Trip To Debre Libanos & Blue Nile Gorge (September 25)

Debre Libanos - Debre Libanos is an important monastic center for Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. The monastery was founded by the renowned 13th century mystic, St Teklehaimanot. Before driving back to Addis, we will stop at the Jemma River Gorge. The Jemma River is one of the tributaries of the Nile, and there is a drop of nearly 1000 metros to the valley below. We will walk downhill to the 17th century Portuguese Bridge. Here we can expect to see plenty of birdlife including the Banded Barbet, the Black headed forest oriole, the White billed starling, the Red Billed starling, the White winged cliff chat, the White backed black tit, white cheeked Turaco and Hemprich’s hornbill.

Portuguese Bridge - Portuguese bridge near Debre Libanos was erected by the Portuguese in the 16th century; it was actually built at the turn of the 19th century by Ethiopians, albeit in the old Portuguese style. The narrow span makes a pretty picture and the gushing (in the rainy season) cascade just below it is even more impressive. We will also see one of Ethiopia’s endemic mammals, the Gelada or bleeding heart baboon. Leaving the Gorge we drive back to Addis Ababa.

• All-inclusive meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Coffee/Tea)
• Bottled water provided
• Comprehensive fee coverage (All fees and taxes included)
• Personal guide at each site
• Comfortable transportation with in-vehicle air conditioning
• Driver Allowance included

• All not Mentioned on the Inclusion

• Join in the Meskel Festival celebrations with exclusive access to the stage.
• Explore the largest marketplace on the African continent
• Discover the heart of Ethiopia: Addis Ababa
• Dive into Ethiopia’s rich past on a guided exploration
• Take a tour of Melka Kunture, Adadi Mariam, and the UNESCO designated site of Tiya
• Revel in an intimate travel experience featuring only you, your group, your chauffeur, and your guide.
• Be awed by the extraordinary architecture of Lalibela’s rock-carved churches
• Uncover the secrets of the enigmatic Tiya archaeological site alongside an expert guide
• Maximize your time with convenient pick-up and drop-off from your hotel
• The tour offers a partial glimpse into rural Ethiopia, including a look at the countryside’s traditional hut and grass homes.
• An opportunity to learn about Ethiopian history
• Discover life within the monastery and its museums
• Get a chance to see the endemic Ethiopian baboons, known as Chilada
• Observe the diverse bird life abundant in this area and marvel at the stunning Portuguese bridge waterfalls

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