7 Days Timkat – Ethiopian Epiphany

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa – City Tour

Arrive in Addis Ababa in the morning. After a relaxing morning, we’ll embark on an afternoon sightseeing tour of the city. You’ll visit the National Museum, home to historic treasures including fossils and bones of early hominids discovered in Ethiopia, such as the famous 3.5 million-year-old remains of “Lucy.” Next, we’ll explore the Holy Trinity Church, Ethiopia’s main cathedral, which houses the remains of the last emperor, Haile Selassie. The tour will conclude with a visit to Menelik’s Mausoleum.

Day 2: Fly to Axum

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Bole Airport for your flight to Axum, the legendary city believed to be the home of Queen Sheba and the current resting place of the Ark of the Covenant.

Upon arrival, we’ll begin with a city tour, including the Archaeological Museum and the Cathedral of St. Mary of Zion. Originally built by Emperor Fasilides in 1665, this church is said to rest on the foundations of a temple dating back to the 4th or 6th century. Keep an eye out for the chapel, which is rumored to house the Ark of the Covenant. We’ll also explore the on-site museum housing priceless Ethiopian relics.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the famous Stele Field, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 120 stelae, some of which were taken by Mussolini but have since been returned. We’ll also explore the tombs of Kings Kaleb and Gebre Meskel and the legendary Queen of Sheba’s residence.

Day 3: Fly to Lalibela

This morning, after breakfast, we’ll catch a flight to Lalibela, renowned for its rock-hewn churches. Ethiopia was the first country to adopt Christianity, and Lalibela’s 11 monolithic churches are considered an architectural marvel.

We’ll visit the first group of churches, symbolizing earthly Jerusalem, including Bete Medhanialem, the largest and tallest monolithic rock-hewn church in the world. We’ll also explore the oldest church, Bet Maryam, with its exquisite frescoes, and Bet Golgotha, known for its remarkable reliefs.

Day 4: Mule Riding Excursion

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a mule ride to the Asheten Mariam Monastery atop a mountain overlooking Lalibela. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the second group of churches, representing the heavenly Jerusalem, including Bete Gabriel & Raphael, Bete Merquorios, and the famous Bete Giorgis (St. George), a cross-shaped church symbolizing Noah’s ark. The interior of Bete Giorgis features stunning depictions of Saint George slaying the dragon.

Day 5: Fly to Gondar

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the airport for your flight to Gondar, known for its royal enclosure and castles. Gondar was Ethiopia’s capital from 1636 to the 1660s.

We’ll begin with a visit to the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll explore the impressive two-story palace of Emperor Fasilides and other royal structures. We’ll also visit the Church of Debre Birhan Selassie, known for its colorful ceiling painted with angels.

Day 6: Bahir Dar

After breakfast, we’ll drive for approximately three hours to Bahir Dar, a picturesque lakeside city. On the way, we’ll pass through rural villages and cross stunning mountain passes.

In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a boat trip on Lake Tana to the Zege Peninsula, where we’ll visit the Ura Kidane Meret Monastery, famous for its 16th-century crosses and paintings of Ethiopian saints. We’ll also visit the Azwa Maryam Monastery, known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful gardens.

Day 7: Return to Addis Ababa

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your hotel and a short tour of the city.

Addis Ababa, located at an altitude of 2,500 meters, boasts a pleasant climate and is home to attractions like the Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. In the evening, we’ll host a farewell dinner at one of Addis Ababa’s best traditional restaurants, where you’ll experience Ethiopian cuisine and enjoy folk music and dance.