Nothing quite prepares you for Lalibela. You walk along a path, look down, and there, carved into the ground below you, is an entire church.
Go early
At dawn, white-robed pilgrims gather to pray and priests chant from ancient manuscripts. The atmosphere is extraordinary, and the light is beautiful.
Don’t miss
- Bete Medhane Alem — the largest monolithic church in the world.
- Bete Maryam — with its painted ceilings.
- Bete Giyorgis — the cross-shaped Church of Saint George, set alone in its pit.
- Yemrehanna Kristos — a church built inside a cave, 40 km away.
Etiquette
Dress modestly and bring socks, as shoes are removed inside. Ask before photographing people.
See our 7-Day Historic Ethiopia itinerary.
