Overview
Celebrate Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) in one of Africa’s most sacred pilgrimage destinations. This carefully curated cultural journey takes you through Ethiopia’s historic northern circuit—combining ancient heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and one of the world’s most authentic religious celebrations.
Every January, thousands of pilgrims dressed in traditional white garments gather in Lalibela’s iconic rock-hewn churches. Priests chant ancient hymns, accompanied by the rhythmic sound of sistra, while candlelit ceremonies continue throughout the night—creating a deeply spiritual and unforgettable atmosphere.
Tour Highlights
- Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) celebration in Lalibela
- Rock-hewn churches of Lalibela (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Blue Nile Falls and Lake Tana monasteries
- Gondar castles and religious heritage
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Addis Ababa
Arrive, meet your guide, and transfer to your hotel. Optional city tour available depending on arrival time. Overnight stay.
Day 2 – Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar
Fly to Bahir Dar. After lunch, drive to the spectacular Blue Nile Falls (Tis Issat). Enjoy a scenic walk and panoramic views. Overnight stay.
Day 3 – Lake Tana Monasteries & Cultural Experience
Take a boat trip on Lake Tana to visit Ura Kidane Mehret Monastery, known for its vibrant religious paintings and sacred artifacts.
In the afternoon, explore Bahir Dar’s local market and enjoy sunset views from Bezawit Hill. Overnight stay.
Day 4 – Bahir Dar to Gondar
Fly to Gondar and visit the UNESCO-listed Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure).
Continue to Debre Birhan Selassie Church, famous for its angel-covered ceiling. Overnight stay.
Day 5 – Gondar to Lalibela (Christmas Eve)
Fly to Lalibela and explore the first group of the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela.
In the evening, attend the Ethiopian Christmas Eve vigil—an all-night spiritual celebration filled with chanting, prayer, and devotion. Overnight stay.
Day 6 – Ethiopian Christmas Celebration (Genna)
Celebrate Ethiopian Christmas with local communities. Experience vibrant ceremonies, traditional chants, and priestly dances around the church compounds.
In the afternoon, visit the second group of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches. Overnight stay.
Day 7 – Lalibela to Addis Ababa
Fly back to Addis Ababa for departure or optional overnight stay.
What’s Included
- Domestic flights (Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar – Gondar – Lalibela – Addis Ababa)
- Private transportation with driver
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees to all major sites
- Boat trip on Lake Tana
- Accommodation with breakfast
- Airport transfers and assistance
- All government taxes
What’s Excluded
- International flights
- Ethiopian visa fees
- Lunches and dinners
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Camera/video fees
Why Choose This Ethiopian Christmas Tour?
- Witness Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) in Lalibela
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites across northern Ethiopia
- Visit ancient monasteries on Lake Tana
- Discover imperial history in Gondar
- Experience authentic Ethiopian Orthodox traditions
- Enjoy waterfalls, scenic landscapes, and vibrant local markets
Best Time to Travel
This tour is specially designed for Ethiopian Christmas, celebrated annually on January 7 in Ethiopia.
Traveling during this period offers a rare opportunity to witness one of the most authentic and spiritually significant celebrations in the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar.
Book Your Ethiopian Christmas Experience
Ethiopian Christmas in Lalibela is a high-demand travel period with limited accommodation availability.
