Note: This option provides the most spectacular experience of Gheralta, but it is also the most intense physically and should be categorized as difficult/demanding. Less challenging options are available on request.

Day 01: Arrival

Upon your arrival at Bole International Airport, clear immigration, and proceed to baggage claim. After collecting your checked bags, clear customs and pass through the arrivals hall where you will be met by our representative. Private vehicle transfer you to your hotel. Overnight at the Sheraton Addis or Radisson Blu Hotel.

Day 02: Fly Addis – Mekele – Drive Gheralta

After breakfast, meet your driver and transfer back to the airport for your flight North to Mekele. On arrival in Mekele, meet your guide and 4x4 vehicle and begin your journey to Gheralta. En route, visit the rock-hewn church of Medhane Alem Adi Kesho. The size and complex architecture makes the church incredibly impressive. The exterior is cut free from the rock behind it. The facade boasts four columns in front with two large doors and it is covered in frescoes. Continue to Mikael Milhazengi, a church dedicated to Saint Mikael, which is carved out of an isolated hill at 9,055 feet above sea level. There are a number of graves and ancient indigenous trees inside the courtyard. The most remarkable feature of the church is its beautifully decorated dome. Overnight at Gheralta Lodge.

Day 03: Gheralta – Abune Yemata

This morning drive about seven miles to one of Gheralta’s rock-hewn churches, Abune Yemata (Guh), named for one of the nine saints who came to Ethiopia. A thirty-minute guided walk brings you to the foot of the perpendicular rock mountains of Guh, which appear as though they are pillars touching the sky. The church is carved into the cliff face and is the most spectacular of all rock churches in Ethiopia – and the most challenging to access! The interior of the church is reached via a small fissure in the rock, and is noted for its beautiful frescoes. It is truly awesome that such great works of art have existed for centuries in such an unusual place - seemingly closer to the moon than to the earth. Return the Gheralta Lodge for the afternoon at leisure relaxing, bird watching or exploring the grounds of the lodge and taking in the amazing vistas.

Day 05: Drive Geralta – Mekele – Fly Addis

After an early breakfast, return by road to Mekele for the flight back to Addis Ababa. En route we will visit Abreha Atsbeha, an outstanding rock-hewn church dedicated to the famous twin Axumite kings, Abreha and Atsbeha, who introduced Christianity to Ethiopia during the 4th century. The church is said to be the final resting place for the Axumite twins. Every year on October 14th, thousands of pilgrims make the religious journey to Abreha Atsbeha creating a unique ceremonial spectacle. On arrival in Addis, meet your driver and transfer to the Sheraton Addis or Radisson Blu Hotel for the night.

Day 06: Departure

You will have a day-use room for your convenience. Looking to explore Addis? Just let us know and Amani will customize your day’s adventures. Later, bid this amazing country farewell by celebrating its cuisine and delighting your senses with dinner at a traditional restaurant. Airport transfer for late international departures.

Price per person:

1 traveler: $3595 per person, single traveler / upgrade to Sheraton Addis: $885
2 travelers: $2055 per person, sharing double / upgrade to Sheraton Addis: $455
3-4 travelers: $1825 per person, sharing double / upgrade to Sheraton Addis: $455

International flights not included. Internal Ethiopia flights not included. Contact Amani for details.
Pricing for larger groups on request