Testimonials

Dan took me on a 1 day walking tour of all the Lalibela churches and he was a fantastic guide. We started early on a Sunday to see all the worshippers at mass, then visited half the churches, had lunch at his house cooked by his lovely wife, then visited the final group of churches. He grew up in Lalibela (his father was a priest at one of the famous churches) so he knows all the history and can even take you through secret cave and tunnel entrances! I highly recommend Dan and he can be contacted on +251 91 105 4296.

Daniel was excellent. We attended Christmas '22 at Lalibela and Daniel ensured that our experience far exceeded our expectations. Daniel expertly navigated the site which was full of pilgrims for the celebrations ensuring we arrived seamlessly on time for all the best spectacles.

Daniel is very skilful at supporting photographers to help them realise images and find suitable subjects and situations. He's also very knowledgable about the site and its history.

Thanks to Daniel, I had the most incredible travel experience in Lalibela. His knowledge, punctuality, and attentiveness made my journey fun and hassle-free. As a solo female traveler, I was initially intimidated with the thought of navigating Lalibela on my own. Daniel put me at ease from the start. He is an exceptional communicator. From the moment you book, and throughout. As well, his extensive knowledge and network of connections grants you unique access into the local culture. A TRULY authentic experience. Unforgettable.

When a trip to Madagascar was suddenly cancelled, I faced the prospect of being ‘stranded’ in Rwanda with no forwarding address. A stressful situation, especially as a mature woman and solo traveler.

Then I came across Daniel Shewalem of Dan Lalibela Tours in Ethiopia (NOT to be confused with Lalibela Ethiopian tours), who proved to be my guardian angel.

Dan helped me to book travel tickets, work through several unforeseen difficulties, and mapped out an absorbing itinerary geared to my interests and budget.

As a guide, he is an excellent communicator, and extremely knowledgeable, especially about the historical and cultural significance of Lalibela and the surrounding area.

Staying here was the perfect introduction to this extraordinary country where the landscapes roam from lush, rolling mountains, to vast expanses of salt plains, desert sands and vistas of volcanic rock that stretch to the horizon. And then there’s the Omo Valley, as richly diverse in its countryside as in its many tribal communities.

Dan ‘s care, kindness and professionalism are exceptional, and this far-reaching itinerary was successful because of his excellent resources: a network of regional guides and drivers who reflected those same ‘above and beyond’ qualities.

I have had many travel experiences in my 50+ years of globe-trotting and without doubt, Dan is a rare find. He created one of my most memorable adventures for which I will be eternally grateful.