3 Days Tigray Churches Trekking Tour
Tour Highlights
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Explore some of Ethiopia’s oldest and most remote rock-hewn churches
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Trek dramatic sandstone mountains and spectacular cliff formations
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Discover ancient artwork dated back to the 7th–15th centuries AD
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Learn local history and culture within traditional Tigray villages
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Stunning sunrise and sunset views from high ridges
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A perfect combination of adventure + heritage exploration
Day 1: Mekele - Gheralta Mountains Trek
Drive about 100 km north from Mekele into the heart of the impressive Gheralta massif. Begin your trek after breakfast from the base of the cliffs.
Trek ~1 hr 30 min uphill to the clifftop church of Yohannes Maqdi, known as the “Church in the Sky” for its dramatic location and soaring views.
After your visit, continue hiking 3–4 hours across scenic highlands to reach Abune Abraham, one of the region’s most colorful and historically rich churches, dating back to the 7th century AD.
Descend about 2 hours to the local village campsite, shaded by a giant tree — a wonderful cultural immersion experience.
Accommodation: Camping in local village
Trekking: 6–7 hrs total
Day 2: Gheralta Trek - Mariam Papsite - Korkor Village
Enjoy breakfast prepared by your professional camp cook, then continue trekking through breathtaking landscapes, spotting gelada baboons, birdlife, and traditional Tigray rural homes.
Hike to Mariam Papsite, a beautifully decorated rock church carved deep into the sandstone cliffs.
After the visit, trek another 4 hours to camp in Korkor village, surrounded by towering rock pinnacles.
Accommodation: Camping in Korkor village
Trekking: 5–6 hrs
Day 3: Summit Gheralta Peak - Mariam Korkor - Daniel Korkor - Hawzen - Mekele
Start early to ascend to the highest viewpoint in Gheralta — approx. 2,700 meters above sea level — offering panoramic views in all four directions over the mystical sandstone mountains.
After lunch on the mountaintop, continue hiking to the twin cliff churches:
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Mariam Korkor — one of the largest and most impressive churches in the region
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Daniel Korkor — visited via a narrow pathway with thrilling views
Finish with a scenic one-hour descent to Hawzen, then drive back to Mekele.
Trekking: 6–7 hrs | Drive: ~1 hr
Tour ends in Mekele
