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Duration
5 days
Max Group Size
12
Departure Type
Request
Guiding Method
Fully guided
Physical level
hard
Operated In
English, French
Age Requirement
9 - 90 Ages
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating four-day journey through Tigray, Ethiopia, where ancient history and spiritual heritage intertwine. This region is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and remarkable rock-hewn churches, carved into rugged cliffs and dating back to the early days of Christianity.
Our adventure begins in Axum, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the heart of a powerful kingdom. Here, we’ll explore iconic obelisks, ancient palaces, and the legendary Ark of the Covenant. As we visit Tigray's sacred sites, each church reveals its unique story and stunning artistry against dramatic backdrops.
Join us in uncovering Tigray's rich tapestry of history and spirituality, where every stone tells a story and every church resonates with the prayers of generations. This journey promises to deepen your appreciation of Ethiopia's religious heritage while inspiring awe through its natural beauty.
Route
Starts from
Entoto Park, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Ends in
Bole Addis Ababa International Airport
Pickup Location
Bole Addis Ababa International Airport, 08:30
Dropoff Location
Bole Addis Ababa International Airport, 17:30
Highlights
Itinerary
Addis Ababa – Explore the National Museum, Holy Trinity
Cathedral, Entoto Park, and Merkato. Enjoy cultural dining. Overnight Damat Hotel in Addis Ababa.
Gheralta Churches – Fly to Mekele, drive to Gheralta, and
hike to the stunning rock-hewn Abuna Yemata Guh. Overnight in Hawzien.
Maryam Korkor & Daniel Korkor – Hike to these remarkable
cliffside churches with breathtaking views. Overnight in Hawzien.
Debre Damo Monastery – Journey to this historic monastery,
accessible only by rope climb. Overnight in Fissha Hotel in Wukro.
: Michael Amba & Return – Vis it Michael Amba Church
before returning to Mekele and flying back to Addis Ababa. have a farewell
Dinner and ready for your departure
An unforgettable blend of history, adventure, and
spirituality!
Trip includes
Included
Hotel and Lodge
Domestics Flight
Guiding Method
Fully guided
English
Frenchbreakfast
Vegan
Vegetarian
MeatLand cruise car
All Entrance fee
Government Tax
Coffee and Tea
1. Cultural and Religious Etiquette
Dress Modestly: Long sleeves, long skirts or trousers. Women
may be asked to cover their hair inside churches.
Shoes Off: Remove shoes before entering any church.
Photography: Ask for permission, especially when
photographing priests or ceremonies.
2. Physical Fitness
Many Tigray rock-hewn churches are located on steep cliffs
(e.g., Abuna Yemata Guh). Visitors should be prepared for difficult climbs,
often involving free climbing or narrow ledges.
Not suitable for those with vertigo, heart conditions, or
poor physical health.
3. Religious Calendar
Best Times to Visit: Major Ethiopian Orthodox celebrations
(e.g., Timket in January, Meskel in September).
Church ceremonies often occur early in the morning.
4. Local Currency
Bring Ethiopian Birr in cash, especially in rural Tigray
where ATMs or card payments are not available.
5. Accommodation and Food
Axum has hotels and restaurants, but options are more
limited in rural Tigray.
Pack snacks and water for remote visits.
6. Respect for Sacred Sites
Many churches are active places of worship. Keep noise to a
minimum.
Some areas may be off-limits to non-Orthodox visitors or
women.
7. Key Sites in Axum
Church of St. Mary of Zion: Home to Ethiopia’s most sacred
religious site.
Axum Obelisks: UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering
ancient stelae.
Excluded
1. Cultural and Religious Etiquette
Dress Modestly: Long sleeves, long skirts or trousers. Women
may be asked to cover their hair inside churches.
Shoes Off: Remove shoes before entering any church.
Photography: Ask for permission, especially when
photographing priests or ceremonies.
2. Physical Fitness
Many Tigray rock-hewn churches are located on steep cliffs
(e.g., Abuna Yemata Guh). Visitors should be prepared for difficult climbs,
often involving free climbing or narrow ledges.
Not suitable for those with vertigo, heart conditions, or
poor physical health.
3. Religious Calendar
Best Times to Visit: Major Ethiopian Orthodox celebrations
(e.g., Timket in January, Meskel in September).
Church ceremonies often occur early in the morning.
4. Local Currency
Bring Ethiopian Birr in cash, especially in rural Tigray
where ATMs or card payments are not available.
5. Accommodation and Food
Axum has hotels and restaurants, but options are more
limited in rural Tigray.
Pack snacks and water for remote visits.
6. Respect for Sacred Sites
Many churches are active places of worship. Keep noise to a
minimum.
Some areas may be off-limits to non-Orthodox visitors or
women.
7. Key Sites in Axum
Church of St. Mary of Zion: Home to Ethiopia’s most sacred
religious site.
Axum Obelisks: UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering
ancient stelae.
Lunch and Dinner
Availability
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Book the tour by paying only 25% upfront, and settle the remaining amount 30 days before the tour departure.
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Personal
Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.
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