This trip is the perfect introduction to Ethiopia’s incredible diversity of lesser-known and lesser-visited ancient civilizations, culture, and nature. Here, the incomparable scenery of the Abune Yosef Mountains contrasts with some of the most beautiful scenery of the low lands of Bilbala and Wag Yimra. This trip is truly off the beaten track!

This trek offers a unique and unrivalled combination of history, culture, and spectacular scenery. We wind our way from the Abune Yosef Mountains to the Afro-Alpine forest, through small remote villages and farm lands, as we  explore ancient cave churches and rock-hewn churches that date back to the 6th and 12th centuries.

Trip Highlights

• Be amazed at the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela.
• See Abune Yosef Mountain, the third-highest peak in Ethiopia.
• Explore cave churches, castles, and waterfalls.
• Enjoy mountain trekking in the beautiful Lasta Mountain Range.

Itinerary

Day 1: Addis Ababa

Arrive in Addis Ababa. In the afternoon, take a city tour of Addis Ababa that includes the National Museum, Ethnographic Museum, and the Mercato.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 2: Addis Abab, Lalibela (2500m)

In the morning, fly to Lalibela. For the rest of the day, visit the first group of rock-hewn churches dating from 1200 AD.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 3: Lalibela, Merebarbu (3500m)

In the morning, visit the second group of rock-hewn churches. In the afternoon, trek to Merebarbu enroute visitng Asheten Mariam Monastery dating from the 13th century.

Overnight: Camping at Merebarbu

Day 4: Merebarbu, Wedebye (3700m)

Start the 4-hour trekking from Merebarbu to Wedebye (3600m to 3800m).

Overnight: Camping at Wedebye

Day 5: Wedebye, Abune Yosef (3900m)

Continue the trek for approximately 4 hours to Abune Yosef (4130m). Enroute, enjoy the stunning views of Afro-Alpine vegetation as you spot endemic mammals like the Gelada Baboon and the Simen Fox.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 6: Abune Yosef, Degosach, Yimrhane Kirstos

From Abune Yosef, the third-highest pick in Ethiopia, we will trek on the plateau of Degosach enroute visiting different villages. At Yimrhane Kirstos, you will visit the 12th-century cave church that is famous for its unique style of architecture, construction, and interior decor.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 7: Yimrha, Arbatu Ensesa, Lalibela

In the morning, walk downhill to visit Arbatu Ensesa, a rock-hewn church from the 4th century AD. Then meet your driver for the drive to Lalibela enroute visiting Bilbala Cherkos.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 8: Lalibela, Addis Ababa, Departure

Fly back to Addis Ababa. In the afternoon, take a city tour of Addis Ababa and prepare for the flight back home. End of tour.