10 Must-Do Activities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
A city situated at an elevation of 2,400 metres (7,874 feet), Addis Ababa is the capital of Ethiopia, a country located in the Horn of Africa. This vibrant and cosmopolitan city has plenty of sights and activities to explore and discover. From beautiful parks to shopping and nightlife, there’s something for everyone here. Here is a list of the top ten activities in Addis Ababa that you must check out.
1. Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia
The National Museum of Ethiopia is one of Addis Ababa’s most famous attractions. It was founded in 1923 and houses a vast collection of artefacts, including some of the earliest human remains ever discovered. The museum also contains a wide array of ethnographic and archaeological objects, including coins, jewellery, weapons and costumes. The museum is located in the Menelik Palace and is open to the public daily from 8am to 5pm.
Book National Museum tour here
2. Explore the Entoto Mountains
The Entoto Mountains are one of Addis Ababa’s most popular outdoor attractions. This mountain range lies north of the city and rises up to an altitude of 10,000 feet (3,048 m). The area offers breathtaking views over the city and the surrounding countryside, as well as opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. There are also several churches located on the mountainside that are popular pilgrimage destinations for Christians.
Book Entoto Mountains tour here
3. Shop in the Merkato Market
The Merkato Market is one of the largest open-air markets in Africa and a must-visit destination for any visitor to Addis Ababa. Here, you can find an array of products, from colourful fabrics to spices, jewellery and handicrafts. The market is also known for its street food vendors, who offer a wide variety of local delicacies. Be prepared to bargain for the best prices and beware of pickpockets.
4. Visit Holy Trinity Cathedral
Holy Trinity Cathedral is one of the most important religious sites in Addis Ababa. This imposing church was built in 1941 by Emperor Haile Selassie I and stands on an elevated spot overlooking the city. The church features a large dome and stained-glass windows, as well as a small museum that contains artefacts from across Ethiopia. Visitors can attend regular services in the cathedral and enjoy beautiful views from the top of its bell tower.
Book Holy Trinity Cathedral tour here
5. Take a walk through Addis Ababa University Campus
Addis Ababa University (AAU) is one of the oldest universities in Africa and a great place to explore on foot. The university campus is located in the city centre and covers an area of over 200 acres (81 hectares). The grounds are filled with lush greenery and offer plenty of shade from the hot African sun. You can also find several historic buildings on campus, including a library and an auditorium.
Book Addis Ababa University tour here
6. Enjoy a meal at the Meskel Square
Meskel Square is one of Addis Ababa’s most popular gathering places and a great place to enjoy traditional Ethiopian cuisine. The square is lined with food stalls serving up dishes such as injera (a flatbread made from teff flour) and wat (a spicy stew). There are also several restaurants located nearby that offer more formal dining experiences. Be sure to wash down your meal with a cup of Ethiopian coffee – one of the city’s signature beverages.
7. Take a day trip to Debre Libanos Monastery
Located about 40 miles (64 km) north of Addis Ababa, Debre Libanos Monastery is one of Ethiopia’s oldest and most important religious sites. Built in 1282 by Saint Tekle Haymanot, the monastery is set in a beautiful canyon on the banks of the Blue Nile River and offers spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. The monastery is home to several churches, as well as several cave dwellings that were used by monks during the Middle Ages.
Book Debre Libanos Monastery tour here
8. Stroll through Menelik II’s Palace
Menelik II’s Palace is one of Addis Ababa’s most iconic sites and an important reminder of Ethiopia’s imperial past. Built by Emperor Menelik II in 1889, the palace is now home to the National Museum of Ethiopia and a popular tourist attraction in its own right. The grounds are filled with lush gardens and offer plenty of shade from the hot African sun. Visitors can also explore the palace’s impressive architecture, including its painted hallways and ornate throne room.
Book Menelik II’s Palace tour here
9. Go clubbing at Bole Road
Bole Road is Addis Ababa’s main entertainment district and a great place to experience the city’s lively nightlife scene. Here, you can find an array of bars, clubs and restaurants that cater to all tastes and budgets. Bole Road is especially popular amongst young Ethiopians who come here to party until the early hours of the morning. Be sure to dress smartly if you want to get into some of the more exclusive venues in the area.
10. Relax at Shola Market Park
Shola Market Park is a popular spot with locals looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features plenty of green space for relaxing walks or picnics, as well as several cultural attractions such as art galleries, museums and libraries. There are also several food vendors located on-site that serve up traditional Ethiopian delicacies such as injera and wat.
Book Shola Market Park tour here
From visiting museums to exploring mountains or just relaxing in parks – Addis Ababa has something for everyone! So pack your bags and get ready to experience all this vibrant city has to offer!
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