Overview
Available languages
3 days
Mobile ticket
Welcome to Lalibela, renowned for its stunning rock-hewn churches, remarkable architecture, and dramatic Lasta Mountains backdrop. This tour lets you explore the iconic monoliths, including the colossal Bet Medhane Alem and the cross-shaped Bet Giyorgis.
As a living pilgrimage center for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, Lalibela offers an immersive journey through its sacred sites, ancient tunnels, trenches, and colorful frescoes.
Beyond the city, enjoy day trips to:
• Yemrehana Krestos: A beautiful pre-Lalibela cave church.
• Asheton Maryam Monastery: Perched high with breathtaking mountain views.
A 3-day masterpiece carved into the earth.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What To Expect
Explore ancient town of Lalibela
Accommodations
Top 12 hotel or similar
Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela
On this day, fly from Addis Ababa to famousrock-hewn churches of the remarkable king Lalibela, and Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel for check-in before heading out to explore the Northwestern Cluster of churches: - Bet Medhane Alem -Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel -Bet Danaghel, and Bet Mikael & Bet Golgotha. In the afternoon, visit the Southeastern Cluster of churches – Bet Gabriel-Rufael, Bet Merkorios, Bet Amanual, and Bet Abba Libanos. Finally, visit the most famous of all the churches – Bet Giyorgis, a huge monolith in the shape of a cross, and constructed in honor of St. George, the patron saint of Ethiopia.
Trek to the nearby churches of Lalibela
Accommodations
Community lodge
Food and Drinks
LUNCH
Lunch
DINNER
Dinner
Asheton Maryam Monastery
Asheton Maryam & Yimrehanne Kristos Today, after breakfast, drive to Asheton Maryam monastery. Enjoy a rewarding hike up the mountain to stretch your legs and visit one of the first rock-hewn churches in the area. From the high peaks of Asheton Maryam, you will experience breathtaking panoramic views overlooking Lalibela and the surrounding landscape. After returning to town for lunch, take an afternoon trip to visit the church of Yimrehanne Kristos. As the most popular church located outside of Lalibela, it is a stunning example of late-Axumite architecture, masterfully built with alternating layers of wood and granite. Evening Culture: As the sun sets over the highlands, we invite you to experience the local soul of the city. After dinner, head to a traditional Tej House (honey wine bar) to enjoy vibrant Ethiopian music and dance—the perfect end to an unforgettable day.
Spiritual Witness & Farewell
Accommodations
Overnight at Lodge or Similar Hotel
Food and Drinks
LUNCH
Lunch
Lalibela
Awaken in the early morning to witness the enduring power of ancient faith as white-robed pilgrims gather for the morning service. Experience the rhythmic chants and centuries-old traditions that make Lalibela a living holy site. After soaking in this spiritual atmosphere, return to the hotel for breakfast before transferring to the airport for your departure. You leave with memories of a journey that touched both the earth and the heavens. End of Tour. Important: Dress Code & Entry Tips To respect the sacred traditions of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, please note the following: • For Women: Please wear a long dress or skirt (covering the legs completely) and a headscarf to cover your hair. • For Men: Long trousers are recommended. • Footwear: Since shoes must be removed before entering each church, we suggest wearing sandals for easy removal and bringing a pair of socks for your comfort while walking on the stone floors. Thank you for honoring our local customs!
Options
3 days tour to Lalibela
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Entrance for Rock churches
All Fees and Taxes
Dinner
Guide throughout the tour
Coffee // tea
Bottles of water as per the itinerary
Pickup points
Harmony Hotel
Cameroon Street, Near Edna Mall Addis Ababa Ethiopia
Bole Airport
Addis Ababa Ethiopia
Lalibela Airport
Lalibela Ethiopia
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
1 review
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing and Educational Visit to Lalibella, Ethiopia through Rock Hewn Churches!
Sunshine59818651339,Aug 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I always heard about the rich history of Ethiopia and past kingdoms and dynasties, but I didn’t really, really know. This summer, for my 50th, I went to Ethiopia. I didn’t know that it would be this sacred pilgrimage and coming home to myself and everything I hold dear. We had a private, guided tour with the most knowledgeable guide through Adefa Tours. He walked us through the thousand year history of the rock-hewn churches built by one man, Lalibella. It was mind bending and overwhelming. The churches are literally built from the ground down, into the stony mountains! Religious or not, it is a testament to the human spirit and the power of love and conviction. I see why it is one of the manmade wonders of the world. We booked with Adefa with one call. From there, we were picked up from the airport, dropped off at our lodge to freshen up and then picked up again for a walk through an education of the wondrous churches. The next day, the tours continued until we were dropped off at the airport again. I didn’t know my history. This tour is a must for everyone but particularly every black family. After getting back to Addis Ababa, we were met for lunch by the owner of the company who insisted on taking us out to see live Ethiopian jazz, as his guests! I can’t say enough about this company, the man who runs it and the service he provides. I wish I could give 10 stars! Best money I’ve spent in over a decade.
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Operated by Adefa Tours Ethiopia