipt.

Ready for the next step?

Book your onboarding conversation and, if approved, you’ll be able to secure one of the remaining early-bird places.

Book My Onboarding

Accommodation options

Shared rooms are included. Solo rooms are limited.

All tickets include shared same-gender accommodation.

A private-room upgrade is available for USD $400, subject to availability and written confirmation. Once confirmed, it can be added to your flexible remaining balance.

Solo-room interest can be registered during the onboarding process. It is not confirmed until availability has been checked and written confirmation has been provided.

Accommodation available during the Ethiopia expedition
Temporary accommodation and expedition image
Temporary accommodation and expedition image
Temporary accommodation and expedition image
Temporary accommodation and expedition image
Temporary accommodation and expedition image

Practical

We’ve done all the organization for you.

You will get helpful support built around the journey before you travel, during the group experience and as you prepare to arrive.

01

Visa assistance

We’ll complete your Ethiopian eVisa application on your behalf for USD $100, including the government visa fee. Prefer to apply yourself? We’ll happily guide you through the process.

02

Flight guidance

International flights are booked independently, but we’ll help you choose suitable arrival and departure flights that align with the expedition schedule and recommended arrival times.

03

Arrival planning

Before departure, you’ll receive practical guidance covering airport arrival, local preparation, what to pack and key information to help you arrive confident and fully prepared.

Traveller fit

For people seeking more than a standard holiday.

  • 01Curious about Ethiopian culture, history and contemporary life
  • 02Open to respectful group travel and shared experiences
  • 03Interested in heritage, wellness, nature and discovery
  • 04Comfortable with domestic flights and periods of walking
  • 05Willing to follow a flexible group itinerary
  • 06Interested in meaningful conversation and real community

Before you apply

A clear picture of what to expect.

Domestic flights, early starts and travel between destinations are part of the journey, allowing us to experience more of Ethiopia in a limited time.

Some experiences include periods of walking, uneven ground, steps and time spent exploring historical sites and natural landscapes.

The itinerary may occasionally adapt to weather, flight schedules, local conditions or opportunities that improve the overall group experience.

Comprehensive travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is advised. Travellers should also arrive in good health and prepared for international group travel.

This is a hosted group expedition designed around shared experiences, while still allowing time to relax, reflect and explore independently.

Meaningful cultural exchange is central to this expedition. We ask every traveller to approach people, traditions and sacred places with respect, curiosity and humility.

Book My Onboarding

Common questions

A clear picture before you decide.

Everything you need to make an informed decision is here. Take a moment to explore the answers before booking your onboarding conversation.

What is included in the expedition investment?+

The investment includes accommodation from 9–19 September 2026, domestic flights within the planned itinerary, private transport, scheduled meals, scheduled activities, entrance fees, wellness experiences, optional workouts, host-led group experience, international flight-booking assistance and visa self-application guidance.

Is the USD $500 deposit added on top of the ticket price?+

No. The USD $500 deposit is credited toward the total expedition investment. It is not an additional booking fee.

Can I pay the remaining balance flexibly?+

Yes. Once your place is confirmed, the remaining balance can be paid flexibly between your sign-on date and 1 September 2026.

What happens after I submit the pre-check?+

The pre-check gives the team useful context before your conversation. It does not block anyone from continuing. You will move on to choose a Zoom appointment time with the team, receive confirmation, then decide whether you want to proceed after the conversation.

When do I receive the full payment and traveller information?+

After you confirm interest, you receive the detailed next-step pack, traveller agreement and payment guidance. After your deposit is verified, confirmed travellers receive practical pre-departure information covering conduct, onboarding, visa, packing, payment deadlines and key contacts.

What happens if I need to cancel?+

Our cancellation policy is explained before booking, so you’ll understand exactly how payments, deposits and cancellations are handled before committing.

Why is there an onboarding conversation?+

The onboarding conversation gives you the opportunity to ask questions, confirm the expedition is the right fit for you, and ensure you have everything you need before securing your place.

Next step

Book AnAppointmentWith the Team

Start with filling in the contact form, then choose a conversation time with the team. Ask the questions that matter, decide whether the journey is right for you and receive the full next-step information before any payment is requested.

Book Appointment

Or contact info@thesoulfam.net

How confirmation works

01

Submit Your Contact Form

Share a few details about your travel readiness and interests so the team has useful context before your appointment. No payment is taken at this stage.

02

Book an Appointment

Choose a Zoom appointment time with the team to ask questions, discuss the journey and decide whether it is right for you.

03

Confirm Interest

When you decide to proceed, receive the detailed next-step pack, traveller agreement and payment guidance.

04

Secure Your Confirmed Place

After reviewing the next steps, secure your confirmed place with a USD $500 deposit credited toward your total investment.