5-Day Tigray Historic Churches & Scenic Adventure

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

Arrival in Axum & City Tour

Upon arrival in Axum, you will be welcomed by your guide and driver and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, begin exploring the ancient city of Axum, one of Ethiopia’s most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the famous Axum Obelisks, the Queen of Sheba’s Palace and Bath, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, which is traditionally believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. Continue to the impressive Stelae Field and the Archaeological Museum for insights into the region’s rich past. In the afternoon, explore the tombs of King Kaleb and Gebre Meskel, then enjoy a relaxed stroll through the town before dinner.

Main Destination:

Axum (City)

Accommodation:

Sabean International Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Debre Damo Monastery Excursion & Drive to Adigrat

After breakfast, take a scenic drive from Axum to Debre Damo Monastery, one of Ethiopia’s oldest and most remarkable monasteries (approx. 2.5 hours). Accessible only by climbing a rope up the cliff, this 6th-century monastery is open to men only, but the experience and panoramic views are unforgettable. Explore the monastery’s ancient treasures and admire its unique architecture. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route, then return to Axum in the afternoon. Spend the evening strolling through the town or relaxing at your hotel before dinner.

Main Destination:

Debre Damo

Accommodation:

Sabean International Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Rock-Hewn Churches of Gheralta

After breakfast, depart Axum and drive across stunning countryside toward the Gheralta Mountains in the Hawzen area (approx. 5 hours). This region is famous for its dramatic landscapes and remarkable rock-hewn churches carved into the sandstone cliffs. In the morning, visit churches such as Medhane Alem Adi Kesho or Petros and Paulos, both known for their beautiful frescoes. Depending on accessibility and interest, you may also explore Abuna Abraham or Dugum Selassie. In the afternoon, take a short but adventurous hike to Abuna Yemata Guh, the legendary “church in the sky.” Perched high in the cliffs, it offers both a spiritual experience and breathtaking panoramic views. Return to Hawzen for dinner and an overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Hawzen (Town)

Accommodation:

Gheralta Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Tigray

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

More Rock-Hewn Churches in Gheralta

After breakfast, set out to explore more of the extraordinary rock-hewn churches in the Gheralta region. Begin with Maryam Korkor, one of the largest and most beautifully decorated churches, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Continue to Daniel Korkor, a smaller cave church with a serene and spiritual atmosphere. If time allows, also visit Debre Maryam Papasetti, another historic site carved into the cliffs. In the late afternoon, enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Gheralta mountains before returning to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Main Destination:

Hawzen (Town)

Accommodation:

Gheralta Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Tigray

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Drive to Mekelle & Departure

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely drive from Hawzen to Mekelle (approx. 3 hours). On arrival, explore the city’s cultural highlights, including the historic Emperor Yohannes IV Palace Museum, the lively local market, and the vibrant town center. Depending on your schedule, there may be time for last-minute sightseeing or shopping. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to Mekelle Airport for your onward journey.

Main Destination:

Mekele (City)

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.