Things to Do in Addis Ababa

About Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa sits at 2,400 meters above sea level, making it one of the world's highest capitals. The city sprawls across highland terrain where Orthodox churches built centuries ago operate next to Africa's first modern light rail system. You'll find the African Union headquarters here, alongside Merkato—one of Africa's largest open-air markets where traders work in a dozen languages. The National Museum houses Lucy, the 3.2-million-year-old hominid fossil that rewrote human evolution. Worth the visit. Coffee ceremonies happen daily across the city, a tradition that started here before spreading globally. Locals roast beans over charcoal, grind them by hand, and brew three rounds in clay pots—expect to spend an hour if someone invites you. The process matters more than speed. Berbere spice and eucalyptus scent the air. Highland mist rolls through most mornings, clearing by noon when the sun breaks through. The Entoto Mountains form the northern edge of the city, their peaks visible from most neighborhoods. Cafés fill with students and professionals debating politics over coffee that is far stronger than what you're used to. The conversations can last hours. Nobody rushes. The city operates on its own clock—literally, since Ethiopia uses a different time system than most of the world. Hospitality here isn't performative. People mean it when they invite you in.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Blue minibuses cover most routes for 2-10 ETB ($0.04-0.18). The Light Rail has two lines at 2-6 ETB ($0.04-0.11). Ride (Ethiopia's ride-hailing app) works well centrally at 100-300 ETB ($1.80-5.40) per trip. Bolt also operates here. Regular taxis have no meters: Bole to Piazza costs 200-400 ETB ($3.60-7.20) - agree on fares beforehand. The city sits at 2,355 meters, so walking uphill will leave you breathless for the first few days.

Money: Ethiopian birr (ETB) is the only accepted currency. ATMs at Commercial Bank of Ethiopia and Dashen Bank are widespread but often empty on weekends. Cards work at upscale hotels and restaurants in Bole, but carry cash everywhere else. Budget $20-35 daily. Tipping 10-15% is appreciated at restaurants. Telebirr mobile money is increasingly common. The black market for currency exists but is illegal - stick to banks.

Cultural Respect: Greet with a handshake while lightly touching your right elbow with your left hand to show respect. Ethiopians use a 12-hour clock starting at dawn (6am), so '2 o'clock' means 8am. Remove shoes before entering Orthodox churches. During fasting seasons (Wednesdays, Fridays, and extended Lent), many restaurants serve only vegetarian food - this is a highlight, not a limitation. Never eat with your left hand.

Food Safety: Injera with various wats at a local buna bet costs 80-200 ETB ($1.45-3.60) and feeds two. Kitfo (minced raw beef with spiced butter) at Yilma Restaurant runs 150-300 ETB ($2.70-5.40) - ask for 'leb leb' if you want it lightly cooked. The coffee ceremony takes three rounds for 20-50 ETB ($0.36-0.90) and is unmissable. Tibs at Kategna costs 200-350 ETB ($3.60-6.30). Fasting food platters are some of the best vegetarian meals anywhere.

When to Visit

Addis Ababa enjoys a temperate highland climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). The dry season (October-May) offers the most comfortable conditions, with clear skies and minimal rainfall (less than 50mm monthly). January-February are coolest but sunniest, perfect for city exploration and mountain excursions. March-May brings warmer days and occasional afternoon showers. The main rainy season (June-September) sees daily downpours and cooler temperatures (10-20°C), but fewer crowds and 20-30% lower accommodation prices. Peak season (December-February) coincides with major festivals: Timkat (Ethiopian Epiphany, January 19) features colorful processions and water blessings, while Ethiopian Christmas (January 7) brings special church services. Expect 40-50% higher prices during these months. Shoulder seasons (March-May, October-November) offer excellent weather with moderate pricing. The Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash, September 11) marks the end of rains with flower-covered landscapes. Business travelers should note that accommodation peaks during African Union summits (typically January/February). First-time visitors benefit most from October-December visits, combining perfect weather with post-rain green landscapes, while budget travelers should consider July-August despite daily showers.