Hawzien Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Hawzien, Ethiopia with this comprehensive travel guide.


Are you a traveler seeking something out of the ordinary for your next destination? Look no further than Hawzien, Ethiopia. Nestled in the heart of the Tigray Region of northern Ethiopia, Hawzien is a cultural and historical hub that offers a unique and authentic experience to its visitors. From its ancient rock churches to its stunning natural landscapes, Hawzien is a destination that should be on every adventurer’s bucket list. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the must-visit attractions, best things to do, where to stay, and more in Hawzien.

Introduction to Hawzien

Located in the Tigray Region of northern Ethiopia, Hawzien is a small town that has a lot to offer its visitors. The town is a cultural and historical hub, home to some of Ethiopia’s oldest rock-hewn churches, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty. The town itself is peaceful and laidback, offering a glimpse into the real rural Ethiopia. The people of Hawzien are friendly and welcoming, making visitors feel at home in this extraordinary destination.

List of Places to Visit in Hawzien

Visitors to Hawzien should make sure to check out these must-visit attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Abuna Yemata Guh Church: One of Ethiopia’s most famous rock-hewn churches, Abuna Yemata Guh, is located on a steep mountain slope and only accessible by a challenging hike.
  • Wukro Chirkos Church: Wukro Chirkos is a rock-hewn church that dates back to the 4th century AD, is an important part of Ethiopia’s history and culture.
  • Abreha Atsbeha Church: This beautifully painted church is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the oldest rock churches in Ethiopia.

Natural Attractions of Hawzien: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gheralta Mountains: This range of mountains surrounding Hawzien is home to some of the most stunning landscapes and hiking trails in Ethiopia.
  • Debre Damo Monastery: Perched atop a 100-meter cliff, Debre Damo Monastery offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Teka Tesfai Castle: A historic castle built over 200 years ago, Teka Tesfai castle is not only an impressive piece of architecture but also offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hawzien

Hawzien is known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, including hiking and biking. Some of the top routes include:

  • Gheralta Mountains: With over ten different hiking trails, the Gheralta Mountains offer visitors an array of options for exploring the stunning natural beauty of Hawzien.
  • Abuna Yemata Guh Church: The hike up to Abuna Yemata Guh Church is one of the most challenging yet rewarding hikes in Hawzien.
  • Debre Damo Monastery: The hike up to Debre Damo Monastery is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see one of the most impressive historic sites in Ethiopia.

Best Things to Do in Hawzien: Activities and Tours

While Hawzien may be a small town, there’s still plenty to do and see in the area. Some of the best things to do and tours to take include:

  • Rock Church Tour: Take a guided tour of some of the most impressive rock-hewn churches in Hawzien, including Abuna Yemata Guh, Wukro Chirkos, and Abreha Atsbeha Church.
  • Hot Springs Visit: Visit the nearby Hamed Ela hot springs for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
  • Market Tour: Explore the local markets of Hawzien to get a taste of Ethiopia’s culture and daily life.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hawzien

For those looking to maximize their time in Hawzien, here’s a sample week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Hawzien and check into a guesthouse or hotel. Explore the town and visit the local markets.
Day 2 Go on a guided tour of the nearby rock churches.
Day 3 Take a hike in the Gheralta Mountains.
Day 4 Visit Hamed Ela hot springs.
Day 5 Explore Teka Tesfai Castle and Abreha Atsbeha Church.
Day 6 Hike up to Debre Damo Monastery for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Day 7 Depart Hawzien and head to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Hawzien

No trip to Hawzien would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Injera: A traditional Ethiopian bread made from teff flour and used to scoop up various stews and curries.
  • Tibs: Small pieces of meat sautéed in a spicy sauce and served with injera.
  • Kitfo: A dish made from fresh raw beef, seasoned with spices, and served with injera.

Local Beverages

  • Tella: A traditional Ethiopian beer made from fermented grain and sometimes spices.
  • Tej: A honey wine that is unique to Ethiopia and is usually served in small clay vessels.

Where to Stay in Hawzien: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

While Hawzien is a small town, there are still plenty of options for accommodations. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Gheralta Lodge: Offering stunning views of the Gheralta Mountains, Gheralta Lodge is a cozy and comfortable place to stay in Hawzien.
  • Hawzien Hotel: A budget-friendly option for those looking for a more basic and simple place to stay.
  • Tukul Guest House: This guesthouse offers comfortable and clean rooms and a peaceful atmosphere.

What to Buy in Hawzien: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a unique souvenir from your trip to Hawzien? Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Hand-woven Fabrics: Ethiopia is known for its beautiful handwoven fabrics, and Hawzien is no exception. Look for locally made shawls, scarves, and blankets.
  • Traditional Jewelry: The Tigray Region is known for its unique and intricate jewelry, so keep an eye out for handcrafted pieces made by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Hawzien

Ethiopia is a country with deep-rooted cultural and historical significance, and Hawzien is no exception. Visitors should be aware of and respect the local culture and customs of the town, which includes:

  • Dressing modestly: Ethiopia is a conservative country, and visitors should dress appropriately to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Removing shoes: Visitors should remove their shoes before entering any religious or cultural site.

Best Time to Visit Hawzien

Hawzien has a warm and dry climate and can be visited year-round. However, the best time to visit is between November and February, when the weather is cooler and drier.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hawzien

To make the most of your visit to Hawzien, here are some helpful tips for what to do (and what not to do):

Do:

  • Do dress modestly and respect local customs.
  • Do ask for permission before taking photos of people.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect religious and cultural sites by taking inappropriate photos or littering.
  • Don’t engage in any illegal or disrespectful behavior, including drug use or public intoxication.

Safety and Health

Hawzien is a relatively safe destination for travelers, although visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Hawzien

  • Visitors should avoid walking alone at night.
  • Visitors should be aware of pickpocketing and theft in crowded areas.

Health in Hawzien

  • Visitors should drink only bottled or boiled water.
  • Visitors should be aware of the risk of malaria and take appropriate measures such as using mosquito nets and insect repellent.

Getting to Hawzien: Transportation Options and Logistics

While Hawzien is a remote town, it is still possible to reach it via various modes of transportation. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Hawzien

The nearest airport to Hawzien is Axum Airport, which is about 75 km away. Visitors can take a taxi or bus from Axum to Hawzien.

Bus Stations Near Hawzien

There are several bus stations in the nearby town of Mekele, which is about 150 km away from Hawzien. Visitors can take a bus from Mekele to Hawzien.

Other Options

Visitors who prefer a private transfer can arrange one through their hotel or a local travel agency.

How to Get Around in Hawzien

To explore Hawzien and its surrounding areas, visitors can:

  • Rent a car or hire a driver
  • Take a taxi
  • Rent a bike or motorbike

Where to Go Next from Hawzien: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ethiopia is a country full of cultural and historical destinations, making it easy to plan your next stop after visiting Hawzien. Some popular destinations include:

  • Lalibela: Home to some of the most impressive rock-hewn churches in the world, Lalibela is a must-visit destination for any traveler interested in Ethiopia’s rich history and architecture.
  • Axum: Considered to be one of Ethiopia’s holiest cities and home to some impressive historical sites, including the Axumite Kingdom ruins and the Ark of the Covenant.

Conclusion

Hawzien, Ethiopia is a unique and authentic destination that offers visitors a glimpse into Ethiopia’s culture, history, and stunning landscapes. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can make the most out of their trip to Hawzien by exploring its must-visit attractions, experiencing local culture and customs, and enjoying the best foods, drinks, and accommodations the town has to offer. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Hawzien today!