Addis Ababa: Debre Libanos Monastery & Jemma Valley Tour
ID: GYG1319479-2015313
Category:
Country: Ethiopia
Duration:
10:00 hours
Description
Explore the Debre Libanos Monastery and the Blue Nile Gorge on a day trip from Addis Ababa. Visit the Portuguese Bridge, trek to the Saint Teklehaimanot Cave Church, and enjoy a picnic lunch.
After pickup from your hotel or from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, drive about 100 km north of Addis Ababa through dramatic mountain landscapes. Along the way, enjoy views of the Ethiopian highlands, home to endemic wildlife including the famous bleeding-heart gelada baboons and a variety of native bird species.
Arrive at Debre Libanos Monastery, one of Ethiopia’s most important religious and historical sites. The monastery was founded in 1284 by the Ethiopian saint Abune Tekle Haymanot and is beautifully situated on a terrace overlooking the dramatic gorge of the Jamma River, one of the tributaries of the Blue Nile.
Continue to the spectacular Blue Nile Gorge, often compared to the Grand Canyon of Arizona for its breathtaking scenery and immense depth. Nearby, visit the historic Portuguese Bridge, built during the reign of Ras Darge in the late 19th century in a classic Portuguese-inspired architectural style.
Enjoy scenic walks, interact with local Oromo communities, and trek to the historic Saint Teklehaimanot Cave Church, a sacred site where nearly 300 monks were massacred by Italian forces during the Italian invasion of Ethiopia in 1936.
On the return drive to Addis Ababa, stop at Entoto Mountain for panoramic views of the capital city from an elevation of about 3,300 meters (10,827 feet) above sea level.
Highlights
- Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of the Blue Nile Gorge
- Visit the historic Debre Libanos Monastery and learn about its history
- Explore the Portuguese Bridge and admire its architectural style
- Trek to the sacred Saint Teklehaimanot Cave Church
- Observe endemic wildlife, including gelada baboons and native birds
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Women are advised to wear clothing that covers below the knees when visiting the monastery.
Bringing a scarf to cover the head inside the monastery is recommended for women, although optional.
Comfortable walking or trekking shoes are recommended.
Carry a light jacket, as the highland weather can be cool.
INCLUDED
- Pickup and drop-off anywhere in Addis Ababa (hotel or airport)
- Ground transportation including vehicle, fuel, and professional driver
- English-speaking professional tour guide
- Local site guides
- One meal (lunch), bottled water, and hot drinks
- Entrance fees
NOT INCLUDED
- International flights
- Snacks
- Personal gratuitys
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
