Abune Yemata Church

The climb to go up there was challenging but there were a few people who were there to help. There was a rope available too if you needed it. Once you go up there it is a wonderful feeling. The views were amazing throughout and the paintings inside the church were very beautiful. All the pain to go up there was totally worth it. 😊

I can't describe how much I enjoyed visiting this church. The climb is challenging but there are many scouts to guide you in every step. There is also a rope to help you climb the steepest part of it. The views are stunning. Be aware that you have to pay for the rope (150 birr per person,one way), the scouts (they are more than six and they all want their share), the monk (who also asks for a specific amount).

Adventurous and beautiful church, a really memorable experience except for the scams along the way. Watch out for - people who accompany you on the way up, they are "guiding you" and will want money, a guided tour is 1700ETB! Entrance fee to the church is 600ETB in 2024 and the priest will ask for money and if you don't give enough he will say: "This is little" ahaha. I gave him 300ETB. Also there are helpers who point to holders in the rock where you are supposed to put your feet but they will expect money for this as well. You don't need a guide nor a tour, you can come on your own (Mekele to Hawzen, then tuktuk).

The Abune Yemata Guh Church is one of the most famous and unique churches located in the Gheralta Mountains of Tigray, Ethiopia. It is perched on a sheer cliff face, requiring visitors to climb steep rock faces and narrow ledges to reach the entrance. The church is dedicated to Abune Yemata, one of the Nine Saints who brought Christianity to Ethiopia in the 6th century. The church is renowned for its stunning frescoes, some of which date back over a thousand years. The interior of the church is adorned with intricate paintings depicting biblical scenes and saints, all preserved remarkably well considering their age and the remote location of the church. Visiting the Abune Yemata Guh Church is a challenging but rewarding experience, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and a unique glimpse into Ethiopia's rich Christian heritage. The church is still actively used for worship by local communities, adding to its cultural and religious significance. Overall, the Abune Yemata Guh Church is a testament to the enduring faith and ingenuity of the Ethiopian people and a must-visit destination for travelers interested in history, culture, and adventure.

Abuna yemata church is found in tigray region ! Its unique from all over Ethiopia because of built inside the mountain and Cliff way is very impressive. Its about 142kms from Mekele town and many tourists are visiting all the year!

Breathtaking place. Definitely recommend to go there. 1 hour’s hiking is not difficult and for sure worth it. You don’t need a guide to go there. Just give some tips to the people who will help you to do rock climbing. And please don’t donate money to this young priest. After I donated some local money to him, he asked dollars from me!

A 6th century church on the top of 2500 meters high rock mountain that you have to hike and climb on foot. Mostly the area is little hot so to avoid the heat during hiking, i recommend to travel in the morning.

One of the scariest things I have ever done. The climb is a real challenge without ropes - more mentally than physically though. If you have vertigo don’t attempt it but if you make it you will be rewarded by a true treasure. Beautiful painted ceilings, incredible views. Go before it becomes over touristed. Ensure you have a good guide. The number of people asking for tips afterwards is a bit of a nuisance but amounts are small and if you have a guide he will help you navigate this.