The Northern region of Tigray is the perfect scenario to enjoy an unforgettable trekking day along the sandstone ridges with astounding views through the Gheralta valley. Climbing up to the rock-hewn churches will take you back to the 4th century. On your way, you will witness age-old farming practices while surrounded by gelada baboons or birds of prey. Be enchanted by the beauty and serenity of this area owned by proud people about their history and culture.
The natural landscapes of the Gheralta Mountains are called by some travelers as the Ethiopian Arizona. We are engaging in a range of eco-tourism activities, the tour designed to offer you unique insight into Gheralta life.
Day 1: Arrive to Addis Ababa
welcoming from an Insider at the airport and city tour in Addis Ababa with a visit to the Ethnographic and National Museums, the Trinity Church and the largest open market in Africa, Merkato.
Day 2: Fly to Axum
Home of the ancient Axumite Empire, the Queen of Sheba and the Ark of the Covenant, and visit the Archeological Museum, the tombs, the stelae field and the Maryam Zion church.
Day 3: Drive to Hawzien via Adwa
The historic battlefield where the victory over the Italians took place in 1895 and visit the ruins of the Yeha temple and the ancient cliff top monastery of Debre Damo and on the way. Continue to Adigrat, an important junction link between Ethiopia and Eritrea and finally reach Hawzien for overnight.
Day 4: Excursion to the main churches of Geralta Region
Including the rock-hewn churches of Abune Yemata Guh, Debre Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor.
Day 5: Drive to Mekele
Drive to Mekele and visit the churches of Wukro Cherkos and Abraha Weastbeha on the way. In the late afternoon, fly to Addis Ababa. In the evening, farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant with local dancers and musicians representing some of the country’s ethnic groups. Transfer to airport for departure. End of the tour.
Arrive to Addis Ababa, welcoming from an Insider at the airport and city tour in Addis Ababa with a visit to the Ethnographic and National Museums, the Trinity Church and the largest open market in Africa, Merkato.
Fly to Axum, home of the ancient Axumite Empire, the Queen of Sheba and the Ark of the Covenant, and visit the Archeological Museum, the tombs, the stelae field and the Maryam Zion church.
Drive to Hawzien via Adwa, the historic battlefield where the victory over the Italians took place in 1895 and visit the ruins of the Yeha temple and the ancient cliff top monastery of Debre Damo and on the way. Continue to Adigrat, an important junction link between Ethiopia and Eritrea and finally reach Hawzien for overnight
Excursion to the main churches of Geralta Region, including the rock-hewn churches of Abune Yemata Guh, Debre Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor.
Drive to Mekele and visit the churches of Wukro Cherkos and Abraha Weastbeha on the way. In the late afternoon, fly to Addis Ababa. In the evening, farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant with local dancers and musicians representing some of the country’s ethnic groups. Transfer to airport for departure.