Explore Ethiopia’s sacred highlands, ancient civilizations, and cliff-carved churches on this immersive 5-day tour through Tigray and Axum — two of Ethiopia’s most iconic cultural destinations.
Day 1: Arrival in Mekelle ➜ Transfer to Gheralta Region
Morning:
- Arrive in Mekelle (via flight or overland).
- Meet your guide and transfer to the Gheralta Mountains, heartland of the Tigray rock-hewn churches.
Afternoon:
- Visit Abreha we Atsbeha Church, one of the largest and best-preserved churches in Tigray, known for its stunning architecture and religious importance.
Evening:
- Check in at a lodge in Hawzen.
- Dinner and overnight stay with mountain views.
Overnight: Gheralta Lodge or similar
Day 2: Gheralta ➜ Maryam Korkor & Daniel Korkor
Morning:
- Early breakfast and set off for a moderate-to-challenging hike (approx. 2 hours) to:
- Maryam Korkor – a spacious 6th-century rock church with frescoes and commanding views.
- Daniel Korkor – a smaller, intimate church near the cliff edge.
Afternoon:
- Picnic lunch with panoramic views.
- Optional visit to Medhane Alem Adi Kesho or rest and relax at the lodge.
Evening:
- Enjoy sunset in the Gheralta highlands.
- Dinner at the lodge.
Overnight: Gheralta Lodge or similar
Day 3: Abuna Yemata Guh ➜ Transfer to Axum
Morning:
- Drive to the base of Abuna Yemata Guh, famed for its adventurous climb and incredible cliff-top location.
- With the help of local guides, ascend to this 10th-century rock church, home to vibrant frescoes and unmatched views.
Afternoon:
- After descending, drive north through scenic Tigray highlands to Axum (~4–5 hours).
- Check in at a hotel upon arrival.
Evening:
- Dinner and brief introduction to Axum's history.
Overnight: Sabean Hotel or similar in Axum
Day 4: Axum Full-Day Heritage Tour
Morning & Afternoon:
- Explore the ancient city of Axum, the former capital of the Aksumite Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit:
- Obelisk Park (Stelae Field)
- Queen of Sheba’s Palace Ruins
- Church of St. Mary of Zion – believed to house the Ark of the Covenant
- Axum Museum and Ezana’s Inscriptions
Evening:
- Enjoy local cuisine and traditional coffee ceremony.
Overnight: Sabean Hotel or similar
Day 5: Axum ➜ Return to Mekelle or Addis Ababa
Morning:
- Depending on your flight:
- Drive or fly back to Mekelle or Addis Ababa.
- Optional souvenir shopping or a brief stop at Yeha Temple, the oldest standing structure in Ethiopia (if schedule permits).
Afternoon:
- Drop-off at airport or hotel.
What’s Included:
- All ground transport (private 4x4 with driver)
- Local guides and entrance fees
- 4 nights accommodation with breakfast
- Bottled water, meals as specified
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
What to Bring:
- Hiking shoes with grip
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Modest clothing for church entry
- Small daypack and camera
Highlights:
- Adventurous climbs to remote cliff churches
- Ancient Axumite monuments and legends
- Ethiopian Orthodox art and frescoes
- Breathtaking landscapes of Tigray
- Expert-guided history and culture experience