Itinerary

1. Day 1 – Addis Ababa City Tour (January 5)

   • Pick up from hotel or Bole International Airport.
   • Visit Trinity Cathedral and see the tomb of Emperor Haile Selassie.
   • Explore the National or Archaeological History Museum to view Lucy, the oldest hominid fossil, and other historical artifacts (approx. 1.5 hours).
   • Drive to Mount Entoto to see the old palace of Emperor Menelik II and Entoto Museum.
   • Lunch break.
   • Visit Markato Market, Africa’s largest open-air market (approx. 1.5 hours).

   Return to hotel for overnight stay.

2. Day 2 – Arrival in Lalibela and Rock-Hewn Churches (January 6)

   • Early breakfast and transfer to the airport for flight to Lalibela.
   • Pick up at Lalibela Airport and transfer to hotel for check-in.
   • Visit the first group of rock-hewn churches: Bête Medhanialem, Bête Mariam, Bête Meskel, Bête Denagil, Bête Golgota-Micheal, Bête Georgis.
   • Return to hotel for a short break and dinner.
   • Attend Christmas Eve celebration at St. Mary of Zion Church with colorful religious songs, chants, and processions lasting until early morning.

   Overnight stay in Lalibela.

3. Day 3 – Lalibela Churches & Festival Experience (January 7)

   • Visit the second group of rock-hewn churches: Bête Gebriel-Ruphael (House of St. Gabriel and Raphael), Bête Amanuel (House of Emanuel), Bête Merkoriwos (House of St. Merqoriew), Bête Aba Libanos (House of Father Libanos).
   • Explore the city and experience the vibrant Epiphany festival atmosphere.

   Overnight stay in Lalibela.

4. Day 4 – Return to Addis Ababa & Farewell (January 8)

   • Breakfast at the hotel.

   • Shuttle to airport for flight back to Addis Ababa.

   • City tour and other activities in Addis Ababa.

   • Farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant featuring folkloric dances and local dishes.

   End of services.