Lalibela, Ethiopia 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Lalibela, Ethiopia

Day 1: Arrival & Settling In

Accommodation:

  • Lalibela Lodge: A luxurious lodge with a beautiful view of the mountains and easy access to town. Website
  • Tukul Village Hotel: Budget-friendly hotel with traditional Ethiopian architecture. Website

Activities:

  • Arrive at Lalibela airport and transfer to your accommodation.
  • Rest and acclimatize from the flight.
  • Visit the local market to experience the vibrant Ethiopian culture.

Day 2: Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

Breakfast: Local restaurant like Melka Maryam for traditional Ethiopian dishes.

Activities:

  • Begin your exploration with the northern group of rock-hewn churches: Biete Medhane Alem, Biete Mariam, and Biete Golgotha Mikael.
  • Lunch break at a local restaurant.
  • Continue to the western group: Biete Gabriel-Rufael, Biete Merkorous, and Abraha Silassie.
  • End your day with the eastern group churches: Biete Amanuel, Biete Bethe Maryam, and Biete Abba Libanos.

Day 3: Monasteries & Surrounding Areas

Breakfast: Same as Day 2.

Activities:

  • Visit the nearby monasteries: Ashetan Maryam, Ashenqo Lalibela, and Michalewai Imbaballo. These are located on hills around Lalibela and require a short hike to reach.
  • In the afternoon, explore the Yimrehane Kristos church, located about 30km south of Lalibela. This church is not carved into the rock but built within a large cave.

Day 4: Last Churches & Surrounding Sites

Breakfast: Same as previous days.

Activities:

  • Visit the churches that were not covered in previous days, such as Biete Giyorgis (Church of Saint George), which is considered the most beautifully carved church.
  • Explore the nearby Tomb of King Lalibela and the enigmatic Tomb of Adam.

Day 5: Departure

Breakfast: Same as previous days.

Activities:

  • Transfer to Lalibela airport for your departure.
  • If time permits, visit any remaining sites or revisit your favorites before leaving.

Things to Know:

  1. Dress modestly when visiting churches. Knees and shoulders should be covered.
  2. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
  3. Bargaining is common in local markets and for taxi services.
  4. The best time to visit Lalibela is from September to January, during the dry season.
  5. ATMs are scarce, so it’s recommended to bring enough cash.
  6. English is spoken by many locals, especially in hotels and restaurants catering to tourists.

Transportation:

  1. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Lalibela and are the most convenient way to get around.
  2. Hiring a Car with Driver: This option gives you more flexibility to explore at your own pace.
  3. Local Buses: These are less expensive but less reliable than taxis or hiring a car.