Day 01 :
Departure from Addis Ababa
- Morning: Depart from Addis Ababa in the morning for your Timkat festival experience. Depending on your preference, you can choose to fly to Gondar or Lalibela (both are rich in Ethiopian culture and history).
- Gondar: Known for its royal castles and historical significance, Gondar offers a fascinating setting for Timkat celebrations.
- Lalibela: Famous for its rock-hewn churches and spiritual atmosphere, Lalibela offers a unique place to witness the festival’s religious rituals.
- Afternoon: Arrive in your chosen destination (Gondar or Lalibela) and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring the local area. In Gondar, you can visit the Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure) and Debre Berhan Selassie Church. In Lalibela, you may want to visit one or two of its iconic rock-hewn churches like Bete Giyorgis (Church of St. George).
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant. As Timkat draws closer, you’ll begin to see preparations in the streets for the grand celebration, with locals wearing their finest traditional clothing.
Day 02 :
Timkat Celebration in Gondar or Lalibela
- Morning:In Gondar: Witness the grand Timkat procession at the Fasilides Bath (a historic royal pool) or Debre Birhan Selassie Church. The clergy, dressed in vibrant robes, lead the procession, and the highlight is the blessing of the water. Thousands of people gather, singing, dancing, and praying as they celebrate the baptism of Christ
- .In Lalibela: Join the Timkat procession that starts at the rock-hewn churches. The Tabot (a replica of the Ark of the Covenant) is carried with great reverence and ceremony from one church to another, accompanied by singing, chanting, and dancing. Timkat services in Lalibela are particularly poignant, with ancient Ethiopian Orthodox hymns echoing through the centuries-old churches.
- Afternoon: Continue to experience the festivities in the afternoon. In Gondar, attend the Timkat feast and enjoy traditional Ethiopian food, including injera and doro wat. In Lalibela, you can explore the historical significance of the rock-hewn churches, as well as interact with the local community who are celebrating this important holiday.
- Evening: As evening falls, join the Timkat night celebrations. In Gondar, the Fasilides Bath is often lit by torches, creating a magical, atmospheric setting for the festival. In Lalibela, the rock-hewn churches glow under the stars, and the faithful continue to celebrate with prayers, chants, and dances.
Day 03 :
Exploration & Return to Addis Ababa
- Morning: After an exciting Timkat celebration, spend your final day exploring more of Gondar or Lalibela. In Gondar, you can explore the Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure), Gondar Castle, and Debre Birhan Selassie Church. In Lalibela, you can visit any remaining churches you may have missed or take a peaceful walk around the town’s stunning landscapes.
- Afternoon: Take a flight back to Addis Ababa in the afternoon. Upon arrival, you’ll have time for some final shopping at the Mercato Market or a visit to the National Museum to see the famous Lucy fossil.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Addis Ababa, sampling more delicious Ethiopian cuisine, like kitfo (minced beef) or T'ej (honey wine), while reflecting on the vibrant experience of Timkat.