Lalibela Ethiopia 6 Day Itinerary
Title: 6-Day Itinerary for Exploring Lalibela, Ethiopia
Day 1: Arrival & Settling In
- Arrive at Lalibela Airport. Transfer to your hotel (recommendation: Lalibela Rock-Hewn Church Lodge) for check-in and rest.
- Spend the afternoon acclimating and preparing for the following days of exploration.
- For dinner, visit Yemrehanne Kristos Restaurant for a taste of traditional Ethiopian cuisine.
Day 2: Exploring Lower Lalibela
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Start your day by visiting the Beta Maryam and Biete Golgotha Mikael churches in Lower Lalibela.
- Have lunch at a local restaurant.
- In the afternoon, explore the Biete Medhane Alem, the largest monolithic church in Lalibela.
- Dinner and overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 3: Exploring Upper Lalibela
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Begin your day by visiting the Biete Gabriel-Rufael and Biete Merkoreios churches in Upper Lalibela.
- Have lunch at a local restaurant.
- In the afternoon, explore the Biete Amanuel, Biete Qeddus Merkorous, and Biete Abba Libanos churches.
- Dinner and overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 4: Day Trip to Asheton Maryam
- Early breakfast at your hotel.
- Depart for Asheton Maryam (approximately a 2-hour drive).
- Spend the day exploring the monasteries hidden in the cliffs surrounding Asheton Maryam, including Yemrehana Krestos, Nakuto La’ab, and Gihano Amberom Kaluay.
- Return to Lalibela in the evening for dinner and overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 5: Day Trip to Yemrehana Kristos Church
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Depart early for Yemrehana Kristos Church (approximately a 1.5-hour drive).
- Spend the day exploring the church and its surrounding area.
- Return to Lalibela in the evening for dinner and overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 6: Departure
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Transfer to Lalibela Airport for your onward journey.
Things to Know
- Dress modestly when visiting the churches (long pants and covered shoulders are recommended).
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.
- ATMs are limited in Lalibela, so it’s best to bring cash.
- English is spoken at many hotels and restaurants, but it may be helpful to learn a few basic Amharic phrases.
Transportation
- Taxis and minibuses are readily available for transportation within Lalibela.
- For day trips, you can hire a car with a driver or join a guided tour.
Tips
- Visit the churches early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Be respectful when taking photographs in the churches.
- Support local businesses by dining at restaurants and purchasing souvenirs from artisans.