• PRM7+CJR - Travel 110 km north from Addis, passing Mount Entoto, and embark on a day trip to one of Ethiopia’s ancient and historical monasteries, located northwest of Addis Ababa. The monastery was established 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 structures of Debre Libanos remain, David Buxton believed “there are interesting things still to be found among the neighboring cliffs.” The current buildings 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 preserved; and five religious schools. The cave where the saint resided is located in the nearby cliffs, described by a travel guide as a five-minute walk away. This cave contains a spring, whose water is deemed holy and attracts pilgrims.

• Entry/admission - Debre Libanos
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Drinking bottled water + WiFi on board
• All attraction fees included with Local guide
• Non Vegan and vegetarian lunch
• Entry/admission - Portuguese Bridge
• Ethiopian traditional coffee ceremony

• Tips for your driver and for local guide
• Alcohol beverages

Travel through stunning mountain landscapes to explore the enchanting medieval monastery established in the 13th century by Abuna Tekle Haimanot, who is famously known for praying on one leg for seven years.

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 during the rainy season, the waterfall beneath it becomes even more spectacular.

Visit the Portuguese Bridge to admire the waterfall and the breathtaking views of the Jemma River.

The Jemma River flows into a vast gorge near Debre Libanos and Fiche, eventually joining the Wenchit River before reaching the Abbay (Blue Nile) River. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Jemma Valley and its surroundings.

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