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Debre Libanos Monastery Tour: Explore a 13th Century Religious Site and Nature Hike

4.5

12 Ratings

Debre Libanos

Embark on a captivating tour of Debre Libanos Monastery, a 13th-century religious site in Ethiopia. Explore the stunning Jemma River Gorge, hike through nature, and enjoy a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.

Duration: 9 hours

Cancellation: 1 day learn more

Highlights

Portuguese Bridge - Constructed in the 17th century, the Portuguese Bridge was built by either Indian or Portuguese craftsmen prior to the Jesuits’ expulsion in 1633, or it may have been erected later during the Gondarine era. Even if the bridge is just over a century old, rather than roughly four centuries, it stands as a remarkable monument to the enduring stonemasonry traditions from the earlier Gondarine period. Spanning 33 meters from one side to the other and rising 10 meters above the ever-flowing stream, the bridge features three arches. The main arch is supported by two naturally occurring boulders that serve as pillars across the streambed. The bridge’s top is bordered by low battlements along its 2.75-meter-wide path. The craftsmanship is so precise that it’s difficult to discern where the bridge’s stonework ends and the natural rock foundation begins.

What's Included

Local and professional guide
All entrance fees included
Complimentary bottled water
Lunch provided
Transport in an air-conditioned latest model minivan
Experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony

What's Not Included

Personal interest
Alcoholic Drinks

Additional Information

At 9:00 am we’ll depart from your selected location and travel 110km North of Addis Ababa, over the Entoto Mountains, through the Sululta plains to Debre Libanos, a 13th century monastery established by the Ethiopian saint Abuna Tekle Haymanot. This is deemed one of the holiest sites for Orthodox pilgrimages, which overlooks the breathtaking Jemma River Gorge, a tributary of the mystic Blue Nile River. We’ll hike through the stunning Jemma Valley and Goro river waterfall, where we are likely to encounter native Gelada baboons and various bird species. Afterwards, we’ll make a stop at the 16th-century Portuguese Bridge, erected by the Portuguese but built by Ethiopians in the 19th century, modelled on old Portuguese architectural styles. The awe-inspiring view of Jemma River Gorge is an unforgettable sight. We’ll conclude our journey with an authentic Ethiopian lunch and traditional coffee ceremony atop the scenic Ethio-German Park.

Any travelers can participate easily

Location

Portuguese Bridge

Near the Blue Nile Water Fall

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings

4.5

(12 Ratings)

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1 star

Msladybailey

Dec 25, 2022

Ethiopian Exploration ❤️ - I highly recommend this tour! A complete 10/10. My tour guide Melaku was professional and knowledgeable and as a plus he speaks perfect English, which was helpful as I am a U.S. traveler. Additionally, I am a solo female traveler and I felt 100% safe at all times! The areas we explored were beautiful and the food and coffee experience was a delight. The church was absolutely astonishing and the the owners were extremely flexible and allowed time in the schedule for me to do a mini photo shoot in traditional Ethiopian attire. We completed a hike that led to the Portuguese Bridge. This area had the most amazing views, I mean BREATHTAKING!! Please wear comfy shoes. Next to the bridge was a lovely Ethiopian restaurant with excellent and polite staff. We even saw local wildlife! After lunch, I tried Ethiopian beer and Ethiopian liquor with the locals who were very welcoming. All in all, if you have a chance you don’t want to miss this tour!!!