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Meskel Festival Ethiopia Tour – 7-Day Signature Itinerary

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Not Rated
Duration

7 Days 6 Nights

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

16 people

Languages

___

Overview

Experience one of Ethiopia’s most vibrant and spiritually profound festivals with our exclusive Meskel Festival Tour Package. Celebrated annually on September 27th (or September 28th in a leap year), the Meskel Festival commemorates the discovery of the True Cross by Queen Helena in the fourth century. This unique tour immerses international travelers in lively cultural celebrations, historic religious rituals, and Ethiopia’s rich traditions, combined with visits to iconic landmarks and authentic local experiences. Designed for those seeking meaningful cultural immersion, this itinerary balances festival participation with comfortable accommodations, expert guidance, and seamless logistics.

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Highlights

  • Witness the mesmerizing Meskel bonfire lighting ceremony in Addis Ababa with thousands of pilgrims
  • Attend vibrant processions, prayers, and traditional dances happening across churches and public spaces
  • Explore Ethiopia’s capital city including historical landmarks and museums
  • Visit the stunning rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, UNESCO World Heritage Sites
  • Experience Ethiopian hospitality with traditional cuisine and cultural shows
  • Gain insight into Ethiopia’s Orthodox Christian faith and history through expert guides
  • Enjoy comfortable accommodations and private transfers ensuring a stress-free travel experience

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
#Discount groupFrom adultTo adultValue
1Price per person (based on double occupancy)15 0%
2Group Size68 10%
3Group Size915 13%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

  • Warm reception at Bole International Airport and transfer to a luxury hotel

  • Orientation meeting introducing the cultural significance of the Meskel Festival

  • Welcome dinner featuring authentic Ethiopian dishes and traditional music

Day 2: Addis Ababa City Tour & Meskel Festival Processions
Day 2: Addis Ababa City Tour & Meskel Festival Processions

  • Morning guided tour of Addis Ababa highlights: National Museum (home of Lucy), Holy Trinity Cathedral, and Merkato Market

  • Afternoon free to relax or join informal Meskel festivities around the city

  • Evening attend the Meskel bonfire (Demera) lighting, a spectacular event with chanting, dancing, and fireworks lighting up Meskel Square

Day 3: Meskel Festival Main Day Celebrations
Day 3: Meskel Festival Main Day Celebrations

  • Participate in the enthusiastic Meskel festival mass and processions at various historic churches including St. George’s Cathedral

  • Experience colorful traditional costumes, singing, and prayers in open squares with thousands of locals and pilgrims

  • Enjoy traditional Meskel festival foods and community celebrations

Day 4: Fly to Lalibela – Rock-Hewn Churches Exploration
Day 4: Fly to Lalibela – Rock-Hewn Churches Exploration

  • Morning flight to Lalibela

  • Guided tour of the 11 rock-hewn medieval churches, learning about their symbolism and architecture

  • Sunset visit to surrounding viewpoints for stunning scenic photography

  • Overnight in a charming lodge

Day 5: More in Lalibela & Cultural Interaction
Day 5: More in Lalibela & Cultural Interaction

  • Optional morning hike to local villages around Lalibela to engage with rural Ethiopian culture

  • Afternoon visit to nearby cave churches and local markets

  • Enjoy traditional music and dance performances at the lodge

Day 6: Return to Addis Ababa & Free Afternoon
Day 6: Return to Addis Ababa & Free Afternoon

  • Flight back to Addis Ababa

  • Afternoon at leisure for shopping, exploration, or spa treatments

  • Optional dinner at a renowned restaurant offering a multi-course Ethiopian culinary journey

Day 7: Departure
Day 7: Departure

  • Transfer to Bole International Airport for your flight home

  • Fond farewell with Ethiopian coffee ceremony and gift of traditional souvenirs

Included/Excluded

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Addis Ababa
  • Domestic flights: Addis Ababa – Lalibela – Addis Ababa
  • 6 nights accommodation in a hotels and lodges (double occupancy)
  • Daily breakfast
  • Private vehicle transfers and transportation with experienced drivers
  • Professional English-speaking local guides throughout the tour
  • All entrance and festival fees, including special access to Meskel events
  • Traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony experience
  • International airfare to/from Ethiopia
  • Ethiopian visa fees
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
  • Optional personal expenses, alcoholic beverages, and gratuities
  • Optional activities and extensions outside the outlined itinerary

Tour's Location

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

FAQs

Q: When exactly is the Meskel Festival celebrated?

A: Meskel is celebrated annually on September 27th (or September 28th in leap years) according to the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar.

Q: How large is the crowd at the bonfire ceremony?

A: Thousands of locals and international pilgrims gather, especially at Meskel Square in Addis Ababa. It is a grand cultural spectacle.

Q: Is the tour suitable for families and solo travelers?

A: Yes, the itinerary is family-friendly and designed to accommodate small groups, solo travelers, and couples alike.

Q: What should I wear for the festival?

A: Modest and comfortable clothing suitable for warm days and cooler evenings; neutral colors are recommended to respect religious observances.

Q: Can this itinerary be customized?

A: Yes, the tour can be extended or tailored to include additional cultural, historical, or adventure activities.

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from $2,650.00

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Information Contact

Email

booking@tourhubethiopia.com

Website

www.hubethiopiatour.com

Phone

+251-912-784-747

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