Private Tour

Discover Debre Libanos Monastery, Portuguese Bridge and Jimma Valley

Overview

Available languages

English

French

10 hours

Mobile ticket

We will visit one of the most important sites in the history of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Admire stunning views of the Gur River from the Portuguese Bridge, as it plunges into a waterfall hundreds of meters high. You will also see a cave where Gelada baboons sleep at night. Look out for the endemic birds including banded barbet, Abyssinian woodpecker, Ruppell's black chat and white-winged cliff chat. Then, descend to the Blue Nile gorge, often compared to the Grand Canyon and cited as "the largest canyon in Africa."

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Debre Libanos Orthodox Church

Founded in 1284 by Abuna Tekle Haymanot, Debre Libanos Monastery served as the centre of the Ethiopian Church for almost 500 years. Today, the site has a calm, tranquil feel, situated amongst pleasant woodland and streams, but in 1937 this was the site of one of the worst atrocities of the Italian occupation. Fascist troops attacked and destroyed the monastery, killing 297 monks, more than 100 deacons and at least 400 lay people. Although a new church was constructed on the site in the 1950s, it never regained the same status it previously held as a centre of religious learning. It does, however, remain an important pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians, who come to pay homage to the bones of the massacred monks.

3 hours • Admission Included

Portuguese Bridge

There is controversy about the origins of the so-called Portuguese Bridge. According to some, it was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese, but others say that it was built by Ras Darge (Emperor Menelik II’s uncle) in the 19th century. After crossing the Portuguese Bridge, walk a short way along the side of the river until and you'll reach a large rock from where you can see a magnificent 600m waterfall. The waterfall is at its most impressive during the rainy season (July-September). You may also see endemic Galada Baboons here.

3 hours • Admission Included

What‘s Included

Private transportation

Lunch

Alcoholic Beverages

Gratuities

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

Options

Discover Debre Libanos Monastery, Portuguese Bridge and Jimma Valley

Pickup included

Reviews

5.00

2 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Amazing!!!
Maria R,,Apr 4, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Biruk, our guide in Ethiopia, was an absolute gem. From the moment we met him, he exuded warmth and hospitality. His extensive knowledge of Ethiopia, coupled with his unwavering patience and kindness, made our journey unforgettable. Biruk went above and beyond to ensure our safety and comfort at every turn. No problem was too big for him to tackle, and his quick thinking always found a solution. Trustworthy and reliable, Biruk deserves all the praise for his exceptional service. His passion for his country shines through in every interaction, making him the ideal guide for anyone exploring Ethiopia. He truly is a master of his craft, and I couldn't recommend him highly enough. We decided to spend 6 days with Biruk on 3 different trips and all of them were amazing.
Wonderful experience Oct 2021
andrearH9185RL,,Oct 10, 2021
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
It was a great experience and a personalized way to see a part of Ethiopia! The trip was well organized and Biruk was on time, professional, and extremely knowledgeable. If going to the monastery, it may be wise to bring a skirt for women as the rules for entry are conservative. It was a wonderful way to learn about Ethiopia and see incredible sights.