. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Addis Ababa

  • Morning: Arrive at Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa. Complete immigration formalities and grab your luggage. You can exchange currency at the airport or nearby banks.

  • Afternoon:

    1. Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to Lucy, a 3.2 million-year-old hominid skeleton.
    2. Next door, explore the Ethnographic Museum in Haile Selassie’s former palace to learn about Ethiopia’s diverse cultures.

  • Evening:

    1. Savor traditional Ethiopian cuisine at Yod Abyssinia, a popular restaurant with multiple locations in Addis Ababa. Try dishes like Doro Wat (spicy chicken stew) and Injera (sourdough flatbread).
    2. Take a stroll around Piazza, the city center with beautiful architecture, cafes, and shops.

  • Overnight Stay:

    • Budget: Taitu Hotel, historic and centrally located
    • Mid-Range: Sheraton Addis, modern facilities and great views of the city
    • Luxury: Radisson Blu, high-end accommodations with an excellent spa

Day 2: Discovering Addis Ababa’s Sights & Culture

  • Morning:

    1. Visit the Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, for souvenirs, traditional spices, and local crafts. Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas.
    2. Explore the nearby Trinity Cathedral with its distinctive architecture.

  • Afternoon:

    1. Head to the Addis Ababa University Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis within the city.
    2. Stop by the Africa Union Headquarters to see where some of Africa’s most important decisions are made.

  • Evening:

    1. Dine at Dashen Brewery & Restaurant for delicious Ethiopian dishes and freshly brewed beer.
    2. Enjoy live music or a movie at the Jazzamba, an Ethiopian cultural center with a variety of entertainment options.

  • Overnight Stay: As per Day 1

Day 3: Day Trip to the Blue Nile Falls

  • Morning: Take an organized tour or hire a private car to visit the Blue Nile Falls, about three hours from Addis Ababa.

  • Afternoon: Spend time exploring the falls, hiking around the area, and taking in the stunning views. Visit local villages and experience their culture.

  • Evening: Return to Addis Ababa. Have a farewell dinner at Yod Abyssinia or another favorite restaurant from your stay.

  • Overnight Stay: As per Day 1

Tips & Other Things to Know:

  • Always ask for the ’tourist price’ when negotiating with taxi drivers, tour guides, and shop owners.
  • Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure.
  • English is widely spoken in Addis Ababa, but it’s always helpful to learn a few Amharic phrases.
  • Internet connection can be unreliable, so download maps or necessary information before leaving your hotel.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Tipping is expected in restaurants and for tour guides. A tip of 5-10% is common.