Day Trip From Addis Ababa See Historical Monastery,Stunning Nature,Animals,Birds
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Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery & Portuguese Bridge with Aman Ethiopia Tours
Discover the spiritual and historical heart of Ethiopia on a full-day trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and the Portuguese Bridge, expertly organized by Aman Ethiopia Tours. Explore the monastery, founded in the 13th century, and learn about its importance in Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. Enjoy serene surroundings, stunning views of the Jemma River Gorge, and insights into local traditions. Visit the Portuguese Bridge, a 16th-century architectural marvel, adding a unique historical perspective. With Aman Ethiopia Tours, benefit from comfortable transport, knowledgeable guides, and personalized attention. What makes this tour special is our focus on authentic experiences, connecting travelers with Ethiopia’s spiritual, cultural, and natural heritage in one memorable, well-planned day.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum age is 6
Dress code is formal
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Debre Libanos Orthodox Church
Its one of the ancient and historical monastery in Ethiopia, Which is lying on northwest of Addis Ababa. The monastery was founded in the 13th century by Saint Tekle Haymanot, according to tradition; he meditated in a cave for 29 years. The monastery complex sits on a terrace between a cliff and the gorge of one of the tributaries of the Abbay River. None of the original buildings of Debre Libanos survive, although David Buxton suspected "there are interesting things still to be found among the neighbouring cliffs." Current buildings include the church over Tekle Haymanot's tomb, which Emperor Haile Selassie ordered constructed in 1961; a slightly older Church of the Cross, where Buxton was told a fragment of the True Cross is preserved; and five religious schools.
Portuguese Bridge
Portuguese bridge near Debre Libanos was erected by the Portuguese in the 16th century; it was actually built at the turn of the 19th century by Ethiopians, albeit in the old Portuguese style. The narrow span makes a pretty picture and the gushing (in the rainy season) cascade just below it is even more impressive
What‘s Included
All Attraction Fee Is Included
You Will Have A Chance Of Experiencing Ethiopian Coffee
Bottled water
Ethiopian Lunch For Vegan & Veterinarian
Dinner and hotel
Any Alcoholic Drinks
Pickup points
Bole Airport
Addis Ababa Ethiopia
Options
Debre Libanos & Blue Nile
Blue Nile George : Blue Nile George Debre Libanos Monastery Endemic Birds & Animals Beautiful Waterfalls & Landscapes Experiencing Ethiopian Easy & Good Duration: 9 hours Lunch: You Will Have A Lovely Ethiopian Lunch AT The Stunning Views Of Jemma Valley Day Tours From Addis Ababa Latest Tour Vans Car Book Your One Day Tours Of Add: Book Your One Day Tours Of Addis Ababa Pickup included
Reviews
344 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Had a great time! Amazing...
Madeline M,May 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Had a great time! Amazing views and our guide Abe was great and very knowledgeable! The lunch was also delicious and had an amazing view. The only think I would have liked was to stop at Entoto to see the view on the way back.
Great day trip to the monastery and bridge!
sarafH8470MF,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Abi and Abe were wonderful guides to the monastery and the Portuguese bridge. They were friendly and welcoming, the ride was comfortable and they answered all our questions. The tour even includes added local guides who were knowledgeable and helpful. The lunch is at a lovely spot with an amazing view of the canyon. Just a note that it is a long drive - no fault to the guides - but if you’re not used to being in a car for long periods of time, this is a heads-up!
Recommended
Alvin L,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The staff was very nice and we had a good conversation about Ethiopian history with the tour guide. Also, it is a good opportunity to explore the rural area outside the capital in Ethiopia.
Day trip into the Ethiopian countryside
Mark H,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Dagi and driver George treated me to a wonderful day trip to the Debre Libanos monastery and nearby sights. Fantastic tour. Wonderful Ethiopian hospitality. Highly recommended!
Great Tour and Friendly Guides
rories2025,Feb 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was great, they picked us up from hotel and the drive was smooth. The guides (abe and george) knew all the history of ethiopia and could provide context everywhere we went. Very friendly people and would recommend to everyone!
A great glimpse into authentic Ethiopian life and highlights of the countryside
Samuel J,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A really great trip that will be a highlight of my time in Addis Ababa. Dagi was a great guide who made sure everything ran smoothly and answered any questions we had. We got to see all the highlights, including the monastery and geladas, but the long-ish drive each way was a real insight into how many millions of Ethiopians live their lives, an experience that was really valuable to my overall trip and that I would not have gotten were it not for this tour taking me outside the Addis city centre.
Professional guide and driver
WildJunket,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00We had a great experience with Abe and George, who were both very professional and good at their jobs. Abe is very knowledgable in all things Ethiopian and he knows a lot about the world too. I enjoyed learning from him and experience the monastery with him. The only thing with the tour is that there's a lot of driving involved -- it took over 3 hours to get to the monastery and we only got to see the monastery, do a short hike to Portuguese bridge, have lunch, and it was time go back. Nothing that the tour guide and driver could do, but just something to keep in mind. Perhaps consider a different tour but highly recommend Abe and George! :)
Great guides, great trip
Lewis S,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This was such a lovely trip! Abe and George were so fun to travel with. Super informative, knowledgeable, interesting, kind and helpful. And the trip itself was incredible to Debre Libanos, through amazing countryside, seeing Gelada monkeys and having lunch in one of the prettiest places I’ve ever been. Would strongly recommend the trip, and would go anywhere with Abe and George!
Just ask for Niko!!!
JamesM8989,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00In my travel experience your luck of the draw of a tour guide can make or break your experience! I got lucky and was fortunate to have Niko as my guide and he guided me through a wonderful experience of learning, observing, and participation. I definitely recommend this tour you won't regret it.
A Perfect Private Day Trip to Debre Libanos with Aman Ethiopia Tours and Travel
sarahfX8016QO,Jan 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had a wonderful private day trip to Debre Libanos with Aman Ethiopia Tours and Travel on the 2nd of January. The tour started with a convenient hotel pickup from Radisson Blu, which made everything easy and stress-free from the beginning.The journey was comfortable, and the guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and took time to explain the history and cultural importance of Debre Libanos Monastery and the surrounding area. The views of the Portuguese Bridge and the gorge were absolutely beautiful.Everything was well organized, unhurried, and tailored to my pace, which made the experience feel personal and special. I really appreciated the professionalism of the team and the attention to detail throughout the day.I highly recommend Aman Ethiopia Tours and Travel for anyone looking for a reliable, private, and authentic tour experience in Ethiopia.
From US$95.00
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Operated by Aman Ethiopia Tours And Travel Agent