Day Trip to Rock Hewn Churches of Lalibela
5
Day Trip to Rock Hewn Churches of Lalibela
By Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 8-78
Duration: 8h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- We pick up guests at Airport but we will not pay for the shuttle!!
What's not included- Entry/Admission - Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela
- Start:Traveller pickup offered.Pickup details
- We will pick up guests from the Airport, but we will not pay for the Shuttle and this payment did not include entrance fee and shuttle fee. Shared Taxi 200 birr. there is also an entrance fee for all the churches and the ticket will be valid for 5 days.
Airport pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included airports.- Lalibela Airport, Lalibela Ethiopia
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 219523P7- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 219523P7
From
ÂŁ36.94
per adult
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Similar experiences
Itinerary
- 1Explore the extraordinary rock-cut churches of Ethiopia on an all-day tour Learn about Ethiopian history and culture at the churches of Lalibela Visit Bete Medhani Alem, Bete Mariam, Bete Meskel, and other sites and also different wonder the different species of birds.
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Allegra T0 contributionsGreat tour of churches of LalibelaI had a spectacular experience on this tour thanks to Maereg. I hadn't organized anything basically and he helped me find a place to store my larger bag in Addis, show me everything with detailed history and make sure I felt safe and comfortable when I got back to Addis by introducing me to his brother there. The tour was full of great history, very customizable based on my interests and time. Even with my room he was able to get me a beautiful place and an upgrade. Thanks for everythingWritten 19 January 2025
- Odyssey164949678120 contributionsStunning EthiopiaMaereg is an excellent guide and tour leader! We spent 10 days in Ethiopia and always felt safe and taken care of by him. Everything was perfectly organized - transfers, hotels, car rental, entrances to tourist attractions. Ethiopia is a beautiful country and Maereg helped us to see it.Written 26 November 2024
- kaiyoorsrirama0 contributionsOut of the World Experience. We learnt a lot about the culture and history of Ethiopia.The trip was amazing and we had the best time of our life in Ethiopia. It was just wonderful. Very loving people and country.Written 15 October 2024
- khurramriazs0 contributionsLalibela Rock Churches TourThe history in Lalibela is amazing and Maereg is a knowledgeable, helpful and a fun host to tour with. Highly recommended.Written 7 October 2024
- 309janism0 contributionsSunken Churches of LalibelaCannot recommend this tour operator enough, from the arrival to the departure was flawless. Their knowledge of not just the churches and history of Lalibela, but even down to the details of the bird life made this a truly one in a lifetime experience.Written 3 July 2024
- kaneshiac20190 contributionsHighly recommendedOur guide was very knowledgeable and did a great job sharing the history and culture of Ethiopia. He was very attentive and open to feedback. I highly recommend this company.Written 17 June 2024
- owlietakesflight0 contributionsLalibela- A step back in timeI had the pleasure of experiencing a guided tour with Maereg, owner/operator of Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours. The churches of Lalibela are extraordinary, with St. George being my favorite. The history associated with these churches is fascinating. The structures themselves, take you back in time, allowing you to experience the reverence of the culture, past and presence. Maereg's knowledge and respect for these churches are clearly apparent during his explanation of their importance. His humility and respect for his culture and religion allows you appreciate these churches through the lens of a practicing local. Thank you Maereg for sharing your story and bringing to life an experience.Written 22 April 2024
- 435marketai0 contributionsStunning Lalibela, a must-see!Just back from last week's trip to stunning Lalibela. Had an amazing time, all organised by Maereg and his team at Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours. Stayed at Sora Lodge with beautiful views and lovely rooms. Maereg made the entire experience extremely smooth, organised every aspect of my trip and had a great team of extremely knowledgeable guides and drivers which made the whole experience very enjoyable and safe (particularly for a solo female traveller). Would highly recommend Extraordinary Ethiopia to anyone considering visiting Ethiopia.Written 15 April 2024
- getraj20240 contributionsA wonderful trip experienceThe trip was very nice and well organized. I appreciated the drivers and everyone who supported me. You and your brother did an excellent job guiding us through North Ethiopia!Written 9 April 2024
- cheflenalprice0 contributionsTop Notch Tour Company!!If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired, then look no further than this tour company! From start to finish, everything ran smoothly thanks largely due in part by their experienced staff who really know what they are doing. I can't thank you enough. I'll DEFINITELY be referring to anyone visiting Ethiopia!! Take care.Written 22 March 2024
- Amary J0 contributionsWonderful, exciting, educational and spiritual.Maereg was a great host and tour guide. He knows the history, the restaurants, where to shop and all the info you might need to get the most out of your Ethiopian experience.Written 28 February 2024
- D4165XDcalebc0 contributionsTHE MAN, THE MYTH, THE LEGEND........MAEREG!!What can I say about the amazing Maereg that hasn’t been said, there’s a reason this kind fellow has nothing less than a five-star review! I ended up in Lalibela as a solo traveler aloof to the recent conflict that scared away all the usual tourists that would be visiting the beautiful sites and people of this high-altitude town. From the group taxi to the hotel I encountered aggressive tour guides trying to get a high price for their services. GEESH! Let a guy get to his room and settle in first. Feeling the hustle, as any seasoned traveler does, I walked into town to find my own way. Lucky for me, I came across the best tuk-tuk driver in Lalibela, Baye. Baye spoke English well enough, has a passion for driving and a great sense for freewheeling adventure. He bought me through he bustling Saturday market and would help me score goods at a fair price. When I mentioned that I was interested in not-so-touristy and out-of-the-ordinary adventure, he said he knew just the guy, his good friend and brother-in-arms, Maereg. I liked Maereg instantly. He’s out of the box genuine, honest, sharp, and witty. He blew me away with his knowledge of the history of the churches, people, plants and animals of the region. When a plan fell through for one adventure, it was swiftly replaced with another outstanding plan to be executed flawlessly. Maereg is a strong hiker who is diligent about your safety all the while enjoying the great and vast beauty of Ethiopia himself, seemingly just as much as I. On our all-day trips, he would supply a delicious lunch or know just where to go to get the best coffee and food. I arrived to Lalibela a lone traveler and left feeling like I gained a family and a brother. We stay in touch to this day, a world apart. So, if you're looking for the best, no-pressure, fair and knowledgeable guide in Ethiopia, look no further, Maereg’s the man! May peace be upon you my brother, until next time:)Written 30 January 2024
- Sunshine220573564300 contributionsSafe tours of Lalibela with excellent service, accommodation, and meals. Maereg is the best!Maereg is the best! He kept me safe in Lalibela during a politically sensitive time. He has an encyclopedic understanding of the history of the monolithic cave churches and is a logistical genius during difficult circumstances. Accommodation and meals were fabuolus, and the hotel even celebrated my birthday with a postcard of St. George and by decorating my breakfast table with flower pedals. Also ask him about his brother's luxury-at budget prices-tours of the Omo valley!Written 26 November 2023
- Ruben C0 contributionsShort visit to Lalibela from Addis, very safe and convenient for a weekendAmazing tour, I was skeptical of visiting Lalibela but it was very safe. Maereg tailored the tour so I could visit the most important churches and even attend to the service all in 1 day because I was short in time but there's many other buildings to visit. I flew from Addis on Saturday morning and I was back on Sunday afternoon. Maereg is a knowledgeable guide, he reached out the moment I reserved and was always available, he even booked me an amazing hotel with a discount. He will definitely make sure you get the most out of your trip. I'd strongly recommend to try the tour with Maereg, I had a great experience visiting the churches and even eating at local restaurantsWritten 23 October 2023
- 84robertantony0 contributionsAddis day tour & Adadi MaryamHigh point was our visit to Adadi Maryam - beautiful history . But disappointed that we missed Tiya. The Addis day tour was done really well and adequate time for shopping and ending with a lovely dinner with Ethiopian songs and dances . Highly recommendWritten 20 October 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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5.0
12 reviews
Excellent
12
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0
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Tells77
77 contributions
Wow is all I can say! The historical landmark of Lalibela was an unforgettable experience. Perfection is an understatement! Maereg was the perfect guide! He speaks great English and very responsive to emails! I got a response in less than 24 hours as they are in a different time zone so immediately if you ask me. He waited for me at the airport even though I was an hour late due to flight confusion on my end. He is extremely knowledgeable and gave me a deep understanding of the rock hewn churches. He is patient, kind and wonderful tour guide. Maereg answered all my questions and gave me more insight than I expected. Not only did he cover the history of the rock hewn churches but he also gave me an in depth history of Ethiopia itself. He has years of experience doing this and there is no other tour group I would choose! We got straight to the churches and I am still blown away by this experience I had to make a review to let others know of how wonderful Ethiopia and its history is! Friendly people and great tours you will love. I will return and use extraordinary tour group again!
Written 20 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Shantel
Thank you so much for the wonderful review, I work hard to meet expectations like yours, and I am happy to hear I hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet one day to explore the other parts of Ethiopia.
Kind regards
Maereg
Written 21 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Socksthecat2017
London, UK19 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
The churches are amazing. And we’re so brought to life by Maereg. Maereg is knowledgeable, respectful and attentive. Being from Lalibela, he knew the place v well. He went out of his way to accommodate requests, and to ensure we were safe wherever we went. We hiked up in Asheton and visited the monastery. The views and sense of space are incredible. I had a bit of time at Addis before my flight. Maereg also happened to be in Addis and kindly showed me a part of Addis.
Lalibela is simply stunning. Thank you Maereg for bringing it to life.
Lalibela is simply stunning. Thank you Maereg for bringing it to life.
Written 18 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Dr.Ayesha
Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards
Maereg
Written 18 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ankitha Rajendaran
Dubai, United Arab Emirates41 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
I did a solo trip to Lalibela and Addis Ababa over 3 days. After I got in touch with Maereg, everything was quickly arranged and the choice of hotels were both great and convenient. I felt safe the whole time and had no issues. Thank you for the brief introduction to your country. Keep up the good work.
Written 22 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Ankitha
Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards
Maereg
Written 23 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Abdulmajeed A
16 contributions
Nov 2024 • Solo
I recommend this tour to see the 11 rock hewn churches.
Learn about the history of ancient Lalbella, as its construction dates back to the seventh century
Learn about the history of ancient Lalbella, as its construction dates back to the seventh century
Written 19 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Abdul
Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. The construction of the churchs dates
back to the 11 century not 7th.
Kind regards Maereg
Written 21 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Asiaticus NLN
1 contribution
Jun 2024 • Friends
What I remember most about my guide Maereg was his diligent service, promptness, efficient time-management, and impressive knowledge of Ethiopia - the ancient and the new. During the trip, Maereg made sure that I felt at ease, safe and secure as a female traveler. And that meant a lot.
For eight days Maereg got to know me and I got to experience the wonders of Ethiopia.
Firstly, the capital, Addis Ababa, the highest elevation of a city in Africa, which was more like a state than a city, boasted national/ state museums, cultural centers, numerous universities/ UNESCO World Heritage Sites, churches, cathedrals, cafés (the origin of coffee began here in Ethiopia), memorials, financial, telecommunications, infrastructures, shop centers, outdoor markets, etc.,.
Then there was the massive rock-hewn monolith churches of Lalibela, (woa!) which is home to the oldest Christian communities in the world (as well as for Maereg, his lovely wife, and adorable children who were kind enough to have invited us to their home to meet the family & served us a delicious authentic Ethiopian dinner complimented with Honey wine). Also, Lalibela is known as Ethiopia's "New Jerusalem" because it holds religious importance and the opportunity to pilgrimage for there Orthodox Christians.
And lastly, Gondar, once the capital of the former Ethiopian Empire, showcased palaces, castles, churches, fortified walls, built by each royal successor beginning the 17th century and has been called the "Camelot of Africa," idealized as in a place of high-level culture with a purpose/ belief of what community with a shared purpose can achieve.
Since returning home, the trip to Ethiopia has stayed with me like a hum, tune or song which reminded me that for eight days I was in paradise. I hope to carry this happiness in me forward until I can get back to that happy place, Ethiopia 🇪🇹 . Thanks, Maereg for all that you did to make this experience possible.
Sincerely,
Romanáh H-B
For eight days Maereg got to know me and I got to experience the wonders of Ethiopia.
Firstly, the capital, Addis Ababa, the highest elevation of a city in Africa, which was more like a state than a city, boasted national/ state museums, cultural centers, numerous universities/ UNESCO World Heritage Sites, churches, cathedrals, cafés (the origin of coffee began here in Ethiopia), memorials, financial, telecommunications, infrastructures, shop centers, outdoor markets, etc.,.
Then there was the massive rock-hewn monolith churches of Lalibela, (woa!) which is home to the oldest Christian communities in the world (as well as for Maereg, his lovely wife, and adorable children who were kind enough to have invited us to their home to meet the family & served us a delicious authentic Ethiopian dinner complimented with Honey wine). Also, Lalibela is known as Ethiopia's "New Jerusalem" because it holds religious importance and the opportunity to pilgrimage for there Orthodox Christians.
And lastly, Gondar, once the capital of the former Ethiopian Empire, showcased palaces, castles, churches, fortified walls, built by each royal successor beginning the 17th century and has been called the "Camelot of Africa," idealized as in a place of high-level culture with a purpose/ belief of what community with a shared purpose can achieve.
Since returning home, the trip to Ethiopia has stayed with me like a hum, tune or song which reminded me that for eight days I was in paradise. I hope to carry this happiness in me forward until I can get back to that happy place, Ethiopia 🇪🇹 . Thanks, Maereg for all that you did to make this experience possible.
Sincerely,
Romanáh H-B
Written 21 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Romanah
Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards
Maereg
Written 22 June 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andrea B
1 contribution
Apr 2024 • Friends
The trip was amazing. We had a knowledgeable tour guide who was also very patient and attentive to the needs of the group. I would love to do this again
Written 1 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Andrea
Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards
Maereg
Written 5 May 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rosalie T
4 contributions
Jan 2023
It was all very interesting. In was particularly interested in the church of St George. I was also interested in the religious practices which are different in some ways to Catholicism.
Written 19 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Rosalie
Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards Maereg
Written 20 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Efraim M
6 contributions
Hi I came to Lalibela for 2 weeks
Maereg was my tour guide
Fantastic highly recommended
I did homestay with wonderful family
Family guesthouse
Wonderful experience
Clean
Comfortable
Better than hotel
And wonderful family
Hope to come back to Ethiopia
To ommo valley
Will only
Book maerek
As tour guide
Maereg was my tour guide
Fantastic highly recommended
I did homestay with wonderful family
Family guesthouse
Wonderful experience
Clean
Comfortable
Better than hotel
And wonderful family
Hope to come back to Ethiopia
To ommo valley
Will only
Book maerek
As tour guide
Written 3 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Efi
Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards Maereg
Written 5 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Cora S
3 contributions
Aug 2022 • Solo
Maereg was great! The communication was really good, even before the trip startet and he took the best pictures of me in all of Ethiopia!
He really wanted me to have the best experience possible.
He really wanted me to have the best experience possible.
Written 7 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Cora
Thank you so much for your review, I work hard to meet expectations like yours, and I am happy to hear that you had a good time. Hopefully we will meet one day to explore the other parts of Ethiopia.
Kind regards
Maereg
Written 11 August 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A Nigatu
3 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
I went back to Lalibela after a 15 year hiatus to show my wife the rich history of my culture. We got a phone number from the website and gave a call the day before we arrived at Lalibela. We met Mareg, who told us he was going to be our guide. He was at the airport waiting. Our visit was excellent. I ended up feeling like my prior visit was subpar as Mareg from extraordinary gave us the best tour around the churches. He did more than that; he was attentive to our needs, arranged transportation as necessary, was available when needed and was knowledgeable about the history. He was clear in his presentation and made sure to separate the myths and histories associated with this marvelous place. He balanced speaking Amharic with me while not having my English speaking wife feel left out. Even when our flight was cancelled due to weather and we needed to arrange a long car drive, he was very helpful in finding a ride. I was so impressed by his knowledge about the rock-hewn churches, his language and his overall demeanor. I would recommend him to anyone who would like to see Lalibela and all it’s beauty.
Written 18 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Abiy
Thank you so much for the wonderful review, I work hard to meet expectations like yours, and I am happy to hear I hit the mark for you.
Kind regards
Maereg
Written 19 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My flight from ADD to LLI doesn't land until 12:40 pm if on schedule but the tour has a 12am start time. What happens to your airport pickup?
Written 14 September 2022
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.