What to do in Addis Ababa airport?

When you are traveling, long layovers can be exhausting and boring, especially if you are stuck in the airport. But, what if we told you that you don’t have to be bored or tired during your layover at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport? Yes! Ethiopia’s capital city, Addis Ababa, has much to offer even for those with a few hours before their flight. Here’s what you can do in Addis Ababa airport.

1. Take a city tour

If you have a layover of at least seven hours, you can take a city tour and make the most of your time in Addis Ababa. Several tour operators offer reasonably priced, guided tours that you can take from the comfort of your airport. Exploring the city will give you an opportunity to learn more about Addis Ababa’s culture and history, including local dance forms, artists, and traditional cuisine.

2. Relax in a lounge

If you’re looking for a more comfortable environment to relax, take a break at one of the airport lounges. There are several of them, but the most popular ones are the Ethiopian Airlines Cloud Nine Lounge, which is available for business and first-class passengers, and the ShebaMiles Silver and Gold Lounge, which is open to frequent flyers. You can enjoy some free refreshments, wifi, and charging ports while resting after your long-haul travel.

3. Visit the airport museum

The airport museum, located at the airside hall of the airport terminal, features diverse exhibits that showcase Ethiopia’s history, culture, and art. The museum is a great way to learn about Ethiopia’s culture and history, as well as the history of aviation in the country. The museum is open to all visitors, and the entrance fee is reasonable.

4. Shop at duty-free stores

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport has some excellent duty-free shopping options. From Ethiopian traditional clothes and coffee to electronics and souvenir shops, you will find a wide range of items to browse through. You can get some last-minute shopping done or pick up some unique items to bring back home with you.

5. Dine at local restaurants

If you fancy some Ethiopian traditional cuisine, several local restaurants are serving delicious dishes inside Addis Ababa airport. You can try some “injera and wot,” a staple dish in Ethiopia, which is made up of sourdough flatbread with spicy stews. Furthermore, there are several fast-food chains available at the airport serving standard international cuisine.

6. Take a shower

Lastly, you can freshen up by taking a shower at the airport’s deluxe shower rooms. The price of the shower rooms includes some essentials like shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and towels. The showers are sparkling clean and can make you feel refreshed before your next flight.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Addis Ababa airport has much to offer during your layover, making it an excellent place to pass the time before your next flight. Whether you prefer to explore the city, relax in a lounge, learn about Ethiopia’s culture and history, shop, dine, or freshen up, there is something for everyone in Addis Ababa airport.

An Insider’s Guide to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Addis Ababa is the capital city of Ethiopia and is popularly known as the political capital of Africa. The city is located in the highlands of the country, surrounded by mountains and valleys. It is a melting pot of culture and history, with diverse ethnic groups calling it home. For travelers looking to experience a city rich in history, culture, and stunning scenery, Addis Ababa is a destination that should not be missed.

Local Attractions

Addis Ababa is home to numerous attractions that showcase the rich history and culture of Ethiopia. Here are some of the must-visit spots in the city:

– The National Museum of Ethiopia: This museum is home to numerous exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Ethiopia. The main draw of the museum is the exhibit featuring the famous human ancestor, Lucy.

– Ethnological Museum: Located on the campus of Addis Ababa University, this museum gives visitors an insight into Ethiopia’s diverse ethnic groups. The museum’s exhibits include traditional clothing, tools, and musical instruments of different ethnic groups.

– Addis Mercato: This is the largest outdoor market in Africa, and it is an incredible experience for travelers looking to get a taste of local culture and try out traditional foods. The market is famous for its textiles, crafts, and spices.

– Entoto Hill: This is the highest peak in Addis Ababa and provides stunning views of the city. Visitors can take a car or hike to the top of the hill, where the Entoto Maryam Church is located.

Dining Spots

Addis Ababa is famous for its unique cuisine that features a variety of spices and flavors. Here are some of the best places to try traditional Ethiopian food:

– Yod Abyssinia Cultural Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the heart of Addis Ababa and offers traditional Ethiopian food and music performances. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and is perfect for travelers looking for a fun night out.

– Habesha 2000 Cultural Restaurant: This restaurant features traditional seating arrangements where visitors can sit on cushions on the floor and enjoy delicious Ethiopian food. The restaurant offers a cultural experience that visitors are not likely to forget.

– Green Land Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its delicious vegetarian dishes that are a staple of Ethiopian cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is perfect for visitors looking for a peaceful place to dine.

Cultural Experiences

Ethiopia is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and Addis Ababa is no exception. Here are some cultural experiences you should not miss:

– Coffee Ceremony: Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and the coffee ceremony is a ritual that is an important part of the country’s culture. Visitors can participate in a coffee ceremony, which involves roasting coffee beans, brewing coffee, and serving it to guests.

– Traditional Music and Dance: Ethiopia has a rich musical heritage, and visitors can watch traditional music and dance performances at cultural restaurants and events.

Local History

Addis Ababa has a rich history that is visible in its architecture and monuments. Here are some historical sites you should visit:

– Addis Ababa Museum: This is a great place to learn about the city’s history, including its founding, growth, and development.

– Holy Trinity Cathedral: This cathedral is an important historical site because it is the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie, who ruled Ethiopia from 1930 to 1974.

Off the Beaten Path

For travelers looking to explore beyond the main tourist spots, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– The Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum: This museum commemorates the victims of Ethiopia’s Red Terror, a period of political repression and violence that occurred in the country from 1977 to 1978.

– Mount Zuqualla: This mountain is located roughly 100km outside Addis Ababa and is not often visited by tourists. Visitors can enjoy hiking and stunning views of the surrounding area.

– Bole Medhane Alem Church: This church is located in the Bole neighborhood of Addis Ababa and is famous for its beautiful stained-glass windows and artwork. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church and learn about its history and significance.

In conclusion, Addis Ababa is a city with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re interested in exploring local history, trying out traditional food, or experiencing the city’s nightlife, Addis Ababa has something to offer everyone.