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Bole Medhane Alem Cathedral in Addis Ababa Ethiopia
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Addis Ababa Vacation Packages and Tours

Bole Medhane Alem Cathedral
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Overview

Take a trip to Addis Ababa on your Ethiopia Vacation

Founded little more than a century ago, Addis Ababa, which in the Amharic language means ‘New Flower’, is not only the diplomatic capital of Africa and a thriving metropolis but also a growing city that takes pride in its multifaceted assets, an interesting stopover on an Ethiopian vacation. 

Perched on the Abyssinian plateau, some 2400 metres/7800 feet above sea level, Addis Ababa boasts a climate known as ‘tropical highland’ and is balmy and temperate with cloudless blue skies for about eight months of the year. It has many museums including the culturally stimulating Ethnological Museum located within Emperor Haile Selassie’s former palace and which gives an insight into Ethiopia’s many rich cultures. Another highlight of an Ethiopia vacation is the National Museum whose collection ranks among the finest in Sub-Saharan Africa. With Ethiopian civilization being one of the oldest in the world, the artifacts within the museum span thousands of years, including some from its earliest days - its star attraction is Lucy, the fossils of the oldest human ever discovered by archaeologists. A wide variety of artifacts are featured, from sculptures to clothing to artwork plus both traditional and modern art. 

Africa Hall, which is located across from the Palace, is where the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa is headquartered as well as most UN offices in Ethiopia. The Parliament Building was built during the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie and continues to serve as the seat of Parliament today. 

Addis Ababa has a lively restaurant and nightlife scene on Bole Road which is a fashionable district also offering sophisticated bars, galleries and clubs on Ethiopia tours.

At a Glance

Languages

Amharic

Currency

Ethiopian Birr (ETB)

What do the experts say?

Brooke Theron

Brooke Theron

Team Lead
Learn More About This Expert
If you are looking to experience something truly unique then plan your trip to coiencide with Timkat (Epiphany) on January 19th for colorful processions of priests carrying the Tabots (Ark replicas)
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Yael Marom

Yael Marom

Destination Specialist
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When in the Addis Ababa, coffee lovers should make sure to visit Aster Bunna: A cozy and long-standing coffee house renowned by locals for serving some of the best-quality Ethiopian coffee in the city.
Yael Marom

Yael Marom

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
Ethiopia is one of the few places in the world that uses a 13-month calendar and its own 12-hour clock system, meaning the country is currently seven years behind the rest of the world.

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