Meskel Festival Tour – Special Package
Join Zufan Eco Tour for an unforgettable 13-day journey to experience the Meskel Festival, one of Ethiopia’s most vibrant and culturally significant celebrations. This tour provides an immersive experience into Ethiopia’s ancient traditions, complemented by stunning landscapes and historical sites.
About the Meskel Festival
Meskel is an ancient Christian festival celebrated in Ethiopia commemorating the discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena in the 4th century. The word ‘Meskel’ means ‘cross’ in Amharic. It is celebrated on September 27 or 28 (Leap Year) with joyous activities that include the lighting of a large bonfire known as “Demera”. This event is symbolic of the smoke that purportedly revealed the location of the True Cross, guiding Saint Helena to its discovery. The festival features colorful processions, traditional dances, singing, and the wearing of special clothes, making it a vibrant showcase of Ethiopian culture and faith.
Our Tour Guide Speak : English – German – Spanish – French – Italian – Russian
Tour Highlights
- Meskel Festival: Participate in the grand celebration of the discovery of the True Cross, held annually in Meskel Square, Addis Ababa.
- Explore Addis Ababa: Visit the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and other landmarks.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Discover the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the Simien Mountains National Park.
- Cultural Encounters: Engage with local communities and experience their rich traditions and customs.
Tour Includes
- Airport transfers
- Domestic flights
- Accommodation (12 nights)
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Entrance fees to all sites
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Ground transportation with a well-maintained vehicle
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides and drivers
Details
This 13 Days wonderful itinerary offers the opportunity to witness and share in the annual Meskel ceremonies and discover the Famous Ethiopian Northern Historic Route. Meskel, the great religious holiday began on September 27 with Demera, a public ceremony where Ethiopians gather around a large bonfire in memory of Jesus' crucifixion and the discovery of "the true cross". Hundreds of thousands of people gathered in the center of the capital, Addis Ababa but the ceremony is held every village. Then in the shape of a cross, the ashes are marked on foreheads, similar to Ash Wednesday. Ashes represent death as well as repentance. Christians demonstrate repentance and sadness for their sins during this time because they believe Christ died for them. The Meskel Festival, which has been classified by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage of humanity, was to continue the next day, with people celebrating it this time at home or with neighbours. The top spots are in Addis Ababa and Gondar. The Tour also gives the travelers an opportunity to explore other fascinating sites in Northern Ethiopia Historic Route including the Simen Mountains National Park, Blue Nile Falls, Castles of Gondar, Remarkable Rock churches of Lalibela, Ancient Monasteries on Lake Tana. You will have a very special trip to one of the most fascinating countries in Arica. Come prepared to be amazed!
- Airport Transfer: Our representative will meet you at Bole International Airport for a warm welcome and transfer to your hotel.
- City Tour: Discover the highlights of Addis Ababa, including the National Museum and the Ethnographic Museum.
- Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa.
- Landmarks: Visit landmark sites such as Holy Trinity Cathedral and Mercato, the largest open-air market in Africa.
- Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa.
- Meskel Square: Join thousands of people in Meskel Square for the colorful and lively Meskel Festival.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional music, dance, and local foods.
- Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa.
- Flight to Bahir Dar: Take a morning flight to Bahir Dar.
- Blue Nile Falls: Visit the stunning Blue Nile Falls, followed by a boat trip on Lake Tana to explore ancient monasteries.
- Overnight: Hotel in Bahir Dar.
- Lake Tana Monasteries: Visit the island monasteries and see ancient manuscripts and religious artifacts.
- Local Market: Explore Bahir Dar's vibrant market.
- Overnight: Hotel in Bahir Dar.
- Drive to Gondar: Travel to the historical city of Gondar.
- Fasil Ghebbi: Tour the royal enclosure, including castles and palaces.
- Debre Berhan Selassie Church: Admire the well-preserved colorful frescoes.
Overnight: Hotel in Gondar.
- Drive to Simien Mountains: Head to Simien Mountains National Park.
- Trekking: Enjoy a day of trekking with spectacular views and wildlife spotting.
- Overnight: Lodge in Simien Mountains.
- Trekking and Exploration: Continue exploring the Simien Mountains with guided trekking.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot endemic species like the Gelada baboon and Walia ibex.
- Overnight: Lodge in Simien Mountains
.
- Drive to Axum: Travel to Axum, one of Ethiopia's oldest cities.
- Stelae Park: Explore the towering ancient obelisks.
- Overnight: Hotel in Axum.
- Historical Sites: Visit the Church of St. Mary of Zion, the ruins of the Queen of Sheba's palace, and other historical sites.
- Overnight: Hotel in Axum.
- Flight to Lalibela: Fly to Lalibela, home to the famous rock-hewn churches.
- Churches of Lalibela: Spend the day exploring these incredible 12th-century structures.
- Overnight: Hotel in Lalibela.
- Yemrehanna Kristos: Visit the unique Yemrehanna Kristos Church, built inside a cave.
- Cultural Experience: Engage with the local community and learn about their way of life.
- Overnight: Hotel in Lalibela.
- Return Flight: Fly back to Addis Ababa.
- Local Market Visit: Explore a local market for souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian farewell dinner with cultural music and dance.
- Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa.
Write Your Review