Private Tour
Historical and Nature Day Trip To Debre Libanos Monastery
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Get out of Addis Ababa for a day to explore nature and learn more about history of Christianity. During this tour you'll visit Debre Libanos Monastery, the oldest Orthodox Christian Monastery in Ethiopia which dates back to the 13th century, enjoy scenic view of the Jemma River Gorge and walk on the Portuguese Bridge. You can expect there to see plenty of birds and geladas monkeys - a type of endemic baboon. This tour will also be a great opportunity to discover the authentic Ethiopian way of life by entering into local habitation, tasting local homemade food and drink as well as enjoying a traditional coffee ceremony.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Debre Libanos Orthodox Church
Debre Libanos Monastery is the largest Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity Monastery. Located 105km far from Addis Ababa (2h30 driving), Debre Libanos Monastery was originally founded in 1283 by Ethiopian Saint called Saint Tekle Haymanot who meditated in a cave for 29 years. During the tour, visit the church built by Emperor Haile Selassie I in the 1960s and the museum.
Portuguese Bridge
It is an ancient Bridge made of rock with two arches. The Bridge was built by Portuguese soldiers in the 16th century. However, some historians claim that Ras Darge actually built the Portuguese Bridge in the 19th Century. This is also a chance to have a nice view on Jemma River Gorge (a branch of Blue Nile) and to see plenty of birds and Gelada - a type of endemic baboons.
What‘s Included
Driver Allowance
Bottled water
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
All Entrance Fees (Debre Libanos Monastery / Portuguese Bridge)
Fuel surcharge
Guide at the sites
Coffee and/or Tea
All not Mentioned on The Inclusion
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Historical and Nature Day Trip To Debre Libanos Monastery
Pickup included
Reviews
7 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Unforgettable experience
tammytD7939GB,Apr 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This is our second time with tour guide Alex and driver Atsede. We had a city tour last time. This time we're going outside Addis Ababa. Our flight was delayed and there was a huge chaos due to the last day of Ethiopian holiday. Alex has been communicating with me perfectly before my flight landed and has given me clear instructions where to meet up. It was a very long drive to Debre Libanos. Both Alex and Atsede have made the ride relaxing and comfortable. Alex has told us in advance what we're going to see and expect. We were also given enough time for photo taking. After seeing the orthodox church, we walked up to the mountain to visit the monastery. Alex had a talk to the head of the monks so we were allowed to see the main part of the monastery. Alex told us stories and history about the monastery. After that we went to find Gelada baboons and we were lucky enough to see some of the Ethiopian-only species. We then had an authentic injera lunch in a local restaurant in the rural area. We had some nice chats together while enjoying the amazing valley view. Alex has been asking us if we would like to see more in Ethiopia. He also offered to take us to see some traditional dance in the evening. Sadly we had to pass as we needed some rest before we got on another long flight after our 2 week holiday in Asia. It has been wonderful with Alex and Atsede. They made our visit safe, comfortable and special. We had better time in Ethiopia than we could ever wish for. I would definitely choose them again if we have the chance to visit Ethiopia for another time.
Perfect daytrip from Addis
kendrat267,Apr 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I would really recommend this daytrip. Communication for arranging the trip was very clear and proffesional. Kiru the guide was attentive, sharing his knowledge, good conversation and making the day enjoyable overall. The scenery is very beautiful throughout the drive and at the destination and the lunch spot is perfect with delicious ethiopian cuisine. Its a brilliant day out of the city.
Couldn’t be better!
brenoc483,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The experience couldn’t be better. Since the beginning the company was extremely professional and friendly. The tour with Alex and Atsede was amazing, Alex knows a lot about Ethiopian history, culture and nature. They were extremely friendly, gentle and kind, even offered me an authentic Ethiopian coffee. The monastery is not only beautiful but peaceful with a strong good energy. Portuguese bridge and all the landscapes by the side are marvelous.Lunch was perfect. I’m very happy to have chosen this company for this day trip and I wish all the success for all of you guys.
Nice Tour to debra Libanos with Alex
932norbertp,Feb 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Alex is almost like the Encyclopedia Britannica; he simply knows almost everything. But he also lets you explore on your own without overwhelming you. And what he does tell you, he does with great joy and enthusiasm. The drive to the monastery was very interesting. The landscape is mainly characterized by agriculture. The monastery is especially beautiful when many worshippers are visiting. The valley, the Rift Valley, and the hike to the Portuguese Bridge were fantastic. There you have a breathtaking view of the valley. The food was truly excellent and prepared by a very friendly cook. A competent driver brought us home, leaving us satisfied. A small highlight was also the visit to the market, which Alex arranged for us as an extra. Many thanks for that. The value for money was very good.
High altitudes, ancient history, and Gelada baboons: A highland dream!
cgU7445GK,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00After the bustling streets of Addis Ababa, this trip was just perfect for a Sunday escape that combined fresh mountain air with incredible scenery. The trip to Debre Libanos and the Portuguese Bridge exceeded every expectation. It was the perfect blend of nature, history, and effortless logistics. Just like the best travel experiences, it’s the people who make it. Sitting behind the driver Atse and the guide Kiru was a joy; she is a total professional behind the wheel, making the drive through the winding highland roads feel smooth and safe. Her energy set the perfect tone for the day. Kiru was equally phenomenal. His knowledge of the monastery’s history and the local ecosystem is deep, and he has a natural gift for storytelling. He knew exactly where to find the best vantage points without making the day feel rushed. Highlights of the Day: The Gelada Baboons: We spent a good amount of time watching the "Bleeding Heart" baboons grazing peacefully along the cliff edge and even at a second location. They are incredibly calm, allowing for some of the best wildlife photos I’ve ever taken. The Portuguese Bridge: Standing on this 16th-century bridge overlooking the massive Jemma River Gorge is breathtaking. The scale of the canyon is something you have to see to believe. Spiritual Heritage: Visiting the Debre Libanos monastery offered a beautiful insight into Ethiopian Orthodox culture. The stained glass and the peaceful atmosphere of the church were deeply moving. Recommendation: If you need a break from the hectic pace of Addis, this is the trip for you. With Atse’s expert driving and Kiru’s insightful guiding, you feel completely looked after. You should definitley try to get these two for your tour! It’s an accessible, secure, and soul-recharging day out. Don't forget your camera and be prepared for some stunning views—and maybe a celebratory coffee on the road.
A day of nature and history at Debre Libanos
X2474KDlucasb,Jul 18, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We left Addis Ababa in the morning with our guide Alex. We began with a guided tour of the Debre Libanos monastery. It's a place steeped in history, which our guide Alex was great at explaining to us. We then had lunch in a place with a magnificent view, and finished with a walk (about 1h) to the protuguese bridge. The walk was magnificent, and so was the landscape. We highly recommend this day with Addis Authentic Tours. Many thanks to Alex and Mulu for the organization.
Day Trip out of Addis Ababa
Samuel Crane,Jun 1, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had a lay over in Addis Ababa. So I decided to get out of town for a day trip. Alex meet me at the Skylight Hotel at 8am and we headed north. Had a amazing tour and saw so many wonderful things. Lunch was great with the best view in Ethiopia. Highly recommend.
Related Experiences
Operated by Addis Authentic Tours