Lalibela Lodge – Where Travel Becomes a Force for Good
At Lalibela Lodge, we believe that every journey should uplift the places it touches. Our commitment to responsible travel, environmental protection, and cultural respect is woven into everything we do—from the experiences we design to the partnerships we choose.
Nestled at the heart of one of the world’s most sacred landscapes, our mission is simple:
to ensure that your visit enriches both you and the community that welcomes you.
Travel has the power to transform—when done thoughtfully. Lalibela Lodge promotes tourism that minimizes negative impact and maximizes positive benefits for the environment, local families, and Ethiopia’s cultural heritage.
Our dedication to responsible travel is strengthened through our collaboration with, responsible, sustainability program.
Since we opened our door in 2012, we proudly achieved many environmental Certification, meeting nearly all sustainability criteria related to:
- Environmental management
- Ethical business practices
- Local economic support
- Guest education and community engagement
This certification reflects our enduring promise to operate with integrity and deep respect for Lalibela’s heritage.
Over the past years, Lalibela Lodge has taken meaningful steps in building a more sustainable future:
1. Recognition & Leadership
- Achieved responsible-travel certification
- Recognized for promoting community-based and eco-conscious experiences in Lalibela
2. Environmental Initiatives
- Participation in conservation and clean-up efforts in highland landscapes
- Reduction of plastic waste through reusable bottle programs
- Staff training on environmental stewardship
- Promotion of low-impact activities such as hiking, cycling, and cultural walks
3. Community Empowerment
- Supporting local guides, artisans, farmers, and women-led initiatives
- Prioritizing local sourcing and locally owned businesses
- Partnering with rural villages to develop community-based tourism experiences
- Creating opportunities for youth and disadvantaged groups through training
4. Sustainable Lodge Operations
- Strong internal sustainability policy
- Eco-friendly housekeeping and waste management
- Energy and water-saving practices
- Staff education on cultural and environmental ethics
5. Responsible Partnerships
- Working closely with ethical suppliers and accommodations
- Encouraging partners to adopt greener, more responsible practices
Lalibela Lodge continues to expand its sustainability work through:
- Developing new eco-tourism routes (e-bike tours, low-impact trekking, farm visits, art-village tours.)
- Supporting wildlife protection and carbon offset initiatives
- Deepening community-based tourism projects
- Strengthening partnerships that protect local ecosystems and traditions
Fair & Local Tourism
Everyone involved in your journey—from guides to cooks—is part of our family.
We provide:
- Fair working conditions
- Professional training
- Health and welfare support
- Equal opportunities for all staff
We also prioritize local businesses and ensure that tourism revenue stays within the community.
Ethiopia is experiencing the effects of climate change firsthand. That’s why we promote:
- Low-carbon transportation
- Reduced emissions in lodge operations
- Activities that respect and protect the natural environment
We guide guests on how they can travel more sustainably and mindfully.
We work to reduce our environmental footprint by:
- Avoiding unnecessary vehicle use
- Proper waste sorting and walking
- Choosing biodegradable products
- Vetting suppliers for environmental standards
- Encouraging guests to select eco-friendly accommodations
Together, small steps create meaningful change.
Each year, we contribute to charities focused on:
- Environmental conservation
- Education and youth training
- Women’s empowerment
- Cultural preservation
Guests are welcome to participate by shopping fair-trade, visiting social enterprises, or donating to local initiatives.
We work with local development partners to create experiences that:
- Generate income for rural families
- Preserve traditional skills and lifestyles
- Offer visitors meaningful cultural encounters
- Support environmental and heritage protection
These tours bring you closer to the true spirit of Lalibela.
Lalibela is not just a destination—it is a living sacred landscape.
- The eleven rock-hewn churches, carved during the late 12th century under King Lalibela, were envisioned as a “New Jerusalem” for believers who could no longer travel to the Holy Land.
- Today, Lalibela remains one of the holiest pilgrimage centers of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and the spiritual heart of major festivals such as Genna (Christmas) and Timket (Epiphany).
We kindly encourage guests to explore Lalibela with curiosity, reverence, and cultural sensitivity.
Information brochures are available in our rooms and reception to guide you through the cultural, historical, and spiritual significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To honor the traditions of Lalibela:
- Take time to learn about the history, religion, and customs—it immensely enriches your experience.
- A few simple Amharic greetings go a long way:
- Tena Yistilign – Hello
- Ameseginalehu – Thank you
- Selam Walu – Have a good day
- Dress modestly during church visits. Respectful attire is appreciated and avoids unwanted attention.
- Always ask permission before photographing local people.
- Avoid touching ancient monuments or using flash photography—both can cause long-term damage.
These small gestures demonstrate respect for a community deeply rooted in faith and tradition.
We kindly ask visitors to help protect Lalibela’s environment and community:
- Be mindful of water and electricity use—resources are precious in the highlands.
- Do not leave behind batteries, plastics, or electronic waste.
- Refrain from giving money to children; it can encourage dependency and interrupt schooling. If you wish to help, we can guide you toward vetted community organizations.
- Bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes—the terrain is mountainous and evenings can be cool.
- Please do not feed animals or birds, as this disrupts natural ecological balance.
Your mindful actions help safeguard Lalibela for generations to come.
By observing these simple yet meaningful practices, you help preserve Lalibela’s cultural and environmental heritage while building deeper, more authentic connections with its people.
At Lalibela Lodge, we believe that responsible travel is not just an option—it is a shared responsibility and a powerful way to honor the sacred spirit of this extraordinary place
Rooms
Standard Double Room
$55.00
Twin room
$55.00
Executive Room
$129.00
Standard Triple Room
$75.00
Single room
$46.00
Suite room
$130.00