Home to the African Union, there are many beautiful places in Ethiopia that you can’t afford to miss. Ethiopia is well-known for having crucial United Nations branches and stunning highlands that make you want to return for another great view! It is truly impossible to go wrong on a trip to Ethiopia.
From delightful weather conditions to its fascinating museums, medieval churches and a wide range of delicious local and international food, it’s no surprise it is one of the top 20 places to visit in Africa.
Ready to explore? Here are ten most beautiful places in Ethiopia:
1. The Danakil Depression
The Danakil Depression is one of the most-visited and beautiful spots in Ethiopia. It is a geological depression which developed from the separation of three tectonic plates in the Horn of Africa. You can visit the salt mines here and witness the camel caravans transport goods through the highlands, as well as enjoy a breathtaking view of the sunset over the lake.
2. St. George’s Cathedral and Museum
Known as one of the most iconic places of worship in Ethiopia, St. George’s Cathedral is located on the top of a hill facing the Menelik II square. It is one of the most beautiful spots in Ethiopia, with an interior painted with scenes from the Bible and Ethiopian history. It is also home to many religious writings, Ethiopian crosses, and clothing.
3. Lake Assale
Lake Assale comes third on our list of Ethiopia’s most beautiful places. If you want to visit a unique place in this country, Lake Assale is an exciting and beautiful site in Northern Ethiopia with an incredible natural landscape. It is a special place to be, with magical salt flats and a charming lake. A visit to Lake Assale is an exciting adventure for a lifetime’s worth of memory.
4. Mount Entoto
Mount Entoto is the most extraordinary place to enjoy great views of the city. With a height of 3,200 meters, Mount Entoto oversees Addis Ababa, and a drive to this hill will allow you to pass by its highland growth and small villages. Menelik II had built his palace on Entoto Hill, his headquarters during the founding of Addis Ababa.
5. Addis Mercato
Although it may not be one of the most beautiful spots in Ethiopia, it is one of the most exciting places to be! Addis Mercato is an impressive open-air market in Ethiopia which is often bustling with life and character. Here, you can buy everything from clothes to food. No matter how crowded it gets, make sure you get yourself a souvenir!
6. Bole Medhane Alem Cathedral
The largest Ethiopian Orthodox church you can ever find in Addis Ababa is the Bole Medhane Alem Cathedral. It is a great place to see in the Bole Sub-city of Addis Ababa, a modern and trendy district with many international and exclusive Ethiopian restaurants. The Cathedral is also the second-largest church in Africa!
7. National Museum of Ethiopia
The National Museum of Ethiopia features a great collection of some of Ethiopia’s most significant archaeology collections and famous works of art. You’ll undoubtedly enjoy seeing important relics like the statues and precious stelae from Axum and a model of the famous “Lucy.”
8. Ghrealta Rock
You wouldn’t want to miss this stunning site in Ethiopia. It is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever come across in Africa. With an excellent guide, you can walk from the nearest town in the valley to witness these incredible rocks. There are also several churches carved into the rocks to see. A visit to Ghrealta Rock promises a fantastic experience.
9. Holy Trinity Cathedral
It will be hard not to catch a glimpse of one of the most sacred sites of worship in Ethiopia. Unlike St. George’s Cathedral, the Holy Trinity Cathedral is the most sacred Ethiopian Orthodox church in the city to experience medieval times. It is surrounded by impressive statues, carvings and a museum with well-preserved Ethiopian ancient relics.
10. The Lion of Judah
Ensure you don’t make a trip to Ethiopia without witnessing the Statue of the Lion of Judah – this incredible monument is in front of the old Railway Station in Addis Ababa. The statue represents the pride of Ethiopia as well as the Emperor. You can find another Statue of the Lion of Judah outside the National Theater, mainly made from black stone.
