3-Day Haile Selassie Palace & Rastafarian Tour
Overview
Embark on a 3-day spiritual and cultural journey tracing the legacy of Emperor Haile Selassie and the roots of Rastafarian heritage. In Addis Ababa, explore Haile Selassie’s former palace, the Ethnological and National Museums, and Holy Trinity Cathedral, where the emperor rests. Experience Ethiopia’s traditions with panoramic views from Mount Entoto and a vibrant cultural dinner. Then, travel south to Shashamane, the land granted by Haile Selassie to the Rastafarian community, where you’ll meet elders, visit tabernacles, share Ital-inspired meals, and immerse in reggae-infused culture.
Included/Exclude
- Accommodation
- Cold drinks
- Guiding in selected language
- Meals (full board)
- Pick up and drop off
- Transportation in 4X4 Land Cruiser
- Park/ museum entrance fees
- International or internal flights
- Travel Insurance
- Ethiopian Visa
- Tips for staff
- Miscellaneous expenses – alcoholic drinks, souvenirs etc.
Tour Plan
Begin your journey in Addis Ababa, the capital built into Ethiopia’s highlands and the heart of Haile Selassie’s legacy. Start at his former palace, now the Ethnological Museum, where you can explore the emperor’s private chambers and personal artifacts. Continue to the majestic Holy Trinity Cathedral, his final resting place, adorned with stained glass and imperial grandeur. After lunch, explore the National Museum of Ethiopia with treasures from his reign and the fossil “Lucy.” End the day with a cultural dinner featuring live music and dance. Overnight in Addis Ababa.
Drive south through scenic Rift Valley landscapes to reach Shashamane, the settlement granted by Emperor Haile Selassie to the Rastafarian community in 1948. Spend the day immersed in Rastafarian heritage, meeting elders, exploring reggae-inspired murals, cultural centers, and farms. Learn about Ital lifestyle and the spiritual connection between Ethiopia and Rastafarians worldwide. Share a vegetarian Ital-inspired meal with the community before returning to Addis Ababa in the evening. This powerful cultural exchange offers insight into the living faith of Haile Selassie’s followers. Overnight in Addis Ababa.
Fly north to Bahir Dar, a lakeside city renowned for its beauty and imperial history. Visit Bezawit Palace (Giorgis Palace), built by Haile Selassie, perched on a hill with sweeping views of Lake Tana and the Blue Nile River. Take a boat trip on Lake Tana to visit island monasteries that safeguard centuries-old manuscripts and religious treasures. After a lakeside lunch, travel to the famous Blue Nile Falls, known locally as Tis Issat, “the water that smokes.” Conclude with an evening flight back to Addis Ababa and a traditional coffee ceremony before departure.
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