This 10-day journey follows Ethiopia’s historic northern route and centers on the Genna (Ethiopian Christmas) celebration in Lalibela. The tour combines ancient history, UNESCO World Heritage sites, living religious traditions, and scenic landscapes.
Highlights include the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the ancient kingdom of Axum, the imperial castles of Gondar, the monasteries of Lake Tana, and the vibrant culture of Addis Ababa. Experiencing Genna among thousands of pilgrims in Lalibela offers a deeply spiritual and unforgettable cultural.
Itinerary
Arrive at Bole International Airport.
Transfer to your hotel and attend a short orientation briefing.
Optional evening cultural dinner with traditional music and dance.
Explore the nation's capital:
National Museum (home of Lucy and Ethiopian artifacts).
Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Visit the bustling Merkato — Africa's largest open-air market.
Welcome dinner with briefing on Ethiopian customs and the Genna celebration.
Early flight to Axum, the cradle of ancient Ethiopian civilization.
Visit:
Northern Stelae Field — ancient obelisks.
Queen of Sheba's Palace and ruins.
Church of St. Mary of Zion.
Overnight in Axum.
Fly or drive to Gondar, the "Camelot of Africa."
Explore Fasil Ghebbi (the Royal Enclosure) — medieval castles and palaces.
Visit Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for stunning murals.
Overnight in Gondar.
Travel to Bahir Dar on the shores of Lake Tana.
Boat trip to ancient island monasteries.
See Tis Isat (Blue Nile Falls), an impressive natural spectacle.
Overnight in Bahir Dar.
Morning flight to Lalibela, world-famous for its UNESCO rock-hewn churches.
Afternoon: Explore the Northwestern Cluster of rock-hewn churches:
Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Mariam, Bete Meskel, Bete Denagel.
In the evening, join locals and pilgrims for Genna (Ethiopian Christmas Eve) ceremonies — ancient chants and candlelit vigils around the churches.
Overnight in Lalibela.
Attend the Genna Christmas celebration, centered around Bete Mariam and other churches. Thousands of worshippers in white traditional attire gather for services, chanting, and processions.
Enjoy the communal feast after the fast, featuring traditional dishes like doro wat and injera.
Rest and optional stroll through town.
Visit the Southeastern Cluster:
Bete Gabriel-Rufael, Bete Amanuel, Abba Libanos.
Stand before Bete Giyorgis (St. George) — the iconic cross-shaped rock church.
Optional visit to local craft markets or a short trek around the hills.
Overnight in Lalibela.
Fly back to Addis Ababa.
Enjoy a leisurely final night: dinner with traditional coffee ceremony.
Optional music and dance performance.
Transfer to Bole International Airport for your homeward flight.
