Extra-ordinary Ethiopia: Harar, Danakil, and Hidden Rock Churches

Overview

This 14-day standard tour offers the same incredible journey through Harar, the Danakil Desert, and the hidden rock-hewn churches of Gheralta. The final days focus on the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the spectacular cave church of Yemrihane Kristos, offering an in-depth religious and historical climax.

Tour Highlights

Detailed Itinerary

0

Evening Flight to Addis Ababa

Depart from Heathrow on an evening flight to Addis Ababa.

1

Recovery and City Exploration

A day for recovery and relaxation. Options include visits to Trinity Cathedral, museums, art galleries in the Bole area, or the church and museum on the Entoto hills.

2

Harar: Walled City and Hyena Feeding

Mid-morning flight to Dire Dawa, followed by a private transfer to the Muslim city of Harar. We check into a memorable Cultural Guesthouse and, as light fades, venture out to witness the unique ritual of hyena feeding by hand.

3

Harar: Culture and Markets

A full day of exploration in Harar, starting with simple breakfast pancakes. We visit fascinating museums, a coffee-roaster, and the ancient, exotic undercover market.

4

Dire Dawa and Flight Back

Return journey via Dire Dawa, visiting an open-air railway museum with original rolling stock dating back a hundred years. Enjoy the market and tree-shaded cafés before a late-afternoon flight back to Addis Ababa.

5

Flight to Mekele and City Tour

Morning flight to Mekele, the capital of Tigray. We check in to a comfortable hotel, then visit Yohannes IV’s castle complex, its museum, and the local TPLF monument, preparing for an early start tomorrow.

6

Dallol and Afar Salt Flats

An early departure by road to the Afar region. We first see the Afar workers mining and cutting salt onto camels, then drive on to Dallol, one of the lowest and hottest places on earth, to visit its amazing, colorful, volcanic landscapes.

7

Wukro and Abreha we Atsbeha

Drive from Mekele to Wukro to visit the important Wukro Chirkos church. After lunch, we visit the magnificent, ancient church of Abreha we Atsbeha before spending the night in Wukro town.

8

Hawzen and Maryam Papasetti

Transfer to Hawzen. We visit Giorgis Maikado in the morning, followed by a beautiful hour's walk to the remote church of Maryam Papasetti in the afternoon.

9

Debre Damo, Yeha Temple, and Axum

Drive through dramatic countryside to view the Debre Damo monastery (accessible only by rope). We take a break before visiting the restored ancient Yeha Temple, spending the night in Axum for our flight tomorrow.

10

Flight to Lalibela and Church Exploration

Late morning flight to Lalibela. After check-in, guests choose between a guided tour of the wondrous rock-hewn churches in the center of town OR a more relaxed cultural experience with a primary school visit and a coffee/injera preparation session.

11

Asheton Mariam Monastery

After a relaxed start, we ascend to the lofty Asheton Mariam monastery (by tuk-tuk and on foot) which offers unparalleled views. This rock-hewn monastery provides a tranquil experience and beautiful scenery.

12

Yemrihane Kristos Cave Church

Today features the spectacular Yemrihane Kristos, the jewel in the crown of Ethiopian cave churches, located high in a spacious rocky cave with unique 4th-century Axumite architecture. We return for a late lunch and dinner at an amazing mountain-view restaurant.

13

Return to Addis and Farewell Drink

After a relaxed start, we take a domestic flight back to Addis Ababa. We'll have time for souvenir shopping and a final drink at the beautiful Sheraton Hotel before a late evening flight home.

14

Late-Night Flight Home

Take a daytime flight back to your starting destination, concluding a remarkable journey through Ethiopia.