A hard, sweaty climb up a cleft in the cliffs leads to a high plateau, a great cross-shaped church carved into the rock and, seven minutes along a ledge, a tiny chapel with one of the finest views in Tigray.
If Abuna Yemata Guh is about the climb, Korkor is about the arrival: a quiet plateau above the Gheralta towers where the land falls away on every side.
The path climbs steeply for about 90 minutes, the last part up a narrow cleft in the cliff where you use your hands on a few steps. It is strenuous but never exposed, and suits anyone fit who would rather not face Abuna Yemata's ledge.
On top, Maryam Korkor is a large cruciform church cut into the rock, with painted pillars and walls; some of its paintings are thought to date from the 13th century. A seven-minute walk along the cliff ledge brings you to Daniel Korkor, a tiny hermit's chapel with a painted baptism scene and a window onto the void.
From the plateau the view takes in red sandstone towers, flat-topped ambas and, on clear days, the haze over the Danakil far to the east. Combine it with Abuna Yemata Guh for a full day from Hawzen. Carry two litres of water; there is none on the mountain.
One long climb, a level stroll, and the same way down.
Start from the village at the foot of the mountain, near Megab, with a local guide.
Climb a rocky path through scrub and cactus; rest often and drink.
Use a few hand-holds through the narrow cleft onto the plateau.
Visit the cruciform church; the priest will open it for a small fee.
Follow the ledge to the tiny chapel and its view, then descend the same way.
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From Hawzen, a short drive to the trailhead; arrange a guide in town or at the village.
Each church charges a small entry fee; the priest holds the key. Bring small birr notes.
Check current travel advisories for Tigray, and go with a local guide.
Mekelle practical notes →Wikimedia Commons photographs are used under their licences.
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