Addis Ababa

Arrive in Addis Ababa early in the morning. Welcome to Ethiopia! First immersion in Ethiopian life in the vibrant city of Addis Ababa, the capital, at an altitude of up to 2,450 m, is the third highest capital city in the world. The altitude may fatigue you, so take it easy today. After a rest, you will explore Addis Ababa, a city of contrasts, with modern skyscrapers next to corrugated iron huts, donkey and horse carts next to modern means of transport, and colorful traditional markets next to supermarkets. Visit the National Museum (home of the remains of the famous hominid fossil, "Lucy"), Entoto Mountain, and the largest open-air market called Merkato. A colorful mix of modern and traditional city life.

Lalibela

We continue to fly to Lalibela, the "Jerusalem of Ethiopia", which was not unfairly declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Get the chance to meet the local community at a local coffee shop.

Lalibela

Lalibela is most famous for its churches. Visit the 12th–13th century rock-hewn churches. These churches have been an active Christian sanctuary for at least 800 years and are the spiritual center of the country's religious life. Today you will visit the monolithic churches, which were carved out of a 2,600-square-meter natural rock terrace by King Lalibela in the 12th century AD. The maze of underground churches and the fascinating and incredible architecture and history will amaze you!

Asheton Maryam Monastery

Early in the morning, you will drive up to Asheton Mariam, which is ruggedly carved out of a cleft on the cliffs of Asheten. The monastery is between the historic Ethiopian town of Lalibela and the Hudad Eco-Lodge. Built in the 11th century, King Lalibela’s original plan was to build the rock-hewn churches in Asheten Maryam. The setting of the monastery is particularly riveting, with 360-degree views of the valley and town.

Asheton Maryam Monastery

From Asheton Maryam, we start the hike up to the plateau where the Hudad lodge is situated. Looking back with beautiful views of Lalibela and the Lasta mountains around.

Today, for those who want, we will have a strenuous hike up to Abuna Josef Mountain (4260 m), which should not be underestimated. But it is a great hike, and you will be rewarded with extraordinary views and the chance to see the unique afro-alpine habitat zone with its’ majestic giant lobelias. You might be lucky enough to see the endangered Ethiopian wolf. You will have coffee in the local tukul's house and enjoy the social lives of the farmers.

As an alternative, you can visit the nearby Abichagula Reserve, which is located on the northern side of the Hudad, and take one of the many short walks. The reserve is home to large numbers of endemic fauna and flora and is one of the few remaining examples of thick wild vegetation. In addition, the mysterious and as of yet unexplored buried church of Beta Gabriel is a two-hour hike from the Lodge.

Early in the morning, the hike will take you to the Yimrehane Kristos Cave-built  church. This is a beautiful, decorated church that is different and older than the rock-hewn churches in Lalibela town.

Lalibela

After visiting the church, our car will wait for us there and take us back to Lalibela.

Lalibela

In the morning, you will visit a local school before heading to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. The reminder of a day at leisure or a program of your interest.

In the evening before departure, you will be invited to a farewell dinner at one of the best traditional restaurants in Addis, where you can taste a variety of Ethiopian meals and watch the folkloric dancers of the Ethiopian people. Then transfer to Bole, Addis Ababa airport, for the flight back home.