How to Plan Your 2 Days Tigray Church + Ballooning Tour in Mekele

If you’re planning on visiting Mekele, you should definitely consider taking the 2 Days Tigray Church + Ballooning tour. This tour offers an incredible opportunity to explore some of the most ancient and stunning churches in Tigray, followed by an unforgettable balloon ride over the region’s dramatic landscapes. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your tour.

Overview

This tour lasts for 2 days, and it starts and ends in Mekele. On the first day, you will get a chance to visit four ancient churches in Tigray, namely Abreha Atsbeha, Wukro Cherkos, Wukro Kirkos, and Abraha Weatsbeha. The second day is dedicated to a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the stunning Tigray landscapes.

What’s Included

The following things are included in your tour package:

• Breakfast
• All Entrance fees and licenses as per the program.
• Air-conditioned vehicle

Services which are not listed in the inclusion

Some services that are not included in the package are:

• Lunch and dinner
• Personal expenses

Meeting And Pickup

You have two options for meeting and pick-up. You can head directly to the meeting point in Mek’ele or request pick-up from your hotel.

Meeting point

The meeting point is located in Mekele, Ethiopia.

Pickup points

You can select any pickup point of your choice during the booking process.

Start time and end point

This tour/activity starts at 8:00 am on the first day and ends at approximately 5:00 pm on the second day. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

On the first day, you’ll visit four ancient churches:

Abreha Atsbeha

This church is located near Wukro town and dates back to the 4th century. It is said to be one of the oldest churches in Ethiopia, and it’s famous for its impressive frescoes and its unique architectural design.

Wukro Cherkos

Wukro Cherkos, also known as St. Cherkos or St. Teklehaimanot, is situated on a hill in Wukro. It is a beautifully preserved church and is known for its vivid frescoes.

Wukro Kirkos

Wukro Kirkos is another impressive church located in Wukro. This church is unique for its circular shape.

Abraha Weatsbeha

The last church you will visit on day one is Abraha Weatsbeha, which is located in the town of Korem. This church is known for its beautiful paintings and its ancient manuscripts.

On day two, you’ll experience a hot air balloon ride over the stunning Tigray landscapes. You’ll get an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the region’s dramatic landscapes, its ancient churches, and its traditional villages. The balloon ride is one of the most popular and exciting things to do in Tigray, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Additional Info

Here are a few additional details you should know before booking your tour:

Confirmation

You’ll receive a confirmation email after booking your tour.

Accessibility

This activity is not wheelchair accessible.

Physical requirements

You should have a moderate level of fitness to participate in this tour.

Group size

This tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers.

Cancellation policy

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Book the Tour Here

If you’re ready to experience the magic of the Tigray churches and the thrill of a hot air balloon ride, book your 2 Days Tigray Church + Ballooning tour in Mekele today. Click here to book the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mekele

Mekele is a fascinating city located in the northern Tigray region of Ethiopia. It has a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of natural attractions. However, visitors may have some questions before planning their trip to Mekele. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Mekele.

1. Where is Mekele located?

Mekele is located in the northern Tigray region of Ethiopia. It is the capital of the region and is situated about 783 kilometers from the capital city, Addis Ababa.

2. What is the best time to visit Mekele?

The best time to visit Mekele is between October and February when the weather is mild and dry. The temperatures during this time range from 20°C to 25°C. It is also the best time to witness cultural festivals such as the Timkat Festival, which takes place in January.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Mekele?

Dallol Volcano

Dallol Volcano is one of the most unique and fascinating attractions in Mekele. It is located in the Danakil Depression, which is one of the hottest and driest places on earth. The volcano is known for its sulfur springs, hot springs, and colorful rock formations.

Yohannes IV Museum

The Yohannes IV Museum is another popular attraction in Mekele. It is named after Emperor Yohannes IV, who ruled Ethiopia from 1872 to 1889. The museum showcases artifacts and memorabilia from the emperor’s reign, including clothing, weapons, and photographs.

Negash Mosque

Negash Mosque is a historical mosque located about 12 kilometers from Mekele. It is believed to be one of the oldest mosques in Africa and is considered a sacred site for followers of Islam.

4. How do I get to Mekele?

You can get to Mekele by plane, bus, or car. The city has its own airport, the Alula Aba Nega Airport, which is served by Ethiopian Airlines. There are also several bus companies that operate regular services to Mekele from other cities in Ethiopia. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Addis Ababa and drive to Mekele.

5. What should I wear in Mekele?

Mekele is a conservative city, so it is best to dress modestly. Women should wear long skirts or trousers and cover their arms and shoulders. Men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts. It is also a good idea to bring comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to visit the natural attractions around Mekele.

6. What are the local foods to try in Mekele?

Tihlo

Tihlo is a traditional dish made from roasted barley flour and served with a spicy meat or vegetable stew. It is a popular dish in Mekele and is often eaten with injera, a sourdough flatbread.

Beyaynetu

Beyaynetu is a vegetarian platter that consists of different types of stews, salads, and injera. It is a staple dish in Ethiopia and is often eaten during religious fasting periods.

Shiro

Shiro is a dish made from ground chickpeas or lentils and served with injera. It is a common dish in Ethiopia and is often eaten as a vegan alternative to meat stews.

7. Is it safe to travel to Mekele?

Mekele is generally considered a safe city for travel. However, visitors should take normal precautions, such as keeping valuables safe and not walking alone at night. It is also important to adhere to local customs and dress modestly.

Conclusion

Mekele is a beautiful city with plenty of attractions for visitors. Whether you are interested in culture, history, or natural beauty, Mekele has something to offer. By following the tips in this post, you can ensure that your trip to Mekele is safe and enjoyable.