Day 1. Addis – Mekelle – Hawzen
Fly early in the morning to mekelle and drive to Abrha We Atsibeha, a rock-hewn church located about 15 km west of Wukro.On the way back visit Wukro Cherkos, one of the best-preserved rock churches in Tigray. After lunch , Continue your journey to Al-Nejashi Mosque, a 7th-century mosque believed to be the first mosque in Ethiopia.
– After exploring Al-Nejashi, drive to Hawzen and hike to Abune Yemata Guh Church . Spend the night in Hawzen
Day 2. Gheralta Churches – Axum
In the morning trek an hour and half to the awe-inspiring Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor Churches, marveling at their ancient architecture and breathtaking views.
Afterward, embark on a picturesque drive to Axum, passing through Adigrat then drive to see the Adwa battlefields, where Emperor Menelik II’s army secured Ethiopia’s historic victory against colonial forces in 1896. Finally, we arrive in Axum, the legendary city of the Queen of Sheba and Ethiopia’s most sacred historical site, where we will spend the night immersed in its rich heritage.
Day 3 : Axum City tour
After breakfast, we embark on a guided city tour of Axum, exploring its rich historical and archaeological sites. Key highlights include:
The Obelisk of Axum: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Ethiopia’s most iconic monuments.
The St. Mary of Zion Church Complex: Home to the legendary Ark of the Covenant (according to Ethiopian tradition).
The Queen of Sheba’s Palace Ruins: Exploring the remains of this ancient royal complex.
The Tombs of King Kaleb and King Gebre Meskel: Remarkable underground tombs showcasing ancient Axumite engineering.
The Ezana Stone: Often referred to as Ethiopia’s “Rosetta Stone. O/n in Adigrat
Day 4. Axum – Lalibela
Fly from Axum to Lalibela, home to one of the world’s most outstanding sacred sites comprising 11 medieval rock hewn churches.
Afternoon ,you will start visiting the first and magnificent of rock hewn churches of Lalibela including the S.George church . O/n Lalibela
Day 5. Excursion to Nakutalab Church
In the morning, begin your excursion with a visit to Nakutolab Church, a lesser-known yet spiritually significant rock-hewn church just outside Lalibela. This site, named after King Nakutolab, is famous for its sacred water, believed to have healing properties. After exploring the church and its serene surroundings, return to Lalibela for lunch.
In the afternoon, continue your journey through history by exploring the Second and Third Groups of Lalibela Churches. These include Bete Gabriel-Rufael, Bete Merkorios, Bete Emmanuel, and Bete Abba Libanos, each showcasing remarkable architectural and religious significance. After a day of spiritual and historical exploration, spend the night in Lalibela, reflecting on the rich heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. O/n in Lalibela
Day 6. Lalibela – Gondar
Early in the morning , you will go for mass in one of the main churches then continue the second group churches . Finally ,transfer to Lalibela airport to depart Gondar, then continue your city tour in Gondar . Overnight in Gondar
Day 7. Gondar – Bahirdar
Today, we embark on a scenic 4-hour drive from Gondar to Bahir Dar, passing through the beautiful Amhara landscape and nature. In the afternoon, we head 34 km south to visit the Blue Nile Falls and explore the traditional houses nearby. Upon returning to the city, we visit the local markets and end our day by enjoying a stunning sunset from the mountain, offering an incredible view of the city. We will spend the night in Bahir Dar.
Day 8. Bahirdar – Addis Ababa
After breakfast, we take a 4-hour boat trip on Lake Tana to explore the monasteries, enjoy the surrounding nature, and observe the birds and wildlife. We then return to Bahir Dar city.
In the afternoon, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Addis Ababa. In the evening, we attend a welfare program at a traditional restaurant, where you’ll enjoy authentic Ethiopian food while watching traditional dance and music performances. Afterward, we transfer to Bole International Airport for your international flight.
