Best Day Trips from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Explore the rich cultural and natural wonders that surround Addis Ababa with these recommended day trips!

1. Blue Nile Gorge (Tis Issat)

• Distance from Addis Ababa: ~320 km (approx. 6 hours by car)
• Highlights: The Blue Nile’s breathtaking waterfalls and scenic views
• Activities: Hiking, photography, picnicking

Tis Issat, or the “Blue Water,” offers a mesmerizing sight of the Blue Nile cascading down multiple tiers of rapids. The area is also home to a variety of bird species and traditional villages where you can learn about the local culture.

2. Bahir Dar

• Distance from Addis Ababa: ~530 km (approx. 7 hours by car)
• Highlights: Lake Tana, Blue Nile Falls, and monasteries
• Activities: Boat trips, birdwatching, visiting historical sites

Bahir Dar is a gateway to the stunning Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake, which is home to 17 ancient monasteries. The town also boasts the beautiful Blue Nile Falls, an impressive natural wonder that can be accessed via boat rides or hiking trails.

3. Debre Libanos Monastery

• Distance from Addis Ababa: ~80 km (approx. 2 hours by car)
• Highlights: Ancient monastery, birdwatching, and the Juniper Forest
• Activities: Visiting historical sites, birdwatching, photography

Debre Libanos Monastery is an essential stop for those interested in Ethiopian history and culture. The monastery is perched on a cliff overlooking the Jaber River and surrounded by a lush forest inhabited by various bird species.

4. Ankober Mountain

• Distance from Addis Ababa: ~120 km (approx. 3 hours by car)
• Highlights: Endemic wildlife, scenic views, and Walia Ibex
• Activities: Hiking, wildlife watching, photography

Ankober Mountain is home to the critically endangered Walia Ibex, Ethiopia’s national animal. The guided hike up the mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to spot other rare species like the Gelada Baboon.

5. Awash National Park

• Distance from Addis Ababa: ~320 km (approx. 4 hours by car)
• Highlights: Varied wildlife, scenic desert landscape, Awash Falls
• Activities: Game drives, birdwatching, swimming in the falls

Awash National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts with over 600 bird species and numerous mammals such as kudus, gazelles, and even hyenas. The park’s diverse landscapes range from savannah to desert, providing an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.