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Zoos & aquariums

Addis Ababa Zoo

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Addis Ababa Zoo

Addis Ababa Zoo

Founded in 1948 by Emperor Haile Selassie, this zoo houses a collection of animals including primates, lions, birds of prey, and reptiles. It serves as a central location for visitors to observe various species within the city.

Getting There

The zoo is located within the city of Addis Ababa. From the city centre, it is accessible via taxi or ride-ride sharing services. The travel time typically ranges from 10 to 20 minutes depending on local traffic conditions.

Visit Duration

Most visitors spend approximately 2 to 3 hours exploring the exhibits and walking the grounds.

When to Visit

Visiting during the morning hours is generally recommended to see the animals when they are most active. Like many public attractions in the city, it can become crowded during weekends and local public holidays.

Nearby Attractions

Due to its central location, the zoo can be combined with several other sites within walking distance:

  • Yekatit 12 Square and Monument: Both are located 0.1km away.
  • National Museum of Ethiopia: Situated 0.5km from the zoo.
  • Guenete Leul Palace: Located 0.6km away.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Addis Ababa Zoo

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Addis Ababa Zoo Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Addis Ababa 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Addis Ababa grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Addis Ababa 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Addis Ababa grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Yekatit 12 square

Parks & gardens

Yekatit 12 square

A square in downtown Addis Ababa, laid out as a roundabout where major roads converge, making it a key traffic hub. It's a landmark you'll naturally pass through while getting around the city.

0.1 km away
Yekatit 12 monument

Heritage & monuments

Yekatit 12 monument

This obelisk monument stands at the center of the roundabout in Siddist Kilo Square in Addis Ababa. It was erected to honor the victims of the Italian occupation.

0.1 km away
National Museum of Ethiopia

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.

0.5 km away
Guenete Leul Palace

Castles & palaces

Guenete Leul Palace

This palace in Addis Ababa was built by Emperor Haile Selassie in 1930. It was once the actual residence of the imperial family and is a great place to explore royal architecture.

0.6 km away
Ethnological Museum of Addis Ababa

Museums & galleries

Ethnological Museum of Addis Ababa

The Ethnological Museum of Addis Ababa sits on the campus of Addis Ababa University and is Ethiopia's first university museum. Its exhibits span anthropology, music, and culture, offering a broad look at Ethiopia's diverse heritage.

0.6 km away
St. Gevorg church

Temples & religious sites

St. Gevorg church

An Ethiopian Orthodox church in central Addis Ababa, built to commemorate the victory at the Battle of Adwa. It's a good spot to admire its distinctive octagonal architecture and interior icons.

0.8 km away