Historical · Cultural
3-Day Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches
Both church clusters, Bete Giyorgis and a highland excursion from Ethiopia’s holiest town.
- Duration
- 3 Days
- Season
- September to July
- Group Size
- Private or group
- Price
- Designed Around You
The Journey
2 nights, designed around the hours that matter
A focused short break in Lalibela, the “New Jerusalem” carved from living rock in the 12th century. Explore both clusters of churches with a licensed local guide, stand above the cross-shaped roof of Bete Giyorgis, and spend a day in the surrounding highlands visiting a cliff-top monastery or cave church.
Day by Day
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
This itinerary is carefully planned, but minor adjustments may be made due to weather, local festivals, road conditions or your personal interests to ensure the best possible experience.
Day 1
Addis Ababa – Lalibela
Take a morning flight to Lalibela, located in the highlands of northern Ethiopia. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your lodge before beginning your guided exploration of the first group of Lalibela’s remarkable rock-hewn churches. Visit Bete Medhane Alem, the largest monolithic church in the world, along with other impressive churches including Bete Maryam, Bete Meskel, Bete Denagil, and Debre Sina with Golgotha. Continue to Bete Giyorgis (St. George), the most iconic and beautifully preserved church in Lalibela, famous for its unique cross-shaped design carved directly into the rock. Conclude the day with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, followed by a memorable dinner at Kana Restaurant.
Day 2
Lalibela & Highland Excursion
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic morning hike to Mount Asheton, where you will visit Asheton Maryam Monastery, a historic highland church known for its impressive altitude and breathtaking panoramic views over Lalibela and the surrounding landscapes. Return to town for lunch at Maed Restaurant, then continue your journey through the Ethiopian highlands with an afternoon drive to Yemrehanna Kristos Church. Built inside a natural cave, this beautifully preserved 11th-century church predates the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and offers a peaceful atmosphere filled with history and spirituality. End the day with dinner at the renowned Ben Abeba Restaurant, famous for its spectacular cliffside views, unique architecture, and memorable dining experience.
Day 3
Lalibela – Addis Ababa – Departure
Start your final day with a visit to Lalibela’s second group of rock-hewn churches, including Bete Gabriel-Rufael, Bete Amanuel, Bete Mercurios, and Aba Libanos. Each church features unique architectural designs, fascinating history, and remarkable examples of Ethiopia’s medieval religious heritage. After the visit, return to your lodge for check-out and transfer to Lalibela Airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, continue with your international departure flight or extend your stay to explore more of Ethiopia.
What Is Included
- Meet-and-assist at Bole International Airport and all transfers
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver
- Licensed English-speaking guide (other languages on request)
- 2 nights of accommodation: Sora Lodge, Lalibela
- Full board: breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Entrance fees to all sites and churches in the itinerary
Not Included
- International flights and Ethiopian visa
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Drinks, tips and personal expenses
Before You Book
Questions about this journey
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Guest reviews
What our guests say
Rated 5.0 on Tripadvisor and Google, and 4.9 on SafariBookings.
“My tour operator was very communicative even before the trip began and very responsive on WhatsApp. He booked all my domestic flights and arranged all my airport pick-ups and drop-offs. He had professional guides in all the regions I visited, the itinerary was clear, and he was flexible with any changes. There were no extra costs. He is reliable, communicative and well experienced. I will be back with the same company.”
Sarah · Kenya · August 2026
Read more reviews on SafariBookings“Excellent services provided by Maereg and his team. The local guides and the drivers – Geta (my fave) – were all great. They were patient, professional, knowledgeable and took great care of us. Everything was seamlessly coordinated and they were always on time for pickups and made sure we were briefed in advance of the itinerary and any changes. One of my top travel destinations in Africa, with some of the kindest and warmest people. Maereg went above and beyond! First-class service, always with a smile!”
D Thomas · Google review · May 2026
Read more reviews on GoogleEnquire
Make 3-Day Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches yours
Send us your dates and we will confirm availability, quote precisely, and suggest the two or three changes we would make if it were our own trip.
Runs September to July · Private or group · A quote made for your journey
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