Destinations: Debre libanos Monastery
Tour Name: Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery
Mode of Transportation: Surface
Duration: 1 day
Embark on a refreshing full day excursion to Debre Libanos Monastery, one of Ethiopia’s most important religious and historical sites, located just 110 km north of Addis Ababa. Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the Entoto Mountains and the rolling landscapes of the Ethiopian highlands.
Upon arrival, explore the 12th-century Debre Libanos Monastery, founded by Saint Tekle Haymanot one of Ethiopia’s most revered saints. Visit the modern church, adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows, and learn about its spiritual significance. You will also tour the small monastery museum, which displays ancient manuscripts, religious artifacts and traditional church treasures.
Continue your experience with a short hike to the Portuguese Bridge, an iconic stone arch believed to have been built in the 16th century. Enjoy breathtaking views of the deep Jemma River Gorge and observe a variety of wildlife, including the endemic Gelada baboons. This viewpoint offers perfect photo opportunities of dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and sweeping landscapes. Relax over a traditional Ethiopian lunch at a local lodge overlooking the gorge before returning to Addis Ababa in the late afternoon.
Highlights:
- Scenic drive through Ethiopian highlands
- Visit to Debre Libanos Monastery and museum
- Walk to the historic Portuguese Bridge
- Stunning views of Jemma River Gorge
- Opportunity to see Gelada baboons
- Traditional Ethiopian lunch with a view
| DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION |
Addis Ababa |
| DEPARTURE TIME |
9:00 am. |
| INCLUDED |
- 4w Drive vehicle with Driver and Fuel
- All entrance fees
- Bottled Water
- Cultural Coffee
- English Speaking guides
- Lunch
- Professional Guide Service
|
| NOT INCLUDED |
- Alcoholic Drinks
- Any Flight
- Camera and Video Charges
- Dinner
- Hotel accommodation
- Personal Insurance
- Personal Tips and Gratitude
- Shopping Items
- Souvenirs from the Afar people
|
08:00 AM – Departure from Addis Ababa
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and begin the journey north toward Debre Libanos. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Entoto Mountains and rural highland villages.
09:30 AM – Stop at Sululta Plains
Make a brief photo stop on the open Sululta grasslands, known for their panoramic views and local pastoral lifestyle.
10:30 AM – Arrive at Debre Libanos Monastery
Visit the historic 12th-century monastery founded by Saint Tekle Haymanot.
Highlights include: The main church with beautiful stained glass windows, The small museum displaying ancient manuscripts and religious artifacts and Learning about the life and miracles of Saint Tekle Haymanot.
11:45 AM – Explore the Monastic Grounds
Walk around the peaceful compound, interact with local monks (when possible), and discover the surrounding spiritual sites such as caves and prayer areas.
12:30 PM – Lunch Break
Drive to a lodge overlooking the Jemma River Gorge. Enjoy lunch while soaking in the dramatic landscape. (Lunch can be arranged on request or paid directly.)
02:00 PM – Visit Portuguese Bridge
Take a short hike to the historic Portuguese Bridge, believed to date back to the 16th century.
Experience: Stunning views of the deep gorge, Seasonal waterfalls cascading into the valley and The chance to see Gelada baboons, endemic to Ethiopia
03:30 PM – Scenic Walk & Photo Time
Enjoy time to walk along the cliffs, take photos, and appreciate the breathtaking scenery of the gorge and surrounding mountains.
04:00 PM – Drive Back to Addis Ababa
Depart Debre Libanos and drive back through the highlands, arriving in the late afternoon.
05:30–06:00 PM – Arrival in Addis Ababa
Drop-off at your hotel or preferred location. End of the day trip.
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