Lasta Lalibela Trekking & Community Tours- 8 Days
Tour Overview:
Explore the spiritual and natural wonders of northern Ethiopia on this 8-day cultural and trekking tour through Lalibela and the Abune Yosef highlands. Witness some of the most remarkable rock-hewn churches in the world—UNESCO-listed treasures carved into solid stone—and hike across breathtaking highland plateaus teeming with endemic wildlife. From ancient cave churches to panoramic mountain vistas, this immersive journey blends history, spirituality, and adventure. Ideal for travelers seeking both cultural depth and outdoor exploration.
Tour Highlights:
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Explore the UNESCO-listed rock-hewn churches of Lalibela
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Trek through the highlands of Abune Yosef (up to 4,130m)
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Visit the mystical Asheten Mariam and Yimrhane Kirstos monasteries
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Spot endemic wildlife like Gelada baboons and possibly the Ethiopian wolf
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Experience authentic local culture through village visits and camping under the stars
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Discover ancient cave churches and historical ruins from the 4th to 13th centuries
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Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner with live music and dance in Addis Ababa
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Arrive in Addis Ababa. In the afternoon, enjoy a city tour including:
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National Museum (home of “Lucy”)
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Ethnographic Museum
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Merkato, the largest open-air market in Africa
Overnight: Ambassador Hotel
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Lalibela (2,500m)
Take a morning flight to Lalibela. In the afternoon, visit the first group of the remarkable 12th-century rock-hewn churches, often referred to as the “New Jerusalem”.
Overnight: Hotel in Lalibela
Day 3: Lalibela – Merebarbu (3,500m)
Visit the second group of churches in the morning. After lunch, trek to Merebarbu, stopping to visit the 13th-century Asheten Mariam Monastery, set on a hill with panoramic views.
Overnight: Camping at Merebarbu
Day 4: Merebarbu – Wedebye (3,700m)
Begin a scenic 4-hour trek across the highlands from Merebarbu to Wedebye, ascending gradually through Afro-alpine landscapes.
Overnight: Camping at Wedebye
Day 5: Wedebye – Abune Yosef (3,900m)
Continue your trek (~4 hours) to Abune Yosef, the third-highest peak in Ethiopia (4,130m). Along the way, enjoy sweeping views and a chance to spot endemic wildlife such as Gelada baboons and the elusive Ethiopian wolf.
Overnight: Camping at Abune Yosef
Day 6: Abune Yosef – Degosach – Yimrhane Kirstos
Trek across the Degosach plateau, visiting local highland villages. In the afternoon, explore Yimrhane Kirstos, a beautifully preserved 12th-century cave church built with layered wood and stone.
Overnight: Camping near Yimrhane Kirstos
Day 7: Yimrhane Kirstos – Arbatu Ensesa – Lalibela
Walk downhill to visit Arbatu Ensesa, an early 4th-century rock-hewn church. Rejoin your vehicle and drive back to Lalibela, stopping to see Bilbala Cherkos church.
Overnight: Roha Hotel, Lalibela
Day 8: Lalibela – Addis Ababa – Departure
Fly back to Addis Ababa. In the afternoon, enjoy free time or additional sightseeing. Wrap up the tour with a farewell dinner at Habesha 2000, featuring live traditional music and dance.
Transfer to the airport for your international flight.
Includes:
- Airport transfers and road transport by private car
- Full board, including mineral water.
- Full camping equipment including tents, mattresses and sleeping bags for camping and trekking.
- Recommended to bring your own sleeping bag.
- Fees for entrances, local guides, compulsory scouts/ security personnel for activities mentioned in the itinerary.
- All government taxes for the services included in the tour price
Excludes:
- Additional food and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Souvenirs
