Festival · Historical · Cultural
5-Day Addis Ababa, Great Ethiopian Run & Lalibela Tour
Run Addis, explore the capital, then fly to Lalibela to see the rock-hewn churches.
- Duration
- 5 Days
- Season
- Mid to late November
- Group Size
- Private or group
- Starting from
- $1,480
The Journey
4 nights, designed around the hours that matter
Discover the highlights of Ethiopia through an exciting five-day journey combining the Great Ethiopian Run, the historical and cultural attractions of Addis Ababa, and the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. Begin your adventure with a gentle warm-up walk in the scenic Entoto Hills before participating in the famous Great Ethiopian Run 10 km race. Explore the capital’s historical landmarks and vibrant local markets, then fly to Lalibela to discover its extraordinary medieval rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey concludes with a memorable farewell dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine, music, and hospitality before your international departure.
Highlights
- Enjoy a scenic warm-up walk in the Entoto Hills overlooking Addis Ababa
- Participate in the world-famous Great Ethiopian Run 10 km race
- Discover Addis Ababa’s historical landmarks, museums, and vibrant markets
- Explore Lalibela’s magnificent rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit both the northern and southern groups of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches
- Admire the remarkable Church of St. George, carved in the shape of a cross
- Experience traditional Ethiopian cuisine, cultural music, and a farewell dinner
Day by Day
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
This itinerary is carefully planned, but minor adjustments may be made due to weather, local festivals, road conditions or your personal interests to ensure the best possible experience.
Day 1
Arrival in Addis Ababa – Entoto Hills Warm-Up
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and some time to relax, drive to the beautiful Entoto Hills overlooking Addis Ababa. Enjoy a gentle warm-up walk through the scenic highlands, breathing the fresh mountain air and taking in panoramic views of the capital. This light activity will help you prepare for the upcoming Great Ethiopian Run. The remainder of the day will be at leisure to relax and prepare for the race.
Day 2
Great Ethiopian Run – 10 km Race Experience
Early in the morning, transfer to the race starting area to participate in the Great Ethiopian Run, one of Africa’s most celebrated road-running events. Join thousands of local and international runners for the exciting 10 km race through the lively streets of Addis Ababa. Experience the vibrant atmosphere, traditional music, colorful participants, and enthusiastic spectators that make this event a unique celebration of Ethiopian culture and athletic spirit. After completing the race, return to your hotel for breakfast and relaxation. The afternoon will be free for recovery and personal activities.
Day 3
Addis Ababa City Tour – Historical & Cultural Highlights
After breakfast, embark on a guided city tour exploring the historical and cultural highlights of Addis Ababa. Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous fossil remains of Lucy, offering fascinating insights into human evolution and Ethiopia’s ancient history. Continue to Holy Trinity Cathedral, an important religious and historical landmark. Explore the historic Piazza district and experience the lively atmosphere of Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, where you can discover local products, traditional crafts, and everyday Ethiopian life. In the afternoon, enjoy some leisure time for shopping or relaxing.
Day 4
Fly to Lalibela – Visit the First Group of Rock-Hewn Churches
After an early breakfast, transfer to Bole International Airport for your domestic flight to Lalibela. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, begin exploring the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the first group of churches, located in the northwestern cluster, including Bete Medhane Alem, the largest rock-hewn church in Lalibela; Bete Maryam, one of the oldest and most beautifully decorated churches; Bete Meskel, a remarkable church carved into a rock face; Bete Denagel, associated with the religious traditions of Lalibela; and Bete Golgotha and Selassie, among the sacred churches of the complex. Explore the remarkable architecture, religious traditions, and spiritual significance of these extraordinary monuments.
Day 5
Lalibela – Second Group of Churches – Fly to Addis Ababa – Farewell Dinner & Departure
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and continue exploring the second group of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches. Visit Bete Gabriel-Rufael, Bete Merkorios, Bete Amanuel, and Bete Abba Libanos, each showcasing the remarkable architectural and spiritual heritage of Lalibela. Conclude your visit at the magnificent Bete Giyorgis (Church of St. George), the iconic cross-shaped church carved entirely from a single rock, and one of Ethiopia’s most extraordinary religious monuments. After the visit, transfer to Lalibela Airport for your domestic flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, enjoy a traditional Ethiopian farewell dinner featuring authentic local cuisine, cultural music, and dance. Celebrate your memorable Ethiopian experience before transferring to Bole International Airport for your international departure.
What Is Included
- Airport meet-and-assist and all transfers
- Accommodation for 4 nights
- Private air-conditioned vehicle and professional driver
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Domestic flight between Addis Ababa and Lalibela
- Entoto Hills warm-up walk
- Great Ethiopian Run race participation support
- Lalibela church visits
- Traditional Ethiopian farewell dinner
Not Included
- International flights and Ethiopian visa
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Race registration fees if applicable
- Drinks, tips and personal expenses
Before You Book
Questions about this journey
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Guest reviews
What our guests say
Rated 5.0 on Tripadvisor and Google, and 4.9 on SafariBookings.
“My tour operator was very communicative even before the trip began and very responsive on WhatsApp. He booked all my domestic flights and arranged all my airport pick-ups and drop-offs. He had professional guides in all the regions I visited, the itinerary was clear, and he was flexible with any changes. There were no extra costs. He is reliable, communicative and well experienced. I will be back with the same company.”
Sarah · Kenya · August 2026
Read more reviews on SafariBookings“Excellent services provided by Maereg and his team. The local guides and the drivers – Geta (my fave) – were all great. They were patient, professional, knowledgeable and took great care of us. Everything was seamlessly coordinated and they were always on time for pickups and made sure we were briefed in advance of the itinerary and any changes. One of my top travel destinations in Africa, with some of the kindest and warmest people. Maereg went above and beyond! First-class service, always with a smile!”
D Thomas · Google review · May 2026
Read more reviews on GoogleEnquire
Make 5-Day Addis Ababa, Great Ethiopian Run & Lalibela Tour yours
Send us your dates and we will confirm availability, quote precisely, and suggest the two or three changes we would make if it were our own trip.
Runs Mid to late November · Private or group · starting from $1,480 per person
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