5-day Echoes Of Faith: Tigray's Rock-Hewn Churches 5 days

Day 1 – Arrival in Addis Ababa – City Tour

Addis Ababa

Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel.

After time to refresh, begin exploring Ethiopia's vibrant capital, affectionately known as the "New Flower." Start with a scenic drive to Mount Entoto, where breathtaking panoramic views overlook the city. Continue to the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous fossil Lucy and an impressive collection of archaeological treasures.

Visit the magnificent Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of Ethiopia's most important religious landmarks, before exploring the Ethnological Museum, housed within the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie and renowned for its fascinating cultural exhibits.

Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to Merkato, one of Africa's largest open-air markets, where the colourful sights, sounds, and aromas provide an authentic glimpse into everyday Ethiopian life.

Accommodation: Cassiopeia Hotel

Day 2 – Fly to Mekelle – Drive to Hawzen

Mekelle – Hawzen

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Mekelle. Upon arrival, begin your journey into the historic Tigray region, renowned for its remarkable rock-hewn churches and dramatic sandstone landscapes.

En route to Hawzen, visit the semi-rock-hewn Wukro Chirkos Church, one of northern Ethiopia's finest examples of early Christian architecture. Continue to the celebrated Abraha Atsbeha Church, believed to be among the oldest churches in Ethiopia and admired for its beautifully decorated interior and impressive stone architecture.

Before arriving in Hawzen, stop at Dugum Selassie, another historic church that reflects the region's rich religious heritage.

Accommodation: Gheralta Lodge
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 – Excursion to Debre Tsion and Yohannes Makudi

Tigray

Today is dedicated to exploring two of Tigray's remarkable rock-hewn churches.

Begin with a visit to Debre Tsion (Abune Abraham), an extraordinary monastery carved entirely from solid rock and renowned for its ancient architecture and peaceful surroundings.

Continue to Yohannes Makudi, one of Ethiopia's earliest Orthodox churches, dramatically accessed through a narrow sandstone cleft between towering cliffs. Its secluded setting and centuries-old religious traditions make it one of the region's most memorable spiritual sites.

Return to Hawzen for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Gheralta Lodge
Meals: Breakfast,

Day 4 – Excursion to Abuna Yemata and Mariam Korkor

Tigray

After breakfast, travel into the spectacular Gheralta Mountains to visit some of Ethiopia's most extraordinary rock-hewn churches.

Challenge yourself with the ascent to the famous Abuna Yemata Guh, dramatically perched high on a sandstone cliff and renowned for its ancient frescoes, remarkable architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views across the surrounding mountains.

Continue to Debre Mariam Korkor, a 6th-century monastery celebrated for its beautifully preserved wall paintings and historical significance. A short walk leads to the small rock sanctuary known as Abba Daniel's Prayer Room, offering another fascinating glimpse into Ethiopia's early Christian heritage.

Return to Hawzen in the afternoon.

Accommodation: Gheralta Lodge
Meals: Breakfast,

Day 5 – Hawzen – Mekelle – Fly to Addis Ababa – Departure

Addis Ababa

After breakfast, drive back to Mekelle Airport for your scheduled flight to Addis Ababa.

In the evening, celebrate the end of your Ethiopian journey with a traditional farewell dinner at one of Addis Ababa's renowned cultural restaurants. Enjoy a selection of authentic Ethiopian dishes while watching colourful performances representing the country's diverse ethnic groups. The evening concludes with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, an important symbol of hospitality and cultural heritage.

Later, transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your onward international departure.

Meals: Breakfast