Ethiopia 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary for Exploring Ethiopia

Day 1: Discover Historic Addis Ababa

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to Lucy, a 3.2 million-year-old hominid fossil. (Jawahar Street)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Trinity Cathedral, a beautiful Orthodox Christian church and final resting place for several emperors. Followed by a stroll around Mercato, Africa’s largest market. (Trinity Square & Mercato Balderas)
  • Evening: Enjoy local Ethiopian cuisine at Yod Abyssinia or Tomoca Coffee, one of the oldest coffeehouses in Addis Ababa.

Things to know:

  1. Ethiopia uses the Ethiopian calendar, which is seven years and three months behind the Gregorian calendar.
  2. English is widely spoken in Addis Ababa by younger generations.
  3. The local currency is the Birr (ETB). Credit cards are accepted in many establishments, but it’s always good to have cash on hand.
  4. Visa upon arrival is available for many nationalities for a fee of $52 (USD). Check visa requirements before your trip.

Day 2: Explore the Ancient City of Aksum

  • Morning: Early flight from Addis Ababa to Aksum. Visit the stelae park, filled with massive monolithic obelisks and the ruins of the ancient Kingdom of Aksum. (Stelae Park)
  • Afternoon: Tour the Church of Saint Mary of Zion, traditionally believed to house the original Ark of the Covenant. (Aksum town)
  • Evening: Return to Addis Ababa and relax at a local restaurant like Yod Abyssinia or Garden Restaurant & Gardens.

Day 3: Marvel at Gondar’s Castles and Simien Mountains National Park

  • Morning: Flight from Addis Ababa to Gondar. Visit the Royal Enclosure, with six castles built by Emperor Fasilides in the 17th century. (Royal Enclosure)
  • Afternoon: Travel to Simien Mountains National Park and explore the jaw-dropping landscapes and unique wildlife, including the Gelada baboons. (Simien Mountains National Park)
  • Evening: Return to Gondar and enjoy a traditional Ethiopian meal at Three Kings Restaurant before retiring for the night.

Things to know:

  1. The best months to visit Simien Mountains are from October to February, during the dry season.
  2. Wear layers for temperature changes as you ascend the mountains.
  3. It’s essential to hire a local guide in Simien Mountains National Park.
  4. Public transportation is available but can be unreliable. Consider hiring a private car or joining a tour group for smooth travel.

Happy travels!