7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Lalibela, Ethiopia

Day 1: Arrival & Acclimatization

• Arrive at Lalibela Airport (Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa - ADB) and transfer to your hotel.
• Check-in & Acclimatize: Spend the day relaxing and acclimating to the high altitude of Lalibela. You can explore the local area around your accommodation.

Lunch & Dinner Options: Local restaurants like Mount Zion Roof Top Restaurant and Hotel, or Yilikala Restaurant and Bar offer traditional Ethiopian dishes.

Hotel Recommendations: Lalibela Lodge, Tukul Village Lodge, and Roha Hotel offer comfortable stays in Lalibela.

Day 2: Explore the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

• Morning Visit: Start your day by visiting the northern group of rock-hewn churches (Beta Giyorgis, Beta Maryam, Beta Meskel, Beta Danaghel, Beta Mikael, and Beta Golgotha).
• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
• Afternoon Visit: In the afternoon, explore the western group of churches (Beta Amanual, Beta Abba Libanos, Beta Merkorios, Beta Atana Mikael, and Beta Gabriel-Rufael).

Day 3: More Rock-Hewn Churches & Surrounding Monasteries

• Day Trip to Asheton Maryam: Visit the monastery on top of Mount Ashetan, located approximately 1.5 hours from Lalibela. The journey involves a steep climb and offers breathtaking views.
• Lunch & Dinner: Packed lunches are recommended for this day trip.

Day 4: Visit Yemrehana Krestos Church & Hiking

• Morning Trip: Take a half-day trip to the church of Yemrehana Krestos, hidden in a forest about 20 kilometers from Lalibela.
• Afternoon Rest: Spend the afternoon resting and relaxing.

Day 5: Explore Local Culture & Traditions

• Visit local craft centers: Learn about traditional Ethiopian art, music, and weaving at local workshops.
• Lunch & Dinner: Savor local dishes like kitfo (minced beef), doro wat (chicken stew), and injera (sourdough flatbread) at a local restaurant.

Day 6: Journey to Axum (Optional Add-On)

• Flight or Drive to Axum: If you have an extra day, travel to Axum, the ancient capital of the Aksumite Empire. Visit historic sites like St. Mary of Zion Church, the Palace of the Queen of Sheba, and the Stele Field.

Day 7: Departure

• Transfer to Lalibela Airport: Check out from your hotel and transfer to the airport for your departure flight.