Addis Ababa Ethiopia Nature Spots

In Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia, you can find a beautiful blend of urban life and breathtaking natural landscapes. Here are some of the best nature spots that you should visit:

  1. Entoto Mountain - Located northwest of Addis Ababa, Entoto Mountain offers a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscapes. The mountain is home to the Church of St. Mary (Mariam Tsion), one of the oldest churches in Addis Ababa.
  2. Menelik II Park - This beautiful park was established in 1940 to commemorate Emperor Menelik II. It covers an area of approximately 78 hectares and is a popular spot for picnics, walks, and family outings. The park also features a large artificial lake, known as Hama Shan, which attracts a variety of birdlife.
  3. Jan Meda - Translated as “Thousand Forest” in Amharic, Jan Meda is a green space located in the heart of Addis Ababa. The park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, walking trails, and picnic areas.
  4. Gullele Botanical Garden - Situated in Gullele Palace, this botanical garden is home to over 3,000 species of plants from Ethiopia and around the world. The garden also has a small zoo with animals such as monkeys, birds, and reptiles.
  5. Chilimo Waterfall - Located about 40 kilometers southwest of Addis Ababa, Chilimo Waterfall is a popular weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and swimming in the cool waters.
  6. Debre Libanos Monastery and the Jenna Forest - Debre Libanos Monastery, situated approximately 75 kilometers northwest of Addis Ababa, is one of the most ancient and important monasteries in Ethiopia. The surrounding Jenna Forest is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the rare Walia Ibex.
  7. Blue Nile Falls - Tis Issat, or the Blue Nile Falls, is located approximately 35 kilometers from Bahir Dar, which is about four hours’ drive northwest of Addis Ababa. The falls are a spectacular sight and are surrounded by lush vegetation, making it an ideal spot for hiking and birdwatching.
  8. Lake Ziway - Lake Ziway is a freshwater lake located approximately 150 kilometers south of Addis Ababa. It’s home to various bird species, such as pelicans, flamingos, and herons. The lake also has several islands, including Tulu Gudo Island, which is home to a monastery dating back to the 13th century.
  9. Abijatta-Shalla National Park - Located approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa, this national park is home to two alkaline lakes, Abijatta and Shalla. The park is a critical habitat for a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, pelicans, and various antelope species.
  10. Bale Mountains National Park - Situated approximately 400 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa, the Bale Mountains National Park is Ethiopia’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to unique wildlife such as the Ethiopian wolf, simien fox, and numerous bird species. The landscape includes mountain peaks, valleys, and alpine meadows.