03 Days – Ethiopian Heritage & Wonders

Day 1: Lalibela and the Rock-Hewn Churches

Begin your journey with a morning flight on Ethiopian Airlines from Addis Ababa to the sacred town of Lalibela, famed for its stunning rock-hewn churches. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can settle in and enjoy a relaxing lunch before diving into the town’s spiritual and architectural wonders. Spend the afternoon exploring the Northwestern Cluster of Lalibela’s monolithic churches, including Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel, Bet Danaghel, Bet Mikael, and the revered Bet Golgotha (note that entry to Bet Golgotha is restricted to men). These churches, carved directly into solid rock over 800 years ago, represent some of the most impressive examples of medieval architecture and religious devotion in Africa.

End the day soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this holy site before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay in Lalibela.

Day 2: Neakuto Leab and the Journey to Harar

After breakfast, begin your morning with a visit to the Neakuto Leab Church, nestled within a natural cave about 7 kilometers from Lalibela. This tranquil site, associated with King Lalibela’s successor, features ancient stone vessels used to collect holy water dripping from the cave roof—imbuing the space with a deep sense of serenity. Following your visit, return to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa, then connect to Dire Dawa via Ethiopian Airlines. From there, embark on a scenic one-hour drive to Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich Islamic heritage and maze-like old city. In Harar, discover the House of Arthur Rimbaud, the former residence of the French poet, and wander through the Jugol, Harar’s old walled city, filled with vibrant markets, narrow alleyways, and centuries-old architecture. For those interested, a visit to the Harar Brewery offers a refreshing experience.

As evening sets in, witness the legendary spectacle of the ‘Hyena Man’, who feeds wild hyenas by hand and even mouth—an extraordinary tradition unique to Harar. Spend the night at a hotel in this ancient city.

Day 3: Coffee, Culture, and Return to Addis Ababa

Begin your final day with a celebration of Harar’s world-famous coffee. Visit a local coffee processing center to learn about traditional harvesting and roasting techniques, then take part in a classic Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a beloved ritual of hospitality and community. Continue your cultural immersion with visits to Harar’s historic mosques and shrines, gaining insight into its deeply rooted Islamic traditions. On your return drive to Dire Dawa, stop at the lively spice market, where you can pick up aromatic spices and handcrafted goods, then make a brief visit to the French-built train station, a colonial-era relic steeped in history.

In the evening, catch your return flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you may continue to your hotel for a final night in the capital or head directly to the international terminal for your onward journey.