Eastern
The eastern zone of Tigray, where the rock-hewn churches in the cliffs of Gheralta and the sandstone mountain scenery are breathtaking.
Eastern is the eastern zone of Tigray, in northern Ethiopia next to Eritrea. The terrain is sandstone mountains and plateau, and towns such as Adigrat and Wukro lie here. The Gheralta mountains hold many rock-hewn churches carved into cliff faces, such as Abuna Yemata Guh, which can only be reached by climbing, and the Hawzen area is a common base for visits. The dry season (roughly October to March) is best for hiking to the churches. The usual route is by road from the regional capital, Mekelle. The area has seen conflict in recent years, so be sure to check the latest safety advisories before you go.