Portuguese Bridge
Experience from
$120.00
The Experience
The Portuguese Bridge (Sebara Dildiy) is a historic stone arch bridge near Debre Libanos Monastery in Ethiopia, roughly 100 km north of Addis Ababa. Likely built in the 16th–17th century (though some attribute it to the 19th century), it spans a Blue Nile tributary and is known for dramatic waterfall and gorge views. Now largely non-traversable for cars, it’s a popular tourist spot for scenery, Gelada baboons, and endemic birds. Visiting info: best in rainy season (July–September), ~2-hour drive from Addis Ababa, often combined with the monastery. Reported fees vary.
Full Itinerary
Departure & Debre Libanos Monastery
Morning: Departure & Debre Libanos Monastery
7:30 AM – Depart from Addis Ababa
• Leave early from your hotel to maximize daylight hours
• The drive takes you through the scenic Entoto Mountains and rural Ethiopian highlands
10:00 AM – Arrive at Debre Libanos Monastery
• One of Ethiopia's most venerated religious sites, founded in 1284 by Saint Tekle Haymanot
What to See at the Monastery (approx. 1.5 hours) :
• Main Church – Built by Emperor Haile Selassie in 1961 over Saint Tekle Haymanot's tomb, featuring beautiful stained glass windows
• Monastery Museum – Houses religious artifacts, historical crowns, musical instruments, and relics from the Italian occupation
• Saint Tekle Haymanot's Cave & Holy Water – A sacred cave where the founder prayed, with a holy spring believed to have healing powers
• Martyrs' Memorial – Commemorates the 1937 massacre of priests by Italian forces
Mid-Day: Lunch & Portuguese Bridge
12:00 PM – Lunch Break
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the monastery (typically included in tour packages)
1:00 PM – Visit Portuguese Bridge (Sebara Dildiy)
• Drive to the nearby 16th-century stone arch bridge overlooking the dramatic Blue Nile Gorge
What to See at the Bridge:
• The Historic Bridge – A 16th or 17th-century stone arch bridge, often attributed to Portuguese soldiers, crossing a tributary of the Blue Nile
• Waterfall & Gorge Views – The bridge overlooks a stunning waterfall that plunges into the Jemma River Valley (especially impressive during rainy season)
• Gelada Baboons – Spot these endemic "bleeding-heart" baboons in the cliffs near the bridge
• Birdwatching – Look for endemic species like the Abyssinian woodpecker, Lammergeier, and Banded barbet
Afternoon: Scenic Views & Return
2:30 PM – Blue Nile Gorge Views
• Take time to admire the expansive views of the Blue Nile Gorge, often compared to the American Grand Canyon for its scale
• The Jemma River below drops nearly 1000 meters from the bridge level
3:30 PM – Begin Return Journey
• Start driving back toward Addis Ababa
5:00 PM – Optional: Mount Entoto Panoramic Stop
• On your return, pause at Mount Entoto for a panoramic view of Addis Ababa
6:00 PM – Arrive back in Addis Ababa
• Drop-off at your hotel or preferred location
Included
All ground transportation in Addis Ababa (private vehicle with driver and fuel).
Professional English‑speaking city guide for 2 days.
Entrance fees to all scheduled sites (e.g. National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Unity Park, Red Terror Museum, Entoto Park – according to final program).
Two traditional coffee ceremonies during the tour (one per day).
Bottled water in the vehicle each day.
Airport or hotel pick‑up and drop‑off in Addis Ababa.
Excluded
International and domestic air tickets.
Hotel accommodation in Addis Ababa (can be arranged on request).
All meals (lunch and dinner) unless specifically stated as included.
Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra drinks, laundry, phone, etc.).
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary (e.g. extra rides, games at Entoto Park, Science Museum VR experiences).
Travel insurance, medical expenses, and any required visas.
Tips for guides, drivers, and restaurant staff.