Lalibela in 6 Days for Friends - Guided visit to Lalibela's rock‑hewn churches (UNESCO site)
In Collaboration with Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours. Updated on February 23, 2026.
A guided 6‑day small‑group program combining Addis Ababa cultural visits with a 3‑day trek on the Meket escarpment around Lalibela, staying in community guesthouses and local hotels. Includes daily meals (B/L/D) and hotel pick up/drop off.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours, inspired by the tour Trekking in Ethiopia's Lalibela Wollo Highland 5 Days / 4 Nights. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided visit to Lalibela's rock‑hewn churches (UNESCO site)
- 3 days of trekking on the Meket escarpment with community guesthouse stays
- Wildlife spotting (Gelada baboon) and highland birdlife
- Cultural visits in Addis Ababa: Ethnographic/National Museum, Mercato, Trinity Cathedral
Itinerary
Day 1
Addis Ababa: museum, Mercato and Trinity Cathedral visit. Overnight at Ararat Hotel (or similar). Meals: B, L, D included.
Hotel pickup & transfer to National Museum
Drive from hotel to the Ethnographic / National Museum to begin the city introduction.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry a light jacket—Addis mornings can be cool in January.
- Keep your passport or a copy with you for museum entry verification if requested.
- Have small local currency (ETB) for incidental purchases and tips; drivers accept cash.
Ethnographic / National Museum visit
Guided visit to the National Museum (Ethnographic displays) for an overview of Ethiopian culture and history.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow comfortable shoes—the museum has several galleries and some uneven flooring.
- Photography may be restricted in certain rooms; follow onsite signs and guide instructions.
- Restroom facilities are available on site; bring small change for lockers if needed.
Mercato (local market) walk
Explore Addis Ababa's Mercato — one of Africa's largest outdoor markets — with your guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep personal items secure and use a money belt or front pouch in crowded areas.
- If you want to sample street food, check with the guide for safe, freshly prepared options.
- Agree prices before purchasing and carry small denomination notes for bargaining.
Lunch (included)
Lunch at a local restaurant near Mercato (included).
Tips from local experts:
- Notify the guide of any dietary restrictions before mealtime.
- Local cuisine can be spicy—ask for milder preparation if preferred.
- Tap water may not be recommended; drink bottled water provided by the operator.
Holy Trinity Cathedral visit
Guided visit to Trinity Cathedral, an important religious and historical site in Addis.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) as a sign of respect inside the cathedral.
- Shoes may need to be removed in some areas; wear socks if sensitive to cold floors.
- Allow extra time for brief settled queues at peak visiting times.
Transfer back & hotel check‑in
Return to Ararat Hotel (or similar) for check‑in and rest before dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your room allocation and inquire about secure luggage storage if needed.
- Recharge devices while relaxing—power outlets may differ from what you're used to.
- Plan a short rest; altitude and travel can cause tiredness—hydrate well.
Dinner (included) at hotel
Group dinner at the hotel to conclude day one.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have any dietary allergies, remind staff at the start of the meal service.
- Evening temperatures can drop—sit near indoor heating or ask for a warmer table if needed.
- Tipping service staff is appreciated locally; keep small notes ready if you'd like.
Day 2
Fly Addis Ababa → Lalibela. Afternoon guided tour of Lalibela's rock‑hewn churches. Overnight at Sora Lodge (or similar).
Transfer to Addis airport (Bole) and flight to Lalibela
Morning transfer to Bole International Airport for the scheduled flight to Lalibela.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry your ID and flight documents with you; domestic check‑in times can be strict.
- Pack a small daypack with essentials for arrival (water, hat, sunscreen, camera).
- Expect security checks; liquids and large luggage should follow airline rules.
Arrival and transfer from Lalibela Airport
Meet on arrival and transfer to town; brief stop to refresh before the church visits.
Tips from local experts:
- Lalibela sits at elevation—move at a relaxed pace on arrival to acclimatize.
- Have some local currency (ETB) available; smaller towns may have limited card facilities.
- Confirm luggage arrival before leaving the airport; staff can assist with any issues.
Guided visit: Rock‑Hewn Churches of Lalibela
Guided tour of Lalibela's monolithic churches including the main clusters and passageways.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable closed shoes—some church entrances and paths have uneven stone.
- Respect local worship—some churches are active; follow the guide's instructions regarding photography and silence.
- Carry a hat and sunscreen—sun exposure can be strong on open viewpoints.
Hotel check‑in & dinner
Check in at Sora Lodge (or similar) and group dinner at the lodge.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm dinner time with lodge staff—meal times are adhered to in smaller lodges.
- Hot water and heating availability vary; request extra blankets early if you need them.
- Charge electronic devices and confirm Wi‑Fi access if required for the group.
Day 3
Drive from Lalibela to trekking start; trek to Mekuat Maryam (approx. 3 hours). Overnight at Mekuat community guesthouse. Meals included.
Breakfast & drive to trek start (Flakit area)
Early breakfast at the lodge then a scenic drive (~2 hours) toward the Meket escarpment where the trek begins.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small daypack for the hike with water, sun protection, and a light rain layer.
- Check footwear—sturdy hiking shoes or boots are recommended for uneven trails.
- Carry any personal medications in your daypack; clinics are distant from trekking routes.
Lunch stop and begin trek to Mekuat Maryam
Lunch in a local village (Warkahye area) then hike approximately 3 hours to the Mekuat Maryam site at ~2820 m.
Tips from local experts:
- Pace yourself on ascent sections and follow the guide's route and safety briefings.
- Drink regularly; highland sun plus elevation increases dehydration risk.
- Ask guides about local customs before photographing people or private homes.
Evening: community guesthouse & dinner
Arrive at Mekuat community guesthouse; evening cultural exchange and dinner with hosts.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect basic facilities in community guesthouses; bring a headlamp and spare batteries.
- Respect house rules regarding water usage and waste—water can be limited in remote areas.
- Pack a small gift or token if you'd like to thank hosts (ask guide for appropriate suggestions).
Day 4
Trek from Mekuat to Meskel (birding and Gelada sightings), then onward to Wajela village. Overnight at Wajela community guesthouse. Meals included.
Breakfast & morning trek to Meskel
Breakfast at guesthouse then a 3‑hour morning hike to Meskel for birdwatching and possible Gelada sightings.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring binoculars and a field guide or ask the guide for help identifying local birds and Gelada groups.
- Keep noise to a minimum when approaching wildlife to increase sighting chances.
- Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to minimize environmental impact.
Lunch at Meskel & afternoon trek to Wajela
Lunch in Meskel then continue trekking approximately 2.5 hours to reach Wajela village.
Tips from local experts:
- Refuel with the provided lunch—carbohydrates will help energy levels for the afternoon trek.
- If you feel dizzy or unwell, notify the guide immediately; descending or extra rest may be needed.
- Carry any blister care supplies—walking long distances can cause hotspots on feet.
Dinner & overnight at Wajela community guesthouse
Evening meal and overnight stay in Wajela; note the surrounding Acacia and Eucalyptus woodlands.
Tips from local experts:
- Facilities are basic; bring any preferred toiletries and a travel towel.
- Ask the host about local customs for evening visits or conversations with villagers.
- Conserve phone battery and data—electric charging may be limited and communal.
Day 5
Return walk to meet vehicle; 2‑hour drive back to Lalibela. Afternoon at leisure in Lalibela. Overnight at Roha Hotel (or similar).
Breakfast & walk to meet driver
Breakfast at the community guesthouse then a short 1‑hour walk to the designated pickup point.
Tips from local experts:
- Pack belongings the night before for a smooth morning start and to avoid last‑minute stress.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the short transfer to the pickup point.
- Confirm the pickup point with your guide the night before to avoid delays.
Drive from Meket area to Lalibela
Drive (approx. 2 hours) returning to Lalibela; arrive midday for lunch and check‑in.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep your camera handy for landscape views along the escarpment during the drive.
- Stash motion‑sickness remedies if you are sensitive to winding rural roads.
- Confirm luggage stowage with the driver to keep valuables accessible on arrival.
Lunch & afternoon at leisure in Lalibela
Lunch at the hotel and free afternoon to rest, explore the town independently, or revisit nearby sites.
Tips from local experts:
- If revisiting churches, confirm opening times with hotel staff—their hours can change for services.
- Seek shaded outdoor seating or rooftop viewpoints for sunset photos of Lalibela.
- Check local craft shops for souvenirs, and bargain politely on prices.
Overnight & dinner at Roha Hotel
Group overnight at Roha Hotel (or similar) with evening dinner provided.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm wake‑up and transfer arrangements with reception for the following day's travel.
- Keep luggage packed for an early airport transfer the next day if you have a morning flight.
- Respect quiet hours to rest well after several active days.
Day 6
Fly Lalibela → Addis Ababa. Evening farewell dinner in Addis (timing depends on flight schedule). Transfer to Addis Ababa airport for onward flights afterwards.
Transfer to Lalibela Airport & flight to Addis Ababa
Morning transfer to Lalibela Airport for scheduled flight back to Addis Ababa.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm flight time with your guide the night before; domestic times can change.
- Have identification and flight documents ready to avoid delays at check‑in.
- Keep essential items in hand luggage in case of any checked baggage delay.
Arrival transfer to central Addis Ababa
On arrival in Addis, transfer to central Addis where the group will have time to rest and prepare for the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan light activities for the afternoon to conserve energy for the evening dinner.
- If you need currency exchange or local SIM top‑up, ask the guide to assist in the city center.
- Store valuables securely in the hotel or with guides if leaving luggage during the day.
Complimentary farewell dinner (hosted)
Evening group farewell dinner hosted by Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours featuring traditional buffet and local drinks (flight schedule permitting).
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm with the guide whether the dinner timing fits your outbound flight schedule.
- If you have specific dietary needs, remind the event staff at arrival.
- Allow time after dinner for the group transfer to the airport—keep passports accessible.
Transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
After the farewell dinner, transfer to Addis Ababa airport for onward international flights.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm recommended arrival time at the airport for your international flight with the guide.
- Keep travel documents and boarding passes ready for a smooth airport transfer.
- If your international flight departs late, request assistance from the guide for luggage check or storage.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 6 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 8 |
| Restaurants | 4 |
| Total Activities | 17 |
| Total Places | 17 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Culture, Attraction, Meal, Hotel, Outdoor, Break |
