Day 1: Arrival in Lalibela and Exploration

Morning:

• Arrive in Lalibela (via flight from Addis Ababa or other major cities).
• Transfer to your hotel for check-in and some rest.
• Begin your day with a visit to the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These stunning 12th-century churches, carved out of solid rock, are among the most impressive religious structures in the world.
  • Start with Bete Medhane Alem (Church of the Savior of the World), the largest of the churches.
  • Visit Bete Giyorgis (St. George’s Church), which is shaped like a cross and stands as one of the most iconic of Lalibela’s churches.

Afternoon:

• After lunch, continue exploring other churches, including Bete Amanuel, Bete Abbo, and Bete Mercurios. Each church has unique features, including beautiful murals, ancient manuscripts, and religious relics.
• Visit Lalibela’s local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps shop for traditional Ethiopian crafts like baskets, scarves, and jewelry.

Evening:

• Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like doro wat (chicken stew), injera, and t’ej (honey wine).
• Overnight in Lalibela.

Day 2: Enkutatash (Ethiopian New Year) Celebrations in Lalibela

Morning:

• Start your day early with the morning mass at Bete Medhane Alem or Bete Giyorgis. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church holds special liturgies for Enkutatash. The service includes hymns, chanting in Ge’ez, and blessings for the new year.
• Witness the local Enkutatash celebrations, where the community dresses in traditional clothing, and the streets come alive with joy and excitement. Children often perform songs and dances in celebration of the new year.

Afternoon:

• Attend a special Enkutatash procession in the town, where people sing, chant, and offer prayers to mark the occasion. The processions are filled with traditional rituals, including the handing out of flowers and blessings for a prosperous year.
• Visit the local markets again, as they are especially vibrant on Enkutatash, with many people purchasing new clothes, spices, and food to mark the occasion.
• Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian lunch at a restaurant in Lalibela.

Evening:

• Join the community celebrations in the evening, which often include traditional dancing, eskista (Ethiopian shoulder dance), and singing. The celebrations are usually held in open spaces or around the rock-hewn churches, creating a festive atmosphere.
• Enjoy a festive dinner with local dishes, followed by t’ej (honey wine) and coffee as part of the traditional Ethiopian celebration.
• Overnight in Lalibela.

Day 3: Lalibela Exploration and Departure

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a morning hike to Asheten Mariam Monastery, located on a hilltop with stunning views of Lalibela and the surrounding landscape. This remote monastery is known for its spiritual significance and offers a quiet retreat from the town’s festive atmosphere.
• Explore the local countryside around Lalibela, including the natural landscapes and traditional villages, giving you a deeper understanding of the rural Ethiopian lifestyle.

Afternoon:

• After lunch, you may visit any churches you missed earlier, or enjoy some free time to relax and explore Lalibela at your own pace.
• If you wish, you can visit the Lalibela Museum, which provides further insights into the history and cultural significance of the town and its churches.

Evening:

• Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Addis Ababa or your next destination.
• If you have time before your flight, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Lalibela’s markets once more or relax at a local café.