7-Day Lalibela Churches & Trekking

Day 1: Fly from Addis Ababa to Lalibela – Visit the Rock-Hewn Churches
Take a morning flight to Lalibela. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel (approx. 40 minutes).
After checking in, begin your exploration of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. Visit the first and third groups of churches, including:

• Bete Medhane Alem – the largest monolithic rock-hewn church in the world

• Bete Maryam, Bete Meskel, Bete Denagel, and Bete Golgotha Mikael

• Bête Giworgis

Wander through the interconnecting tunnels and stairways linking these incredible spiritual monuments, marveling at the intricate architecture and history.
Accommodation: Hotel in Lalibela

Day 2: Trek from Lalibela to Ber Metebekiya
Begin the day with a morning church ceremony at one of Lalibela’s churches.
Afterward, embark on your trek to Ber Metebekiya (3,600m). This will be the most challenging day of the trek, but it offers stunning panoramic views from the very start.
Pass through rural villages and farmland, stopping at Merebarbu (3,300m) for a short break. Look out for Gelada baboons in the area.
Upon reaching Ber Metebekiya, visit a local village or school. Depending on the day, you may have the opportunity to participate in farming activities or even teach a short lesson.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional foot-washing ceremony and experience highland music and dance performed by the local community.
Accommodation: Private Homestay

Day 3: Trek from Ber Metebekiya to Dewalka Village
Continue your trek to Dewalka Village, passing through terraced plateaus and small villages. Along the way, learn about local agriculture and the livelihoods of the mountain communities.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in daily life activities such as:

• Milking cows

• Preparing Injera (Ethiopian flatbread)

• Harvesting crops

• Visiting or teaching at the village school

• Herding animals with local children

If there are any traditional ceremonies or weddings taking place, your guide will offer the chance to participate respectfully.
Accommodation: Private Homestay

Day 4: Full-Day Excursion to Abune Yosef Park
Embark on a full-day trek to Rim Gedel (4,300m), the third-highest peak in Ethiopia, located within the Abune Yosef Community Conservation Park.
Enjoy a picnic lunch while soaking in the natural beauty of the park, home to:

• Gelada baboons

• Ethiopian highland foxes

• Various endemic bird species

• Rich flora and fauna unique to the highlands

Return to Dewalka Village in the afternoon for a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation: Dewalka Village Homestay

Day 5: Trek to Degosach Eco Lodge
Embark on a relaxing trek to Degosach Eco Lodge, situated on a scenic ridgeline with incredible views of the Sekota mountain chain.
After arriving, enjoy a free afternoon to explore the lodge surroundings, relax, or partake in optional local activities.
In the evening, enjoy traditional music and dancing under the stars with the local community.
Accommodation: Private Homestay

Day 6: Trek Back to Lalibela via Kenkenit Mikael & Bete Ambesa Village
Begin your return trek to Lalibela, stopping en route to visit:

• Kenkenit Mikael Church – an ancient rock-hewn church believed to predate Lalibela’s churches by 500 years. This secluded site, surrounded by juniper trees, features rare wall carvings of angels and crosses.

• Bete Ambesa Village – “House of the Lion,” located in a beautiful valley with three rivers, fruit orchards, and coffee farms. Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony before continuing your trek back to Lalibela.

Arrive back in Lalibela in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel in Lalibela

Day 7: Fly Back to Addis Ababa
After breakfast, visit the remaining churches in the Southeastern Cluster of Lalibela:

• Bet Gabriel-Rufael

• Bet Merkorios

• Bet Abba Libanos

Following your church visits, you’ll be transferred to Lalibela airport for your return flight to Addis Ababa.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell cultural dinner with live traditional music, dancing, and a buffet of Ethiopian specialties. Afterward, transfer to the airport for your international departure.