. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Morning

  • Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the city center (~30-40 minutes, ~200-300 ETB / $6-10 USD)

Afternoon

  • Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia (open 9am-5pm, entrance fee: 100 ETB / $3.50 USD) to learn about Ethiopian history and culture
  • Explore the nearby Tiglachin Monument, a symbol of Ethiopian independence

Evening

  • Dine at 2000 Habesha, a traditional Ethiopian restaurant serving injera (flatbread) with various stews
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Lobelia or similar, a comfortable mid-range hotel in the city center

Things to Know

  • Addis Ababa is at high altitude (2,350m/7,700ft), so take it easy on your first day and stay hydrated
  • Learn some basic Amharic phrases, such as “hello” (selam) and “thank you” (amesegenalehu)

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available, but negotiate the fare beforehand
  • Local buses (minivans) are a cheap option, but can be crowded and confusing for tourists

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit Entoto Hill, which offers panoramic views of Addis Ababa (open 9am-5pm, entrance fee: 50 ETB / $1.75 USD)
  • Stop by the St. George Cathedral, a beautiful Orthodox church built in 1896

Afternoon

  • Explore the ** Merkato** , one of Africa’s largest open-air markets (be prepared for crowds and haggling)
  • Visit the Ethnological Museum (open 9am-5pm, entrance fee: 100 ETB / $3.50 USD) to learn about Ethiopia’s diverse ethnic groups

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Ethiopian coffee at a local café
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Lobelia or similar

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos at Merkato, and consider hiring a guide
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting churches and cultural institutions

Day 3: Day Trip to Debre Libanos

Morning

  • Take an early morning bus (~2 hours, ~50 ETB / $1.75 USD) or hire a taxi ( ~1 hour, ~500 ETB / $17.50 USD) to Debre Libanos, a historic monastery and scenic town
  • Visit the Debre Libanos Monastery (open 9am-5pm, entrance fee: 100 ETB / $3.50 USD), famous for its stunning views and ancient architecture

Afternoon

  • Hike in the surrounding hills or explore the local market
  • Return to Addis Ababa in the evening

Where to Eat

  • Try some traditional Ethiopian food at a local restaurant in Debre Libanos, such as Ras Amba

Day 4: Modern Addis Ababa

Morning

  • Visit the Addis Ababa University, one of Africa’s oldest and most prestigious institutions
  • Explore the nearby Piassa, a historic neighborhood with European-style architecture

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Addis Mercato Mall, a modern shopping center with international brands and restaurants
  • Relax at Yeka Mount Entoto Park, a peaceful green space with great city views

Evening

  • Dine at Gusto Ristorante, an Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Lobelia or similar

Things to Know

  • Addis Ababa is rapidly modernizing, but still maintains its unique cultural identity
  • Be prepared for traffic congestion and construction delays in the city

Day 5: Nature and Relaxation

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Menagesha National Forest (~1 hour, ~200 ETB / $6 USD), a scenic area with hiking trails and picnic spots
  • Visit the Addis Ababa Botanical Garden (open 9am-5pm, entrance fee: 50 ETB / $1.75 USD), a peaceful oasis in the city

Afternoon

  • Relax at Kuriftu Resort, a luxurious spa and resort with stunning views of the surrounding hills
  • Enjoy a coffee or cocktail by the poolside

Evening

  • Stay overnight at Kuriftu Resort or similar, for a relaxing getaway from the city

Tips

  • Menagesha National Forest is a great spot for birdwatching and nature photography
  • Book your spa treatments in advance at Kuriftu Resort to ensure availability

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Depart for the airport (~30-40 minutes, ~200-300 ETB / $6-10 USD) and fly back home

Things to Know

  • Leave some extra time for security checks and possible flight delays
  • Exchange any remaining Ethiopian birr (ETB) for your next destination or keep as a souvenir