The Real Lalibela for Solo Travelers
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2d
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About this experience
Nice and easy tour of all 11 Lalibela Rock-hewn churches, as well as Asheton Maryam monastery. Experience some of the most amazing examples of monolithic churches on earth when you come to Ethiopia with Travel Africa Tours. You'll also have the opportunity to hike to Asheton Maryam a 13th century rock-hewn monastery offering sweeping views over the town of Lalibela and its mountains.
Available options
The Real Lalibela for Solo Travelers
Pickup included
What's included
2 nights accommodation
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
National Park fees
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Driver/guide
Breakfast
TripAdvisor Experiences brokerage fee
Fuel surcharge
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Here your knowledgeable guide will meet you at your hotel and guide you through the maze of the 11 rock hewn churches of Lalibela. You'll be able to go inside and see the ancient interior, as well as how the faithful worship.
2
Our morning begins with a visit to the Lalibela market. It is held only one day a week, so locals make sure to come out to buy as well as sell their wares. After our market visit, we will spend time today on a moderate intensity hike up above the town of Lalibela to visit Asheton Maryam. In this church we have the chance to see religious relics in the care of the Ethiopian Orthodox priest. We end the day with an Ethiopian cooking class that includes the traditional coffee ceremony.
What's not included
Excess luggage charges (where applicable)
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Gratuities
Domestic Airfare to/from Lalibela
Dinner
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Important notes
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
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
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.
Nakuto La'ab Monastery
35 km (22 miles) • Half day
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.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
