DestinationsAugust 8, 20267 min read
The complete guide to Lalibela
Where it is, how to get there, which churches to see, how many days you need and what else to do in Ethiopia’s holiest town.
Mountain Monastery · Historic Northern Ethiopia
Asheton Maryam
Carved into the side of Mount Abune Yosef at around 3,150 metres, this monastery is traditionally attributed to King Na’akueto La’ab, Lalibela’s nephew.
- Best Time
- October to April
- Suggested Stay
- Half day
- Altitude
- 3,150 m
- Region
- Historic Northern Ethiopia
Why We Go
A cliff-top monastery above Lalibela with sweeping views of the Lasta mountains.
Asheton Maryam sits high above Lalibela and is reached by a steep path of about one and a half hours, rewarding visitors with superb views and a quiet, atmospheric church partly cut into the rock.
The priests here keep processional crosses, illuminated manuscripts and other treasures, which they are often happy to show. It is a favourite excursion on our Timkat and longer Lalibela journeys.
Highlights
- A scenic hike or mule ride from Lalibela
- Ancient crosses, manuscripts and church treasures
- Panoramic views over Lalibela and the Lasta range
Journeys Including Asheton Maryam
Routes that pass through here
More in Historic Northern Ethiopia
From The Travel Journal
Read more about Asheton Maryam
Plan This Destination
Build Asheton Maryam into your journey
Nothing here is fixed. Tell us how long you have and what else you want to see, and our team will plan the route, including the flights, the guides and the hours that matter.
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Speak to someone who has been there this season
Our guides travel these routes all year. Ask about road conditions, festival dates or the best time to visit. You will get a straight answer.
Or call us directly on +251 912 039405