2 Nights 3 Days Lalibela Churches & Trek to Ashton Monastery

Experience the Spiritual and Scenic Wonders of Lalibela in Ethiopia

This 3-day tour through Lalibela offers a chance to explore some of Ethiopia’s most iconic sites, from the centuries-old rock-hewn churches to a scenic trek to the Asheton Merry Monastery. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and authentic reviews give a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What really stands out are the impressive medieval churches carved directly into the rock, the opportunity to hike through lush landscapes and local villages, and the chance to attend actual church services at Lalibela’s active religious sites.

A possible consideration is the pace of the trip—it’s packed with activities and long walks, which could be tiring for some. But overall, this tour seems perfect for those eager to combine spiritual exploration with outdoor adventure. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate history, unique architecture, and authentic cultural interactions, all in a relatively short timeframe.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion in one of Ethiopia’s most sacred and historic sites
• Adventure through a trek to Asheton Merry Monastery, perched at 3,200 meters
• Unique architecture—the churches are carved from solid rock and over 900 years old
• Local interaction including visits to villages and attending church services
• Value for the price, combining accommodation, guides, entrance fees, and activities
• Early morning church services for a genuine spiritual experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Lalibela Churches & Trek Tour

The Starting Point: Flying into Lalibela

The experience begins with a flight to Lalibela, a town deeply woven into Ethiopia’s religious and cultural fabric. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will meet you at the airport, making the transition smooth and straightforward. From there, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, setting the scene for the explorations ahead.

Traveling to Lalibela by air is a practical choice—given the geographical challenges and the remote location, this saves hours of driving and keeps the trip manageable within three days. The tour includes airport transfers, which is a plus for those unfamiliar with local logistics.

First Day: Discovering the Rock-Hewn Churches

After settling in, the afternoon is dedicated to visiting the famous Lalibela churches—a collection of medieval rock-hewn structures that have been active Christian shrines for over 900 years. These churches are often referred to as “the living wonders of the world,” and it’s easy to see why.

The tour starts with the Northwestern Clusters, including Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel, Bet Danaghel, Bet Mikael, and Golgotha. These sites are not just historical relics—they are active places of worship, with ongoing church services and pilgrimages, making for an authentic and spiritual experience.

The highlight is undoubtedly Bet Giyorgis, a monolithic church shaped like a cross. Built in honor of St. George, Ethiopia’s patron saint, it’s a jaw-dropping sight—carved from a single piece of rock and standing as a testament to ancient craftsmanship.

Practical Tip: Expect a lot of walking and uneven surfaces. Comfortable shoes are a must, and be prepared for the possibility of crowds, especially during service times. As one reviewer noted, “Attending church early in the morning at these ancient sites was a profound experience, not to be missed.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Day Two: Trek to Asheton Merry Monastery & Hudad Eco Lodge

The second day is the real highlight for adventure lovers — a trek to the Asheton Merry Monastery, perched at 3,200 meters above sea level. Located about two hours walk from Lalibela, this active monastery offers a chance to see religious life still very much alive.

The path to Asheton is scenic, passing through local villages and offering glimpses of daily Ethiopian life. “The walk was challenging but incredibly rewarding,” shared a traveler who appreciated the blend of hiking and cultural exchange.

After a short break at Asheton, the trek continues for about 1.5 hours to reach the Hudad Eco Lodge, sitting at 3,400 meters. This eco-lodge isn’t just a place to rest; it’s a vantage point for panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

Here, the afternoon is spent watching endemic wildlife like black Gelada baboons, mountain hyrax, and various bird species. The lodge’s setting allows for a relaxed, nature-focused experience after the hike.

Local Culture & Food: The tour includes a stop at a local village en route back to Lalibela, providing insight into the lives of people who have maintained traditional ways of living for generations.

Practical Note: The trek involves some elevation, so those with altitude sensitivity should prepare accordingly. The combination of hiking and wildlife viewing makes this a balanced adventure, rewarding for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Day Three: Final Sacred Visits & Cultural Experiences

The last morning begins with an early church service at one of Lalibela’s active churches. This is often considered the most spiritual part of the tour, as you witness local worshippers in prayer and song, often in the very churches carved from rock.

Following this, the tour visits the Southeastern Cluster, including Bet Gabriel-Rufael, Bet Merkorios, Bet Amanual, and Bet Abba Libanos. These churches further showcase Lalibela’s architectural diversity and religious significance.

Finally, the group is driven back to Lalibela airport for departures or onward travel.

What’s Included & What to Budget For

The tour fee of $419 per person covers most essentials: entrance fees for the churches and Asheton Monastery, a private guide, accommodation in Lalibela, airport transfers, and even a traditional coffee ceremony.

However, travelers should note that meals, domestic flights, and alcohol are not included — so budgeting extra for food and drinks is advisable. The tour offers good value considering the guided tours, entrance fees, and cultural activities bundled together.

Authentic Experiences That Stand Out

Many reviewers appreciated the opportunity to attend church services, describing the experience as “profound and moving,” and the chance to interact with local villagers added a layer of authenticity to the trip. The professional guide was praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making complex history and religious customs accessible.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: The tour is structured to maximize the temple visits and hikes within a short window, so expect a busy schedule.
• Physical demands: The trek to Asheton and the hike to the eco-lodge require moderate fitness and comfort with altitude.
• Cultural sensitivity: Since the churches are active places of worship, respectful attire and behavior are recommended.
• Flexibility: You can reserve and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

The Sum Up

This 3-day adventure in Lalibela offers a compelling mix of history, spirituality, and outdoor exploration. The combination of UNESCO-listed churches, vibrant religious life, and scenic treks makes it a well-rounded experience for those with curiosity about Ethiopia’s ancient traditions and stunning landscapes.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity, don’t mind some physical activity, and want to see one of the world’s most extraordinary religious sites in an intimate, guided setting.

If you’re looking for a trip that balances historical marvels with adventure, this tour delivers a memorable snapshot of Ethiopia’s spiritual heartland—at a reasonable price with plenty included for peace of mind.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who aren’t very active?
The tour involves walking, including a two-hour trek to Asheton Merry Monastery and additional walking at the eco-lodge. Moderate physical fitness is recommended, especially for the trek and hikes.

Are the churches open during church services?
Yes, part of the experience includes attending early morning church services at the active Lalibela churches, offering an authentic glimpse into local worship practices.

What’s the accommodation like?
Accommodation for two nights is included, though specific details aren’t provided. Expect basic, comfortable hotels that serve as good bases for exploring Lalibela.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak English?
The guide speaks English, so language shouldn’t be a barrier, but it’s always good to confirm in advance.

Is this tour good for wildlife and nature lovers?
Absolutely. The afternoon at Hudad Eco Lodge provides opportunities to see endemic animals like the black Gelada baboons and mountain hyrax, along with birdwatching.

What should I pack for the trek?
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for altitude changes, sun protection, and possibly a hat or sunglasses are advisable.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, so you should budget extra for food and drinks during your stay.

How flexible is the booking process?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour is a wonderful way to connect with Ethiopia’s spiritual roots and natural beauty, all while enjoying a thoughtfully organized, balanced itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: