Lalibela

The mysterious and majestic Lalibela, situated in the mountains of the country's north, is rightfully considered one of the main spiritual centres of Ethiopia. This small yet world-renowned city attracts pilgrims and travellers with its unique rock-hewn churches, carved directly into the volcanic rock.

When planning a trip to Lalibela, consider the mountainous terrain: the fastest way to get here is by plane, although adventure lovers may choose the long but scenic route by car through high-altitude passes.

The most convenient way to reach the sanctuaries is to use air transport and fly to Lalibela Airport (LLI). This regional aviation hub receives regular flights, allowing you to avoid tiring journeys on winding roads and ensuring a quick connection to the country's main tourist spots.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider a flight to neighbouring cities such as Gondar or Dessie. However, it is worth remembering that these airports are located at a significant distance, and the onward journey to your destination will take considerable time.

At present, there is no railway connection to the city, and there is no train station in Lalibela itself. Trains are not a common mode of transport in this high-altitude region of Ethiopia.

The nearest major transport hubs, such as Mekele or Dessie, also lack a direct railway link to the city of churches, so tourists have to rely on aviation or road transport.

Direct and comfortable express buses to the city may not be available, as precise data on regular routes is lacking. Travelling by local bus in Ethiopia is often an authentic experience, requiring readiness for long journeys and transfers.

Usually, tourists travel by bus to major regional centres and then look for local transport. It is recommended to check the schedule directly on-site, as it may change depending on the season and road conditions.

Travelling by car will reveal stunning views of the Ethiopian Highlands but will require patience. The drive from the city of Dessie will take about 6.5 hours, during which you will have to cover 223 km of winding roads.

Routes from other historic cities are even longer: the journey from Gondar (about 350 km) will take approximately 7.5 hours, while the road from Mekele, spanning 310 km, requires almost 8 hours of continuous driving.

A trip to Lalibela is an immersion into ancient history and culture that requires some preparation for a comfortable stay. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your journey.

1. Clothing and Footwear. Keep in mind that the city is located high in the mountains: it is warm during the day, but evenings can be cool, so bring a fleece jacket or a windbreaker. To visit the churches, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is mandatory, as well as footwear that is easy to remove.
2. Transport in the City. The town is small, and the main attractions can be explored on foot. For trips to the outskirts, it is convenient to use local three-wheeled auto-rickshaws — bajajs.
3. Finances. Bank cards are not accepted everywhere, mostly only in major hotels. Be sure to carry a supply of cash in the local currency (Birr) to pay for souvenirs, food, and transport.
4. Health. Due to the altitude above sea level (over 2,500 metres), symptoms of altitude sickness are possible. Drink plenty of bottled water, use sunscreen, and do not overexert yourself in the first few days.
5. Etiquette in Churches. You must always remove your shoes when entering churches. Women are recommended to cover their heads with a scarf. Photography inside is not permitted everywhere, and a small fee is often requested for it — check the rules with a guide or the clergy.
6. Guides and Helpers. There are many unofficial guides on the streets. It is better to hire a licensed tour guide through the official tourism centre or your hotel to receive reliable information and avoid intrusive service.

Observing these simple rules will help you show respect for local traditions and make your pilgrimage to the wonders of Lalibela safe and unforgettable.