Addis Ababa, the bustling capital city of Ethiopia, boasts of a rich cultural heritage and has an endless list of activities and sights to explore. One of the best ways to make the most of your time in this vibrant city is by going on a day trip. From historical sights to natural wonders, Addis Ababa has a lot to offer for day-trippers. In this post, we will introduce you to the top three day trips that you must experience during your stay in Addis Ababa. Get ready to step out of the city and immerse yourself in the rich history and lush landscapes that Ethiopia is famous for!

The 3 Best Day Trips in Addis Ababa

1. Full Day Trip to Lake Wonchi
2. Day trip to Adadi Mariyam and Melka kunture
3. Overnight And/Or day trip to breathtaking Wonchi Crater Lake

The 3 Best Day Trips in Addis Ababa

1. Full Day Trip to Lake Wonchi

Looking for a full day of adventure near Addis Ababa? Look no further than a trip to Lake Wonchi! This tour includes pickup from anywhere in Addis Ababa in an air-conditioned vehicle. Once you arrive at the stunning Lake Wonchi, you’ll have the option to enjoy coffee and/or tea as well as bottled water. Please note that alcoholic drinks and any expenses of personal items like internet, fax, or telephone are not included in the tour price.

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and while this trip is not wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. Infant seats are also available for those traveling with young children.

If you need to cancel your trip, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance of the start time for a full refund. Cancelling less than 24 hours before the start time or making changes last minute will result in no refund. Book your trip to Lake Wonchi today for a day filled with natural beauty and adventure!

2. Day trip to Adadi Mariyam and Melka kunture

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Addis Ababa for a day, a trip to Adadi Mariyam and Melka Kunture is the perfect option. This day tour takes you to two important historical sites located just outside the city.

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and a driver and guide to take you to both sites. Bottled water is also provided for your convenience.

At Adadi Mariyam, you will explore an ancient rock-hewn church that dates back to the 13th century. The church is known for its unique architecture and impressive carvings.

Next, you’ll head to Melka Kunture, an archeological site that was once a prehistoric tool-making factory. Here you can see evidence of early human evolution and learn about the history of the region.

Please note that the tour does not include meals or any additional expenses, so be sure to bring money for food or souvenirs.

Pickup for the tour is available at various locations in Addis Ababa, and you’ll need to confirm your start time with the local provider in advance.

This tour is suitable for most travelers, although it is not wheelchair accessible. It is also recommended that those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions consult with a doctor before participating.

Please note that this tour is operated by Ethio Travel and Tours and has a cancellation policy. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but if you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, you will not be refunded.

3. Overnight And/Or day trip to breathtaking Wonchi Crater Lake

Explore the stunning beauty of Wonchi Crater Lake with an overnight and/or day trip from Addis Ababa. Your tour includes pickup from your hotel or the airport and transportation via air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll enjoy both lunch and dinner during your excursion, as well as an alcohol drink and tips.

You’ll have the option to head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The meeting point is located at the Hilton Addis Ababa on Menelik II Ave. Pickup points are available upon request. The tour starts at 07:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point.

During your excursion, you can expect breathtaking views of the Wonchi Crater Lake. Additional information to note includes that confirmation will be received at the time of booking, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level and the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.

Cancellation for a full refund is available up to 24 hours in advance of the experience. To receive a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour’s start time.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa is the capital city of Ethiopia, known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. Although Addis Ababa is a popular destination for tourists, many people have questions about the city. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Addis Ababa.

1. Where is Addis Ababa located?

Addis Ababa is located in the central part of Ethiopia and is situated at an altitude of 2,355 meters (7,726 feet) above sea level. It is surrounded by hills and mountains, which provide breathtaking views of the city.

2. What is the weather like in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa has a subtropical highland climate and is known for its mild weather throughout the year. The average temperature is around 16°C (60.8°F), and the city experiences a rainy season from June to September.

3. What are some of the must-visit landmarks in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa is home to several historical landmarks and museums that are worth visiting. Some of the must-visit landmarks and museums in Addis Ababa include:

• The National Museum of Ethiopia
• The Holy Trinity Cathedral
• The Addis Ababa Museum
• The Entoto Mountains
• The Ethnological Museum

4. What is the food like in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa has a vibrant food scene, and the city is known for its traditional Ethiopian cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in Addis Ababa include injera (a sourdough flatbread), doro wat (spicy chicken stew), and kitfo (raw beef or lamb).

5. What is the nightlife like in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa has a vibrant nightlife, with several bars, nightclubs, and live music venues to choose from. Some popular nightlife spots in Addis Ababa include Club H2O, Jolly Bar, and Jambo Café.

6. What is the currency used in Addis Ababa?

The currency used in Addis Ababa is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB), which is divided into 100 cents. Visitors can exchange their currency at banks or foreign exchange bureaus in the city.

7. What are some tips for staying safe in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa is a safe city for tourists, but visitors should take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips for staying safe in Addis Ababa:

• Avoid walking alone at night
• Avoid displaying expensive items in public
• Be cautious when using public transportation
• Keep your valuables in a safe place
• Be mindful of your surroundings

8. What is the best time of year to visit Addis Ababa?

The best time to visit Addis Ababa is from October to May, when the weather is mild, and the city experiences less rainfall. Visitors should avoid traveling during the rainy season from June to September, as the city experiences heavy rainfall and flooding.

9. What is the transportation system like in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa has a well-developed transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and light rail. Buses are the most affordable mode of transportation, while taxis are more convenient but can be pricey. The light rail system is a relatively new addition to the city and connects several major areas of Addis Ababa.

10. What are some cultural customs and traditions to be aware of in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa is a multicultural city, and visitors should be aware of some of the local customs and traditions. Here are some cultural customs and traditions to be aware of in Addis Ababa:

• It is customary to remove your shoes when entering a home or place of worship
• It is considered impolite to point with your finger
• It is customary to eat with your right hand
• It is considered impolite to refuse a cup of coffee when offered
• It is customary to greet others with a handshake

In conclusion, Addis Ababa is a beautiful and culturally rich city that has a lot to offer to tourists. The city’s mild climate, vibrant food scene, and exciting nightlife make it a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. By following the tips and information in this post, visitors can make the most of their trip to Addis Ababa.

The 3 Best Day Trips in Addis Ababa: Your Ultimate Guide

Addis Ababa, the bustling capital of Ethiopia, is not only known for its vibrant culture and friendly people but also for numerous exciting activities that visitors can indulge in. With so much to explore, selecting the best day trips can be overwhelming. But worry not! In this article, we’ve narrowed down the three best day trips in Addis Ababa that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Entoto Mountain

Located at the northern edge of the city, Entoto Mountain is one of the most popular day trips in Addis Ababa. With an altitude of 3,200 meters, it offers a breathtaking view of the city.

To get to the mountain, you can take a shared minivan or a taxi from the Piazza. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and the fare ranges from 50 to 100 Ethiopian Birr.

Once you arrive, take a walk around the mountain and visit the Entoto Maryam Church, the oldest and most notable church in Ethiopia. It is believed to be the birthplace of the royal family that ruled the country until 1974. The museum inside the church showcases the history of Ethiopia, including the country’s first emperor, Menelik II.

Afterward, you can stop at the Entoto Observatory and Research Centre, which houses an astronomical observatory and a museum. Here, you can learn about the constellations visible from Ethiopia and marvel at the stunning views of the city from the observation deck.

2. Debre Libanos Monastery

Debre Libanos Monastery is located about 100 km north of Addis Ababa, inside a rocky gorge carved by the Blue Nile River. The monastery served as Ethiopia’s religious center for more than eight centuries and is still active today.

To get to Debre Libanos, you can take a shared taxi from the Mercato bus station in Addis Ababa. The journey takes around three hours and costs about 100 Ethiopian Birr.

Once you arrive, step inside the monastery and visit the impressive church built in the 13th century. You can also walk down to the gorge and see the Portuguese Bridge, which dates back to the 16th century.

Near the monastery, you’ll find the Jemma River Gorge, which is home to numerous baboons. Feed them at your own risk, and don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views.

3. Addis Mercato

Addis Mercato, locally known as ‘the largest open-air market in Africa,’ is a great day trip destination in Addis Ababa. It’s located in the central district of the city and is surrounded by narrow alleys filled with vendors selling an array of goods.

To get to Addis Mercato, you can take a shared minivan or a taxi from anywhere in the city. The journey takes about 15 minutes and costs around 50 Ethiopian Birr.

Once you arrive, brace yourself for a sensory overload. The market is a shopper’s paradise, where you can find everything from local spices, fabrics, traditional clothing, jewelry, and much more. The key to a successful visit is to haggle for prices, and if you’re lucky, you can score some unique souvenirs at reasonable prices.

Before leaving the market, make sure to stop at one of the local restaurants and taste the traditional Ethiopian dish, Injera, a sourdough flatbread served with stews and curries.

Conclusion

Choosing the best day trips can be overwhelming when visiting a new destination, but with our guide to the three best day trips in Addis Ababa, you can maximize your time and experience the best of what the city has to offer. From scenic mountain views to religious centers and bustling markets, Addis Ababa has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and get ready for an extraordinary adventure!