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Ethiopian History and Wildlife: Chilada Monkeys and More
5.0
1 Rating
Addis Ababa
Discover Ethiopia’s history, wildlife, and culture on a day trip from Addis Ababa to Blue Nile Gorge & Debre Libanose Monastery. Experience rare wildlife, local life, and stunning landscapes.
Discover Ethiopia’s history, wildlife, and culture on a day trip from Addis Ababa to Blue Nile Gorge & Debre Libanose Monastery. Experience rare wildlife, local life, and stunning landscapes.
Duration:
8 hours
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
- Portuguese Bridge - The Portuguese bridge near Debre Libanos, originally thought to be built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, was actually constructed by Ethiopians at the turn of the 19th century in the traditional Portuguese style. Its narrow span creates a picturesque scene, and the waterfall beneath it, especially during the rainy…
- Portuguese Bridge - The Portuguese bridge near Debre Libanos, originally thought to be built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, was actually constructed by Ethiopians at the turn of the 19th century in the traditional Portuguese style. Its narrow span creates a picturesque scene, and the waterfall beneath it, especially during the rainy season, is truly remarkable.
- Debre Libanos - This is one of Ethiopia’s ancient and historical monasteries, located northwest of Addis Ababa. Tradition holds that the monastery was founded in the 13th century by Saint Tekle Haymanot, who 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 of Debre Libanos remain, David Buxton believed that “interesting things are still to be found among the neighboring cliffs.” Current structures include the church over Tekle Haymanot’s tomb, commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie in 1961; a slightly older Church of the Cross, where a fragment of the True Cross is said to be preserved; and five religious schools. The cave where the saint lived is nearby, described by a travel guide as a five-minute walk away. This cave contains a spring, whose water is considered holy and attracts pilgrims.
- Mount Entoto - Entoto is the highest peak in the Entoto Mountains, overlooking Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, and reaches 3,200 meters above sea level. The mountain is densely covered 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.” The forest on the mountain is a vital source of firewood for the city and was also used as a building material in earlier times.
- Debre Libanos - Experience the daily life of Ethiopians in the local huts or grass houses in the countryside near Debre Libanos.
- Debre Libanos - Visit and immerse yourself in the local tribe’s lifestyle and enjoy trying local drinks.

What's Included
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- All attraction fees are included
- Airport and departure taxes
- Tea and coffee
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- All attraction fees are included
- Airport and departure taxes
- Tea and coffee
What's Not Included
- Dinner
- Alcoholic beverages
- Dinner
- Alcoholic beverages
Additional Information
It is truly unique because:
- There is an opportunity to learn about the rich history of Ethiopia.
- There is a chance to see the Ethiopian endemic Gelada monkey, one of the world’s rarest primates.
- There is an opportunity to observe birds like the impressive Lammergeier and other endemic species found only in Ethiopia, particularly in Debre Libanos….
It is truly unique because:
- There is an opportunity to learn about the rich history of Ethiopia.
- There is a chance to see the Ethiopian endemic Gelada monkey, one of the world’s rarest primates.
- There is an opportunity to observe birds like the impressive Lammergeier and other endemic species found only in Ethiopia, particularly in Debre Libanos.
- There is a chance to taste Ethiopian cuisine and coffee, complete with a traditional ceremony, amidst breathtaking views.
- There is an opportunity to hike near the Gorge of the Blue Nile and Jemma Valley.
- There is a chance to visit one of Ethiopia’s oldest monasteries and its museums.
- There is an opportunity to experience the daily life of local people in traditional huts or grass houses in the countryside.
- There is a chance to witness the stunning waterfalls at the Portuguese Bridge, one of Ethiopia’s oldest bridges.
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Minimum age is 8
Location
Bole
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(1 Rating)
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1 star
Adanna
May 28, 2024
An incredibly Insightful and knowledgeable experience of Ethiopian Culture and Heritage - If you’re a knowledge seeker looking to explore and understand the Ethiopian culture and heritage, look no further. At first glance, I didn’t know what to expect when I met up with Melaku however I was incredibly blown away by his knowledge on palaeontology and his easy and simple way to explain complexed aspect in this field.
His Professional and Planning ability is second to none and I was really impressed by the fulfilment of the itinerary from the onset along with consistent communication touch points he had lined for our day trip to Debre Lebanos.
Very knowledgeable on the Ethiopian culture and so was always constantly learning about something new about this beautiful heritage.
Melaku definitely left us feeling wanting to explore more of the country and the culture. He’s very open to ideas, planning and suggesting insights catered to your needs. Sadly we didn’t have enough time to visit other places like Zawiye and Entoto however for sure on my next visit to Addis I will not hesitate to use his services.
Truly an amazing guide! Looking forward to our next visit
Review provided by Tripadvisor