Lalibela, Ethiopia-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lalibela

  • Arrive at Lalibela Airport (LLI)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel ( approx. 5-10 minutes, ETB 100-200 / $3-$6 USD)
  • Check-in at Hotel Yodit (mid-range) or Lalibela Hotel (luxury)
  • Spend the rest of the day exploring the town and getting accustomed to the local environment
  • Visit the Lalibela Church, a 12th-century church built on top of a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape

Day 2: Rock-Hewn Churches

  • Start the day early and take a taxi or shuttle bus (approx. 10-15 minutes, ETB 200-300 / $6-$9 USD) to the Rock-Hewn Churches
  • Visit the following churches:
    • Bet Giyorgis: A beautifully carved church with intricate stone carvings
    • Bet Maryam: One of the most impressive and well-preserved rock-hewn churches
    • Bet Meskel: A historic church built on top of a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area
  • Take breaks to rest and hydrate throughout the day

Day 3: Explore Lalibela’s Hidden Gems

  • Visit the Asheton Monastery, a charming monastery with beautiful gardens
  • Stop by the Lalibela Market, where you can buy local handicrafts, souvenirs, and try some traditional snacks
  • Take a break for lunch at Lalibela Restaurant (ETB 200-300 / $6-$9 USD), serving traditional Ethiopian cuisine

Day 4: Explore the Countryside

  • Take a guided tour to explore the surrounding countryside ( approx. 2 hours, ETB 1,000-1,500 / $30-$45 USD)
  • Visit local villages and meet with the friendly locals
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic location

Day 5: More Rock-Hewn Churches

  • Visit the following churches:
    • Bet Danaghel: A beautiful church built on top of a hill, offering stunning views
    • Bet Medhane Alem: One of the largest rock-hewn churches, featuring intricate stone carvings
    • Bet Golgotha: A historic church with a unique architecture

Day 6: Relaxation Day

  • Spend the day relaxing at your hotel or exploring the town
  • Take a leisurely walk around Lalibela’s scenic streets and alleys
  • Try some local snacks or drinks at Café Abyssinia (ETB 100-200 / $3-$6 USD)

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring the town one last time
  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus back to Lalibela Airport (approx. 5-10 minutes, ETB 100-200 / $3-$6 USD)
  • Depart from Lalibela Airport

Things to Know:

  • Language: Amharic is the official language, but English and other languages are widely spoken.
  • Currency: Ethiopian Birr (ETB) is the local currency. Credit cards and US dollars are also accepted in tourist areas.
  • Weather: Lalibela has a mild climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F).
  • Respect Local Customs:
    • Dress modestly and remove your shoes when visiting churches or homes
    • Respect local traditions and customs
    • Avoid public displays of affection

Transportation:

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Lalibela. Prices vary, but expect to pay around ETB 100-200 / $3-$6 USD for a short ride.
  • Shuttle Bus: Shuttle buses run regularly between the airport and town center. Prices range from ETB 50-100 / $2-$3 USD.

Tips:

  • Haggle: Bargaining is expected when shopping at markets or buying souvenirs.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service (around 5-10% of the total bill).
  • Stay Safe: Be mindful of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

Other:

  • Tourist Information: Visit the Lalibela Tourist Information Office for assistance with planning your trip.
  • Health and Safety: Consult your doctor before traveling to Ethiopia, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.