Day Trip from Addis Ababa: Portuguese Bridge, Debre Libanos & Gelada Baboons

Itinerary

This itinerary combines history, culture, and stunning scenery, with a focus on the Gelada baboons which are commonly seen in the area around the Jemma River gorge.

Morning: History & Spirituality

7:00 AM: Depart from Addis Ababa. Your driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel.

Drive: Addis Ababa to Debre Libanos (approx. 2-2.5 hours) The drive is scenic, passing through the Entoto Hills.

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Debre Libanos Monastery.
Explore this important religious site, founded in the 13th century by Saint Tekle Haymanot. See the church, learn about its history, and admire the mosaics and stained-glass windows. You can also visit the cave where the saint prayed.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Portuguese Bridge & Jemma River Gorge.
Drive: Short drive from Debre Libanos to the Portuguese Bridge. Visit this historic bridge, likely built in the 17th century. Enjoy the stunning views of the Jemma River Gorge.

Afternoon: Wildlife & Return
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Gelada Baboons.
The area around the Jemma River Gorge and Portuguese Bridge is a prime location to see Gelada baboons. Your guide will know the best spots to find them. These unique primates are endemic to the Ethiopian Highlands.
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the area.
2:00 PM: Begin your return journey to Addis Ababa.
Drive: Portuguese Bridge/Debre Libanos area to Addis Ababa (approx. 2-2.5 hours)
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Arrive back in Addis Ababa. Your driver will drop you off at your hotel.

Important Notes:

⦁ “Chilada Baboon Round Monastery”: There isn’t a specific monastery with this name. The Gelada baboons are found in the wild, particularly around the Jemma River Gorge near Debre Libanos and the Portuguese Bridge.

⦁ Wildlife Viewing: While Gelada baboons are common in the area, sightings are never guaranteed. Your guide will maximize your chances.
⦁ Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing some walking, especially around the bridge and gorge.

⦁ Scenery: The drive itself is very scenic.

⦁ Flexibility: This is a suggested schedule, and your guide can adjust it slightly based on your interests and the pace of the day.

Total Cost: $150 pp

Inclusions
⦁ Private vehicle and fuel
⦁ Professional driver/guide (English-speaking)
⦁ Entrance fees to:
⦁ Debre Libanos Monastery
⦁ Portuguese Bridge area
⦁ Traditional Ethiopian lunch
⦁ Bottled water (1–2 bottles per person)
⦁ Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Addis Ababa
⦁ All local taxes and government charges

Exclusions
⦁ International/domestic flights
⦁ Accommodation (not applicable for this day tour)
⦁ Tips/gratuities (optional, but appreciated)
⦁ Additional drinks or alcoholic beverages
⦁ Souvenirs and personal expenses
⦁ Travel insurance