Debre Libanos and Blue Nile Gorge Day Trips
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Want to get out of the city and into nature while exploring deep spiritual history?
The Debre Libanos & Portuguese Bridge Day Tour is the perfect mix of Ethiopia’s natural beauty, spiritual legacy, and historic charm.
Just a short drive north of Addis Ababa, this full-day adventure takes you to one of Ethiopia’s most important religious centers—Debre Libanos Monastery—and to the stunning Portuguese Bridge, perched above the majestic Jemma River Gorge.
You’ll walk where saints once walked, cross a legendary stone bridge, gaze into a breathtaking gorge, and possibly spot Gelada baboons in the wild.
Available options
Debre Libanos and Blue Nile Gorge Day Trips
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Addis Ababa
Private transportation with professional driver
Choice of packed lunch or traditional meal
Lunch with botteled watet and fruits
All entrance fees (Monastery + Bridge)
English-speaking local guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM):
Departure from Addis Ababa: Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel and head north towards Debre Libanos.
Mount Entoto: Enjoy scenic views of Addis Ababa as you pass through the Mount Entoto hills.
Debre Libanos Monastery: Arrive at the monastery, a significant site of Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo faith, and explore its church and museum.
2
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM):
Lunch at Ethio-Germany Lodge: Enjoy lunch at a local lodge with views over the Jemma River Gorge.
Jemma River Gorge: Explore the gorge, a tributary of the Blue Nile, and look for Gelada baboons and various bird species.
Portuguese Bridge: Visit the historic Portuguese Bridge, a testament to the area's past, and enjoy panoramic views.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Late Afternoon/Evening (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM):
Return to Addis Ababa: Begin your journey back to Addis Ababa, allowing for a late afternoon arrival.
What's not included
Acomodation
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
Instant confirmation
