We start our tour early in the morning by driving to Hawzien. Then proceed to Maryam Korkor. Although an unsightly green from the outside, this impressive, cross-shaped church is known for its architectural features (cruciform pillars, arches and cupolas), fine 17th-century frescos and church treasures. It’s also one of the largest churches in the area. The path begins around 1km from the road just southeast of Megab and involves a fairly steep one-hour ascent.

Just a couple of minutes’ walk from Maryam Korkor is the seldom-used church of Daniel Korkor. It sits atop a paralysing precipice, offers astounding views and has fine paintings.After enjoying Maryam Korkor, there is a short seven-ten min walk to Daniel Korkor. On the way I like to stop under a large sycamore tree, to take in the view and have a snack. Daniel Korkor faces out over the Haiwzen plain, and one of the best pictures of the valley can be taken as you approach the church. Overlooking a terrifying cliff is a small hole in the rockface—that is the entrance to Daniel Korkor. Inside, you will find that there are two chambers where it is believed that two monks lived, before it was converted into a church. The outer chamber is filled with vivid paintings in light pastel colors with a white background, which are very different from any of the other paintings in other churches

Abuna Yemata Guh is spectacularly sited within a cliff face, halfway up a sheer rock pinnacle 4km west of Megab. The first 45 minutes of the climb is mildly challenging, with a couple of tricky sheer sections requiring toehold action; guides carry ropes for the final push. The last two minutes require nerves of steel to make the final scramble and precarious ledge walk over a 200m drop. Then you will drive back to Mekele