Ethiopia
Addis Ababa sits at high altitude, giving it a different air from other African cities. Historic towns like Aksum and Harar take a long time to reach, so plan a generous itinerary.
- Currency
- ETB
Ethiopia currency guide — today's rate & payment tips
Visa and entry rules change often. Check your government's travel advisory or the local embassy before you go.
Average temperature by month
Based on Addis Ababa · 5-year average
Choose a city
Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa is Ethiopia's capital and largest city, home to the headquarters of the African Union and numerous other international organizations. This has earned it a reputation as the political center of the African continent.
29 sights 9 guides Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)
Axum
Aksum is a historic city in northern Ethiopia that once served as the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Aksum. With a large Ethiopian Orthodox community, it carries a strongly religious atmosphere.
2 sights 9 guides Axum Airport (AXU)
Dire Dawa
Dire Dawa is a commercial city in the eastern highlands of Ethiopia that has long thrived as a trading hub. It is especially known as one of Ethiopia's leading coffee-growing regions, where visitors can enjoy the aroma and atmosphere of coffee culture.
1 sight 9 guides Aba Tenna Dejazmach Yilma International Airport (DIR)
Harar
Harar is a city in the eastern highlands of Ethiopia, home to the historic Jamia Mosque. It sits at an elevation of over 1,800 meters.
1 sight 9 guides Aba Tenna Dejazmach Yilma International Airport (DIR)
Top sights in Ethiopia
Temples & religious sites
Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion
A historic church in Axum, Ethiopia, said to house the biblical Ark of the Covenant. Visiting this site steeped in mysterious legend makes for a truly special experience.
Museums & galleries
National Museum of Ethiopia
This national museum is located in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, near the graduate school of Addis Ababa University. It's a great place in the city center to explore the country's heritage.
Temples & religious sites
St. George's Cathedral
An Ethiopian Orthodox cathedral at the northern end of Churchill Road in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Its distinctive octagonal structure makes it a striking place to admire the architecture.
Temples & religious sites
Holy Trinity Cathedral
Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa is the highest-ranking cathedral of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Built to commemorate the victory over Italian occupation, it offers a window into Ethiopia's history.
Nature
Mount Entoto
The highest peak of the Entoto range overlooking Addis Ababa, rising to about 3,200 meters. It's a scenic spot offering sweeping views of the entire city.
Parks & gardens
Meskel Square
Meskel Square is a plaza in downtown Addis Ababa where Ethiopian Orthodox events and festivals are frequently held. Visiting during the Meskel Festival in particular lets you experience the local atmosphere at its liveliest.
Shopping & districts
Addis Mercato
Addis Mercato is a large open-air market in the Addis Ketema district of Addis Ababa. Its lively atmosphere and wide range of goods make it a great place to soak up the local vibe.
Museums & galleries
"Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum
This museum opened in 2010 to honor those who lost their lives during the "Red Terror" under the Derg regime. It displays torture instruments, remains, and photographs of victims, and free guided tours offer a detailed account of that history.
Visit stories: Ethiopia
Have you been to this country?
Share your visit story with photos you took yourself. Once checked, it goes into the Magazine.
Local data
Get an eSIM for Ethiopia before you go
Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.
Airalo
Yesim
Saily
Drimsim
Check prices and availability on the booking sites.