This full-day tour from Addis Ababa takes you south along the scenic East African Rift Valley to explore some of Ethiopia’s most intriguing historical and cultural sites. Your journey begins with a visit to Adadi Mariam, a remarkable 13th-century rock-hewn church still in active use today. Carved entirely from a single block of stone, the church is believed to have been founded by Saint Lalibela during his pilgrimage to the sacred Mount Zuquala in the 12th century.
Next, you’ll head to the Tiya archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant of over 160 ancient burial sites found in the Soddo region. Tiya features 36 standing stones or stelae, 32 of which are engraved with mysterious symbols. These monuments represent the remains of a little-known ancient Ethiopian culture, whose exact origins and timeline remain largely uncertain.
Along the way, you’ll also visit a traditional Oromo village, where you’ll gain insight into local lifestyles, customs, and daily activities. After lunch, you’ll make your way back to Addis Ababa, completing a day filled with historical discovery, cultural immersion, and stunning landscapes.
