Ancient Wonders: A Five -Day Journey through Tigray and Axum

Culture & Historical Tours From Entoto Park, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to Bole Addis Ababa International Airport

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Duration
5 days

Tour languages
English, French

Guiding type
Fully guided

Group size
1 - 12

Hygiene protocol
Included

Budget Class
budget

Physical Rating
hard

Suitable ages
9 - 90

Tour overview

Embark on a captivating four-day journey through Tigray, Ethiopia, where ancient history and spiritual heritage intertwine. This region is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and remarkable rock-hewn churches, carved into rugged cliffs and dating back to the early days of Christianity.

Our adventure begins in Axum, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the heart of a powerful kingdom. Here, we’ll explore iconic obelisks, ancient palaces, and the legendary Ark of the Covenant. As we visit Tigray's sacred sites, each church reveals its unique story and stunning artistry against dramatic backdrops.

Join us in uncovering Tigray's rich tapestry of history and spirituality, where every stone tells a story and every church resonates with the prayers of generations. This journey promises to deepen your appreciation of Ethiopia's religious heritage while inspiring awe through its natural beauty.

Highlights

Ancient Architecture: Over 120 churches carved into cliffs and rock faces, some dating back to the 4th century.
Scenic Locations: Perched atop rugged mountains with breathtaking views of the Gheralta and Teka Tesfai regions
Adventure Access: Some churches like Abuna Yemata Guh require thrilling climbs up steep cliffs—rewarded with stunning art and serenity.

Itinerary

Day {item.day}: {item.title}

VISITED PLACES

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Routes

Included

Accommodation

Hotel and Lodge

Flights

Domestics Flight

Guide

Meals

breakfast

Insurance

Transport

Land cruise car

Other included

All Entrance fee

Government Tax

Coffee and Tea

Hygiene protocol

1. Cultural and Religious Etiquette

Dress Modestly: Long sleeves, long skirts or trousers. Women
may be asked to cover their hair inside churches.

Shoes Off: Remove shoes before entering any church.

Photography: Ask for permission, especially when
photographing priests or ceremonies.

2. Physical Fitness

Many Tigray rock-hewn churches are located on steep cliffs
(e.g., Abuna Yemata Guh). Visitors should be prepared for difficult climbs,
often involving free climbing or narrow ledges.

Not suitable for those with vertigo, heart conditions, or
poor physical health.

3. Religious Calendar

Best Times to Visit: Major Ethiopian Orthodox celebrations
(e.g., Timket in January, Meskel in September).

Church ceremonies often occur early in the morning.

4. Local Currency

Bring Ethiopian Birr in cash, especially in rural Tigray
where ATMs or card payments are not available.

5. Accommodation and Food

Axum has hotels and restaurants, but options are more
limited in rural Tigray.

Pack snacks and water for remote visits.

6. Respect for Sacred Sites

Many churches are active places of worship. Keep noise to a
minimum.

Some areas may be off-limits to non-Orthodox visitors or
women.

7. Key Sites in Axum

Church of St. Mary of Zion: Home to Ethiopia’s most sacred
religious site.

Axum Obelisks: UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering
ancient stelae.

Excluded

Hygiene protocol

1. Cultural and Religious Etiquette

Dress Modestly: Long sleeves, long skirts or trousers. Women
may be asked to cover their hair inside churches.

Shoes Off: Remove shoes before entering any church.

Photography: Ask for permission, especially when
photographing priests or ceremonies.

2. Physical Fitness

Many Tigray rock-hewn churches are located on steep cliffs
(e.g., Abuna Yemata Guh). Visitors should be prepared for difficult climbs,
often involving free climbing or narrow ledges.

Not suitable for those with vertigo, heart conditions, or
poor physical health.

3. Religious Calendar

Best Times to Visit: Major Ethiopian Orthodox celebrations
(e.g., Timket in January, Meskel in September).

Church ceremonies often occur early in the morning.

4. Local Currency

Bring Ethiopian Birr in cash, especially in rural Tigray
where ATMs or card payments are not available.

5. Accommodation and Food

Axum has hotels and restaurants, but options are more
limited in rural Tigray.

Pack snacks and water for remote visits.

6. Respect for Sacred Sites

Many churches are active places of worship. Keep noise to a
minimum.

Some areas may be off-limits to non-Orthodox visitors or
women.

7. Key Sites in Axum

Church of St. Mary of Zion: Home to Ethiopia’s most sacred
religious site.

Axum Obelisks: UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering
ancient stelae.

Additional Services

Other not included

Lunch and Dinner

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