Lalibela Ethiopia 2 Day Itinerary

2-Day Itinerary: Lalibela, Ethiopia

Lalibela is a town in the Ethiopian Highlands renowned for its stunning rock-hewn churches, carved directly into the sandstone bedrock. This itinerary focuses on exploring these architectural wonders:

Day 1: Exploring the Churches of the World Heritage Site

• Morning:

  • Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Honeyland Hotel’s restaurant. Enjoy their delicious Ethiopian coffee and a hearty injera meal with traditional stews.
  • Visit the Church of St. George (Biete Ghiorgis): This iconic church, carved in the shape of a cross, is a must-see for its intricate design and impressive engineering.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at Lalibela Restaurant, known for its beautiful rooftop terrace and stunning views. Try their injera platter with various vegetarian and meat stews.

• Afternoon:

  • Explore the other churches of the Lalibela complex: Visit the remaining eleven monolithic churches, each with its own unique history and architectural features.
  • Visit the Lalibela Rock Hewn Church Museum: Learn about the history and cultural significance of the rock-hewn churches.

• Evening:

  • Dinner at the Seven Olives Hotel: Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian meal with live music in the evening. This hotel’s restaurant is known for its flavorful dishes and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 2: Connecting with the Local Culture and History

• Morning:

  • Visit the Seven Holy Springs: This site features seven springs, each said to represent one of the churches carved into the rock.
  • Explore the local markets: Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Ethiopian life, experiencing the vibrant colors and textures of the traditional markets.

• Lunch: Indulge in a delicious meal at the Lalibela Market Place while enjoying the local atmosphere.

• Afternoon:

  • Visit the Ethnographic Museum: Learn about the unique traditions and artifacts of the region.
  • Enjoy a coffee ceremony: This is a cultural experience that you can’t miss in Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee!

• Evening:

  • Dinner at the Ben Abeba Restaurant: Savor their modern Ethiopian cuisine with a stunning view of the city.

Things to Know:

• Lalibela is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: This means it’s recognized for its historical and cultural significance.
• The churches are carved into the rock, literally: The town was founded in the 12th century, but the construction of the churches themselves is a mystery, with many theories about their origins.
• Lalibela is known for its strong religious tradition: Be respectful of local customs and beliefs.

Transportation:

• Within Lalibela: The town is small enough to explore on foot.

• To/from the airport:

  • Hire a taxi from the Lalibela Airport (LLA) to your hotel.

• Flights: The nearest airport is Lalibela Airport (LLA).

• Buses: There are local buses available for transportation within the town and to nearby destinations.

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Lalibela, but be sure to negotiate the price beforehand.

• Tourists can hire:

  • Guides: Many locals offer guiding services and are happy to share their knowledge of the area.
  • Vehicles: For those who prefer not to walk, you can also hire a car with a driver for day trips to nearby attractions.

Things to consider:

• Travel Time: The churches are carved into rock-hewn structures, so plan enough time to explore them all.

• Cost: Lalibela is a relatively affordable destination, but the price of souvenirs and other goods can vary greatly depending on the vendor and your bargaining skills.

• Safety: As with any tourist destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against theft.

• Weather: The weather in Lalibela can be unpredictable, so pack for all types of conditions.

• Altitude Sickness: The town is located at a high altitude (2,500 meters above sea level), so it’s important to be prepared for the effects of altitude. Drink plenty of fluids and take it easy on your first day to acclimate.