Lalibela, Ethiopia-photo-spots

Travel advisory, as of October 2026. Lalibela is in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, where the UK FCDO advises against all travel and the US government tells its citizens not to travel. Fighting has resumed across northern Ethiopia, flights to Lalibela have been suspended since 24 September 2026 with no restart date announced, and there is no safe overland route. Nothing described here can be booked now; this page describes the town for a future visit once advisories change. Read the FCDO advice and the US State Department before making any plans.

Taking Photographs in Lalibela

Lalibela’s eleven churches were cut down into pink volcanic rock in the 12th and 13th centuries. Priests and pilgrims still worship in them every day.

Rules

• Leave your shoes at each church door and dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. Women should cover their heads. Speak quietly, ask before photographing anyone, switch off the flash, and keep your hands off the carvings.
• Seek the permission of priests and guides before photographing a service.

Where to stand

• Biete Giyorgis is the best-known view, and its quarry edges have no rails. Temporary metal roofs shelter several churches in the northern group.