Private Tour
Tigray Churches and Blue Nile Waterfall Tour
Overview
Available languages
120 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover Ethiopia’s spiritual and natural wonders in just 5 days. Begin with Axum’s ancient relics, then explore the dramatic rock-hewn churches of Tigray, including the cliff-top Abune Yemata. Continue to Bahir Dar to witness the mighty Blue Nile Waterfall and cruise Lake Tana to visit centuries-old monasteries. This journey blends history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, ending with a vibrant city tour of Bahir Dar before returning to Addis Ababa.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Local guides at churches and sites
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Accommodation with breakfast 4 day
Village/community access fees
Private car with professional driver
Entrance fees to all sites
Domestic flights (Addis–Axum, Mekele–Bahir Dar, Bahir Dar–Addis)
Lunch and dinner (Alcoholic drinks)
Travel insurance
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
What To Expect
Day 1: Addis Ababa – Axum
Addis Ababa
Fly from Addis Ababa to Axum, the legendary capital of the ancient Axumite Empire. Visit the famous obelisks, archaeological sites, the Church of St. Mary of Zion, and other historical treasures. Immerse yourself in Ethiopia’s early Christian heritage before spending the night in Axum.
Day 2: Axum – Gheralta (Tigray Churches)
Gheralta Rock
Drive to the Gheralta region, home to Ethiopia’s most spectacular rock-hewn churches. Climb to the cliffside Abune Yemata Guh, famous for its ancient frescoes and breathtaking views. Explore additional churches carved into sandstone cliffs. Overnight stay in Gheralta.
Day 3: Gheralta – Mekele – Bahir Dar
Bahir Dar
Depart Gheralta and drive toward Mekele, stopping en route to visit Wukro Cherkos Church, an elegant monolithic masterpiece. In the late afternoon, catch a flight from Mekele to Bahir Dar, one of Ethiopia’s most scenic cities on the shores of Lake Tana. Overnight in Bahir Dar.
Day 4: Blue Nile Waterfall & Lake Tana
Lake Tana
After breakfast, visit the Blue Nile Waterfall, where the river plunges dramatically into a gorge, creating one of Ethiopia’s most stunning natural spectacles. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip on Lake Tana, exploring ancient island monasteries rich in religious art and history. Overnight in Bahir Dar.
Day 5: Bahir Dar – Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa
Begin the day with a city tour of Bahir Dar, visiting local markets and watching traditional fishing on Lake Tana. Experience daily life and culture before an afternoon flight back to Addis Ababa. Tour ends upon arrival.
Options
Tigray Churches and Blue Nile Waterfall Tour
Pickup included
Related Experiences
Operated by Omo Valley Experience Tours