Rock-Hewn Churches and More: Things to Do in Lalibela

Lalibela isn’t just a place — it’s an encounter.

The moment I stepped into its labyrinth of rock-hewn churches, I knew this wasn’t just another historic site. The air was thick with incense, the walls cool and rough beneath my fingers, the sound of priests chanting somewhere deep in the tunnels. Lalibela doesn’t reveal itself in Instagrammable moments — it seeps into you.

And yet, you’re here for a list. Things to do in Lalibela. Fine.

But if you’re going to tick boxes, at least make them mean something. Here’s how to see Lalibela — what to visit and how to make this ancient wonder actually matter.

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Why Visit Lalibela?

Lalibela is not just another UNESCO World Heritage site — it’s an anomaly, a place that shouldn’t exist but does. A town where churches aren’t built but sculpted downward into solid rock, hidden in the Ethiopian highlands like a secret meant to be protected.

I visited Lalibela expecting history, maybe even awe. But what I found was something heavier — a place where faith isn’t ornamental but carved into the earth itself. Pilgrims draped in white still tread the worn stone paths, the scent of frankincense thick in the air, the sound of ancient hymns echoing through tunnels and passageways.

This is Ethiopia’s "New Jerusalem," built in the 12th century by King Lalibela to create an African alternative to the Holy Land. It’s a living, breathing place of worship where monks still pray in candlelit caves, where the devout press their foreheads against the rock, lost in centuries of devotion.

So why visit Lalibela? Because it refuses to be just another stop on your itinerary.

It lingers. It humbles. It reminds you that some places are more than landmarks — they’re experiences that leave a mark long after you’ve gone.

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Explore the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

Carved straight into the earth, the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela defy logic — towering cathedrals sculpted downward instead of built upward. Walking through their interconnected tunnels and sunken courtyards feels less like sightseeing and more like stepping into another time, where faith is etched into stone itself.

1. Visit the Iconic Church of Saint George (Bete Giyorgis)

Carved directly into the red volcanic rock, Bete Giyorgis stands alone as a masterpiece of devotion and engineering - separate from the other ten churches of Lalibela, which are grouped into the Northern and Southern clusters. Unlike those, which are linked by tunnels and passageways, this one rises in isolation, a monolithic cross sunk deep into the earth.

Built in the 12th century under King Lalibela, who sought to recreate Jerusalem in Ethiopia, this church is unlike any other — it’s a monolith, chiselled downward into the earth rather than constructed upwards. Legend has it that angels aided in its creation, finishing in a single night what human hands alone could not.

Descending the narrow, steep passage to its entrance, I thought I was stepping back in time. The walls rise high around you, enclosing the church in a sacred silence. Inside, the air is cool, and the light filters through small windows, casting soft shadows over centuries-old frescoes.

It’s easy to feel that this is more than a place of worship — it’s a link between past and present, where prayers have echoed for nearly a millennium.

How to make it matter

Stay for a while. Let the stillness settle over you. Watch the pilgrims who walk for days to reach this place, tracing their devotion into the dust beneath their feet.

Practical info

• Bete Giyorgis stands alone from the other 10 churches, which are divided into Northern and Southern clusters.
• Entry is included in the general Lalibela church ticket (US$100, valid for five days, covering all 11 churches).
• Visit in the early morning for the best light and a quieter experience.
• Wear slip-on shoes, as you’ll need to remove them before entering.

2. Discover the Northern Group of Churches

The Northern Cluster of Lalibela’s churches is the most famous, with interconnected tunnels linking some of the most impressive rock-hewn structures in the world. The largest, Bete Medhane Alem, is often compared to the Parthenon due to its grand columns, but its true significance lies in the relics it holds — inside rests what many believe to be the Lalibela Cross, one of Ethiopia’s most sacred artefacts.

Nearby, Bete Maryam is said to be the oldest of the churches, its walls adorned with faded frescoes of saints and biblical scenes. The floor is worn smooth by centuries of worshippers. I stood in its shadow, tracing the grooves left by time, imagining the countless feet that had passed this way before me.

Step into Bete Golgotha, where only men are allowed to enter, and you'll find a sense of solemnity unlike anywhere else — pilgrims bow low, their foreheads touching the ground.

How to make it matter

Walk barefoot as the pilgrims do. Feel the chill of the stone under your feet, hear the whispered prayers around you, and take in the scent of incense curling through the dimly lit corridors.

Practical info

• A guide is highly recommended (expect to pay US$20–$30 for the day).
• Some churches have gender restrictions — ask before entering.
• Flash photography is not allowed inside.
• The churches on the northern side include:  
• Bete Medhane Alem (House of the Saviour of the World)
• Bete Maryam (House of Mary)
• Bete Maskal (House of the Cross)
• Bete Denagel (House of Virgins)
• Bete Golgotha Mikael (House of Golgotha Mikael)

3. Explore the Southern Cluster of Churches

Darker, quieter, and often overlooked, the Southern Cluster holds an eerie kind of mystery. These churches, including Bete Gabriel-Rufael and Bete Abba Libanos, have a different feel — some historians believe they were originally royal palaces, later converted into sacred spaces.

The most intriguing feature here is the tunnel said to represent the path to hell — a pitch-black passage that pilgrims walk through, guided only by instinct (or a torch if you’re a traveller). It’s disorienting and unsettling, a test of faith and courage.

Emerging into the light, you reach Bete Amanuel, considered to be the most finely carved church in Lalibela. Its perfectly symmetrical design suggests it may have been a private chapel for the royal family. 

I stood before its intricate façade, running my fingers over the smooth rock, trying to grasp how such precision was carved from a single slab of stone.

How to make it matter

Walk the tunnel alone. Let the darkness consume you for a moment. Feel the weight of history pressing in from all sides.

It’s a reminder of the spiritual trials many endure in their search for the divine.

Practical info

• The tunnel is not for the claustrophobic — it’s long, completely dark, and requires careful footing.
• The Southern Cluster is less visited, making it ideal for a quieter, more reflective experience.
• Some churches may have restricted access depending on religious ceremonies — be respectful and ask before entering.
• The churches on the sorthern side include:  
• Bete Amanuel (House of Emmanuel, outlined above)
• Bete Qeddus Mercoreus (House of St Mercoreos)
• Bete Abba Libanos (House of Abbot Libanos)
• Bete Gabriel-Rufael (House of Gabriel Raphael)
• Bete Lehem (House of Holy Bread)

Experience Lalibela’s Spiritual and Cultural Heritage

Lalibela is where faith shapes everyday life. Spend time among worshippers, watch barefoot priests emerge from centuries-old tunnels, and witness rituals unchanged for generations to understand why this place still holds such deep spiritual significance.

4. Attend a Dawn Church Service

Wake before sunrise and follow the sound of distant chanting as it echoes through the hills of Lalibela. The churches come alive in the early hours, filled with the low hum of prayers, flickering candlelight, and the scent of frankincense curling through the air. Worshippers draped in white shamma cloth kneel in unison, their voices rising in ancient hymns that have been sung for over 800 years.

Unlike many religious sites turned tourist attractions, Lalibela’s churches are still very much alive — this isn’t a performance for visitors; it’s the daily rhythm of faith.

Attending a dawn service offers a rare and humbling insight into Ethiopia’s deeply rooted Orthodox traditions. Just remember to dress modestly, remove your shoes, and blend into the experience rather than spectate.

5. Visit Yemrehanna Kristos Church

Tucked inside a cave 40km from Lalibela, Yemrehanna Kristos predates the town’s famous rock-hewn churches by nearly a century. Unlike the monolithic structures carved from the earth, this church was built in the Axumite style, layering alternating bands of wood and stone, giving it an almost striped appearance.

The air inside is thick with the scent of age-old incense, and the wooden beams creak underfoot as you step inside.

But what truly makes this place hauntingly unforgettable is what lies just beyond the altar: the skeletal remains of hundreds — perhaps thousands — of pilgrims who travelled here from across Africa and never left. Their bones are stacked in the shadows, a quiet reminder that this was once a final resting place for the devout.

The journey to Yemrehanna Kristos is rough, but if you have time for only one side trip from Lalibela, this is the one to make.

6. Explore the Lalibela Market

If you want to glimpse the daily life of Lalibela beyond its sacred churches, head to the town’s bustling market. It’s not set up for tourists, which makes it all the more interesting.

Merchants sit on the dusty ground behind piles of freshly harvested teff, the grain used to make Ethiopia’s staple injera. Handwoven baskets, frankincense resin, and thick, traditional wool shawls fill other stalls, while donkeys push their way through narrow alleys, carrying sacks of grain.

I wandered through, taking in the scent of spices and the hum of quiet negotiations between buyers and sellers.

Unlike the historical sites, there are no entrance fees or guides here — just an unfiltered slice of life in Lalibela.

If you stop at a coffee stall, you might be invited to sit for a buna ceremony, where locals roast, grind, and brew fresh coffee over hot coals. It’s one of the best ways to connect with people and take in the rhythm of the town.

7. Visit Lalibela Cultural Museum

Tucked away from the grandeur of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, the Lalibela Cultural Museum offers a quieter but no less fascinating glimpse into Ethiopia’s past.

Here, the stories of kings, priests, and everyday people come to life through artefacts, religious relics, and historical accounts. Ancient manuscripts, ceremonial crosses, and traditional crafts sit alongside informational panels detailing Lalibela’s history, its role in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, and its archaeological significance.

This is not a place of grandeur, but of depth. While the churches speak through their sheer scale, the museum whispers through its details — the delicate inscriptions on centuries-old manuscripts, the polished surfaces of carved relics, the echoes of Ethiopia’s spiritual and artistic heritage.

How to Make it Matter

Slow down. Read the inscriptions. Imagine the hands that once held these objects, the voices that once sang the hymns written on those pages.

Instead of rushing to the next grand sight, let yourself sit with history. If a local guide is available, ask about the stories behind the artefacts — these are echoes of a living tradition.

Practical Info

• A museum guide is often included in the entry fee, enhancing the visitor experience.
• The museum provides historical and archaeological insights, making it a great complement to the church visits.
• Opening hours and fees may vary, so checking in advance is recommended.

8. Learn to Make Ethiopian Cuisine

Few places in Africa are as defined by their cuisine as Ethiopia, where food is more than just a meal — it’s a shared ritual, a symbol of hospitality, and a link to centuries of tradition. In Lalibela, cooking isn’t something confined to kitchens. It spills into the streets, into markets, into homes where injera is spread across woven baskets and stews simmer for hours over open flames.

For those who want to go beyond just eating, a cooking class offers a hands-on way to connect with the culture. Under the guidance of locals, you’ll learn to mix berbere spice, prepare slow-cooked dishes like shiro wat (chickpea stew) and doro wat (spiced chicken), and of course, master the technique of making injera — the spongy, slightly sour flatbread that’s as much a utensil as it is a staple.

Some classes even begin with a walk through the market, where you’ll pick out fresh ingredients before heading back to cook.

And then, there’s the buna (coffee) ceremony — a slow, deliberate process of roasting, grinding, and brewing coffee over hot coals. If you’re lucky, you might be invited to sit and take part, watching as the beans turn from green to dark brown, the aroma filling the air.

How to Make it Matter

Ethiopian meals aren’t meant to be rushed. They’re meant to be shared.

Eat with your hands. Tear off a piece of injera, scoop up the stew, and taste the layers of spice and tradition in every bite.

If you take a class, ask about the history behind each dish — the stories woven into the flavours are just as important as the food itself.

Practical Info

• Alem Cooking Class Bar and Restaurant – A market-to-table experience where you’ll cook traditional dishes and enjoy a full meal.
• Lalibela Cookery School and Tour – Evening classes with a focus on Ethiopian culinary traditions and a coffee ceremony.
• Lalibela Cooking Class and Pizza House – Learn Ethiopian dishes and try Ethiopian-style pizzas, with market visits included.
• Classes usually last 2–3 hours and cost around $10–$20 per person.
• Most Ethiopian food is naturally vegetarian or vegan-friendly, but it’s best to check ahead.
• A coffee ceremony is often part of the experience — accepting a cup is a sign of respect.

Some places teach technique. Here, you learn a tradition that’s been passed down for generations — one that begins with fire, spice, and stories, and always ends at a table, surrounded by others.

Participate in Outdoor Adventures and Enjoy Scenic Views

Lalibela is also a gateway to Ethiopia’s stunning highlands. Whether hiking to Asheton Maryam Monastery or trekking through the Abuna Yosef Massif, the region offers breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into remote monastic life.

9. Hike to Asheton Maryam Monastery

Perched at 3,200 metres above sea level, Asheton Maryam Monastery offers one of the most rewarding hikes in Lalibela. The path winds steeply upward, past terraced fields, stone huts, and the occasional herder guiding his livestock through the hills.  I paused often — not just to catch my breath, but to take in the sheer vastness of the landscape, where the Ethiopian Highlands seem to stretch on forever.

As you climb, the view stretches out over the rugged Ethiopian Highlands, and the town of Lalibela shrinks below.

The monastery itself, believed to have been built by King Lalibela, is carved into the cliffs, much like the churches below.

Inside, monks guard ancient religious artefacts, including centuries-old crosses and manuscripts. If you’re lucky, one of them might invite you in for a blessing.

The hike can be done independently, but hiring a local guide helps navigate the less obvious trails and supports the local economy.

10. Hike the Escarpments

The escarpments surrounding Lalibela offer a different kind of journey — one less about reaching a single destination and more about immersing yourself in the vast, untamed landscapes of the Ethiopian Highlands.

The trails snake along dramatic cliffs, where deep valleys drop away beneath your feet, and the horizon stretches into a haze of blue and gold. Unlike the structured path to Asheton Maryam, hiking the escarpments feels more open-ended, more expansive —  a chance to walk without a strict itinerary, following the land as it unfolds before you.

Along the way, you might pass remote rock-hewn chapels, hidden caves, or lone shepherds tending their flocks, their presence a reminder that life has moved at this pace for centuries. The air is thinner up here, the silence almost complete, broken only by the sound of the wind and the occasional cry of a distant bird of prey. I stopped at the edge of a cliff, where the drop was dizzying, and let the wind press against me, feeling both small and infinite all at once.

Whether you go for a short trek or a full-day adventure, this is a hike for those who appreciate the journey itself — one that rewards every step with a deeper connection to the land and its rhythms.

Practical Info

• No formal route — local guides can suggest the best trails based on time and difficulty.
• Start early to avoid the midday heat and catch the soft light over the valleys.
• Bring plenty of water — there are no facilities along the way.
• If hiking independently, mark your route carefully — some paths fade into the landscape.

This is Lalibela beyond the churches, where the land itself tells a story—one written in stone, wind, and time.

11. Take a Day Trip to the Abuna Yosef Massif

For those who crave adventure beyond Lalibela’s spiritual sites, the Abuna Yosef Massif is an unmissable trek. Rising over 4,200 metres, this dramatic highland plateau is home to rare Ethiopian wolves, gelada baboons, and soaring lammergeiers.

The trek takes you through Afro-alpine meadows, where giant lobelias stand like prehistoric sentinels against the mountain landscape. Local villages dot the route, offering glimpses into rural Ethiopian life, where families farm on steep terraces and children run barefoot along the trails.

The altitude makes for a demanding climb, but the reward — an endless horizon of undulating peaks and untouched wilderness — is worth every step.

If you’re looking for solitude, perspective, and a true off-the-grid experience, Abuna Yosef delivers.

Essential Travel Information for Visiting Lalibela

As with any destination, before you visit Lalibela, it’s essential to plan ahead. A bit of preparation can help you make the most of this sacred and historically rich destination.

How to Get to Lalibela

Reaching Lalibela takes some planning, whether you choose to fly or take the long but rewarding overland route.

▶ By Air

I flew from Aksum to Lalibela — thanks to a bout of typhoid. I usually prefer overland travel as a way to move as locals do, at least those who can afford a bus ticket. That said, for those short on time, flying is by far the most convenient option.

▶ By Bus

Overland travel to Lalibela is challenging and requires patience.

• From Addis Ababa: A bus runs to Lalibela but requires an overnight stop in Dessie.
• From Bahir Dar: There’s a connection to Lalibela, but you’ll need to change buses in Gashena.
• From Aksum: The journey takes around 3 days, with stops and bus changes in Mekele and Woldia.

Expect long travel times, unpredictable schedules, and the need for flexibility. Ask lots of questions and be patient — the journey is part of the experience.

How to Get Around Lalibela

There are a few ways of getting around Lalibela.

▶ On Foot

Navigating Lalibela is best done on foot – it’s how I got around.  The town is compact, and walking from one end to the other typically takes about 25 minutes. This leisurely pace allows you to fully absorb the daily life that define Lalibela.

While walking, you may encounter children asking for money. Local community leaders advise against giving money directly, as it can encourage a cycle of dependency and deter children from attending school. Instead, consider supporting reputable local organisations that focus on education and community development. This approach fosters sustainable support and aligns with the community's efforts to discourage begging.

▶ By Taxi or Tuk-Tuk

For those who may find walking challenging, there are alternative transportation options available. Local taxis and tuk-tuks (three-wheeled vehicles) can be hired for short trips around town.

▶ By Organised Tour

Additionally, organised tours often provide transportation to and from major sites, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.

By choosing to explore Lalibela on foot or through responsible transportation choices, you not only immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere but also contribute positively to the local community.

Where to Stay in Lalibela

Lalibela offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels and places with stunning views of the surrounding highlands. If you want to be right in the centre of town, I stayed at Asheton Hotel, which was okay but quite basic — a decent option for those prioritising location over luxury.

For travellers looking for something more comfortable, there are plenty of guesthouses with a local feel and mid-range hotels with great service and views of the highlands. 

Budget: Lalibela Hotel

If you're looking for a budget-friendly stay in Lalibela, Lalibela Hotel keeps it simple but delivers where it matters. It’s walkable to the rock-hewn churches, has hot showers, and the staff go out of their way to help. Bonus: the garden views are a nice touch, and it’s near solid local restaurants. 

➡ Click here to book Lalibela Hotel 

Budget to Mid-Range: Lalibela Hidmo Cozy Place 

For something a little different, Lalibela Hidmo Cozy Place offers a mix of traditional Ethiopian design and modern comfort. Each room is built in the style of a round thatched tukul hut, with stone walls, wooden balconies, and breathtaking valley views.

Run by a welcoming local family, it’s the kind of place where you feel instantly at home — great food, friendly vibes, and the best sunrise coffee spot in town. Perfect for travellers who love unique stays with character rather than generic hotels.

➡ Click here to book Lalibela Hidmo Cozy Place  

Mid-Range: Top Twelve Hotel

Top Twelve Hotel offers a mix of comfort and stunning scenery, with rooms perched on a cliffside overlooking the valley. The views alone are worth it — especially at sunset — but guests also rave about the friendly staff and locally inspired decor. If you’re after a peaceful stay that’s still close to Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, this is a great mid-range choice. 

➡ Click here to book Top Twelve Hotel 

Best Time to Visit Lalibela

The best time to visit Lalibela is during the dry season from October to March, with January being particularly special as it coincides with Genna (Ethiopian Christmas), attracting thousands of pilgrims for vibrant religious celebrations.

Solo Travel in Lalibela: What’s it Like?

Lalibela is one of those rare places where solo travel feels both peaceful and immersive.

Walking through the narrow rock-cut passages of the churches, I never felt out of place or unsafe — only watched with mild curiosity. Locals are welcoming, and while some may approach offering tours or souvenirs, a polite but firm "no, thank you" is generally enough to move on. Unlike some other destinations, solo travellers aren’t treated with suspicion or loneliness here — you’re just another pilgrim passing through, whether for faith, history, or curiosity.

One of the best things about being alone in Lalibela is the freedom to linger. I could sit in Bete Giyorgis for an hour, watching the interplay of light and shadow, or stop at a roadside coffee stand and be drawn into conversation with a local priest who wanted to practice his English. There was a moment when I was wandering near Bete Maryam, and an elderly woman in a white shamma simply placed her hand on my arm and smiled, as if to say, welcome — a small but meaningful moment of human connection.

I should note that compared to other Ethiopian cities, where I occasionally experienced hostility from Ethiopian men — sometimes even being spat at (a resentment toward white foreigners that can exist in a country that was never colonised), I never had this experience in Lalibela. The atmosphere here felt different — perhaps because it remains a deeply spiritual town, where visitors of all backgrounds are woven into the fabric of pilgrimage and faith rather than standing out as outsiders.

▶ Practical Tips for Solo Travellers in Lalibela

• Guides may be persistent, but you don’t need one unless you want in-depth explanations. If you prefer solo exploration, learn a few Amharic phrases — it goes a long way in polite refusals.
• Walking is safe, even at night, but bring a flashlight, as power outages can be frequent.
• Hotels and guesthouses are used to solo travellers, so you won’t stand out, and you’ll likely meet other visitors over coffee or at the churches.

Lalibela doesn’t overwhelm solo travellers — it invites them in, lets them explore at their own pace, and leaves them with quiet but lasting memories.

Staying Healthy in Lalibela

Lalibela sits at an altitude of around 2,500 metres, which means malaria isn’t a concern here, but other infectious diseases can be.

I contracted typhoid while travelling in Ethiopia — diagnosed in Bahir Dar — and was still feeling the effects by the time I arrived in Lalibela, lethargic from the strong medication. It was a stark reminder that food- and waterborne illnesses are a real risk and that prevention matters.

The best way to stay healthy is to be cautious with food and water. Stick to bottled or purified water, avoid raw vegetables or unpeeled fruit, and be mindful of where you eat. Hygiene standards vary, and while I had no issues in Lalibela itself, it’s worth being selective about street food and local eateries.

As a registered nurse and someone who has dealt with illness while travelling, I can say firsthand that basic precautions can make a huge difference.

At high altitudes, dehydration and fatigue can set in more quickly, so drink plenty of fluids and pace yourself, especially if you’ve just arrived from lower elevations. Power outages can sometimes affect refrigeration, so be wary of dairy and meat dishes if they don’t seem properly stored.

▶ Practical Health Tips

• Typhoid and traveller’s diarrhea are real risks — consider precautionary measures before your trip.
• Malaria is not a concern at this altitude, but it may be in lower areas of Ethiopia.
• Use bottled or purified water — even for brushing your teeth.
• Be selective with food choices — opt for freshly cooked meals from reputable places.
• Carry basic medications, including rehydration salts and antibiotics if prescribed.

Even though I was still recovering from typhoid while in Lalibela, the slow pace of the town and its spiritual atmosphere made it an easier place to rest and regain energy — a welcome contrast to more chaotic cities.

Respecting Cultural Norms in Lalibela

Lalibela isn’t just a historic site — it’s a living, breathing place of worship, where faith is deeply woven into daily life. Understanding and respecting local customs shapes how you experience the town and how locals receive you.

Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity dominates life here, and you’ll see it in everything — from the white-shrouded pilgrims bowing in prayer to the monks retreating into dimly lit caves.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting churches. For men, this means long pants and a shirt with sleeves, and for women, covered shoulders and a scarf for the head are appreciated. Shoes must be removed before entering any church, so wearing slip-ons makes it easier.

Religious greetings are common — if someone says "Selam" (peace), responding with the same is a simple but meaningful gesture. You’ll also notice people kissing the walls of churches, touching their foreheads to the ground, or bowing when passing religious sites — while not expected of visitors, being aware of these gestures and moving respectfully around those in prayer goes a long way.

Connecting with Locals in Lalibela

Ethiopians appreciate genuine curiosity. If you take the time to learn a few words of Amharic, it’s met with enthusiasm.

Simple greetings like "Ameseginalehu" (thank you) or "Selam" (hello) can spark friendly exchanges. Conversations often begin with “Where are you from?”, and people love hearing why you came to Ethiopia.

Unlike some parts of Ethiopia where I felt an undercurrent of resentment toward foreigners (especially from some men), I never experienced hostility in Lalibela. Instead, the town felt warm and welcoming, perhaps because visitors are seen as part of a larger pilgrimage.

That said, children asking for money is common, and while it can be uncomfortable to refuse, locals generally advise against giving cash, as it encourages dependency. If you want to give back, donating to a local school or buying from artisans is a better approach.

Practical Tips for Cultural Etiquette in Lalibela

• Dress modestly, especially in religious sites — women should bring a scarf for their heads.
• Remove shoes before entering churches — wear easy slip-on shoes.
• Learn basic Amharic phrases — a simple "Ameseginalehu" (thank you) goes a long way.
• Be mindful of prayer and religious customs — move respectfully around pilgrims and monks.
• Avoid giving money to begging children — support local initiatives instead.

Lalibela is not just a place to see but a place to experience. The more you engage with its traditions and people, the deeper and more meaningful your visit will be.

FAQs for Visiting Lalibela

Planning a trip to Lalibela? Here are answers to a couple of common questions to help make your visit as smooth as possible.

How Much Are Entry Fees in Lalibela?

The church complex requires a single entrance fee of $100 USD, valid for five days and covering all 11 churches.

Dress Code for Visiting Lalibela

Respect the local culture by wearing modest clothing, especially in religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and bring a scarf for their heads, while men should avoid shorts. Shoes must be removed before entering churches.

Cash and Payments in Lalibela

ATMs are scarce, and credit cards are rarely accepted, so bring enough cash in Ethiopian Birr (ETB) for your stay. Some larger hotels may accept USD or Euros, but expect most transactions to be cash only.

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Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Lalibela

Lalibela isn’t a museum — it’s a place people live, worship, and move through every day.

The churches may be the main draw, but it’s the small moments that stay with you — the hum of prayers in the early morning, the scent of frankincense curling through dimly lit tunnels, the quiet resilience of a town that still holds onto something ancient.

Whether you’re here for history, faith, or curiosity, Lalibela isn’t just about what you see — it’s about what you take away from it.

Have you been to Lalibela? Share your experience in the comments below!