Lalibela Ethiopia 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Rock-Hewn Churches

Morning

  • Arrive in Lalibela and check-in at a hotel (recommended hotels include Mountain View Hotel, Rastafarian Lodge, or Lalibela Lodge)
  • Start your day with breakfast at Taye Restaurant, which serves traditional Ethiopian dishes
  • Visit the Northern Group of Churches, including:
    • Bet Meskel - a 7th-century church carved into a single piece of stone, featuring intricate carvings and frescoes
    • Bet Gabriel-Rufael - a 12th-century church decorated with paintings of the Old Testament and New Testament stories

Afternoon

  • Visit the Southern Group of Churches, including:
    • Bet Abba Libanos - a 6th-century church featuring intricate stone carvings and frescoes
    • Bet Michael - a 12th-century church decorated with paintings of the Old Testament and New Testament stories

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Ethiopian dinner at Taye Restaurant
  • Explore the local market, which offers handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional clothing
  • Return to your hotel for rest and relaxation

Day 2: Exploring the Hidden Monasteries

Morning

  • Visit the Yemrehanna Church, a hidden monastery carved into the side of a mountain (accessible by foot or horseback)
  • Explore the ancient church, which features intricate stone carvings and frescoes
  • Enjoy lunch at Taye Restaurant

Afternoon

  • Visit the Na’rok monastery, which is famous for its beautiful views of the surrounding landscape
  • Return to your hotel for rest and relaxation

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Ethiopian dinner at Taye Restaurant
  • Explore the local market, which offers handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional clothing
  • Return to your hotel for rest and relaxation

Day 3: Exploring the Ancient Monuments

Morning

  • Visit the ancient monastery of Dabba Amhara, which features intricate stone carvings and frescoes
  • Explore the surrounding landscape, which offers beautiful views and insight into traditional Ethiopian life
  • Enjoy lunch at Taye Restaurant

Afternoon

  • Visit the ancient monument of Kabalqa, a 6th-century church carved into the side of a mountain (accessible by foot or horseback)
  • Return to your hotel for rest and relaxation

Things to Know

  • Lalibela is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Ethiopia’s most famous tourist destinations
  • The town has many hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to tourists
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions
  • Don’t drink tap water or eat uncooked food
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun

Transportation

  • Lalibela is accessible by bus, taxi, or private car from nearby towns and cities
  • The town has many hotels that offer shuttle services to and from the airport or local transportation hubs
  • Hire a horseback guide to explore the surrounding countryside and hidden monasteries

Tips

  • Bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking in the surrounding countryside
  • Pack light clothing suitable for warm Ethiopian weather
  • Don’t miss the traditional Ethiopian dinner at Taye Restaurant, which offers delicious local cuisine and insight into traditional customs
  • Explore the local market, which offers handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional clothing

Note: The itinerary provided is a general guideline and can be tailored to suit your specific interests and preferences. Be sure to check with your hotel or local tour operator for any updates or changes before visiting Lalibela, Ethiopia.