Lalibela Rock Hewn Churches Full Day Guided Tour

Lalibela , Ethiopia

Lalibela Rock Hewn Churches Full Day Guided Tour

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About this experience

Discover one of the world’s greatest spiritual and architectural wonders: the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. Carved directly into the rugged volcanic stone more than 800 years ago, these UNESCO World Heritage masterpieces are still active places of worship today.
Your expert local guide will walk you through every church, passageway, tunnel, and legend that makes Lalibela a destination unlike any other.

Available options

Lalibela Rock Hewn Churches Full Day Guided Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water and lunch

Professional local guide (English-speaking; other languages on request)

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Lalibela

All entrance fees to Lalibela churches

Detailed itinerary

Midday Break (1 hour)

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant with panoramic views over Lalibela. Try fresh injera, local wot stews, or Tella (local beer).
(Lunch cost optional or included depending on your package.)

Morning: Northern Church Cluster (Approx. 3 hours)

Begin your journey at the Northern Cluster, home to some of Lalibela’s most iconic churches.
Highlights include:

1. Bete Medhane Alem (House of the Savior of the World)

One of the largest monolithic churches in the world

Home to Lalibela’s famous processional crosses

A breathtaking basilica carved from a single block of rock

2. Bete Maryam (House of Mary)

Oldest church in Lalibela

Beautifully preserved ancient frescoes

Holy pool believed to have healing powers

3. Bete Golgotha & Mikael

Known for its mysterious atmosphere and sacred art

Contains tombs believed to belong to biblical and Ethiopian saints

4. Bete Meskel & Bete Danaghel

Smaller chapels with deep spiritual history

Built to honor early Christian martyrs

Stop 3

Afternoon: Eastern Church Cluster (Approx. 2–3 hours)

5. Bete Amanuel (House of Emmanuel)

Exceptional example of refined Axumite architecture

Believed to be the royal family’s private church

6. Bete Merkorios

Features cave-style rock tunnels

Possible origins as a former prison or monastery

7. Bete Gabriel & Rafael

Fortress-like structure connected by bridges

Thought to have served as an ancient court or palace

8. Bete Abba Libanos

Beautifully carved church attached to the rock face

Built in honor of Saint Abba Libanos

⛪ Final Highlight: Bete Giyorgis (St. George Church)

End your tour at Lalibela’s most photogenic masterpiece—Bete Giyorgis, carved in a perfect cross-shape deep into the ground.

The crown jewel of Ethiopian rock architecture

Best panoramic viewpoint for photos

Built in honor of Saint George, Ethiopia’s patron saint

What's not included

Tips and personal expenses

Domestic Flight

international flight

Travel Insurance

Accommodation

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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

Nakuto La'ab Monastery

35 km (22 miles) • Half day

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.