Trekking in Maqdela

Trekking in Maqdela

The trek from Lake Hashengie to Magdala is a wonderful challenge for the adventurous trekker. It takes you to our final campsite, top of Maqdala Amba, which is over 3000 meters. Magdala was a stronghold of military for the former King Tewodros II. The power of the Gondarine Empire was eventually weakened by the presence of the Oromo, as well as by the doctrinal disputes that had undermined the Church. Real power passed to regional warlords in what is called the Era of the Princes, the decades of civil war that ended in 1855 when Kasa Haylu defeated his rivals and became the emperor Tewodros II and he made his capital at Meqdela.

The siege at Magdala in 1868 and was the main reason for the journey made by General Napier. He began at the Red Sea Coast traveling about 391 miles from Kumayli, across Eritrea into Ethiopia via Lake Hashengie and up to Magdala. Negotiation between King Teodros II and the British Government failed to reach an agreement. Finally in August 1867, the cabinet granted 2 million pounds to mount an expedition, led by General Napier to rescue the British hostages held captive by King Tewodros II at Magdala. Soldiers from four regiments, the Artillery, Cavalry, Engineers and Infantry took part. Over 35,000 pack animals including camels, together with 44 elephants made the difficult journey. Emperor Tewodros II of Ethiopia committed suicide in 1868 after being defatted by the British troops. The Historical perspective adds another dimension to the trek.

Our trek begins by Lake Hashengie and covers about 150 miles, following the same route taken by General Napier. This will enable travelers to experience and enjoy the truly varied topography and landscape, truly unspoiled and rarely visited site. At Meqdela, besides its beautiful scenery, one can visit the Sebastopol Canyon, the old church and Emperor Tewodros II graveyard. It is the best one of the place for both for trekkers and for historians. For further details please contact us, one of our agent will send you more details about this package.

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