Exploring the Ancient Marvels of Lalibela with Family

Lalibela's Hidden Gems: Birds, Views, and Culinary Delights

Today was a day of exploration and immersion in the beauty of Lalibela, from the vibrant birdlife to the stunning landscapes and, of course, the incredible flavors of Ethiopian cuisine. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel and share these experiences with my family.

Our day began early, fueled by the excitement of discovering Lalibela's endemic birds. I've always been fascinated by birdwatching, a hobby I picked up during my quieter moments in Lisbon, tracing the migratory patterns of birds that briefly visit Portugal. I was eager to see what unique species Ethiopia had to offer. Francisca and Nilton, though not quite as enthusiastic about ornithology as I am, were happy to join in the adventure. After all, a day spent in nature is always a day well spent.

We started our day at Kedemt Cafe for breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee filled the air, a scent I've come to adore. We savored the strong, rich coffee alongside some local pastries, a perfect start to our day. Nilton, of course, opted for something sweet, while Francisca and I enjoyed the more traditional flavors.


Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Kedemt Cafe in Lalibela - your perfect dining spot after exploring historic sites.

After breakfast, we met up with Dan Lalibela Tour Guide Services. Dan's a local, born and raised in Lalibela, and his knowledge of the area is incredible. He is also a certified tour guide with a degree in Economics and more than 15 years of experience in the tourism business. Plus, his late grandfather was the head priest of Saint Gabriel church! His passion for his hometown was immediately evident, and I knew we were in good hands.


Experience the rich heritage of Lalibela with expert guidance from Dan Lalibela Tour Guide Services - your gateway to Ethiopia's ancient wonders.

Our first stop was the Ethiopian Endemic Birdwatching area. Lalibela, while famous for its rock-hewn churches, is also a haven for birdwatchers. Ethiopia has 19 endemic bird species! The diverse ecosystems, from highland forests to arid plateaus, create the perfect environment for unique avian life. Binoculars in hand, we set off to spot some of these feathered wonders.


Experience the breathtaking avian diversity at Ethiopian Endemic Birdwatching in Lalibela, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

It wasn't long before we started identifying different species. Dan pointed out the Erckel's Francolin and the Yellow-rumped Serin, two endemics that are commonly seen in Lalibela. I was particularly thrilled to spot an Abyssinian Nightjar, a bird I had only read about in my research. Nilton, surprisingly, was quite engaged, especially when he spotted a pair of playful White-winged Cliff-Chats. Francisca, ever the artist, was captivated by the vibrant colors of a Banded Barbet. I made sure to take lots of photos, so I can add them to my collection back home.

The beauty of Lalibela lies not only in its historical sites but also in its vibrant culture and the warmth of its people.

After a fulfilling morning of birdwatching, we were ready for lunch. Dan suggested Hailu Tsega, a local restaurant known for its authentic Ethiopian cuisine. The restaurant had an inviting atmosphere, and we were immediately drawn in by the aroma of spices and the sounds of Amharic music. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including injera with an array of colorful stews and salads. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of spicy, savory, and tangy. Nilton, who can sometimes be a picky eater, devoured the doro wat, a spicy chicken stew that's a staple in Ethiopian cuisine. Francisca and I savored the vegetarian options, appreciating the fresh, local ingredients. Hailu Tsega was more than just a meal; it was an immersion into Ethiopian culture.


Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Hailu Tsega in Lalibela - a delightful culinary journey awaits you.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to explore Lalibela a bit more. Dan led us through the town, sharing stories and insights about the local community. We visited a local market, where we were mesmerized by the vibrant colors and the bustling atmosphere. Francisca, always drawn to textiles, admired the intricate patterns of the traditional Ethiopian fabrics. I picked up a few souvenirs, small reminders of our time here.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Ben Abeba for dinner. I had heard so much about this restaurant, a unique establishment that combines Ethiopian and Scottish flavors. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the highlands, Ben Abeba offers breathtaking views. The architecture is unlike anything I've ever seen, a fusion of Ethiopian and modernist styles. The spiraling staircases and raised platforms create a sense of wonder, as if you're stepping into another world.


Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine with breathtaking views at Ben Abeba in Lalibela.

We arrived just in time to witness the sunset, a spectacle of colors painting the sky. The views were simply stunning, and we spent a few moments in silence, soaking in the beauty of the landscape. The air was crisp and cool, a welcome change from the heat of the day.

The food at Ben Abeba was just as impressive as the views. The menu is a fusion of Ethiopian and Scottish dishes, a testament to the creativity of the owners. I decided to try the Ethiopian scotch egg, a unique twist on a classic dish. Francisca opted for a traditional Ethiopian stew, while Nilton, ever adventurous, chose the shepherd's pie. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of familiar and exotic. It was one of the best meals we've had on our trip.

After dinner, as the stars began to twinkle, we made our way to Sora Lodge Lalibela for a nightcap. The lodge has a bar with a wide selection of drinks, and we decided to relax and unwind after a long day. I ordered a local beer, while Francisca sipped on a glass of Ethiopian wine. Nilton, of course, opted for a soda. As we sat there, chatting and laughing, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this experience.


Experience the perfect blend of gourmet dining and stunning views at Sora Lodge Lalibela, your gateway to Ethiopian culture and cuisine.

Sora Lodge is a family-run business, and it has won Trip Advisor's and Booking.com's Certificates of Excellence for four consecutive years! The word “Sora” has multiple meanings: it refers to a beautiful and green hill outside Lalibela, it is the name of King Lalibela`s golden carpet, and it is a popular song and dance of Lalibela and its surrounding.

Tomorrow is our last day in Lalibela, and we plan to make the most of it. We've arranged for a final tour of the rock-hewn churches with Access Eco Trekking Tours, and I'm eager to learn more about their history and significance. We'll also visit Lalibela Gemstones and Jewelry, to bring home a souvenir to remember our trip. We'll have breakfast at Lalibela Cooking Class, lunch at Dirb Tezara Restaurant, and dinner at Bet Fikre restaurant.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I realize that Lalibela is more than just a historical site; it's a living, breathing community with a rich culture and a warm heart. The people we've met, the food we've tasted, and the sights we've seen have all left an indelible mark on our souls. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The sun sets on Lalibela, but the memories of this day will forever shine bright.

Tomorrow, we say goodbye to this magical place, but I know that a part of Lalibela will always stay with us. I'm already looking forward to sharing more stories and photos with you all. Until then, thank you for joining us on this incredible journey.

I'm so glad I decided to bring my guitar along, it definitely makes those quiet moments even more special.