Lalibela Holidays - Ethiopia

Old Church, Lalibela, Ethiopia — Lalibela, Ethiopia

Man entering Church, Lalibela, Ethiopia — Lalibela, Ethiopia

A little more about Lalibela

The town of Lalibela was originally known as Roha but was renamed after the 12th-century King Lalibela, who commissioned the extraordinary churches.

Were it not for these extraordinary rock-hewn churches, Lalibela could easily be overlooked. Nestled in the gently sloping countryside, this small dusty rural town has only had electricity since the late 1990s. A perfect town for exploration, its history offers a certain amount of intrigue for the discerning and culturally interested traveller.

However, it must be noted that getting down into the churches requires some dexterity, as the steps can be steep, rocky and rough.

Experiences

Tell us what you love doing and we’ll curate a journey that’s perfect for you.

Church of Yemrehanna Kristos

Visit the remote and deeply sacred church of Yemrehanna Kristos, which sits within a vast cavern. Here, the remains of more than 10,000 pilgrims are said to lie.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Unique monolithic rock hewn Church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis), UNESCO World heritage, Lalibela, Ethiopia

Visit Bet Giyorgis at Dusk

Visit the outlying Bet Giyorgis, arguably Lalibela’s most beautiful church. Carved into the shape of a Greek cross and perfectly preserved, this masterpiece is best appreciated in the late afternoon sunlight.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Rock Church of St. George in Lalibela, Ethiopia

Rock-cut Churches

Visit Lalibela’s iconic rock-cut churches, which are hewn into the hillside. Built during the 12th and 13th century, these still-active religious edifices are cut into the red volcanic rock.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Experience Timkat

Visit Lalibela’s churches during the Orthodox Epiphany, Timkat, when religious fervour descends on the country. Parades, processions and baptism re-enactments all take place during this national celebration.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Holiday Idea

Ethiopian Highlands including Lalibela

9 days

from £3,910 pp

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Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

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Illona Cross

Before joining Steppes Travel over 25 years ago, I spent a decade working as a ranger, guide and lodge manager across Southern and East Africa. It’s also a deeply personal place for me: I got married in Africa, honeymooned in Africa and still return every year with my family – proof that my love for the continent runs far deeper than just professional experience.

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01285 880 980

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