5 Days Tigray Church Tour

Day 1: Arrival – Sightseeing in Addis Ababa
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in and a chance to freshen up.

Mount Entoto: Located just outside Addis Ababa, Mount Entoto offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. It’s the perfect spot to start exploring Addis, also known as “The New Flower.” Entoto was once the capital of Ethiopia during the reign of Emperor Menelik II.

National Museum: This museum houses the famous fossilized remains of Lucy (Australopithecus afarensis), one of the earliest hominids and a key piece of human evolutionary history. It also features a collection of archaeological and artistic artifacts, including religious iconography and historical items from Ethiopia.

Holy Trinity Cathedral: Built between 1931 and 1942, Holy Trinity Cathedral is an architectural gem and a symbol of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. It contains the tombs of several important figures, including Emperor Haile Selassie.

Ethnographic Museum: Located in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie, this museum showcases Ethiopia’s rich cultural diversity, offering insight into the country’s history, traditions, and languages.

Merkato: The largest open-air market in East Africa, Merkato is a bustling hub of commerce, where you can find everything from spices and textiles to traditional crafts. It’s an experience in itself!

Overnight: In Addis Ababa.

Day 2: Fly Addis Ababa – Mekele – Drive to Hawzen
Fly from Addis Ababa to Mekele: After breakfast, fly to Mekele, the capital of the Tigray region, a prime base for exploring the rock-hewn churches of the region.

Wukro Cherkos: This semi-rock-hewn church is one of Ethiopia’s earliest Christian sites. Carved into the cliffs, it exemplifies the region’s religious architecture.

Abraha Atsbeha: Known for its stunningly intricate interior, Abraha Atsbeha is one of the oldest and most historically significant churches in Ethiopia. It is considered the first church built in Tigray and offers a glimpse into early Christian architecture.

Dugum Sellase: This church, with its striking decorations, is another must-see. Its exterior is impressive, and the interior features beautiful murals.

Overnight: In Hawzen.

Day 3: Excursion to Debre Tsion Mariam & Yohannes Makudi
Debre Tsion Abune Abreham Monastery: This monastery is entirely carved from the living rock of the Tigray Mountains. It is one of the most impressive rock-hewn churches in the region, providing an opportunity to experience both solitude and spirituality.

Yohannes Makudi: Another beautiful example of early Ethiopian Coptic architecture, Yohannes Makudi is located in a secluded area. Accessed through a narrow passageway between towering sandstone cliffs, it enhances the mystique and beauty of the site.

Overnight: In Hawzen.

Day 4: Excursion to Abune Yemata
Debre Mariam Korkor: This church is a exceptional example of Tigray rock-hewn architecture. Dating back to the 6th century, the church is perched high in the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The hike to reach it adds to the adventure.

Abba Daniel’s Prayer Room: Near Debre Mariam Korkor, this small, peaceful rock church is believed to have been used for private prayers and meditation. The walk to it is scenic and contributes to the spiritual experience.

Return to Hawzen: After exploring these fascinating and secluded sites, you will return to Hawzen for the evening.

Overnight: In Hawzen.

Day 5: Drive Hawzen – Mekele – Fly to Addis Ababa
Drive to Mekele: After breakfast, drive back to Mekele, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Tigray landscape along the way.

Fly from Mekele to Addis Ababa: You will then catch a flight back to Addis Ababa, marking the end of your time exploring the northern part of the country.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell folkloric dinner at one of Addis Ababa’s cultural restaurants. Sample traditional Ethiopian dishes such as injera, doro wat (spicy chicken stew), and kitfo (minced raw meat). During dinner, enjoy traditional Ethiopian dances that showcase the diverse cultures of the country.

Afterward, transfer to Bole International Airport for your international flight home.