Oct 09-12. 2014
Lalibela rest high in the mountains of Lasta, one of Ethiopia’s holiest cities. In an estimated population of 8-10,000, over 1,000 are priest. The sacred town is host to eleven rock-hewn churches each carved from the living rock of a single monolithic block. They were carved from the top of the mountain down, chiseling grand pillars, doorways, windows, caves, passages ways and tunnels with ancient tools. The population is almost entirely Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Christian, one of the few pre-colonial Christian religions in Sub-Saharan Africa. Religious ritual is central to the life of the town, with regular processions and religious celebrations. These celebrations, extraordinary religious architecture and simplicity of life, creates a timeless and almost biblical atmosphere.
It would almost be a sin to come to Ethiopia and not take a few days to fly up north for a visit. This is the most popular northern extension that past participants have requested. Our guide is one of the best in Lalibela who has worked with some top photographers.
Itinerary
Oct 9, 2014
Arrive Addis Ababa
Overnight Jupiter Hotel
Oct 10, 2014
Early morning flight to Lalibela
You will enjoy a short scenic drive up the beautiful hillsides of the Lasta mountains and through the town of Lalibela. You will feel like you have transcended from another world. There is an optional stop at a local farm village.
Lunch will be at the unique Ben Abeba restaurant, sitting high on the mountain top with stunning views in every direction. Early afternoon, you head out to visit the first group of underground churches. The local people and priest wonder through the maze of tunnels and passages as you stand in awe of these carved structures.
Dinner this evening will be at the Old Abyssinia. A special restaurant; the food is incredible, the décor is in a traditional African style, and the view is breath taking!
Overnight Mountain View lodge
Oct 11, 2014
You will visit more of the churches in the early morning before heading to the local market. You will have a chance to relax after lunch and enjoy the majestic views. This is the time of year between Maskel and the celebration of St. Mary. It is highly possible we will be able to attend a special celebration at one of the churches in the evening, running late into the night.
Overnight Mountain View lodge
Oct 12, 2014
You will leave early morning to visit the cave- monastery of Neakuto Leab on your way to the airport. Arrive Addis Abba in the early afternoon where you will be transferred to your dayroom to rest and clean up before your flight home.
End of Extension.
The Price
6-5 participants $1,495.00*, 4-3 participants $1,695.00
The price is based on double occupancy. Single supplement maybe available at a cost of $300.00
* Domestic airfare is included in the price, however the price quote is based upon estimated domestic airfare of $380.00 Ethiopian Airlines is the only domestic carrier, so if they raise their rates, the up-charge will then be passed on to the participant. Cost can be confirmed within a few days of booking.
What’s Included
- Accommodations – 3 nights and a day room in Addis
- round trip domestic flight – Addis to Lalibela/ Lalibela to Addis
- All 3 meals of the day (except on arrival and departure days)
- Ground transportation
- Entry fees to the planned locations in the itinerary
- National English speaking escort guide, local guides, and international photo leader
What’s NOT Included
- International airfare and/or between your home and Addis Abba
- Visas
- Travel Insurance (REQUIRED to participate on this trip)
- Personal purchases (including shopping, spirits, laundry, telephone calls, etc )
- Gratuities for guide and drivers
- Optional extra activities not included on the itinerary
- Extra photo fees
- Meals or accommodations before or after the extension (except as noted in the detailed itinerary)
- Meals and beverages on the day of arrival, this is considered a travel day
Please Understand
Traveling in remote locations can present challenges that may require slight changes to the itinerary. I put my heart into each and every itinerary and will always try to run the tour as written in the initial itinerary. In the event of situations beyond my control, such as political unrest, natural disasters, overbookings by the lodge, where a change is required, I will do my best to keep us close to the original shooting location. It is my intention for you to have the best possible experience. I will try to notify you of any changes as soon as I am made aware of them. If, however these changes cause an increase to the price, the increase will be passed onto the participant.
Interested in joining us?
The group size for this extraordinary photo tour is limited to just 7 participants. Due to the size of this group and the popularity of the location, this trip could fill quickly. To secure your spot, please complete the On-line registration form and make the $400 non-refundable deposit. Both a completed reservation form and deposit must be done to confirm a spot. Once the tour is full, I will accept request for the wait list by email.
Deposit and Sign-up
Make your trip deposit $400.00non-refundable