Day 1: Addis – Mekele – Gheralta Mountains – Abune Abraham – Mariam Papsite

Addis Ababa - Begin the day with an early breakfast in Mekele, then drive approximately 100 km north towards the magnificent Gheralta Mountains. Along the way, stop to explore Abreha we Atsbeha Church, one of Tigray’s most ancient and stunning rock-hewn churches. Proceed to the trekking start point, where a light snack awaits before embarking on a 3-day trek.

Hike for 2–3 hours up the escarpments to reach Abune Abraham Church (7th century AD), adorned with vibrant murals. After enjoying lunch atop the mountain, continue trekking through picturesque landscapes filled with wildlife, traditional Tigray homes, and expansive highland vistas until reaching Mariam Papsite. Here, experience local village life, with the possibility of being invited into a farmer’s home for traditional Ethiopian coffee.

Trek further to the base camp (approximately 4 hours) and spend the night camping under a large sycamore tree.

Day 2: Trek to Kamer Mountain – Maryam Korkor & Daniel Korkor

Gheralta Rock - After breakfast, embark on a challenging full-day trek (7–8 hours) towards Kamer Mountain (2,700m), the highest peak in Gheralta. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views extending in all directions across the mountains.

Following lunch on the mountain top, continue trekking to visit Maryam Korkor and Daniel Korkor Churches, renowned rock-hewn sanctuaries in Tigray, dating back to the 4th century AD. Their remote locations and stunning cliff-top settings make them particularly rewarding to reach.

Spend the evening camping at the top of Korkor mountain, alongside monks and nuns, where you’ll witness one of the region’s most beautiful sunsets, followed by a serene sunrise the next morning.

Day 3: Abune Yemata Guh – Return to Mekele / Axum

Axum - Enjoy an early breakfast prepared by the trekking cook before heading towards one of Tigray’s most iconic churches, Abune Yemata Guh. Known as the “church in the sky,” it is celebrated for its dramatic location high in the sandstone cliffs and its vibrant medieval frescoes.

After the visit, descend and enjoy a final trek across the Gheralta landscapes. Following lunch, drive back to Mekele or continue onward to Axum for the next adventure.

• 3 Day Accommodation with breakfast
• Professional local trekking guide (English-speaking)
• Bottled water throughout the trekking days
• All camping equipment (tents, mattresses, cooking gear, etc.)
• All entrance fees to churches and sites mentioned in the itinerary

• Domestic flights (Addis Ababa – Mekele / Axum – Addis Ababa)
• Hotel accommodation in Mekele or Axum before/after the trek
• Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, hiking boots, walking sticks, etc.)
• Travel insurance (highly recommended)

Embark on a thrilling 3-day trekking journey through the stunning Gheralta Mountains and explore the ancient rock-hewn churches of Tigray. Trek to secluded cliff-top sanctuaries such as Abune Abraham, Maryam Korkor, Daniel Korkor, and the renowned Abune Yemata Guh. Experience camping under the stars, savor coffee with local families, and take in the awe-inspiring highland vistas while discovering centuries-old religious sites and the genuine culture of Tigray.

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