We gather at John F. Kennedy International Airport and begin our overnight trip to Cairo, where we will begin our journey tracing the early Christian story on the African continent. Overnight: In flight.

Upon arrival in Cairo, we meet our local representatives and transfer to our hotel. Overnight: Cairo – Helnan Dreamland Hotel or similar (D).

We visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, enduring symbols of ancient Egypt. At the Grand Egyptian Museum, we view masterworks of antiquity that illuminate the cultural world surrounding the early biblical era. In the evening, we enjoy a cruise on the Nile River. Overnight: Cairo – Helnan Dreamland Hotel or similar (B, D).

Today we travel to Sakkara to see the Step Pyramid of Djoser, then continue to Memphis, once the capital of ancient Egypt. These sites frame the environment from which the Exodus story emerged. Overnight: Cairo – Helnan Dreamland Hotel or similar (B, D).

Back in Cairo we visit the Egyptian Museum before entering Old Cairo, where Christianity took deep root. Within the Babylon Fortress stand the Hanging Church, the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, and the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, traditionally associated with the Holy Family’s stay in Egypt. Overnight: Cairo – Helnan Dreamland Hotel or similar (B, D).

Flight from Cairo to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Founded in the late 19th century by Emperor Menilek II and Empress Taytu, Addis Ababa (“New Flower”) was chosen for its natural springs and panoramic setting. It remains a center of Orthodox faith and national identity. Overnight: Addis Ababa – Skylight Hotel or similar (B, L, D).

Morning flight to Gondar, the 17th-century imperial capital known as the “Camelot of Africa.” After check-in and Ethiopian coffee, we visit the Royal Enclosure, then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Afternoon visits include Fasil Ghebbi, Qusquam Mariam, Fasil Bath, and Debre Birhan Selassie Church, where a blessing and brief teaching will be offered by a senior clergy member. Overnight: Gondar – Gondar Hills Resort or similar (B, L, D).

A scenic flight brings us into the northern highlands. Driving through the “Chains of Heaven,” we arrive at Tukul Village Eco-Lodge for lunch and rest. In the afternoon, we begin visiting the first cluster of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches at a relaxed pace with time for reflection and absorption. The city, envisioned by King Lalibela as a “New Jerusalem,” was carved directly from volcanic rock and remains a center of spiritual life. Overnight: Lalibela – Tukul Village Eco-Lodge or similar (B, L, D).

We take part in Lalibela’s annual June pilgrimage, witnessing the liturgy, processions, and community devotion. The group will join in a community meal preparation and sharing ritual, feeding pilgrims who have traveled great distances—an enduring expression of Ethiopian Christian hospitality. Overnight: Lalibela – Tukul Village Eco-Lodge or similar (B, L, D).

We continue through the second cluster of Lalibela’s churches, including Bete Libanos, said to have been carved under the direction of Queen Meskel Kibra, an early royal patron of Ethiopian Christianity. Overnight: Lalibela – Tukul Village Eco-Lodge or similar (B, L, D).

In the morning, travelers may revisit or explore selected sites for reflection or final blessings before the late-morning flight to Addis Ababa. The afternoon is free for rest. That evening, we share a traditional cultural dinner with live music and dance. Overnight: Addis Ababa – Skylight Hotel or similar (B, L, D).

A full day of cultural discovery in the capital includes visits to museums, local markets, and historic landmarks, with time for reflection and final shopping before departure. Your flight departing Ethiopia may leave either tonight or the following day. If the following day and an overnight is required, Overnight: Addis Ababa – Skylight Hotel or similar (B, L, D).

Today we will arrive back at New York’s JFK Airport.