
A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 9 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge worth booking?
A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge is a 7-hour experience in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from $90 per person. It scores 68 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 9 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 68 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (9)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $90 per person
The renowned mystic Saint Teclehaimanot founded the monastery at Debre Libanos, a significant center for Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. There's a small cave near the recently constructed church where he is said to have stood for seven years on one leg until the other wasted away and fell off. Upon reaching Debre Libanos, our first destination will be the Jemma Gorge. One of the Nile's tributaries, the Jemma River descends to a valley that is almost a thousand meters below the surface. We may anticipate to observe the Black-headed woodland Oriole, the Red-billed Starling, the White-billed Starling, and the Banded Barbet here in the gorge as well as in the surrounding woodland.
What you get
About this experience
The renowned mystic Saint Teclehaimanot founded the monastery at Debre Libanos, a significant center for Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. There's a small cave near the recently constructed church where he is said to have stood for seven years on one leg until the other wasted away and fell off. Upon reaching Debre Libanos, our first destination will be the Jemma Gorge. One of the Nile's tributaries, the Jemma River descends to a valley that is almost a thousand meters below the surface. We may anticipate to observe the Black-headed woodland Oriole, the Red-billed Starling, the White-billed Starling, and the Banded Barbet here in the gorge as well as in the surrounding woodland.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
- pick up and drop off
- water
- the service of local guide
What you'll see and do
Debre Libanos
Debre Libanos is an important monastic center for Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. The monastery there was founded by the renowned 13th-century mystic, Saint Teclehaimanot, and there is a small cave near the church (which is of recent construction) where he is said to have stood for seven years on one leg, until the other was wasted away and dropped off. On this tour, visitors can combine history and culture with some good bird watching. As we pass through the Sululta Plain, we can visit the Oromo people's roundhouse to experience the local life. Also, you will see birds like black-winged plovers, wattled ibis, blue-winged geese, common cranes, and wheat ears.
120 minutes here
Portuguese Bridge
The Jemma River is one of the Nile's tributaries, and the valley below has a drop of nearly 1000 meters. Here at the gorge (and in the forest around the church), we can expect to see the Banded Barbet, the Black-headed Forest Oriole, the White-billed Starling, the Red-billed Starling, the White-winged Cliff Chat, the White-backed Black Tit, the White-cheeked Turaco, and Hemprich’s Hornbill. We will also see one of Ethiopia’s endemic mammals, the Gelada, or bleeding heart baboon. (In the gorge, we will see a variety of vultures: Lamergeyer’s, Ruppell's, and Lappet-faced vultures.)
180 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Addis Ababa
Our guide will have the sign of Liyu Ethiopia Tour and Travel
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 20 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Our guide will have the sign of Liyu Ethiopia Tour and Travel
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Liyu Ethiopia Tours
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- The destination is 100 km from the capital and there will be 3 hours round trip
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 9 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Traveler reviews
9 verified traveler reviews for A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Debre Libanos
The site and significance of Debre Libanos is extraordinary. My wife and I learned a lot about the history and nature of the Ethiopian orthodox religion. The priest that gave us a tour of the museum and monastery was very informative. Afterwards we went to Portuguese Bridge which has spectacular views and a beautiful waterfall. We were easily able to see the Gelada monkeys. The negative is that it is about a 3 hour drive from Addis Ababa, with some roads pretty rough. Our guide (Abel) was very informative and always willing to answer questions. The driver did well navigating the rough roads. +
Response from the operator: Dear Dan Thank you for sharing your thoughtful review. We are pleased that you and your wife enjoyed learning about the history and religious heritage of Debre Libanos, followed by the spectacular scenery and geladas at Portuguese Bridge. We appreciate your kind words about Abel and our driver, and we will gladly share your feedback with them. We also acknowledge your comments about the lengthy journey and rough sections of road, which can make the drive tiring. Thank you for choosing Liyu Ethiopia Tours. It was a pleasure hosting you both, and we hope to welcome you back to Ethiopia. Warm regards, Liyu Ethiopia Tours Team
via Tripadvisor
Day tour at Debra Libanos (Portuguese Bridge, Gelada Baboon, Monastery)
Liyu adapted the tour to fit my schedule, which was very nice of them. This removed a stress knowing they would wait for me at the airport. My guide (Oli) was really good. He was very knowledgeable and answered all of my questions. We stopped at the Portuguese bridge and hung out for a little while before trying to look for the Gelada Baboon. The ones that we found weren't scared of us, so we could get farely close (great for picture taking). We finished off at the Monastery (one of the most important one of Ethiopia).
Response from the operator: Dear Valued Guest, Thank you very much for taking the time to share your experience with us. We truly appreciate your kind words and your support. It was our great pleasure to host you in Ethiopia, and we are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your journey with us. Your feedback means a lot to our team and motivates us to continue delivering the best possible service to all our guests. We look forward to welcoming you again in the future for another memorable experience. Warm regards, Liyu Ethiopia Tours Team
via Tripadvisor
A worthy day trip in Addias Abba, Ethiopia
A day trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and the Portuguese Bridge offers a memorable blend of history, scenery, and culture. The experience feels peaceful, and the breathtaking views along the way. Especially, the Portuguese Bridge visiting experience is immersive for me, and the admission fee is modest, making it a great value. Expect to spend 4–6 hours, including travel and walking. The atmosphere is serene, less crowded. Local staff and guides are friendly. This trip is best for travelers who enjoy heritage sites, nature, and photography. I came to Ethiopia for the first time, and the hospitality and assistance I received from the local staff, driver, and guides exceeded my expectations; they were very cordial.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for choosing Liyu Ethiopia Tours! We’re truly delighted to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us and that our team made your journey memorable. Your kind words mean a lot to us — they inspire our guides, drivers, and staff to continue delivering the highest level of service and authentic Ethiopian hospitality. We hope to welcome you back again soon for another adventure — whether to explore new regions or revisit your favorite places in Ethiopia!
via Tripadvisor
A taste of Ethiopia
It was a very unique experience where we got a good taste of authentic Ethiopian culture. We got an informative tour at the monastery and a fun hike with stunning views at the bridge. We also had a few viewpoint stops and saw monkeys. Our guide Oli and driver Danny were very welcoming and accommodating to our requests, needs and desires. The only downside was the road itself as it has a lot of potholes and significant traffic.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for choosing Liyu Ethiopia Tours! We’re truly delighted to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us and that our team made your journey memorable. Your kind words mean a lot to us — they inspire our guides, drivers, and staff to continue delivering the highest level of service and authentic Ethiopian hospitality. We hope to welcome you back again soon for another adventure — whether to explore new regions or revisit your favorite places in Ethiopia!
via Tripadvisor
To get an extensive impression of Ethiopia, the tour is worth it!
The monastery and the Portuguese bridge in and of themselves, are nothing special. But the whole tour with the real impressions from Ethiopia (life in the villages, some customs and traditions) is really worthwhile. Especially with Oli! He is so attentive and hospitable. He has responded to every wish and has completely fulfilled his goal of making a beautiful and informative day for me.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for choosing Liyu Ethiopia Tours! We’re truly delighted to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us and that our team made your journey memorable. Your kind words mean a lot to us — they inspire our guides, drivers, and staff to continue delivering the highest level of service and authentic Ethiopian hospitality. We hope to welcome you back again soon for another adventure — whether to explore new regions or revisit your favorite places in Ethiopia!
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $90 to $140
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 3
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Liyu Ethiopia Tours, who run 19 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 60.3.
See everything Liyu Ethiopia Tours runsWhy this scores 68
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Addis Ababa.
How much does A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge cost?
+
Prices start at $90 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Addis Ababa usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge take?
+
Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Addis Ababa is not rushed.
Is A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 68 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 9 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Addis Ababa, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge?
+
Around 3 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Addis Ababa can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Addis Ababa and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Addis Ababa within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Addis Ababa?
+
On Outty we rank every Addis Ababa experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Addis Ababa Authentic Private City Tour, Addis Ababa Guided City Tour With Airport & Hotel Pick Up, Full Day Tour of Addis Ababa with Hotel Pickup and Drop-off. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Addis Ababa?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Addis Ababa?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge?
+
Included: Private transportation; Lunch; All Fees and Taxes; pick up and drop off; and water. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge include hotel pickup?
+
Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 10 listed pickup locations in and around Addis Ababa. Be ready about 20 minutes before the start time.
What languages is A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge offered in?
+
It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge if the weather is bad?
+
This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge?
+
Across 9 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for A Day Trip to Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese bridge.
Pick your date




