19 January 2027 (18 January in leap years)
Timkat is Ethiopia’s most famous religious celebration and one of Africa’s greatest cultural festivals.
The festival celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan. Decorated replicas of the Ark of the Covenant (Tabots) are carried in magnificent processions accompanied by priests, choirs, drums, umbrellas, and thousands of worshippers.
The highlight takes place early in the morning when holy water is blessed and thousands of believers renew their baptism in colourful ceremonies.
The celebrations in Gondar, Lalibela, Axum, and Addis Ababa are among the most spectacular.
Highlights
- Celebrate Ethiopia’s four most important festivals.
- Explore Gondar’s Royal Castles.
- Visit Lake Tana’s ancient monasteries.
- Experience authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremonies.
- Discover local markets and traditional villages.
- Enjoy Ethiopian music, dance, and cuisine.
- Meet local communities and experience genuine Ethiopian hospitality.
- Learn about Ethiopia’s 3,000 years of history and religious heritage.
