3 Days Lalibela Tour

  • Lalibela, Ethiopia
  • 2 booked
  • Duration: 3 Days
  • Language: English

Overview

Lalibela is Ethiopia’s most famous historic site, renowned worldwide for its 11 monolithic, rock-hewn churches carved from the living rock in the 12th and 13th centuries under King Lalibela. This 3-day tour is designed to immerse visitors fully in this ‘New Jerusalem,’ dedicating two days to exploring the churches, tunnels, and symbolic passages in the North, South, and Western clusters. The third day is reserved for an excursion to a significant outlying monastery, such as Yemrehanna Kristos or Asheton Maryam, offering magnificent views of the Lasta mountains and deeper insight into the ancient Zagwe dynasty’s influence.

What To Expect

Day 1: Arrival and Northern Church Cluster

Take an early morning flight from Addis Ababa (ADD) to Lalibela (LLI). You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After lunch, begin the afternoon tour of the first group of rock-hewn churches, located north of the Jordan River. These include Biete Medhane Alem (House of the Saviour of the World), Biete Maryam (House of Mary), Biete Meskel (House of the Cross), Biete Denagel (House of Virgins), and Biete Golgotha Mikael. Explore the intricate passages and courtyards connecting these magnificent monolithic structures.

Day 2: Southern Cluster and Biete Ghiorgis

Start the morning by visiting the second group of churches, located south of the Jordan River. These include Biete Amanuel, Biete Qeddus Mercoreus, Biete Abba Libanos, and Biete Gabriel-Rufael. The afternoon is dedicated to the most iconic and visually perfect church: Biete Ghiorgis (House of St. George), carved in the shape of a perfect Greek cross and standing alone, connected by a deep trench. Optional: Attend the early morning Sunday Mass at one of the churches for a powerful spiritual experience (if applicable).

Day 3: Monastery Excursion and Departure

Take an excursion to an outlying church or monastery. The options are generally the mountain-side Asheton Maryam Monastery (often accessed by mule or vehicle for scenic views and relics) or the magnificent Yemrehanna Kristos cave church (known for its unique Axumite architecture and mummies). After the excursion, transfer to Lalibela Airport (LLI) for your late afternoon flight back to Addis Ababa (ADD).

Includes /Excludes

  • Domestic flights between Addis Ababa and Lalibela (often sold separately but included in package price)
  • All airport transfers in Lalibela
  • Accommodation for 2 nights in Lalibela (typically including breakfast)
  • Entrance fee for the Rock-Hewn Churches
  • Professional English-speaking local guide for all church and excursion visits
  • Tips/Gratuities for the guide, driver, and priests
  • Lunches and dinners in Lalibela
  • Camera fees (can be required at the main entrance or some monasteries)
  • Mule/horse rental fee for the Asheton Maryam excursion
  • International flights

Additional Information

  • Altitude: Lalibela sits at an elevation of approximately 2,630 meters (8,600 ft); visitors may need time to adjust.
  • Footwear: Wear thick socks and footwear that is easy to slip off, as shoes must be removed before entering the churches.
  • Dress Code: Modest clothing is required when visiting churches (covering shoulders and knees).
  • Festivals: Visiting during festivals like Genna (Ethiopian Christmas) or Timkat (Epiphany) offers an unforgettable experience but requires early booking due to crowds.

Cancelation and Refund Policy

At Safrisway, we prioritize flexibility and customer satisfaction. Our cancellation and booking policy blends standard, promotional, and flexible options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Please review our cancellation and refund policy for details.

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