This 5-day trekking and hiking tour takes you deep into the heart of Tigray’s highlands, where dramatic landscapes, historic churches, and local community hospitality await. Journey through rugged mountains, explore ancient rock-hewn churches, and immerse yourself in the authentic culture of Tigray. You’ll stay in community-run guesthouses, interact with locals, and experience the raw beauty of Ethiopia’s northernmost region.
Itinerary
Our journey begins in Mekelle, where we drive towards Adigrat, passing through the historic town of Wukro. Along the way, we take a short break in Adigrat town to explore the area and purchase any necessary items for the trekking adventure ahead. In the afternoon, we continue towards Sagren, the starting point of our two to three-hour trek through the breathtaking landscapes of Tigray’s highlands. The trek offers an immersive experience, featuring stunning mountain views, rock-hewn formations, and interactions with the local communities. As the sun sets, we arrive at the Siheta Community Guesthouse, a serene and authentic accommodation run by the local community.
Here, you will experience warm Tigrayan hospitality, enjoy a traditional meal, and rest under the star-lit sky, preparing for the next day’s adventure.
Embark on a five-hour trek to Guhgot Community Guesthouse, passing through breathtaking landscapes and experiencing the raw beauty of Tigray’s highlands. Along the way, visit Giorgis Debri, a stunning rock-hewn church known for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance. Upon arrival at the guesthouse, enjoy a well-earned traditional lunch while soaking in the surrounding scenery. In the afternoon, continue exploring with a visit to Eyesus Guhgot, another remarkable rock-hewn church that showcases the region’s rich religious heritage.
As the day winds down, settle in for a peaceful overnight stay at Guhgot Community Guesthouse, where you’ll experience authentic Tigrayan hospitality and a tranquil mountain atmosphere.
After breakfast, embark on a five-hour trek to Shimbreiti Community Guesthouse, passing through stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. Along the way, discover a beautiful tunnel and a hidden rock-hewn church, adding to the adventure. Upon arrival at the guesthouse, enjoy a traditional lunch and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, explore the nearby plateau, where you may be lucky enough to spot endemic Gelada baboons in their natural habitat.
As the day comes to an end, unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings with an overnight stay at Shimbreiti Community Guesthouse, offering an authentic and immersive experience in the heart of Tigray’s highlands.
Following breakfast, embark on a two-hour walk to reach your waiting vehicle, which will take you on a one-hour scenic drive to Hawzien, a vibrant town in the heart of Tigray’s Gheralta region. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and prepare for an unforgettable visit to Abune Yemata Guh, one of Ethiopia’s most awe-inspiring rock-hewn churches, dramatically perched on a towering cliff. The adventure includes a thrilling ascent, breathtaking panoramic views, and a chance to admire ancient frescoes that have stood the test of time.
As the day winds down, return to Hawzien for a relaxing evening and an overnight stay at a Vision hotel.
Start the morning with a hike to Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor, two of Tigray’s most impressive rock-hewn churches, offering breathtaking views of the Gheralta mountains.
After exploring these ancient sites, descend and drive back to Mekelle in the afternoon. From there, catch your afternoon flight to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s bustling capital, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the historic landscapes of Tigray.
