Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches Tour

The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

Our Lalibela tour package can also be added to the end of other tours that go to different parts of the country, such as the Omo Valley. This tour does not always have pre-scheduled departure dates. However, if flights and hotels are available we can guarantee a departure on the dates you request. Please note that Lalibela is included on all of our tours listed under Historic North Tours and many of our Combination Tours.

Tour Highlights

UNESCO World Heritage

Visit the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site with 11 monolithic and semi-monolithic structures.

Mountain Adventure

Hike with mules to Mount Asheton with its 13th century rock-hewn monastery and breathtaking views of the town.

Ancient History

Explore Yemrehanna Kristos, a beautiful church situated in a shallow cave that predates the churches of Lalibela.

3 Days / 2 Nights Itinerary

1

Day 01: Addis Ababa - Lalibela

Flight to Lalibela

Fly to Lalibela on Ethiopian Airlines 700 kilometers north of Addis Ababa.

Rock-Hewn Churches Tour

Tour the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This group of eleven monolithic and semi-monolithic structures were carved directly into the stone of the mountainside at least 800 years ago. This complex boasts the largest monolithic church in the world, a maze of passageways and tunnels, intricately carved reliefs, and fabulous examples of icon paintings.

UNESCO Site 800+ Years Old Rock-Carved

Overnight Accommodation

Check into your comfortable hotel for overnight stay in Lalibela.

2

Day 02: Lalibela Exploration

Morning Adventure Options

For the morning we have two choices:

Option A: Take a morning hike with mules to Mount Asheton, with its 13th century rock-hewn monastery and great views of the town.

Option B: Drive to Yemrehanna Kristos, a beautiful church situated in a shallow cave that predates the churches of Lalibela. The drive to Yemrehanna will also give you the opportunity to view the rural countryside and villages of the Ethiopian highlands.

Hiking Option Scenic Drive Photography

Afternoon Church Tour

Continue with tour of Lalibela's churches in the afternoon, exploring more of the incredible rock-hewn architecture and religious history.

Overnight Accommodation

Return to your hotel for another comfortable night in Lalibela.

3

Day 03: Lalibela - Addis Ababa

Return Flight

Return to Addis Ababa via Ethiopian Airlines.

Optional Addis Ababa Tour

Optional half day city tour of Addis Ababa with evening cultural dinner.

Departure

Transfer to airport for late night departure if needed.

Tour Duration

3 Days / 2 Nights

Transportation

Round-trip flights included

Accommodation

Comfortable hotels included

Meals

Daily breakfast included

Guide

English-speaking local guide

Extensions

Can be combined with other tours

Traveler Experiences

Read what other travelers say about their Lalibela experience with us.

This tour exceeded all expectations! The churches of Lalibela are even more awe-inspiring in person than in photographs. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the history and religious significance of each site.
Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson

Traveled March 2023

The hike to Mount Asheton was the highlight for me. The views were breathtaking and the rock-hewn monastery there felt like stepping back in time. The entire experience was well-organized and seamless.
Michael Chen

Michael Chen

Traveled January 2023

We added this tour to the end of our Omo Valley trip and it was the perfect contrast. From tribal cultures to ancient Christian heritage, Ethiopia truly has it all. The optional Addis Ababa city tour was also excellent.
Elena Rodriguez

Elena Rodriguez

Traveled November 2022

Ready to Experience Lalibela?

Join us on this unforgettable journey to the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. Experience ancient history, breathtaking architecture, and Ethiopian hospitality at its finest.

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