3-Day Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches Tour with Flights from Addis Ababa

Take the morning flight from Addis Ababa to Lalibela (about 1 hour) and transfer to your hotel. With your guide, begin exploring the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site: eleven monolithic and semi-monolithic churches carved directly into the volcanic rock more than 800 years ago, linked by trenches, tunnels, and passageways.

Visit the northern group, including Bete Medhane Alem, the largest monolithic church in the world, and Bete Maryam with its carved reliefs and paintings. Overnight in Lalibela.

In the morning, choose between two experiences: a scenic hike (mules available) up to the 13th-century Asheton Maryam monastery, carved into the mountain with panoramic views over Lalibela, or a drive into the countryside to Yemrehanna Kristos, a beautiful church built inside a cave that predates most of Lalibela's churches.

In the afternoon, explore the southern group of churches and the iconic cross-shaped Bete Giyorgis. Overnight in Lalibela.

Fly back to Addis Ababa. If time allows, take an optional city tour of the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, or Merkato.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell cultural dinner with live music and traditional dance before your transfer to the airport or hotel.