$1,700 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateArrival
Arrival
Day 1
Addis Ababa Guided City Tour
Addis Ababa Guided City Tour
Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you will be met by your representative and transferred to your hotel. After some time to refresh, begin exploring Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, whose name means “New Flower.”
Drive to Mount Entoto located above the city, to enjoy panoramic views of Addis Ababa and its surrounding landscapes. Continue to the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to important archaeological discoveries including a replica of the famous fossil remains of Lucy, an early human ancestor.
Next bete Mariyam Cathedral one of Ethiopia’s most important Orthodox Christian churches and a significant historical landmark associated with Emperor of Menelik
Continue to the Ethnological Museum, located within the former palace grounds of Emperor Haile Selassie at Addis Ababa University
Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of local commerce.
- Main Destination:
- Addis Ababa (City)
- Activities:
- Accommodation:
- Cassiopeia Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2
Air Transfer to Mekelle and Hawizen drive
Air Transfer to Mekelle and Hawizen drive
After breakfast, transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport to Mekele, the capital of the Tigray region.
Upon arrival, meet your driver and begin the journey toward Hawzen, passing through the striking landscapes of northern Ethiopia. Along the way, visit Wukro Cherkos, a remarkable rock-hewn church known for its ancient architecture and religious significance.
Continue to Abreha We Atsbeha, one of the region’s most historically important churches. Traditionally associated with the early introduction of Christianity to Ethiopia, the church is renowned for its beautifully decorated interior, religious paintings, and impressive architectural features.
Depending on the available time and road conditions, make a stop at Dugum Selassie, another historical church in the region.
Continue to Hawzen, a town surrounded by the spectacular sandstone mountains and distinctive rock formations of the Gheralta area.
Check in at your hotel and relax after the journey.
- Main Destination:
- Hawzen (Town)
- Activities:
- Accommodation:
- Vision Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3
Explore Debra Tsion and Yohannes Maqudi churchs
Explore Debra Tsion and Yohannes Maqudi churchs
After breakfast, depart for a full-day excursion to discover some of Tigray’s remarkable rock-hewn churches.
Begin with a visit to Debre Tsion, an important religious site associated with Ethiopia’s ancient Christian heritage. Explore its distinctive setting and learn about the traditions surrounding the region’s historic churches.
Continue to Yohannes Maqudi, a remarkable rock-hewn church situated within a narrow sandstone passage between towering rock walls. The approach offers a memorable introduction to the dramatic landscapes of Gheralta, while the church itself provides an opportunity to appreciate the architectural and religious heritage of the region.
Throughout the day, your guide will introduce you to the history, traditions, and spiritual significance of these ancient religious sites.
After exploring the churches, return to Hawzen for dinner and an overnight stay.
- Main Destination:
- Hawzen (Town)
- Activities:
- Accommodation:
- Vision Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Excursions to Abun Yemtha Guh and Gherlat Churches
Excursions to Abun Yemtha Guh and Gherlat Churches
After breakfast, travel toward the spectacular Gheralta mountain range to explore one of Tigray’s most extraordinary rock-hewn churches.
The day’s main highlight is Abune Yemata Guh, a historic church dramatically positioned high on a sandstone cliff. Reaching the church involves a steep hike and exposed rock sections, including scrambling and climbing in places. The final ascent.
Visitors should be comfortable with heights and reasonably fit. Local guidance is essential, and the visit should be assessed according to weather conditions, access, and individual ability. Travelers who are uncomfortable with exposed climbs can discuss alternative churches with their guide.
If time and conditions permit, continue to Debre Mariam Korkor, another remarkable church in the Gheralta mountains, known for its elevated location, historic religious paintings, and expansive views. You may also visit the nearby Abba Daniel prayer room, a small rock-hewn religious site accessible on foot.
- Main Destination:
- Hawzen (Town)
- Activities:
- Accommodation:
- Vision Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Drive Mekelle and Air Transfer and Departure
Drive Mekelle and Air Transfer and Departure
After breakfast, depart Hawzen and drive to Mekele for your return flight to Addis Ababa.
Upon arrival, depending on your flight schedule and available time, enjoy some leisure time or additional sightseeing in the capital.
In the evening, experience Ethiopian hospitality with a traditional cultural dinner. Sample a selection of Ethiopian dishes while watching traditional dances representing the country’s diverse ethnic groups.
The evening also includes a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, offering an opportunity to learn about one of Ethiopia’s most cherished cultural traditions.
After dinner, you will be transferred to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your onward departure.
- Main Destination:
- Hawzen (Town)
- Activities:
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
