Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Welcome to Ethiopia! Upon your arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you’ll be warmly received by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a short city tour exploring the capital’s highlights such as the National Museum and Holy Trinity Cathedral. Prepare for the incredible cultural and historical journey ahead.
Day 2: Fly to Lalibela – Explore the Rock-Hewn Churches
Take a morning flight to Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s most sacred sites and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Spend the day discovering the awe-inspiring rock-hewn churches carved directly from solid rock in the 12th century. These masterpieces of Ethiopian Orthodox architecture, including Bete Medhane Alem and the iconic Bete Giyorgis (St. George), offer a deeply spiritual and visually stunning experience.
Day 3: Fly to Axum – City Tour of the Ancient Capital
After breakfast, fly to Axum, the cradle of ancient Ethiopian civilization. Upon arrival, embark on a guided city tour featuring the famous Axum obelisks, the archaeological museum, Queen of Sheba’s palace ruins, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. Axum’s timeless charm will transport you to the era of kings and empires.
Day 4: Celebrate Meskel Festival in Axum – Drive to Adigrat via the Mountains of Adwa
Today, witness the Meskel Festival in Axum, an ancient celebration of the discovery of the True Cross. Join local pilgrims and witness traditional dances, prayers, and the lighting of the Demera bonfire—a unique spiritual spectacle. After the ceremony, drive through the scenic Adwa Mountains, rich in historical significance, and arrive in Adigrat for an overnight stay.
Day 5: Drive to Gheralta – Visit Abune Yemata and St. George Maykado
Depart Adigrat early and head towards the Gheralta Mountains, home to some of Ethiopia’s most extraordinary rock-hewn churches. Hike up to Abune Yemata Guh, dramatically perched on a cliff face, known for its stunning frescoes and breathtaking views. Later, visit the lesser-known yet spiritually rich St. George Maykado Church before settling in for the night in Hawzen.
Day 6: Gheralta to Mekelle – Visit Mariam & Daniel Korkor Churches – Fly to Addis Ababa
Begin the day with a scenic sunrise hike to Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor, two of the most iconic rock-hewn churches in Tigray. These sites offer not only religious significance but also panoramic vistas of the Gheralta landscape. On your way to Mekelle, stop at Wukro Cherkos, another remarkable historic church. Upon arrival in Mekelle, catch your evening flight back to Addis Ababa—marking the end of your unforgettable Meskel Festival tour.
