Sitting at the feet of Entoto Mountain, Addis Ababa is Established in 1886 by Emperor Menilik II. Having served as the capital of the country for more than 130 years, it has a magnificent diversity, a vibrant mix of cultural history and modernity. It is home to some remnants of Ethiopia’s imperial, communist and Archeological past.
Addis is brightened by its glorious past, but is by no means stuck in the past. Behind its rich and complex historical tapestries, everyday life unfolds with bewildering variety.
WHEN’S THE BEST TIME TO GO To Addis Ababa
There’s no bad time for Addis Ababa to be visited. It is comfortable year round. Over the course of the year the sun shines almost every day. The temperature is moderate., typically it varies from 48°F to 75°F and is rarely below 42°F or above 80°F. Although from mid-June till September it rains. If you can make it, go on September 27 or January 19 you can catch the religious celebration of Meskel and Timket. During the lent season there is no much night life , that is for 55 days before Ethiopian Easter and 40 days before Christmas.
How to get around in Addis Ababa
May be it is a bit confusing when choosing suitable mode to get around in Addis Ababa, for First time visitors the best way is to hire private car or Taxi. But let’s list the options.
By TAXIS
There are two Types of Taxis the Blue and yellow. You can easily catch a taxi anywhere. Taxi is a comfortable way to go around.
The Blue Taxis are older and mostly used by locals. The yellow Taxis are in better condition and usually are found in the center of the city, they stop at Hotels and airports. One Important tip is asking the taxi drivers how much he charge and negotiate his price to make a better deal.
By ride-hailing company Service similar to UBER
Ride-hailing service is a cheap and dependable mode of transport in Addis Ababa. You need to call or use the App. but there are few similar services providers you might not be able to find one easily because they are not popular yet. They are safer and more comfortable. You can ask your hotel to call.
By Mini Bus shared transport
The local calls it a Taxi, but it is a minibus that takes 12 people. It is a fun way to experience Addis local life and cheap way to get around. It cost 3 to 6 Birr (almost 0.1-0.2 USD) or more per trip. There is also a city buses.
By light rail – Train
widely known as BABUR by locals, is a light rail / train system consisting of two lines: runs from North-south Line and East- West Line.
Price: single trip cost 4 Birr( 0.1 USD).
Service hours: 06:00 AM to 09:00 PM daily
CAN’T MISS THINGS TO DO IN Addisa Ababa
The National Museum
( Lucy ) If you are looking to see The origin of Human beings and some of the oldest Human Ancestors, you can visit the National Museum of Ethiopia at the heart of the city. One of the oldest and The most famous one of all is the fossil of Lucy ( Estimated to be 3.2 Million years old ) is Kept here, making this attraction more interesting. The museum holds an impressive Ethiopian art collection, Ethnographic collections, Archeological and historical findings, artworks like paintings and sculpture, and displays crowns and colorful paintings of Ethiopian leaders.
Merkato Market
Be ready for an adventure of an open air market , that is believed to be the biggest in Africa. It is Chaotic but Amazing and colorful !
Experiencing the Merkato Market is a must-do in Addis Ababa! With over 7,000 Shops and stalls divided into uncounted sections sprawling across the large area in Addis Ketema district, the smallest district of Addis but the most populous area. One can easily get lost in the maze of street vendors, huge crowds of locals, and traffic. Getting a map can be handy but extremely hard to see the best section of the market. It is best if you book a tour or hire a local guide to show and navigate the market easily. You find everything in this Africa’s largest open-air market – from food, clothing, electronics, and accessories to antiques, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The best part of the market is the food, spice, and recycling areas which are colorful and in their oldest looks.
The Red Terror Museum
The Red Terror Museum is the memorial site chronicling the political movement and genocide that preceded the Ethiopian revolution after the overthrew of Emperor Haile Silase in 1974. The museum exhibits materials showing the killings, torture, and arrests of mostly Ethiopians young people by the Derg regime. The site is located in the heart of Addis Ababa, in the right corner of Meskel square. It preserves a tragic and darkest period in Ethiopia history with the aim of encouraging citizens, political parties, visitors to be messengers of peace with the motto of “It should never happen again.”
From 1976 to 1977, an estimated 30,000 to 500,000 people died in Ethiopia (actual number unknown) in the course of the Red Terror (Qey Shibir)period.
After the fall of the Derg government in May 1991, a special Counselor’s office was established to oversee the prosecution of the Derg officials. On May 26, 2008, the Ethiopian Supreme Court sentenced Mengistu to death in absentia. Eighteen Mengistu officials, generals, and officers sentenced to life imprisonment for their crimes against humanity.
Trinity Cathedral
historical church housed the Tomb of Emperor Hailesilase, the Last king of Kings of Ethiopia!
The Holy Trinity Cathedral, also known in Amharic as Kidist Selassie, is the highest-ranking Ethiopian Orthodox Cathedral in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It is the most important Orthodox church in Addis Ababa that stands next to the Parlament, the Great Palace, and Prime Minister’s Office. The church beautified by Gotic architectural designed and is adorned with paintings and windows decorated with stained glass inside.
The church is also the most important place in Addis Ababa. As it is the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie and his wife, Empress Menen Asfaw. Their twin granite tombs are in the right corner of the interior. The courtyard of the church is also a resting place for the Patriarch of the Church, royal family, patriots, generals, ministers, People who did great things for their country, including the late Prime Minister Meles Zenawi.
Unity Park
Grand National Palace or The Palace of Emperor Menilik II, No Ethiopian in their wildest dream ever thought of the Grand National Palace will come Opened for the General public or visitors. Built-in 1878 by Emperor Menilik the palace served as the Seat of the Government and residence of the seven leaders ( Emperors, presidents, and prime ministers). The Compound covers an area of 40 hectares containing trees as old as the place itself. Prime minster Abiy Ahmed renovate the place with additional attractions that showcasing many historical buildings, historical facts, Ethiopian people unity & diversity, a Botanical Garden with a variety of indigenous plants, a Zoo that is the first of its kind in Ethiopia. The zoo at the unity park famed for the Black lion that is only found in Ethiopia.
Entoto Mountain
There is no way to explore Addis Ababa from a different perspective than to see it from Entoto Mountain. Located a short drive from the center of Addis Ababa, Entoto is a nearby mountaintop where you can enjoy a stunning view of the city. The panoramic view will give you almost a different city that is calmer and greener.
You need a car to take you to the Top. The newly opened Entoto Natural Park is a natural area famous for walking, hiking, running, horse riding, galleries, restaurants, luxurious camping facilities, and various activity areas. At the top of the mountain is a place that used to be the capital of Ethiopia. The most interesting things to see are the Museum of the Church of Santa Maria and the Palace of the Emperor Menilik, and the Church of St. Raguel, the oldest church in Addis Ababa.
Ethnography Museum, Maybe the former place of Emperor Haile silase is the best Museum in Ethiopia. It shows the life of Ethiopians society, art, and emperor Haile Silase belongings.
Best Day Trips From Addis Ababa
Jema Valley and Debre Libanos Monastery
One of the most iconic snapshots of Ethiopia is the scenic landscape and its culture. Head to the Jema Valley and Debre Libanos Monastery, for breathtaking panoramic views, culture, and rural farm. Spend a day in the magical gorge, with the local culture and the largest monastery Ethiopia has to offer. It is located in Selale province 100 KM north of Addis, just an hour and a half drive from Addis Ababa. Along the drive, you can see scenic scenery and can stop at the farmer’s house for an authentic local experience.
Historical Rock Carved/Hewen church of Adadi Mariam
Have you heard of about Rock Hewen Churches? They are churches cuts out of a bed rock on ground or mountains. The most famouse in Ethiopia is found in Lalibela. But you’ll find its kind of similar church, 130 km south west of Addis Ababa built in the 13th century.
The Tiya stelae are a certified UNESCO World Heritage Site and rightly so, this gem must be preserved forever more. With more than four dozens of rock cut stelea marks a grave of ancient people in the 13th century. With a not much known history or evidence who this people were and why they are buried here. It gives a sense of mystery to the day.
What was life like at the time of the Stone Age? Don’t miss the Melka Kuntre open-air Museum of Stone Age time which sits next to the Awash River.
Debrezeit crater Lakes
Better yet, stay over at one of the many Resorts at Debrezeit crater Lakes to wake up in a relaxing natural environment. If you are looking for a relaxing and peaceful day, a visit to Lake Debrezeyit is the perfect day trip for you.
The 7 crater lakes that are found in the area are some of the stunning views that you will find in Ethiopia. Throughout the day you will have the opportunity to observe the beautiful lake, go to a spa, take a boat trip, kayak, and swim in a pool. Or have fun in a water park too. Several lodges are located in Debrezeit.
Wenchi crater lake
Escape to have a Pony trek or horse ride at the Majestic Wenchi crater lake is also so Amazing. The Wenchi Crater Lake is one of Ethiopia’s national treasures. Crated by a volcanic eruption, the lake stands on a 3000 M high mountain. It has an impressive natural view. To get to the lake Depending on your physical condition and the activity you want to do, there are different options for you to enjoy. You can ride on horseback and enjoy nature and the village of Wenchi.
A popular option is to hike out and back, or you can combine a hike and horseback riding depending on your fitness and preference.The hikes require a minimum level of fitness and offer spectacular views of the crater lake, natural forest areas, and the village. This trip can be done in one long day, but it is recommended to do it with one more night of camping or a night at Waliso, Negash Lodge.
Where to stay in Addis Ababa
If you’re looking for a backpackers’ haven and the center of the city, the Piazza area offers budget-friendly accommodations, street pubs, and restaurants. It has a vibrant local life and a short distance to most of the attractions to see. There is a very limited number of hotels in this area
Bolle area is the perfect place for travelers and first-timers as they provide proximity to the airport, shopping malls, exquisite dining options, nightlife, and spas. It is a nice area to walk around. There many choices of hotels.
Addis Abab city tour
Guided city tour of Addis Ababa