Any trip to northern Ethiopia is incomplete without a visit to Lalibela. Its rock-hewn churches, stunning landscapes, and amazing restaurants make it a must-see in the country. To this day, Lalibela remains the living, beating heart of spiritual Ethiopia.
Trip Summary
With the rock-hewn churches taking centre stage, it can be all too easy to whizz past this fascinating town in a day or two, never to return, having left so much undiscovered. If you’ve got a little extra time to play with, the highlands around Lalibela have a lot to offer, and it’s easy to weave these wonderful destinations into your itinerary.
Churches and Monasteries
The monasteries of Yemrehane Kristos, Asheton Maryam, and Nakuta La’ab are an afternoon drive away from central Lalibela.
Mountain Peaks
Sitting at 4,260m above sea level, Abuna Yoseph is the 6th highest peak in Ethiopia, and the 19th highest in Africa. It’s a challenging but rewarding hike that offers stunning views of the northern highlands and Goha Mountains.
Hudad Lodge & Local Hikes
Locally run, Hudad Lodge is perched on the edge of an escarpment outside Lalibela. A short drive takes you to the trailhead, and a moderate hike of 2-3 hours brings you to the lodge. The views on the trail and at the lodge are staggering, and it’s the perfect way to spend a final night in Lalibela before continuing your onward journey.
Ben Abeba
Ethiopia meets Scotland. Everything about Ben Abeba is incredible. From the location atop a spine of hills, to the Ethiopian modernist architecture and – of course – the delicious menu designed to be a fusion of Ethiopian and Scottish flavours. Anyone for an Ethiopian scotch egg?
Brilliant says: while not included in this itinerary, you might want to consider including some community trekking in Wollo, just outside Lalibela. Wollo is where community trekking first began in 2004, and the meditative walks and jaw-dropping views have been delighting travellers ever since.
