Lalibela , Ethiopia

Asheton Maryam Monastery Day Tour

Active

6h - 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

This trip offers a unique combination of spectacular scenery, culture and history. You will pass through the Afroalpine forest, remote villages, farmland and looking the local communities doing the routine of life.

You will be in the middle of the small village. If you wish we offer you a short time of visit the village and if you are interested, you will be invited to see the inside part of a farmer's house with an Ethiopian coffee ceremony. There is something authentic and natural about participating in a coffee ceremony in a mountain village, one opportunity not to be missed by first time visitors.

You will also spot Gelada Baboon and the biggest bird Lamargair.

Available options

Yemrehanna Kristos church

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

Bottled water

Lunch

Snacks

Landing and facility fees

Airport/Departure Tax

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

A day before your trekking starts, you will meet us in our office which is located at the center of the town, Next to the Ethiopian Airlines Lalibela office for conformation and we will explain about the details of your trekking tour using the site map and our office will be the point where your trekking tour will start!The next morning at 7:45am your trekking guide and the porter will meet you again at the reception of your Hotel to organize and pack your materials that will be on the donkey and your trekking will began from our office!After 30 minutes, you will find yourself leaving the town and looking down Lalibela city as you take in the fresh air of the Lasta mountains. At this point you will start spotting the Rock-Hewn churches, your Hotel and village of Lalibela town from the mountain trail.

Then after 2.30h walk, you will arrive to a small village located at 3,300 metres above sea level. The scenery is wonderful here, allowing the perfect opportunity to take a break, drinking in the scenery and a much-needed snack of fresh fruit to get some energy.Once we start walking again, after 15 minutes, we will be in the middle of the small village. If you wish we offer you a short time of visit the village and if you are interested, you will be invited to see the inside part of a farmer's house with an Ethiopian coffee ceremony. There is something authentic and natural about participating in a coffee ceremony in a mountain village, one opportunity not to be missed by first time visitors. The Farm house visit and coffee ceremony is a very interesting experience that we advice our guests to do, because it is a great opportunity to see how the Ethiopian houses looks like from inside, the tools we use, and how the animals and people live together in this small house!After passing through the mountain village, after the steep road which looks like a twisted rope that hugs around the mountain, will take about 4 hour on foot. The end will be a sweet rewarding experience as you will arrive to Asheton Maryam monastery church. Built on a ridge at 3,500 m altitude, 10 km from Lalibela.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Transportation to/from attractions

Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE JA EN IT ES

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Important notes

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

About Lalibela

Lalibela is a small town in northern Ethiopia renowned for its rock-hewn churches, which are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These churches, carved from living rock in the 12th and 13th centuries, are a testament to the town's rich history and religious significance. Lalibela is a pilgrimage site for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians and a fascinating destination for travelers interested in history, architecture, and spirituality.

Top Attractions

Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela are a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of 11 medieval churches carved from living rock. These churches are a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans who built them and are a significant pilgrimage site for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.

Historical/Religious/Architecture Half day to full day ETB 200 (USD 7) for foreigners, ETB 50 (USD 2) for locals

Yemrehana Kristos

Yemrehana Kristos is a 12th-century church located about 40 km (25 miles) from Lalibela. Unlike the rock-hewn churches, this church is built in a traditional Ethiopian style and is known for its beautiful wooden ceiling and ancient manuscripts.

Historical/Religious/Architecture Half day ETB 50 (USD 2) for foreigners, ETB 10 (USD 0.50) for locals

Nakuto La'ab Monastery

Nakuto La'ab Monastery is a 13th-century monastery located on an island in Lake Ashenge, about 35 km (22 miles) from Lalibela. The monastery is known for its ancient manuscripts, religious artifacts, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Historical/Religious Half day ETB 50 (USD 2) for foreigners, ETB 10 (USD 0.50) for locals

Lalibela Museum

The Lalibela Museum is a small museum located near the rock-hewn churches, showcasing the history and culture of the town and its people. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that provide insight into the rich heritage of Lalibela.

Museum 1-2 hours ETB 20 (USD 1) for foreigners, ETB 5 (USD 0.25) for locals

Must-Try Local Dishes

Doro Wat

A spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice, onions, and garlic, served with injera.

Main dish Contains meat and gluten (injera).

Injera

A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, used as both a plate and utensil in Ethiopian cuisine.

Staple food Gluten-free if made from pure teff flour, but may contain traces of gluten if made with other flours.

Tibs

Sautéed meat, usually beef or lamb, cooked with onions, peppers, and spices.

Main dish Contains meat and gluten (if served with injera).

Shiro Wat

A spicy stew made from chickpea flour, berbere spice, and garlic, served with injera.

Vegetarian dish Vegetarian and gluten-free (if made with pure teff injera).

Popular Activities

Hiking Exploring the countryside Visiting remote monasteries Enjoying the scenic views Relaxing in local cafes Participating in traditional coffee ceremonies Visiting the rock-hewn churches Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

September to May

This period offers the best weather for visiting Lalibela, with warm days and cool nights. The rainy season has passed, making it ideal for exploring the rock-hewn churches and enjoying outdoor activities.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Amharic
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Ethiopian Birr (ETB)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lalibela is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites. It's important to take precautions to protect your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when using taxis, and always negotiate the fare in advance.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep your valuables secure.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Lalibela Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from the city center

By bus

Addis Ababa, Gondar, Mekele

Getting around

Public transport

Taxis are available in Lalibela but are not as common as in larger cities. They can be hired for short trips around the town.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car

Neighborhoods

Central Lalibela Asheten Maryam

Day trips

Yemrehana Kristos

40 km (25 miles) • Half day

Nakuto La'ab Monastery

35 km (22 miles) • Half day

Asheten Maryam

30 km (19 miles) • Full day

Asheten Maryam is a rural area located about 30 km (19 miles) from Lalibela, known for its beautiful landscapes and hiking trails. It's a great destination for those looking to explore the countryside and experience the local way of life.

Festivals

Timket (Epiphany) • January 19 Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) • September 27 Genna (Ethiopian Christmas) • January 7

Pro tips

Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the rock-hewn churches and other attractions.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be exploring the town on foot and visiting sites with uneven terrain.
Carry enough cash, as ATMs and card acceptance are limited in Lalibela.
Be prepared for cool temperatures, especially at night, as Lalibela is located at a high altitude.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites, and always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or religious ceremonies.