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5 Days 4 Nights
Daily Tour
16 people
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This tour is perfect for travelers exploring Ethiopia who want to discover the vibrant capital city and the iconic rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, along with the stunning nearby monasteries of Yemrehanna Kristos, Asheton Maryam, and Ne’akuto Le’ab. Lalibela, a premier tourist destination in Ethiopia, offers countless reasons to visit, from its breathtaking architecture to its deep spiritual significance. Lalibela and Addis Ababa tour.
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be transferred to your pre-booked hotel. Depending on your arrival time, we offer a range of sightseeing options:
Mount Entoto: Ascend to the summit for panoramic views of the capital.
Institute of Ethiopian Studies: Explore a vast collection of artefacts showcasing the nation's rich history and culture.
National Museum: Marvel at the 3.5 million-year-old bones of Lucy, among other exhibits.
Trinity Cathedral: Visit the grandest cathedral in the country, adorned with sculptures, mosaics, and the burial sites of imperial family members and renowned heroes.
Mercato: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Africa's largest outdoor market. Accommodation: Hotel, Addis Ababa
After breakfast, you'll be taken to the airport for your early flight to Lalibela. Upon arrival, you'll be escorted to your accommodation. Then, we'll start our tour of the Yemrhane Kirstos monasteries, located about 42 km from Lalibela. These monasteries were built 80 years before the renowned rock-cut churches of Lalibela. Enjoy the scenic views of the mountain landscape along the way.
Accommodation: Hotel or Lodge, Lalibela.
After breakfast, spend the day visiting the 11 renowned rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. These impressive structures are carved directly from the rock, showcasing incredible scale and craftsmanship. While some churches connect via extensive underground tunnels, others are expanded caves formed by rock quarries. The first six churches include Bete Medhanialem (House of the Savior), Bete Mariam (House of St. Mary), Bete Denagle (House of Virgins), Bete Maskal (House of the Cross), Bete Golgotha (House of Golgotha), and Bete Urael (House of Urael), all arranged in a series of rock cradles. Bete Medhanealem, resembling a Greek temple, is the world’s largest rock-hewn church. Depending on time, you may also visit Bete Giorgis (St. George), a picture-perfect church. After lunch, continue to explore the southeastern cluster of churches, which includes Gebariel-Raphael, Mercorious, Emanuel, and the Church of Father Libanos. Bete Emanuel (House of Emanuel) is known as the most intricately carved church in Lalibela. All churches are interconnected by subterranean tunnels, symbolically divided by the River Jordan. Accommodation: Hotel or Lodge, Lalibela
Morning: If time permits before your flight to Addis Ababa, visit the intriguing Ne'akuto Le'ab Monastery, known for its church treasures near Lalibela.
Afternoon: Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you’ll be driven to your hotel. Enjoy a memorable farewell meal in the evening at a traditional restaurant, featuring local food, drinks, dances, and music. After dinner, you’ll be returned to your hotel. Accommodation: Hotel in Addis Ababa.
There are plenty of options for shopping and sightseeing, depending on your interests. You will be transferred to the airport for your international departure. Most international flights are taking place during the night times.
End of the tour
The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela are a UNESCO World Heritage site and are renowned for their unique architectural style, as they are carved directly out of solid volcanic rock. They were built in the 12th century to create a “New Jerusalem” for Christians, and they hold immense religious significance. The churches exhibit incredible craftsmanship and are visited by thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year.
We recommend packing light, comfortable clothing suitable for moderate walking and exploring, including sturdy shoes, as you will be visiting rocky terrains and climbing stairs. It's also advisable to bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection, a reusable water bottle, and a light jacket for cooler evenings in Lalibela. Don’t forget to have your camera ready for capturing the beautiful landscapes and historic sites!
Transportation for the entire tour is included and will be provided through professional drivers and vehicles. This includes airport transfers, domestic flights to Lalibela, and drives between sightseeing locations. Our team will ensure that your travel experience is smooth and convenient throughout your stay in Ethiopia.
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