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Ethiopia · Festival
The journey
Celebrate the colorful Meskel Festival in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on a 2-day cultural and spiritual journey commemorating the discovery of the True Cross. Visit Trinity Cathedral, the National Museum, and Mount Entoto, then witness the spectacular bonfire ceremony at Meskel Square, along with religious processions, traditional chants, prayers, and songs. This special festival draws thousands of participants from across the country and offers a memorable insight into Ethiopia's living spiritual traditions.
Witness the bonfire, topped with a yellow daisies cross, being torched by the Archbishop around 06:30 PM.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
Arrive in Addis Ababa and transfer to your hotel.
If time permits, embark on a half-day city tour of the capital.
Visit selected sites in Addis Ababa, depending on your arrival time.
Check in at the hotel for personal activities and rest.
Overnight at the hotel.
Begin the day with a half-day city tour of Addis Ababa before the festival.
Visit Trinity Cathedral.
Explore the National Museum.
Ascend Mount Entoto for panoramic views of the city.
Return to the hotel for lunch.
Proceed to Meskel Square with your admission card to secure your reserved seating.
Observe and participate in the Meskel celebration:
Watch tens of thousands of people gather for the festival.
Experience processions led by church Priests, Deacons, and Choirs.
Listen to religious songs, prayers, and chantings related to Meskel.
Witness the bonfire, topped with a yellow daisies cross, being torched by the Archbishop around 06:30 PM.
After the bonfire turns to ash, observe devotees taking ash and smearing it on their bodies for blessings and healing.
Return to the hotel for an overnight stay or transfer to the airport for departure.
End of services.
Where this trip takes you
Holy Trinity Cathedral (Addis Ababa), National Museum of Ethiopia, Mount Entoto panoramas, Meskel Square bonfire
The route
The fine print
Logistics
Your 2 days finish where they began, in Addis Ababa.
Watch the film
Create your own adventure
Say goodbye to travel stress.
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