Debre Libanos - This ancient and historic monastery in Ethiopia is located northwest of Addis Ababa. Founded in the 13th century by Saint Tekle Haymanot, who, according to tradition, meditated in a cave for 29 years. The monastery’s chief abbot, known as the Ichege, was the second most influential figure in the Ethiopian Church after the Abuna. The monastery complex is situated on a terrace between a cliff and the gorge of a tributary of the Abbay River. Although none of the original buildings remain, David Buxton believed “there are interesting things still to be found among the neighboring cliffs.” The current structures include the church over Tekle Haymanot’s tomb, commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie in 1961; a slightly older Church of the Cross, which reportedly houses a fragment of the True Cross; and five religious schools. The cave where the saint lived is nearby, described as a five-minute walk away by one travel guide. This cave has a spring, whose water is considered holy and attracts pilgrims.

Portuguese Bridge - The Portuguese Bridge near Debre Libanos, though attributed to the Portuguese in the 16th century, was actually constructed by Ethiopians at the turn of the 19th century in the old Portuguese style. The narrow span is picturesque, and the waterfall below it, especially during the rainy season, is even more impressive.

Mount Entoto - Entoto is the highest peak in the Entoto Mountains, overlooking Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, and reaching 3,200 meters above sea level. The mountain is densely forested with eucalyptus trees imported from Australia during Menelik II’s reign and mostly planted during Emperor Haile Selassie’s time. It is sometimes called the “lung of Addis Ababa” due to its dense forest, which is a vital source of firewood for the city and was historically a source of building material.

Debre Libanos - You will have the opportunity to experience the daily life of Ethiopians in the local huts or grass houses in the countryside near Debre Libanos.