Ethiopia · Religious & Spiritual

Full-Day Debre Libanos Monastery Tour with Jemma Valley Views

1 Day Round trip from Debre Libanos Easy pace

Witness the scenic Debre Libanos Waterfalls

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Discover the historic Debre Libanos Monastery, founded by St. Tekle Haimanot
02 Visit the Portuguese Bridge, regarded as Ethiopia's first bridge
03 Look out for endemic gelada baboons in the surrounding area
04 Enjoy short hikes with stunning views over the Jemma Valley

Embark on a full-day sightseeing excursion to the historic Debre Libanos Monastery, founded in the 13th century by St. Tekle Haimanot and steeped in legend. Visit the Portuguese Bridge, regarded as Ethiopia's first bridge, and explore the surrounding landscape. You may also spot endemic gelada baboons, enjoy short hikes in the area, and take in stunning views of the Jemma Valley before returning to Addis Ababa in the late afternoon.

This monastery was founded in the 13th century by St. Tekle Haimanot, who, according to legend, prayed for seven years straight while standing on one leg until the other leg fell off.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Addis Ababa, Debre Libanos

Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Debre Libanos Monastery, Portuguese Bridge and Jemma Valley

Drive north from Addis Ababa, about 100 km, to the Debre Libanos Monastery.
This monastery was founded in the 13th century by St. Tekle Haimanot, who, according to legend, prayed for seven years straight while standing on one leg until the other leg fell off.
Near the monastery is the Portuguese Bridge, regarded as the first bridge in Ethiopia.
In this area, you may also spot some endemic gelada baboons.
Short hikes are available in the area, with stunning views of the Jemma Valley.
Return to Addis Ababa in the late afternoon.