Gheralta

Gheralta Mountains

The sandstone cliffs in Gheralta are one of Ethiopia’s most iconic landscapes. There are plenty of hiking opportunities along these plateaus, and within the crevasses and caverns of the cliff face, ancient monasteries and temples wait to be discovered.

The air is thick and arid, making it hard to breath.

The sound of marmots and coyotes howling in the distant desert is carried by the piercing westerly winds as fine grains of sand are whipped up, into the sky.

Despite the barren Mad Max-esque landscape spreading beyond the horizon, the red rock mountains that encapsulate the desert conceal within them one of Ethiopia’s hidden gems.

Within these mountains, lies a cavernous complex of churches and temples, cut from stone, countless centuries ago.

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Place of interest in the Gheralta Mountains

Abune Yemata Guh

Hidden high in the sandstone cliffs of Tigray, Abuna Yemata Guh is considered one of the best preserved monolithic churches in Ethiopia. To get here, you must traverse steep sandstone pinnacles and sharp, sheer drops.

Mariyam Korkor

This impressive, cross-shaped church is known for its architectural features (cruciform pillars, arches and cupolas), fine 17th-century frescos and church treasures. It’s also one of the largest churches in the area.

Daniel Korkor

Just a couple of minutes’ walk from Maryam Korkor is the seldom-used church of Daniel Korkor. It sits atop a paralysing precipice, offers astounding views and has fine paintings. Daniel Korkor is a must to be visited.