Bolo in 1 Day for Couples - Debre Libanos Monastery (13th century)
In Collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour . Updated on February 13, 2026.
Full-day guided trip from Addis Ababa to Debre Libanos Monastery and the Portuguese Bridge. Start 07:30, approx. 8–9 hours on the road with visits to the monastery, the Cave of Saint Tekle Haymanot, the 16th‑century Portuguese Bridge and scenic viewpoints. Includes transportation, local taxes, lunch (traditional Ethiopian food) and Ethiopian coffee/tea.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour , inspired by the tour scenic Day Trip Debre libanose monasteries and Portugal Bridge . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Debre Libanos Monastery (13th century)
- Cave of Saint Tekle Haymanot (sacred cave)
- 16th‑century Portuguese Bridge and Jemma River Gorge views
- Gelada baboon and highland birdwatching
- Traditional Ethiopian lunch and coffee/tea at viewpoint
Itinerary
Day 1
Day trip itinerary following the provided schedule: pick-up in Addis Ababa, drive to Debre Libanos, visit monastery and cave, Portuguese Bridge viewpoint, lunch, leisure time and return to Addis Ababa for drop-off.
Pick-up in Addis Ababa and depart for Debre Libanos
Your guide will meet you at your hotel in Addis Ababa or at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Load luggage and depart on the scenic drive north toward Debre Libanos across highland countryside (approx. 2.5 hours driving time).
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your exact pick-up point (hotel name or 'Bole International Airport') and have the same name visible on your booking at the time of meeting.
- Keep your passport or ID and any flight details handy if you were picked-up from the airport.
- Bring a light layer for the vehicle—highland mornings can be cool even when daytime warms up.
Visit Debre Libanos Monastery
Guided visit to Debre Libanos Monastery. Explore the church, relics and the monastery complex while your guide explains its 13th‑century foundation and religious significance.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress modestly: shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women before entering church areas.
- Ask your guide before photographing inside the church or of clergy; some areas restrict photography.
- Carry a small bottle of water and remove hats inside church buildings as a sign of respect.
Short hike to the Cave of Saint Tekle Haymanot
Short walk from the monastery to the cave associated with Saint Tekle Haymanot. The route includes steps and uneven ground; time allotted for exploration and quiet reflection.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes—the approach includes rocky, uneven paths and some steps.
- Carry a small torch or use your phone light if you plan to enter darker sections of the cave; areas can be dim.
- Be prepared to remove shoes or follow local practice when entering sacred spots; follow guide instructions for respectful behaviour.
Portuguese Bridge and scenic viewpoint
Travel a short distance to the Portuguese Bridge area for views over the Jemma River Gorge. Short nature walk, wildlife spotting (gelada baboons and birds) and time for photos at the viewpoint.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep distance from gelada baboons and do not feed wildlife; they are wild animals and can bite or become aggressive.
- Bring sun protection and a hat—viewpoints are exposed with little shade.
- Secure camera straps and small items; windy gorge viewpoints can cause dropped items to fall.
Lunch (traditional Ethiopian food)
Lunch provided at a nearby lodge or a picnic at a scenic spot overlooking the gorge. Traditional Ethiopian dishes included (injera with stews), with vegetarian options typically available.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, notify the guide at the start of the day so the kitchen can prepare suitable options.
- Expect communal-style serving with injera; a fork is sometimes offered but bringing a small napkin is useful.
- Carry any required snacks or special foods for specific medical needs—local dining is included but personal preferences vary.
Leisure, photography and viewpoint time
Relax after lunch, capture landscape photos and enjoy the highland scenery. Time allocated for slow walking, wildlife watching or a short rest before returning to the vehicle.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring spare camera batteries or a power bank—there are no charging facilities at viewpoints.
- Binoculars are helpful for watching geladas and birds across the gorge.
- Be mindful of cliff edges and follow the guide’s instructions about safe areas for photos.
Drive back to Addis Ababa (with optional short stops)
Return drive to Addis Ababa. The guide can make short stops at village viewpoints or roadside attractions if time permits and they fit the schedule.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the restroom before boarding for the return drive—public facilities can be limited on the route.
- Carry any small souvenirs you purchased safely in the vehicle; avoid leaving valuables visible when you step out.
- Expect some bumpy sections of road—seat belts are recommended and available in the vehicle.
Drop-off at your hotel or Bole International Airport
Arrive back in Addis Ababa and be dropped at your hotel or the airport, concluding the day trip.
Tips from local experts:
- Have the name and address of your hotel handy to confirm the correct drop‑off point with the driver.
- Keep any personal items and travel documents with you while disembarking.
- If you have onward travel (late flight or evening plans), let the guide know in advance so timing can be coordinated.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Culture, Outdoor, Meal, Break |