3-Day Lalibela Bird Photography and Churches Tour

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Flight from Addis Ababa to Lalibela – Dryland Bird Photography and Rock-Hewn Churches

Take a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Lalibela. Upon arrival, begin bird photography around nearby dryland habitats, rocky slopes, and highland landscapes, searching for local bird species in the beautiful morning light.

In the afternoon, check in at your hotel before exploring the first cluster of Lalibela’s famous rock-hewn churches. Discover these remarkable architectural masterpieces, carved into volcanic rock more than 800 years ago, and photograph their intricate details, ancient passageways, and spiritual atmosphere.

Toward sunset, explore suitable rocky viewpoints for a chance to photograph the magnificent Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture) soaring above the dramatic highland scenery. Sightings depend on local conditions.

Overnight: Sora Lodge Hotel, Lalibela.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Activities:

• Specialized birding (with a professional birding guide)

Accommodation:

Sora Lodge Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

+3 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included)
• Drinks not included

Endemic Bird Photography at Mount Asheten Maryam and the Second Cluster of Churches

Begin early with a drive and hike to Mount Asheten Maryam, exploring its scenic highland habitats and rocky slopes in search of Ethiopia’s endemic birds. Photograph species such as the Abyssinian Catbird, White-backed Black Tit, White-billed Starling, and White-collared Pigeon, while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

In the afternoon, return to Lalibela to explore the second cluster of magnificent rock-hewn churches. Discover their remarkable architecture, ancient passageways, and spiritual heritage.

As sunset approaches, continue bird photography around Lalibela’s rocky landscapes and open viewpoints, capturing birds in the warm evening light.

Overnight: Sora Lodge Hotel, Lalibela.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Activities:

• Specialized birding (with a professional birding guide)

Accommodation:

Sora Lodge Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinks not included

Nakuto Lab bird photography and flight to Addis Ababa

After an early breakfast, drive to Nakuto La’ab, a historic cave monastery located outside Lalibela. Built around a natural cave and associated with a spring, the monastery offers a fascinating cultural setting surrounded by rocky habitats that are worth exploring for bird photography.

Spend the morning photographing birds around the monastery and its surrounding landscape. Target species include Rüppell’s Black Chat, Black-winged Lovebird, and other birds that may be found in the area. Take advantage of the morning light to capture bird portraits, natural behaviors, and birds against the distinctive rocky highland scenery.

You will also have time to appreciate the monastery’s peaceful atmosphere and unique religious heritage before returning to Lalibela for your departure arrangements.

In the afternoon, transfer to Lalibela Airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa, bringing your three-day bird photography and cultural tour to an end.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Activities:

• Early morning specialized birding (with a professional birding guide)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.