Debre Libanos Monastery: Explore Jemma Gorge Wildlife

Explore Debre Libanos Monastery, witness Jemma Gorge’s stunning views, and spot rare birds. Discover the mystic history and natural beauty of Ethiopia.

Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Debre Libanos - Debre Libanos is an important monastic center for Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. The monastery there was founded by the renowned 13th-century mystic, Saint Teclehaimanot, and there is a small cave near the church (which is of recent construction) where he is said to have stood for seven years on one leg, until the other was…
What's Included
  • Private transportation
  • Water
  • Pick up and drop off
  • Lunch
  • All fees and taxes
  • Service of local guide
Additional Information

The renowned mystic Saint Teclehaimanot founded the monastery at Debre Libanos, a significant center for Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. There’s a small cave near the recently constructed church where he is said to have stood for seven years on one leg until the other wasted away and fell off.
Upon reaching Debre Libanos, our first destination will be…

Location
SKYLIGHT HOTEL GRAND BALLROOM (ABYSSINIA)
Airport Road
Our guide will have the sign of Liyu Ethiopia Tour and Travel
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
5.0
(6 Ratings)
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Annals8502fp
Jan 7, 2026
A taste of Ethiopia - It was a very unique experience where we got a good taste of authentic Ethiopian culture. We got an informative tour at the monastery and a fun hike with stunning views at the bridge. We also had a few viewpoint stops and saw monkeys. Our guide Oli and driver Danny were very welcoming and accommodating to our requests, needs and desires. The only downside was the road itself as it has a lot of potholes and significant traffic.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Antonioo281
Dec 29, 2025
To get an extensive impression of Ethiopia, the tour is worth it! - The monastery and the Portuguese bridge in and of themselves, are nothing special. But the whole tour with the real impressions from Ethiopia (life in the villages, some customs and traditions) is really worthwhile. Especially with Oli! He is so attentive and hospitable. He has responded to every wish and has completely fulfilled his goal of making a beautiful and informative day for me.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
866josth
Dec 22, 2025
Amazing Guide & Unforgettable Day Trip - We had an amazing day trip to Debre Libanos and the Portuguese Bridge. Our guide was incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and spoke very good English, which made the experience even better. We were able to see everything on the itinerary, including the famous gelada baboons, which was a real highlight. Along the way, they took us to a local restaurant for lunch, and we also enjoyed a honey wine tasting, which was a great cultural touch. Kudoos to the driver as well! Everything was well organized and relaxed. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone visiting the area.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ecotripstoronto
Oct 16, 2025
Very enjoyable and experience of the " real" Ethiopia - This was an all day trip which takes about 2 or 2.5 hours each way from Addis. The very sacred Church, which is visited by many Orthodox people from all around, is very interesting , with a historical museum attached, and the Portuguese Bridge is very scenic and striking with cliffs, waterfalls and a troop of Gelada Baboons which are a fascinating endemic family of Baboons which are very peaceful and acclimatized to people. Of course , like any wild animal viewing you have to be lucky in order to have them appear during your visit. I wasn't lucky but the very helpful guide send me photos and videos from a couple of days prior when they were present. The guide and driver were excellent and very attentive and provided useful information. women, be prepared to use squat toilets on the way and the walk to the Bridge and cliffs is very rocky and steep at times. A walking stick is a good idea if you not young and fit! However the guide was great about finding less steep options and lending a hand for balance. The rural markets, people herding their animals, and the farmland was scenic and very typical of most of Ethiopia outside of Addis, including sites of the traditional conical grass roofed houses and Teff and wheat fields. It was super fun to have a delicious lunch at a local restaurant with no cutlery or napkins, so be prepared with wet wipes and women with TP!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Eldhoek
Aug 1, 2025
very good - very good ..nature and country side trip with professional guide. recommended if you are looking for an outside tour of addis
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $79
up to 8 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).