4-Day Teff Route to Gojjam – From Farm to Injera
Day 1: Addis Ababa – Drive to Debre Markos – Stories of Patriots
We begin our journey early in the morning, heading northwest to Debre Markos, the historical capital of East Gojjam. The drive takes us through the rich landscapes of the Blue Nile Highlands. Upon arrival, we check into our lodge and explore the city’s historical roots. We’ll visit local churches and cultural centers that tell the story of Ethiopia’s patriots, including Belay Zeleke, who resisted Italian occupation. In the evening, we’ll meet with local farmers and elders to hear oral histories of the land, teff traditions, and the legacy of resistance and self-reliance in Gojjam.
Overnight in Debre Markos
Day 2: Travel to Bichena – Patriot’s Land and Teff Fields
After breakfast, we drive to Bichena, the proud hometown of resistance hero Belay Zeleke. The village landscape opens to breathtaking teff fields, golden and waving in the breeze. We begin with a visit to the Belay Zeleke Memorial House and then walk with local farmers through the farmlands. We'll learn how teff is cultivated, what makes it unique, and the labor of love it requires. You’ll try your hand at harvesting and threshing, using traditional tools to separate the grain from the straw. Evening is spent under the stars, sharing local food, honey wine (tej), and stories.
Overnight at a local guesthouse or camping in Bichena
Day 3: From Teff to Injera – The Full Experience
This day is hands-on and delicious. We'll visit a community milling house to grind teff into fine flour. From there, we learn how to ferment teff flour with water, creating the signature sour dough used for injera. You’ll work side by side with local women to bake injera over clay-fired stoves, turning the batter into the soft, spongy flatbread that feeds Ethiopia. We'll also prepare wot (stew) together for a communal lunch, celebrating the full cycle of farm-to-table. This is a moment to laugh, learn, and taste what you helped create. Late afternoon is for relaxing, local music, and community connection.
Overnight in Bichena
Day 4: Return to Addis – Reflections & Farewell
After breakfast, we say goodbye to our hosts and begin the drive back to Addis Ababa. Along the way, we stop at scenic viewpoints and grab some fresh local produce or handwoven crafts as souvenirs. We arrive in the late afternoon, ending the tour with hearts full of stories and hands that have touched the soil of Gojjam.
End of Tour