Abune Yemata

Stunning, relatively easy and slightly technical climb with a big vertigo. Going down is so much easier than up. Get there as early as possible to see the locals and avoid tourists who start coming around 9 AM

This is a must visit experience. Note that it is an easy stair climb up initially, then there is a vertical rock climbing section where you need to take off your shoes to climb for extra grip. There are tons of people nearby who will assist you with foot and hand placement to make it easy. There is also a harness and a rope but they look very worn and I would not advise using it. After passing the directly vertical section there’s a couple of other rock climbs and then a narrow ledge (but note that there is a sheer drop - not for the faint of heart - don’t look down!). The actual monastery is extremely cool and well preserved.

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).

Beautiful church in an absolutely stunning location. Things I wish I'd known beforehand: The priest will expect a small donation ($2), and woman also need a head covering to enter (available for another donation). Depending on how adept you are as a climber you will likely need the assistance of various young men on some of the stripper sections. On your descent it is polite to tip after clearing the last sketchy section ($5 to $15). The tips are shared amongst the helpers.

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.

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.