Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary: Exploring Addis Ababa

This itinerary focuses on the cultural and historical highlights of Addis Ababa, with a touch of modern Ethiopian life.

Day 1: History & Culture

  • Morning: Start your day at the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous Lucy skeleton (one of the oldest hominin fossils ever discovered) and artifacts showcasing Ethiopia’s rich history and cultural heritage.
    • Things to know: It houses a collection of ancient Ethiopian art, including the bones of “Lucy” the hominin skeleton.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Ethiopian cuisine at Yod Abyssinia Cultural Restaurant. Try the injera (sourdough flatbread) with various flavorful stews and vegetables.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historical and religious significance of Entoto Maryam Church, located on the top of Mount Entoto.
    • Tip: Take a taxi to the mountaintop for breathtaking views of Addis Ababa, but be prepared for a bumpy ride - the roads are often rough!

Day 2: History & Nature

  • Morning: Visit the National Palace, now home to the Addis Ababa National Museum and the Ethiopian National Archives.

    • Things to know: The National Palace is a stunning historical building, but it’s important to remember that it’s a place of reverence and respect for Ethiopia’s past. Dress modestly (shoulders covered) and be mindful of local customs.

  • Lunch: Explore the bustling Shiro Meda market known for its traditional Ethiopian cuisine and textiles, then grab lunch from one of the many restaurants or street food vendors in the area.

  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in nature with a visit to Mount Entoto, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, explore the historic Entoto Maryam Church, and wander through the serene Entoto Mountains

    • Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bring water and sunscreen as the sun can be strong at this altitude.

  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at Addis View Restaurant, savoring the flavors of Ethiopian food while taking in stunning sunset vistas.

Day 3: Culture & History (cont.)

  • Morning: Visit Merkato, the largest open-air market in Africa, and explore its vibrant atmosphere.

    • Things to know:

      • This is a massive and bustling marketplace. Be prepared for crowds and potential haggling!

  • Afternoon:

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Addis Ababa’s Entoto Park, taking in the panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

  • Things to do:
    • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails and enjoy the fresh air.
    • Picnics: Pack a lunch and find a peaceful spot with a view.
  • Dinner:

Indulge in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony at “Tomoca Coffee” or another local café.

Possible Itinerary Additions (depending on your interests):

  • Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral: This impressive cathedral is one of the most important religious sites in Addis Ababa and a testament to Ethiopia’s unique Orthodox Christian traditions.
  • Explore the Ethiopian Ethnological Museum: Discover the rich cultural diversity of Ethiopia through artifacts, traditional clothing, and household items from different ethnic groups.
  • Visit the Entoto Maryam Church: This historic church is a significant place of worship for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians and offers stunning views of Addis Ababa.

Things to know about Addis Ababa:

  • The Ethiopian Ethnological Museum, showcasing the cultural history of Ethiopia, houses fascinating displays of traditional clothing, crafts, art, and weaponry.
  • Addis Ababa’s bustling marketplace is known for its variety of goods, from fresh produce and spices to textiles and electronics. Be prepared for a vibrant and potentially overwhelming experience!

Getting Around:

  • Day 1:

    • Hire a taxi for the day to explore the city at your own pace (negotiate the price beforehand!).

  • Things to know about food in Ethiopia:

    • Injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread, is the staple food of Ethiopia. It’s used to scoop up stews and other dishes.

  • Other options:

    • Visit the Addis Ababa National Stadium: Watch a local football match for a taste of Ethiopian passion for the sport.

  • Experience the hustle and bustle of “Addis View Restaurant”: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy the delicious food.

Things to Consider:

  • Time of year:

Consider visiting during the dry season (October - May) for the best weather and fewer crowds.

  • Bargaining: In Ethiopia, bargaining is common practice at markets. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices, but remember to do so respectfully.

  • Safety: Addis Ababa can be a busy city. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions with your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Stay safe:

  • Stay in well-lit and populated areas, particularly when visiting the “Ethiopian

  • Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral:

Learn about its history and significance as the burial place for Emperor Haile Selassie.

  • Explore local markets:

Immerse yourself in the vibrant market scene of Addis Ababa. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and find some unique souvenirs.

Stay:

  • “Addis View” Hotel: This luxurious hotel offers breathtaking views of the city and features comfortable rooms, delicious meals, and a rooftop bar with panoramic vistas.

  • Other options:

  • Safety: Consider joining a guided tour for your first day or two to familiarize yourself with the city and learn safety tips from locals.

Things to Know:

  • Traditional Ethiopian coffee is a must-try experience:

Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional coffee ceremony, where the beans are roasted and brewed with ritualistic precision.

  • Ethiopian coffee culture: The “Addis View” Coffee Shop is a great place to enjoy a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.