Debre Libanos Monastery & Portuguese Bridge Excursion
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Should you wish to do an excursion outside Addis Ababa, this tour with a 110km drive to the North of Addis, passing over undulating mountain ranges, takes you to.
Shelter for the famous Gelada Baboon & various birds, Debre Libanos is a monastery complex that sits on a terrace between a cliff and the gorge of one of the tributaries of the Abbay River (the Blue Nile).
This monastery is a living witness for one of the largest single acts of mass Christian martyrdom in the 20th century, where in 1937 Italian soldiers serving the fascist regime of Benito Musosolini slaughtered some 300 Ethiopian monks at one of this Ethiopia’s holiest religious site.
This tour entails outstanding views of the famous Blue Nile Gorge and the ancient Portuguese bridge, a stop at a rural village to see their life style and local drink, with beer tasting at the oldest brewery in Addis Ababa.
Available options
Debre Libanos Monastery & Portuguese Bridge Excursion
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We will pick you up from your destination and drive north of Addis Ababa.
2
After a good 2 hour driver, you will arrive at Debre Libanos monastery complex. You will visit the monastery, meet priests, spend some time around to view the famous Gelada Baboon & various birds.
3
You walk to the Portuguese bride and view the the famous Blue Nile Gorge and beautiful land scape.
4
Lunch break.
5
Stop by a farmer house on the way to Addis.
6
Stop 6
Drive back to Addis Ababa.
7
We go to the oldest beer brewery in Addis to taste local beer at the spot.
8
Stop 8
We drop you to your destination.
9
Stop 9
For extra fee: You may join a group at a cultural night for authentic Ethiopian cultural food buffet along with cultural drinks, live music and dances of the diverse nations and nationalities of Ethiopia at Yod Abyssinia Cultural Restaurant.
What's not included
Alcoholic Beverages
Soda/Pop
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
They will be handed with ticket at the spot by the guide.
About Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, is a vibrant and historically rich city nestled in the highlands of the Horn of Africa. Known as the political, cultural, and economic heart of the country, it offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Ethiopian culture.
Top Attractions
Entoto Mountain
A scenic mountain offering panoramic views of Addis Ababa and the surrounding highlands. It's a great spot for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (some attractions may have entry fees)
Addis Ababa Museum
A museum showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Ethiopia, including artifacts from the ancient kingdom of Aksum and the medieval Solomonic dynasty.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (around 100 ETB or 3 USD)
Mercato
One of the largest open-air markets in Africa, offering a vast array of goods, from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and livestock.
Market
Half day
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
St. George's Cathedral
A historic cathedral built in the 19th century, known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Doro Wat
A spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice, onions, and hard-boiled eggs.
Main Dish
Contains meat and spices
Injera
A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, used as both a utensil and a base for other dishes.
Staple
Vegan
Tibs
Sautéed cubes of meat, often served with vegetables and spices.
Main Dish
Contains meat and spices
Shiro
A chickpea or lentil-based stew, often spiced with berbere or mitmita.
Stew
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Entoto Mountain
Boating in Lake Bishoftu
Coffee ceremony
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending traditional music and dance performances
N/A
Participating in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony
Best Time to Visit
October to June
This period offers the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
12°C to 26°C (54°F to 79°F)
54°F to 79°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Amharic
- Widely spoken: English, Oromo
- English: Moderately spoken in urban areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Addis Ababa is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Addis Ababa Bole International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center
By bus
Addis Ababa Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable but can be crowded. Tickets are purchased on board.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ride
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Piazza District
Bole District
Mercato District
Day trips
Debre Berhan
130 km (80 miles) from Addis Ababa • Full day
A historic town known for its beautiful church and traditional Ethiopian architecture.
Lake Bishoftu
40 km (25 miles) from Addis Ababa • Half day to full day
A series of volcanic lakes known for their scenic beauty and birdlife.
Festivals
Timket (Epiphany) • January 19
Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) • September 27
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Amharic to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide for a more authentic and insightful experience, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites
- Try traditional Ethiopian coffee and participate in a coffee ceremony for a unique cultural experience
- Bargain politely when shopping in markets, as it is a common practice
- Be patient and flexible, as punctuality and schedules can be more relaxed in Ethiopia
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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