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Lalibela Tours
Rock Churches of Lalibela Guided Tour
5

Rock Churches of Lalibela Guided Tour

By Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours
Recommended by 100% of travelers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
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Ages 15-90
Duration: 8h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
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Audio guide: English
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Written guide
Print or digital reading material such as a guide, map, brochure, etc.
: English
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  • Experienced Guide
What's not included
  • entrance fee


Start:Traveler pickup offered.
    Pickup details
    • we will pick up guests from the Airport, but we will not pay for the car and this payment did not include entrance fee.
    Airport pickup offered
    During checkout you will be able to select from the list of included airports.
    • Lalibela Airport, Lalibela Ethiopia
    End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

      • Not wheelchair accessible
      • Near public transportation
      If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 219523P9

      • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
      • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
      • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
      • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

      • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

      If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 219523P9

      From
      $46.00
      per adult
      Select date and travelers

      Similar experiences

      Itinerary
      • 1
        Fly to Lalibela on Ethiopian Airlines 700 kilometers north of Addis Ababa. Tour the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This group of eleven monolithic and semi-monolithic structures were carved directly into the stone of the mountainside at least 900 years ago. This complex boasts the largest monolithic church in the world, a maze of passageways and tunnels, intricately carved reliefs, and fabulous examples of icon paintings.
      About the operator
      Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
      • Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours
        86
        Lalibela, Ethiopia
        Joined in November 2019
      • Odyssey16494967812
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Stunning Ethiopia
        Maereg is an excellent guide and tour leader! We spent 10 days in Ethiopia and always felt safe and taken care of by him. Everything was perfectly organized - transfers, hotels, car rental, entrances to tourist attractions. Ethiopia is a beautiful country and Maereg helped us to see it.
        Written November 26, 2024
      • AbdulmajeedA119
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        The eighth wonder of the world
        I recommend this tour to see the 11 rock hewn churches. Learn about the history of ancient Lalbella, as its construction dates back to the seventh century
        Written November 19, 2024
      • kaiyoorsrirama
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Out of the World Experience. We learnt a lot about the culture and history of Ethiopia.
        The trip was amazing and we had the best time of our life in Ethiopia. It was just wonderful. Very loving people and country.
        Written October 15, 2024
      • asiaticus7
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Ethiopia is no longer a secret to me
        What I remember most about my guide Maereg was his diligent service, promptness, efficient time-management, and impressive knowledge of Ethiopia - the ancient and the new. During the trip, Maereg made sure that I felt at ease, safe and secure as a female traveler. And that meant a lot. For eight days Maereg got to know me and I got to experience the wonders of Ethiopia. Firstly, the capital, Addis Ababa, the highest elevation of a city in Africa, which was more like a state than a city, boasted national/ state museums, cultural centers, numerous universities/ UNESCO World Heritage Sites, churches, cathedrals, cafés (the origin of coffee began here in Ethiopia), memorials, financial, telecommunications, infrastructures, shop centers, outdoor markets, etc.,. Then there was the massive rock-hewn monolith churches of Lalibela, (woa!) which is home to the oldest Christian communities in the world (as well as for Maereg, his lovely wife, and adorable children who were kind enough to have invited us to their home to meet the family & served us a delicious authentic Ethiopian dinner complimented with Honey wine). Also, Lalibela is known as Ethiopia's "New Jerusalem" because it holds religious importance and the opportunity to pilgrimage for there Orthodox Christians. And lastly, Gondar, once the capital of the former Ethiopian Empire, showcased palaces, castles, churches, fortified walls, built by each royal successor beginning the 17th century and has been called the "Camelot of Africa," idealized as in a place of high-level culture with a purpose/ belief of what community with a shared purpose can achieve. Since returning home, the trip to Ethiopia has stayed with me like a hum, tune or song which reminded me that for eight days I was in paradise. I hope to carry this happiness in me forward until I can get back to that happy place, Ethiopia 🇪🇹 . Thanks, Maereg for all that you did to make this experience possible. Sincerely, Romanáh H-B
        Written June 20, 2024
      • kaneshiac2019
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Highly recommended
        Our guide was very knowledgeable and did a great job sharing the history and culture of Ethiopia. He was very attentive and open to feedback. I highly recommend this company.
        Written June 17, 2024
      • tracybP299VJ
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Awesome trip
        The trip was amazing. We had a knowledgeable tour guide who was also very patient and attentive to the needs of the group. I would love to do this again
        Written May 1, 2024
      • 435marketai
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Stunning Lalibela, a must-see!
        Just back from last week's trip to stunning Lalibela. Had an amazing time, all organised by Maereg and his team at Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours. Stayed at Sora Lodge with beautiful views and lovely rooms. Maereg made the entire experience extremely smooth, organised every aspect of my trip and had a great team of extremely knowledgeable guides and drivers which made the whole experience very enjoyable and safe (particularly for a solo female traveller). Would highly recommend Extraordinary Ethiopia to anyone considering visiting Ethiopia.
        Written April 15, 2024
      • getraj2024
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        A wonderful trip experience
        The trip was very nice and well organized. I appreciated the drivers and everyone who supported me. You and your brother did an excellent job guiding us through North Ethiopia!
        Written April 9, 2024
      • D4165XDcalebc
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE LEGEND........MAEREG!!
        What can I say about the amazing Maereg that hasn’t been said, there’s a reason this kind fellow has nothing less than a five-star review! I ended up in Lalibela as a solo traveler aloof to the recent conflict that scared away all the usual tourists that would be visiting the beautiful sites and people of this high-altitude town. From the group taxi to the hotel I encountered aggressive tour guides trying to get a high price for their services. GEESH! Let a guy get to his room and settle in first. Feeling the hustle, as any seasoned traveler does, I walked into town to find my own way. Lucky for me, I came across the best tuk-tuk driver in Lalibela, Baye. Baye spoke English well enough, has a passion for driving and a great sense for freewheeling adventure. He bought me through he bustling Saturday market and would help me score goods at a fair price. When I mentioned that I was interested in not-so-touristy and out-of-the-ordinary adventure, he said he knew just the guy, his good friend and brother-in-arms, Maereg. I liked Maereg instantly. He’s out of the box genuine, honest, sharp, and witty. He blew me away with his knowledge of the history of the churches, people, plants and animals of the region. When a plan fell through for one adventure, it was swiftly replaced with another outstanding plan to be executed flawlessly. Maereg is a strong hiker who is diligent about your safety all the while enjoying the great and vast beauty of Ethiopia himself, seemingly just as much as I. On our all-day trips, he would supply a delicious lunch or know just where to go to get the best coffee and food. I arrived to Lalibela a lone traveler and left feeling like I gained a family and a brother. We stay in touch to this day, a world apart. So, if you're looking for the best, no-pressure, fair and knowledgeable guide in Ethiopia, look no further, Maereg’s the man! May peace be upon you my brother, until next time:)
        Written January 30, 2024
      • Sunshine22057356430
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Safe tours of Lalibela with excellent service, accommodation, and meals. Maereg is the best!
        Maereg is the best! He kept me safe in Lalibela during a politically sensitive time. He has an encyclopedic understanding of the history of the monolithic cave churches and is a logistical genius during difficult circumstances. Accommodation and meals were fabuolus, and the hotel even celebrated my birthday with a postcard of St. George and by decorating my breakfast table with flower pedals. Also ask him about his brother's luxury-at budget prices-tours of the Omo valley!
        Written November 26, 2023
      • ankiana
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Lalibela and Addis Ababa
        I did a solo trip to Lalibela and Addis Ababa over 3 days. After I got in touch with Maereg, everything was quickly arranged and the choice of hotels were both great and convenient. I felt safe the whole time and had no issues. Thank you for the brief introduction to your country. Keep up the good work.
        Written November 21, 2023
      • Ruben C
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Short visit to Lalibela from Addis, very safe and convenient for a weekend
        Amazing tour, I was skeptical of visiting Lalibela but it was very safe. Maereg tailored the tour so I could visit the most important churches and even attend to the service all in 1 day because I was short in time but there's many other buildings to visit. I flew from Addis on Saturday morning and I was back on Sunday afternoon. Maereg is a knowledgeable guide, he reached out the moment I reserved and was always available, he even booked me an amazing hotel with a discount. He will definitely make sure you get the most out of your trip. I'd strongly recommend to try the tour with Maereg, I had a great experience visiting the churches and even eating at local restaurants
        Written October 23, 2023
      • 84robertantony
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Addis day tour & Adadi Maryam
        High point was our visit to Adadi Maryam - beautiful history . But disappointed that we missed Tiya. The Addis day tour was done really well and adequate time for shopping and ending with a lovely dinner with Ethiopian songs and dances . Highly recommend
        Written October 20, 2023
      • Socksthecat2017
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Amazing lalibela
        The churches are amazing. And we’re so brought to life by Maereg. Maereg is knowledgeable, respectful and attentive. Being from Lalibela, he knew the place v well. He went out of his way to accommodate requests, and to ensure we were safe wherever we went. We hiked up in Asheton and visited the monastery. The views and sense of space are incredible. I had a bit of time at Addis before my flight. Maereg also happened to be in Addis and kindly showed me a part of Addis. Lalibela is simply stunning. Thank you Maereg for bringing it to life.
        Written October 17, 2023
      • irisemata
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Amazing place & experience
        I booked a 5days-4nights Lalibela & Gondar tour with Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours at the end of July 2023. Maereg, the owner, put together my itinerary very well, including all lodging & logistics, which included the domestic flights. The highlight for me was definitely Lalibela, in the northern mountains of Ethiopia, known for its beautiful rock-hewn churches. I could see why Lalibela is often referred to as the "Second Jerusalem". The rock churches here were all carved in rock, dating to around 900yrs old. Being devout Christians, everything in these churches has meaning, from how & where they're built to the materials used. Maereg took me to see all the churches in Lalibela in the 2 groups over 2 days, explaining in detail the significance of each church. He knows the history very well and is very passionate about Lalibela, hence, he is full of interesting information. Walking around Lalibela, esp. entering the rock churches, you can feel the deep spirituality. On a Friday morning, a day of fasting, Maereg took me back to Bete Maryam (House of Mary), where I witnessed all the devout Christians for a short early morning service with all the priests there giving blessings. It was quite a sight & experience! Afterwards, we drove about 1hr north of Lalibela to visit Yemrehana Krestos Church, located at 2700m ASL, which was a pilgrimage site, 100yrs older than the Lalibela churches, & known for the thousands of skeletons of people who made the pilgrimage, then died here almost 1000yrs ago. Throughout the tour & each of the church visits, Maereg was really good about explaining a lot about the history & significance, which I really appreciated. After Lalibela, I flew northwest to visit the royal palace ruins of Gondar & then Simien Mountains NP, which is a 3hr drive north from Gondar. What makes the Simien Mountains special is not only the beautiful mountain landscape but also the wildlife that can only be found here, such as gelada baboons, which I saw during my short hike. Unfortunately, because it is the rainy season now, I didn't see much of the views as it was very foggy, esp. at this higher altitude. During the dry season towards the end of the year is the best time to be here. Nevertheless, my hike was enjoyable, the weather was nice & cool, & I saw the gelada baboons! On the way back, we also stopped by a 3-tier waterfall named Asera waterfalls. My local guides here, who Maereg arranged, were excellent as well and took good care of me, esp. as a solo female traveler. I’m really glad I was able to experience Lalibela, Gondar, & Simien Mountains NP. I could've stayed here a few more days, esp. in Lalibela, just relaxing or taking short hikes, breathing in the fresh mountain air. This 5-day itinerary was perfect for seeing everything at a good pace, allowing me to enjoy the experience & learn a lot about each of the places, thanks to the excellent guides.
        Written August 23, 2023
      See all 86 reviews
      These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

      Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

      Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

      Popular mentions

      5.0
      5.0 of 5 bubbles24 reviews
      Excellent
      23
      Very good
      1
      Average
      0
      Poor
      0
      Terrible
      0

      Olya26
      New York City, NY58 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Mar 2023
      What a place! This is a must see place for any person interested in culture and beauty.
      The tour was very informative and very dynamic. Our guide, Maereg was the most professional and very accommodating. He met us at the airport and was very helpful throughout the day.

      First he contacted via whatsApp immediately after I booked the tour. All the questions and concern was addressed immediately. He always told us in advance what to expect.

      Maereq is very passionate about the town of Lalibela and churches. He delivers the information very clear and doesn't overwhelm with not necessary details. He showed us a restaurant with spectacular view. At the end we were so pleased with the tour that we asked if he can recommend someone for our tour in Addis Abeba. His recommendation was excellent too.
      It's a great team and we were very happy with everything
      Written March 30, 2023
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hello Olga Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards Maereg
      Written March 31, 2023
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      Mark S
      London, UK87 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Mar 2023
      This really is a must see place. The African Petra minus the hordes of tourists turned on by the Hollywood stardust of an Indiana Jones movie. This is the real thing, a stunning feat of engineering, devotion and imagination. Easy to get around despite being 'working' churches and not just ornaments in a landscape. The result is stunning and more so when you have a guide like Maereg to show you round with his incredible knowledge, insight and pure passion for the place - he must do this hundreds of times yet it feels like you're the first person he's shown round, such is his own love of it. If only the Ethiopian tourist board could do more to promote it, the town of Lalibela has an economy that is 85 per cent dependent on tourism yet is suffering because this - one of the 'other' wonders of the world - is not known by enough people. For heaven's sake, go and look. And ask for Maereg!
      Written March 7, 2023
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hello Mark Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards Maereg
      Written March 8, 2023
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      Louise Coulqhun
      5 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Jul 2022 • Couples
      The Rock Churches of Lalibela are just incredible but it wouldn't have been the same without our tour guide Maereg. He knows very well the history and could answer all our questions. But the most we like about him was that he isn't that kind of guide that follows or tells you what to do. He gave us our space when we needed. Maereg knows his community very well and he helps them in every aspect of his life.
      I would highly recommend him. I am pretty sure you will have a lovely experience as we did.
      Written July 7, 2022
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hello Clara Thank you so much for the wonderful review, I work hard to meet expectations like yours, and I am happy to hear I hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet one day to explore the other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards Maereg
      Written July 8, 2022
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      nzuribeauty
      Washington DC, DC13 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Jan 2023
      The cultural tour was amazing. I was able to understand and appreciate the historical context of the churches and the community thanks to our amazing tour guide. He was well informed and came timely daily with his amazing assistants to ease our way around and inside the churches. Transportation was comfortable and even had internet service. We had a great driver who was also very friendly and answered any questions we had.
      Written February 28, 2023
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hello Ada Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards Maereg
      Written March 4, 2023
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      BrownLineRider
      Chicago16 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Feb 2020
      Visiting the churches of Lalibela was a highlight of a long-awaited trip to Ethiopia. The churches are amazing-- the architecture and technique, their testimony to history, faith and culture. We credit our guide, Maereg, with helping us appreciate it all. Our hotel (Old Abyssinia) put us in touch with Maereg. We had requested a knowledgeable guide with a good command of English. Maereg was this and more! He shared a wealth of information about the engineering of the churches, their religious and cultural significance, and context from his own life and perspective on Lalibela and Ethiopia. Maereg was both personable and professional towards us. We saw him treat others with dignity. He seemed very familiar with the site, the town and the larger area. He was prompt for our appointments and used the time together well. We're glad we chose to see the churches with a guide, and feel very lucky to have found Maereg!
      Written February 27, 2020
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hell Jessica Thank you so much for the wonderful review, I work hard to meet expectations like yours, and I am happy to hear I hit the mark for you. Kind regards Maereg
      Written February 29, 2020
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      Tommaso S
      Province of Piacenza, Italy13 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Jul 2022 • Friends
      Marag was an amazing guide, incredibly prepared and extremely patient with our questions and our requests. He seems to be well respected in the community and among other guides and I would definitely recommend going on a tour with him. His historical knowledge is impeccable, and he is also a pious person that knows about the spiritual side of the churches. Thanks again to Marag for having us!
      Written July 30, 2022
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hello Thomas Thank you so much for the wonderful review, I work hard to meet expectations like yours, and I am happy to hear I hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet one day to explore the other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards Maereg
      Written August 2, 2022
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      chef Wander Woman
      Tampa, FL62 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired, then look no further than this tour company! From start to finish, everything ran smoothly thanks largely due in part by their experienced staff who really know what they are doing. I can't thank you enough. I'll DEFINITELY be referring to anyone visiting Ethiopia!! Take care.
      Written March 22, 2024
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hello Earlena Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards Maereg
      Written March 24, 2024
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      Owlietakesflight
      Hollis, NY123 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Apr 2024 • Friends
      I had the pleasure of experiencing a guided tour with Maereg, owner/operator of Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours. The churches of Lalibela are extraordinary, with St. George being my favorite. The history associated with these churches is fascinating. The structures themselves, take you back in time, allowing you to experience the reverence of the culture, past and presence. Maereg's knowledge and respect for these churches are clearly apparent during his explanation of their importance. His humility and respect for his culture and religion allows you appreciate these churches through the lens of a practicing local. Thank you Maereg for sharing your story and bringing to life an experience.
      Written April 22, 2024
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hello Pam Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards Maereg
      Written April 26, 2024
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      BDawg4JC
      Charlotte, NC50 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Moareg is an excellent and trustworthy guide, he organized our entire trip from Addis, air, van, hotel, meals, entrance, and tours. He speaks very good english and is very knowledgeable about the history and story behind each church. He has a positive spirit about him and is a joy to spend time with. I highly recommend this company!!
      Written March 4, 2023
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hello Bruce Thank you so much for the wonderful review, we work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we are happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Hopefully we will meet next time to explore other parts of Ethiopia. Kind regards Maereg
      Written March 4, 2023
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      Jenisha
      4 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Feb 2023
      Misgan was an excellent guide always present and explaining everything patiently and with clear explanations. He is very informative in the history of the place and has great recommendations. He is also very flexible and arranges for the guided tour as per your requirements. He was present with us throughout and made sure we could make the most of our trip in Lalibela.
      Written February 8, 2023
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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      *Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

      Rock Churches of Lalibela Guided Tour provided by Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours

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