From Addis Ababa 2 Day Gheralta Rock Hewn Churches Adventure
Overview
2-Day Gheralta Rock-Hewn Churches Tour from Addis Ababa: Fly from Addis Ababa on a 2-Day Gheralta Rock-Hewn Churches Tour. Climb to Abuna Yemata Guh, Mariam Korkor, Daniel Korkor, and Abraha we Atsbeha in Tigray.
Discover the religious heritage and mountain landscapes of Gheralta on this two-day adventure with Lucy Ethiopia Tours. Begin with a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Mekelle, followed by scenic drives and challenging mountain walks. Stay at Vision Hotel in Hawzen and finish the tour in Mekelle on Day 2. Tour price: USD 300 per person, excluding flights.
What To Expect
Take a morning flight from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) to Mekelle Alula Aba Nega Airport (MQX). Suggested flight: Ethiopian Airlines ET 100. Flight duration is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Departure and arrival times must be reconfirmed for your travel date. On arrival, meet your guide at Mekelle Airport and drive through Wukro toward Megab and the Gheralta Mountains.
Allow approximately 2–2.5 hours of driving from Mekelle to the Abune Yemata Guh trailhead, with additional time for airport pickup and stops. Stop for lunch at your own expense as timing allows. Following a briefing, begin the approach walk and challenging ascent to this remarkable cliffside church.
The route includes steep rock climbing and exposed ledges, requiring good fitness and confidence with heights. Those who complete the climb can admire the church’s paintings and sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. The climb is optional; tell the operator in advance if you would prefer an easier alternative.
After the visit, drive approximately 30–45 minutes to Hawzen and check in at Vision Hotel.
Overnight: Vision Hotel, Hawzen.
After breakfast, drive approximately 30–45 minutes from Hawzen to the Maryam Korkor trailhead. Follow a steep mountain trail, enjoying views of the sandstone formations and farmland below. For reference, the direct drive from Mekelle to this trailhead takes approximately 2–2.5 hours.
Explore the church’s spacious rock-carved interior and religious artwork. Depending on your fitness, available time, and local conditions, continue on foot to nearby Daniel Korkor, approximately 15–30 minutes from Maryam Korkor. Daniel Korkor uses the same road access and trailhead; it cannot be reached directly by vehicle. This additional visit involves exposed sections and is suitable only for guests comfortable with heights.
Descend and stop for lunch at your own expense before driving approximately 2–2.5 hours back to Mekelle. Your tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel. Airport drop-off may be arranged in advance, subject to your flight time. Any onward flight is booked separately.
Duration2 days / 1 night.
Pickup and drop offThe itinerary begins with your morning flight from Addis Ababa. Your guide meets you at Mekelle Airport. Drop-off on Day 2 is at your hotel in Mekelle, or at Mekelle Airport by prior arrangement. Please provide your flight details when booking. Addis Ababa airport transfers are not included.
What's included
- Professional English-speaking local guide
- Private vehicle with driver, including fuel
- Entrance fees to the sites listed in the itinerary
- Meals as per the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water during the tour
- Government taxes and service charges
What's not included
- International flights, and domestic flights unless stated in the itinerary
- Ethiopian visa (an e-visa can be obtained online)
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for the guide and driver
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses and laundry
- Camera and video fees at sites, unless stated in the itinerary
- Any services not mentioned under What’s included
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Ethiopia?
The best time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and transport/roads are in excellent condition.
Do I need a visa to travel to Ethiopia?
Yes, most nationalities require a visa to enter Ethiopia. You can conveniently apply online for an eVisa prior to your arrival, or obtain a visa on arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
What is included in the tour price?
Our tours generally cover all ground transportation, professional guiding services, accommodation, and entrance fees. Please refer to the specific tour's Inclusions/Exclusions section for complete details.
Route Map
Reviews
Proudly Community-Owned
The communities visitable in this area are warm and friendly. If you would like to support them directly, small donations are highly appreciated:
- Pens and school supplies
- Books
- Used clothes
- Children's items
- Any useful materials you feel may benefit the local community
