5 Days Axum and Tigray Church Tours
Tour Highlights
- Full-day city tour of Axum, the ancient capital of the Axumite Empire.
- Visit the magnificent stelae (obelisks), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- See the legendary St. Mary of Zion Church and the Ark of the Covenant chapel.
- Visit the tomb of King Kaleb and the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s Palace.
- Drive via the mountains of Adwa to visit the Temple of Yeha, dating from the 8th to 7th centuries BC.
- Optional stop to view the famous, ancient Debre Damo Monastery (for men).
- Experience the truly adventurous climb to Abune Yemata Guh, renowned for its paintings and panoramic views.
- Hike and explore the impressive Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor churches.
- Visit the oldest and unique rock-hewn church of Abreha we Atsibeha.
Day 1: Aksum City Tour
The tour includes the main stelae park (obelisks). Visit the swimming pool of Queen of Sheba, the Ezana Inscription, the tomb of King Kaleb, and the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s Palace. Conclude with a visit to St. Mary Zion Church and the chapel believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. Overnight: Aksum Sabean Hotel.
Day 2: Aksum – Gheralta via Yeha
After breakfast, drive via the dramatic Adwa mountains to visit the Temple of Yeha, the capital of the pre-Axumite civilization. Stop on the way to view (or visit, for men) the famous Debre Damo Monastery. Drive to Adigrat for lunch, then continue to Hawzien in the Gheralta region. Overnight: Gheralta Lodge.
Day 3: Visit Abune Yemata Guh Church
Drive 12km west of Hawzien. Embark on the adventurous climb to see the famous 6th-century church of Abune Yemata Guh, built by one of the nine saints. This site offers panoramic views and features beautiful, well-preserved paintings. Overnight: Gheralta Lodge.
Day 4: Visit Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor
After breakfast, drive to the trailhead. Enjoy a scenic walk (more than an hour) to visit the churches of Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor, both offering excellent views. Overnight: Wukro Lodge.
Day 5: Wukro – Mekelle: Churches & Museum
In the morning, visit Abune Abraham Church, an ancient church with beautiful paintings (one hour’s walk from the main road). On the way back, visit the oldest, unique church of Abreha we Atsibeha. Stop in Wukro for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Yohannes IV Museum in Mekelle. Overnight: Mekelle Planet Hotel.
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