Tigray Roch Church Trekking – 8 Days
Tour Overview:
Discover the rich cultural and historical heritage of Ethiopia’s Tigray region on this immersive 8-day tour. Starting from Addis Ababa, fly to Mekelle—the vibrant capital of Tigray—and explore stunning ancient rock-hewn churches, imperial castles, and scenic mountain landscapes. This journey reveals centuries-old murals, sacred monasteries perched on cliffs, and the enduring legacy of the region’s struggle for freedom. Experience authentic local village life, traditional coffee ceremonies, and breathtaking trekking adventures amid some of Ethiopia’s most dramatic settings. Perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, and adventure seekers alike.
Tour Highlights:
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Visit the Castle of Emperor Yohannes IV and the Tigray Martyrs Museum in Mekelle.
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Explore magnificent rock-hewn churches including Abreha wa Atsbeha, Wukro Cherqos, and Degum Selassie.
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Trek to remote cliffside churches like Abuna Abraham Debre Tsion and Yohannes Maequddi, famous for their ancient murals and religious artifacts.
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Climb to the spectacular Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor churches, enjoying panoramic views of the Gheralta Mountains.
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Challenge yourself to reach the cliff-hanging Abune Yemata church with its dramatic 300m vertical drop.
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Discover the architectural marvels of Adi Chewa and Medhane Alem Adi Kasho churches on the route back to Mekelle.
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Engage with local communities through village visits and authentic coffee ceremonies.
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Comfortable overnight stays in hotels, lodges, and scenic campsites amid natural surroundings.
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport where you will be warmly welcomed by our staff. Transfer to your hotel of choice for overnight rest and acclimatization.
Day 2: Flight to Mekelle and Mekelle City Tour
Early morning transfer to Bole International Airport for your flight to Mekelle, the bustling capital of the Tigray region. Upon arrival, meet your ground transportation and guide. Explore Mekelle’s historical highlights including the Castle of Emperor Yohannes IV and the Tigray Martyrs Museum, dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives during the revolutionary struggle. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the town.
Overnight: Hotel in Mekelle or Axum/Abreha Castle Lodge.
Day 3: Drive to Degum – Visit Wukro Cherqos & Abreha wa Atsbeha
Drive to Degum, with stops at the impressive Wukro Cherqos church and Abreha wa Atsbeha, located 15 km west of Wukro. These rock-hewn churches are among the finest in Tigray, renowned for their ancient architecture and artwork. Continue to Degum Selassie church in the afternoon.
Overnight: Camping at Degum.
Day 4: Trek to Abuna Abraham Debre Tsion & Yohannes Maequddi
Start your day trekking to Abuna Abraham Debre Tsion church, famous for its 16th-century murals and the ceremonial fan with 34 parchment panels depicting saints. After lunch in Dugem, trek to Yohannes Maequddi, noted for its ancient, well-preserved paintings.
Overnight: Camping at Dugem.
Day 5: Drive and Trek to Mariam Korkor
Drive to the village of Megab, then trek to Mariam Korkor rock church, perched high on a Gheralta mountain overlooking the plains. Nearby is the smaller Daniel Korkor church. Enjoy a picnic lunch and magnificent views of the landscape. Return gently to camp and visit a local village, grinding mill, or join a traditional coffee ceremony.
Overnight: Camping at Megab village or Gheralta Lodge.
Day 6: Drive and Trek to Abune Yemata
Drive 4 km from Megab, then trek to Abune Yemata church, dramatically perched on a vertical cliff. The ascent involves climbing footholds and handgrips carved into the rock face, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience. Picnic lunch at the summit. Spend the afternoon at leisure or visiting nearby villages before returning to Gheralta Lodge.
Overnight: Gheralta Lodge.
Day 7: Return to Mekelle via Sinkata – Visit Historic Churches
After breakfast, drive from Sinkata to Mekelle. En route, visit Adi Chewa church, notable for its deep domed ceiling and colorful stencil-like columns. Explore Medhane Alem Adi Kasho, one of the oldest and most architecturally impressive churches in Tigray. Additional stops include the churches of Petros and Paulos and Mikael Melehayezenghi.
Overnight: Hotel in Mekelle.
Day 8: Fly Back to Addis Ababa and Departure
Transfer to Mekelle Airport for your morning flight back to Addis Ababa. From there, connect to your international flight home or onward destination.
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
