Festival
5-Day Genna (Christmas) in Lalibela
Christmas Eve vigil and Christmas Day among the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela.
- Duration
- 5 Days
- Season
- Late Dec to 7 January
- Group Size
- Private or group
- Price
- Designed Around You
The Journey
4 nights, designed around the hours that matter
A short, focused festival journey. Explore the churches of Lalibela and the cave church of Yemrehanna Kristos, then join the pilgrims for the candle-lit Christmas Eve vigil and the extraordinary chanting of the priests on the morning of Genna, one of the most moving religious spectacles in Africa.
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
Addis Ababa
Begin your journey with a fascinating introduction to Ethiopia’s rich history and culture in the vibrant capital city of Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, meet your guide and begin your sightseeing with a visit to the Ethnological Museum, located within the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie. The museum offers an excellent introduction to Ethiopia’s diverse cultures, traditions, and history. Continue to Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, where colorful stalls, local crafts, spices, and everyday life provide an authentic glimpse into the bustling atmosphere of Addis Ababa. Later, visit the magnificent Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of Ethiopia’s most important religious landmarks and the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie and Empress Menen.
Day 2
Fly to Lalibela – Explore the Rock-Hewn Churches
After breakfast, transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your domestic flight to the sacred town of Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s most treasured historical and spiritual destinations. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and begin exploring the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches. Spend the day discovering the remarkable network of eleven monolithic and semi-monolithic churches, carved directly into solid volcanic rock more than 800 years ago during the reign of King Lalibela. Connected by a fascinating maze of underground tunnels, passageways, and courtyards, these architectural masterpieces continue to serve as active places of worship for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. Admire the churches’ exceptional craftsmanship, beautifully carved reliefs, ancient murals, and centuries-old religious artifacts while learning about their historical significance and enduring spiritual importance. The experience offers a unique insight into Ethiopia’s rich Christian heritage and one of the world’s most remarkable architectural achievements. In the evening, check in at the Roha Hotel and enjoy dinner while taking in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic highland town.
Day 3
Yemrehanna Kristos & Ethiopian Christmas Eve (Genna) Celebration
After breakfast, drive through the breathtaking highland countryside to Yemrehanna Kristos, one of Ethiopia’s oldest and most remarkable churches. Built inside a magnificent natural cave, this 11th- or 12th-century masterpiece predates the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and is renowned for its beautifully preserved Aksumite architecture, ancient wooden ceiling, and impressive medieval frescoes. Along the journey, enjoy panoramic mountain views and gain insight into the traditional lifestyle of rural Ethiopian communities. Return to Lalibela in the afternoon to continue exploring the remaining rock-hewn churches, discovering their intricate architecture, hidden passageways, and deep spiritual significance. In the evening, enjoy dinner at Kana Restaurant before joining thousands of Ethiopian Orthodox pilgrims at Bete Maryam (House of Mary) for the unforgettable Ethiopian Christmas Eve (Genna) celebration. Experience the magical atmosphere as worshippers dressed in traditional white robes gather for all-night prayers, ancient religious chants, candlelit ceremonies, and colorful processions that have been observed for centuries. This extraordinary spiritual event is one of the most memorable cultural experiences in Ethiopia. After the celebrations, return to the Roha Hotel for your overnight stay.
Day 4
Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) Celebration
Rise early to take part in the deeply spiritual “Beza Kulu Alem Yom Tewelde” ceremony, meaning “The Redeemer of the World Is Born.” This sacred Ethiopian Christmas morning celebration is one of the most significant events in the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar. Join thousands of pilgrims, priests, and local worshippers as they gather for traditional prayers, ancient chants, and centuries-old religious rituals, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of faith and devotion. Witness worshippers dressed in traditional white shamma garments, priests carrying ornate processional crosses, and the vibrant ceremonies that make Ethiopian Christmas one of the world’s most unique religious celebrations. The afternoon is at leisure. You may choose to relax at the hotel, stroll through the historic streets of Lalibela, visit local artisan workshops, or explore the town at your own pace while soaking in the festive atmosphere. Enjoy another overnight stay at the Roha Hotel.
Day 5
Fly to Addis Ababa – Farewell Dinner – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Lalibela Airport for your domestic flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you may enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation, depending on your international flight schedule. In the evening, be our guest for a complimentary farewell dinner hosted by Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours. Savor a delicious buffet of traditional Ethiopian cuisine accompanied by local beverages while enjoying vibrant cultural music and traditional dance performances. The evening concludes with an authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremony, offering a memorable farewell to Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your international departure, marking the end of your unforgettable Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) Festival journey.
What Is Included
- Meet-and-assist at Bole International Airport and all transfers
- Domestic flights as shown in the itinerary
- Comfortable air-conditioned minibus with a professional driver
- Licensed English-speaking guide (other languages on request)
- 4 nights of accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
- Full board: breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Guided festival programme with a knowledgeable local guide
- Entrance fees to all sites and churches in the itinerary
Not Included
- International flights and Ethiopian visa
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- 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 Genna (Christmas) in Lalibela 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 Late Dec to 7 January · Private or group · A quote made for your journey
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