Must-Visit Places, Urban Centers & Highlights in Ethiopia

Ethiopia boasts incredible places to explore. Every journey through Ethiopia begins in Addis Ababa, located approximately at the heart of the nation. From Addis Ababa, due to Ethiopia’s vastness, travelers can choose to embark on the northern route or the southern route, even with limited time. Here are the most sought-after destinations, attractions, and cities in Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa serves as the vibrant heart of Ethiopia. Ethiopia’s largest city boasts a vibrant population of around 3 million inhabitants. Given Ethiopia’s vibrant cultural and historical treasures, it’s quite remarkable that Addis Ababa was established as recently as 1886 by Emperor Menelik II. Once, this area thrived as a bustling resort town, with its name, Addis Ababa, translating to ‘fountain of hot mineral water’ in Oromo and ‘new flower’ in Amharic.

Today, Addis Ababa serves as the vibrant hub of the African Union, a dynamic coalition of 55 member states. With embassies from various nations and a significant United Nations presence, Addis is often regarded as the political heart of Africa. In Addis Ababa, the vibrant tapestry of communication includes Amharic, the national language of Ethiopia, alongside French, Italian, and Arabic, creating a rich linguistic landscape.

All international flights will arrive at Bole International Airport (ADD), and many travelers will be picked up at the airport, often bypassing Addis entirely. Perched at an impressive 2,665 m above sea level, Addis Ababa stands as the 3rd highest capital city in the world. It is evolving at a breathtaking pace, with many observing that the skyline transforms each day as scaffolding and construction elevate the city into the heavens. For those who choose to explore Addis, the city offers a variety of remarkable museums and monuments waiting to be discovered.

In Addis Ababa, you can explore remarkable museums and churches that promise to ignite your sense of wonder. The National Museum of Ethiopia is home to Lucy, the ancient 3.2 million-year-old skeleton of Australopithecus, our oldest known ancestor. The Ethnological Museum, located in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie, showcases an impressive collection of artifacts representing Ethiopia’s diverse tribes. Additionally, Menelik II’s St George Cathedral and Museum stands as a tribute to his historic victory over the Italians at Adwa in 1896.

Other worthwhile attractions include the Holy Trinity Cathedral – an impressive building renowned as the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie and his wife Empress Menen Asfaw, the Lion of Judah monument – which has a storied past of being sacked by the Italians, and Merkato – a sprawling and vibrant market that boasts being the largest open-air market in Africa where having your pockets picked is almost a rite of passage – be prepared and take only the essentials.

For breathtaking vistas of Addis Ababa, a drive to the summit of Entoto Hill is truly rewarding. Alongside the breathtaking landscapes, you will discover St Mary’s Church, the site of Menelik II’s coronation, and the remnants of his humble palace that witnessed the early days of the city’s establishment.

Addis Ababa is a vibrant hub of Ethiopian cuisine and beverages. A journey to the capital wouldn’t be fulfilling without indulging in some of Ethiopia’s exquisite culinary delights. Renowned for its Arabica coffee exports, explore Ethiopia’s vibrant coffee culture or savor Tej, the ancient honey wine that has been enjoyed for over a millennium. On the food front, explore local delicacies like Fitfit, Kitfo, Tibs, Fatira, Injera, and Shiro, each offering a delightful experience that captures the essence of Ethiopia.

Ethiopian coffee is renowned globally. A journey to Ethiopia is truly incomplete without immersing yourself in the rich coffee culture that has thrived since the 6th century, sparked by a goat herder’s remarkable discovery of this enchanting bean. For an exciting exploration of Ethiopia’s contemporary coffee culture, be sure to seek out Tomoca, a beloved city-wide chain cherished by the locals.
Discover the Wonders of Northern Ethiopia
Northern Ethiopia is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and is famous for historic sites such as Lalibela, Gondar, and Axum. With the breathtaking landscapes of the Simien Mountains and the unique features of the Danakil Depression, Ethiopia’s northern regions are brimming with opportunities for exploration.

Carved from stone Lalibela Churches
In the 12th century, King Lalibela embarked on an extraordinary quest to re-create Jerusalem in Ethiopia. The outcome is a remarkable collection of 13 churches intricately sculpted from volcanic rock. Today, nestled among dramatic escarpments and lush valleys, Lalibela stands as a realm of myth, legends, and faith, drawing adventurers from every corner of the globe.

The churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are vibrant and alive with history. Today they play a vital role in Ethiopia’s spiritual landscape, serving as the backdrop for many of the country’s most significant festivals such as Timkat, Genna, and Meskel. At any moment, guests at the Lalibela churches will encounter pilgrims clad in white robes, engaging in prayer or song, which enhances the enchanting atmosphere of the location.

The highlight of Lalibela is Bet Giyorgis, also known as St George’s Church, a stunning Greek cross standing 15 meters tall, meticulously carved from stone and beautifully preserved. Within, one can discover ancient olive wood boxes, believed to have been crafted by Lalibela himself, alongside a captivating 16th-century canvas depicting St. George in his legendary battle with the dragon. Among the remarkable relics are Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, and Bet Amanuel. Exploring the Lalibela Cultural Center is essential for an in-depth understanding of Lalibela’s captivating history.

Venturing into the mountains encircling Lalibela unveils a treasure trove of monasteries and churches waiting to be discovered. These remote locations, far from the hustle and bustle of towns, invite exploration and promise breathtaking vistas.

Castles of Medieval Gondar
Known as the ‘Camelot of Africa’, Gondar captivates with its ancient 17th-century ruins waiting to be explored. Gondar was the vibrant home to numerous Ethiopian emperors who reigned from the 12th to the 20th centuries. As the third capital city of Ethiopia, its ruins now stand as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, inviting exploration and discovery.

Gondar invites you to explore its rich history, with the Royal Enclosure at its heart. Fasil Ghebbi, surrounded by a 900m stone wall, is a sprawling 70,000 m² compound filled with a variety of restored and well-preserved castles and palaces showcasing influences from Portuguese, Axumite, and Indian cultures. Notable sites feature Fasilada’a Palace, the Palace of Iyasu I, and the Atatami Mikael Church. When you explore, it is a great idea to hire one of the fantastic guides who will lead you through the entire complex.

Gondar serves as the entry point to the Simien Mountains and offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the Timkat Festival in January. Fasilides’ Bath, often quiet throughout the year, comes alive during the Timkat Festival, becoming the heart of the celebrations. It transforms into a lively spectacle of splashing as pilgrims gather to commemorate the baptism of Jesus.

The church of Debre Birhan Selassie is an absolute must-see. Constructed in the 17th century, the interior of this exquisite stone church is adorned with religious iconography and is renowned as one of the most stunning churches in Ethiopia.

Lake Ziway
Lake Ziway is Ethiopia’s largest Rift Valley lake, situated 174 km / 108 miles south of Addis Ababa. Although it is not a national park, Ziway is a favored destination on the journey to southern Ethiopia.

Ziway, one of the seven Rift Valley Lakes, is a shallow body of water nestled beside the town that shares its name, embraced by volcanic hills. Strolling along the jetty offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this beloved retreat, but to truly experience Lake Ziway, a boat trip arranged with the local fisherman is highly suggested.

Lake Ziway is an incredible destination that captivates everyone, even those who are not avid bird watchers. The primary birds include the Marabou stork and pelicans, often seen bickering over the fisherman’s leftovers. However, if you embark on a boat ride or take a leisurely stroll, you will encounter great cormorants, African umbrella herons, jacanas, crakes, kingfishers, and wagtails along the way.

Watch for hippos lounging by the lake, and explore the Tullo Guddo island monastery, which once sheltered the Ark of the Covenant and now holds manuscripts over 1000 years old.

The Danakil Depression
The Danakil Depression is a mesmerizing realm brimming with vibrant acidic springs, molten lava lakes, and expansive salt flats. The most extreme location on the planet, it stands out as one of Africa’s most intriguing and captivating travel spots.

Situated in the Afar region, in the northernmost part of Ethiopia, the Danakil Depression stretches from Ethiopia into the neighboring countries of Djibouti and Eritrea. Spanning around 10,000 km² / 3,860 mi², it is located at the convergence of three tectonic plates that are gradually drifting apart at a pace of 1 to 2 cm annually. Located 100 m / 33 ft beneath the surface of the sea, Dallol stands out as the hottest place on earth, boasting an extraordinary average temperature.

The Danakil Depression offers an exhilarating experience, showcasing otherworldly landscapes and serving as the resting place of Lucy, the 3.2 million-year-old fossil remains of our ancient ancestors. It is also a vibrant hub for scientists exploring extremophile organisms and seeking insights into the possibility of life beyond our planet.

Erta Ale stands out as one of the few lava lakes on the planet. In the Danakil Depression at Erta Ale, visitors can spend the night at the nearby campsite for extraordinary views of this remarkable natural phenomenon.

Dallol crater boasts stunning multi-coloured springs, geysers, and fissures that will captivate visitors with their vibrant hues.

The Gaet’ale Pond is a saline hot spring that emerged in 2005 following volcanic activity in the region. It is said to be the saltiest body of water on earth, boasting a salinity of 43%. The Dead Sea boasts a salinity of 34.2%.

Lake Karum and Lake Afrera are two captivating salt lakes often explored in the Danakil Depression. Lake Afrera offers a classic swimming experience, while Lake Karam captivates with its breathtaking saltpan surroundings.

Bahir Dar and Lake Tana are brimming with excitement and exploration.
Bahir Dar, located 600 km north of Addis Ababa, graces the shores of the enchanting Lake Tana. Bahir Dar is Ethiopia’s 3rd largest city, a place of stunning beauty with its expansive, palm-lined streets and vibrant blooms that invite exploration. Bahir Dar boasts historic monasteries, vibrant markets, serene lakes, and the breathtaking Blue Nile Falls, making it a destination that promises excitement and exploration.

Bahir Dar boasts remarkable sites like the island monasteries of Lake Tana and the stunning Blue Nile Falls. Stretching 84 km, Lake Tana stands as Ethiopia’s largest freshwater expanse, dotted with more than 35 enchanting islets. On these islets and peninsulas stand some of the world’s oldest churches and monasteries, including the 14th-century Kebran Gabriel, which is open only to men, and the remarkable Ura Kidane Mehret. Both locations are home to stunning frescoes, paintings, and ancient manuscripts. Lake Tana is a UNESCO biosphere reserve celebrated for its rich natural and cultural significance.

The great Nile River’s largest tributary, the Blue Nile, finds its origins here. The Blue Nile waterfall, known locally as Tis Abay – the Great Smoke, stands as the largest waterfall on the Nile River system. It is especially breathtaking from June to September when the falls are at their most powerful.

Axum
Axum, the original capital city of Ethiopia, is frequently mentioned as Abyssinia in medieval writings. Its origins can be traced back to a time between the 7th and 4th century BC. By the 1st century AD, it was already depicted as a vibrant and lively city. Once the heart of the Axumite Empire, Axum today presents an intriguing tapestry of ruins, tombs, churches, and obelisks, inviting visitors to navigate the blend of history and myth.

Axum, a destination rich in cultural significance, is renowned for its remarkable Stelae Field. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, towering granite obelisks rise over 20 meters, seemingly propelled into the sky from the earth below. Nearby, the tombs of Axum, despite being looted, offer an intriguing glimpse into the Axumite Empire, and adventurers can now explore the Tomb of the False Door.

Axum stands as one of the ancient cities of North Africa, rich in history and life. This place is famously recognized as the residence of the Queen of Sheba, and it is said that the Church of Saint Mary of Zion contains the Ark of the Covenant. Perfectly positioned at the entrance to Tigray, the Danakil Depression, and the Gheralta Mountains, Axum offers limited quality accommodations, often resulting in guests staying just one night.

Harar
Constructed between the 13th and 16th centuries, Harar stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated as the 4th holiest city in Islam. Inside the 3.5 km long and 5m high Jugol wall of Harar, explorers will discover vibrant markets, stunning mosques, and intriguing museums.

Harar boasts an impressive collection of 99 mosques, each symbolizing one of the 99 names of Allah known to humanity, imbuing the city with a unique spiritual essence that sets it apart from other places in Ethiopia. The Sherif Harar City Museum, once a gathering place for Emperor Haile Selassie and his wife, now boasts an impressive array of artefacts, featuring textiles, manuscripts, and jewels from the surrounding area.

Another remarkable museum in Harar is the Arthur Rimbaud Museum. The French poet who resided in Harar from 1884 to 1891 captured his experiences through stunning photographs. Each of these prints unfolds a unique tale and is showcased in the museum.

Harar boasts vibrant markets, from the aromatic spice market to the unique recycling market. With renowned spots like the Erer and Shoa gate markets, Harar invites you to embark on an exciting exploration. Although the markets contribute to the atmosphere, the true highlight in Harar is the Hyena Man.

Legend tells that to protect their livestock from the local hyena population, the Harari people started feeding the hyenas near the eastern Erer Gate. Today, the hyenas still roam to this spot where they are nourished by the local hyena man. This spot has turned into a beloved destination, where the Hyena Man eagerly demonstrates the art of feeding hyenas for a modest charge.

Attractions in Southern Ethiopia
The two primary highlights in southern Ethiopia are the Bale Mountains National Park and the diverse tribes of the Omo Valley.

The Tribes of the Lower Omo Valley are a vibrant tapestry of cultures, each with their own unique stories and traditions. This region is alive with the spirit of exploration and discovery, inviting those who seek to immerse themselves in its rich heritage.
Exploring the Omo Valley feels like entering a realm brimming with excitement. The 8 distinct tribes that inhabit the Omo Valley offer an extraordinary chance to connect with individuals from a realm entirely unlike our own.

The Lower Omo Valley stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to the fact that humans have thrived in this remarkable region for over 2.5 million years. The richness and uniqueness of culture in the Omo Valley is unmatched throughout Africa.

Situated in the southernmost part of Ethiopia, within the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples region, and near the Kenyan border, the Lower Omo Valley boasts breathtaking scenery. It is home to parks like Mago National Park, Omo National Park, and Nech Sar National Park, which are surrounded by majestic mountains, serene lakes, and lush forests. While observing wildlife can be captivating, visitors flock to the Lower Omo Valley to engage with the tribes that inhabit this vibrant region.

The Arebore, Benna, Dassanech, Hamer, Karo, Kwegu, and Mursi all call this place home, and ethical tours to the region emphasize building genuine connections with these remarkable communities and their vibrant cultures.