Addis Ababa travel guide

Explore the rich history and diversity of this sprawling capital. At the base of the Entoto Mountains, you’ll find an eclectic mix of new and old – and a city that’s as cosmopolitan as they come.

It’s also the birthplace of coffee and the perfect place to experience traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

Top things to see and do

• Discover fascinating cultural artefacts at the National Museum, home to the famous skeleton of ‘Lucy’ – a fossilised human ancestor whose remains are over 3 million years old.
• Climb up to the Mount Entoto lookout for a bird’s eye view of the sprawling Addis Ababa metropolis below.
• Treat your taste buds to a cup of aromatic Ethiopian coffee – brewed from among the finest beans in the world.
• Browse handicrafts, textiles and spices galore in the chaotic and colourful Mercato – the largest open-air market in Africa.
• Feast on mouth-watering cuisine in the traditional local style: by sharing a plate of injera (flat bread) topped with an array of spicy dishes.

Tips for travellers

Spend a day or two in the nearby town of Debre Zeit – from here you can visit stunning volcanic crater lakes and even do a spot of bird-watching.