• Debre Libanos - This is one of Ethiopia’s ancient and historic monasteries, located northwest of Addis Ababa. Tradition holds that the monastery was established in the 13th century by Saint Tekle Haymanot, who is said to have meditated in a cave for 29 years. 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 structures of Debre Libanos 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, where Buxton was informed a fragment of the True Cross is kept; and five religious schools.
• Portuguese Bridge - The Portuguese Bridge near Debre Libanos, originally thought to be built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, was actually constructed at the turn of the 19th century by Ethiopians in the traditional Portuguese style. The narrow span creates a picturesque scene, and the waterfall below it, especially during the rainy season, is even more striking.
• Portuguese Bridge - The Jemma River flows into a large gorge near Debre Libanos and Fiche. The Jemma joins the Wenchit before reaching the Abbay (Blue Nile) River. The Jemma Valley and its surroundings are renowned for bird-watching tours. Bird watchers often seek the endemic and range-restricted Harwood’s Francolin, along with other species such as the Banded Barbet, Black-headed Forest Oriole, White-billed Starling, Red-billed Starling, White-winged Cliff Chat, White-backed Black Tit, White-cheeked Turaco, and Hemprich’s Hornbill. Additionally, visitors can observe one of Ethiopia’s endemic mammals, the Gelada or bleeding heart baboon. In the gorge, a variety of vultures can be seen, including Lamergeyer’s, Ruppell’s, and Lappet-faced vultures.

• Bottled water
• Lunch
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Guide
• Entrance fee
• Minibus

Discover the natural beauty and rich culture of Ethiopia on this guided tour. Begin with a convenient airport pickup, then explore Debre Libanos, one of the nation’s oldest monasteries, featuring its tombs, museum, and the nearby cave where the founding saint meditated. Journey to the Blue Nile Gorge to take in breathtaking views and spot the unique Gelada monkey, native to Ethiopia. Conclude your day with a traditional coffee ceremony and a delightful dinner.

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