Explore Debre Libanos Monastery: Unveiling the Secrets of the Portuguese Bridge in a Day Adventure

Set off on an enchanting day-long adventure from the bustling streets of Addis Ababa to the tranquil and historically rich Debre Libanos Monastery. This 10-hour excursion, including a break for lunch, is a deep dive into a world where ancient history and profound spirituality converge. Nestled between majestic cliffs and a gorge carved by an Abbay River tributary, Debre Libanos is a sanctuary of historical and religious significance. Though its original structures have long disappeared, the complex continues to captivate with its ancient mysteries and breathtaking surroundings. The tour showcases the church built atop the tomb of Tekle Haymanot, a structure commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie in 1961, alongside the venerable Church of the Cross, believed to contain a piece of the true cross. Visitors will explore the grounds, home to five religious schools and the cave that once sheltered the saint. The journey is further adorned with visits to the Portuguese Bridge and the Jemma River, offering a glimpse into Ethiopia’s natural beauty and architectural wonders.

Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery from Addis Ababa

This itinerary is perfect for those wanting to escape Addis Ababa for a day to explore the serene and historically significant Debre Libanos Monastery. This 10-hour journey, including a lunch break, takes you to a place where spirituality and history are intricately woven. Despite the disappearance of its original buildings, Debre Libanos, situated between a cliff and an Abbay River gorge, is a site of captivating history and spiritual significance. Highlights include the church built over Tekle Haymanot’s tomb by Emperor Haile Selassie in 1961 and the Church of the Cross that is believed to contain a piece of the true cross. The area is also home to five religious schools and the cave of the saint. Additional visits to the Portuguese Bridge and Jemma River complement the spiritual experience with Ethiopia’s natural and architectural wonders.

Itinerary: Day 1

Set off from Addis Ababa at 07:30 am for a journey to Debre Libanos, a historic monastery located just over 100 km from the city. This site has played a critical role in Ethiopian Orthodox Christian history and embodies Ethiopia’s resistance against Italian occupation. Debre Libanos is not only of religious importance but also offers breathtaking views from the escarpment overlooking the canyon. A short walk from the monastery is the so-called Portuguese Bridge, built around the 20th century’s turn, spanning the Gur River before it cascades down a waterfall into the canyon below. Return to Addis Ababa in the late afternoon.

SIGHTSEEING

• Debre Libanos Monastery
• Portuguese Bridge
• Birdlife

Inclusions

• Private Air Conditioned Minivan
• Hotel Pickup and Drop Off
• Local Guide at the Monastery
• All Entrance Fees
• Professional Driver Guide
• Service Charge and Tax

Exclusions

• Any Meals
• What is not included

Key Highlights:

• A day trip from Addis Ababa offering a 9-hour excursion with an additional hour for lunch.
• Visit to one of the oldest and remarkable monasteries of Ethiopia, Debre Libanos.
• Exploration of the monastery complex located between a cliff and the gorge of a tributary of the Abbay River.
• Insight into the history with current buildings like the church over Tekle Haymanot’s tomb, built in 1961 by Emperor Haile Selassie, and the slightly older Church of the Cross.
• A visit to the cave where the saint lived and views of the Portuguese Bridge and The Jemma River.
• Departure at 8am and tour conclusion at 6pm.