24 Hours in Addis Ababa: The Perfect Layover
Got a day in the diplomatic capital of Africa? Here is how to maximize your time between flights.
Mule Ethiopia Tour — Local Team
Addis Ababa · Licensed Ethiopian Tourism Guides
Mule Ethiopia Tour — Local Team
Addis Ababa · Licensed Ethiopian Tourism Guides
Meeting Lucy
If you only have one day in Addis Ababa, start at the National Museum. It houses a fascinating collection of historical artifacts, but the main attraction is the paleoanthropological exhibit in the basement. Here you will find the fossilized remains of "Lucy" (Australopithecus afarensis), our 3.2 million-year-old hominid ancestor.
Coffee at Tomoca
After the museum, head to Tomoca Coffee, the oldest roaster in the city. The original shop in the Piazza area is a standing-room-only, wood-paneled institution. The aroma of roasting beans is intoxicating, and a strong macchiato here will give you the energy for the rest of your day.
Views from Mount Entoto
Take a taxi up the winding eucalyptus-lined road to Mount Entoto, which overlooks the sprawling city. Visit the Entoto Maryam church and take in the panoramic views. The air is cooler up here, providing a nice respite from the bustling city below.
Dinner and Traditional Music
End your day at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, known as an Azmari Bet. Yod Abyssinia or 2000 Habesha are popular choices. You can enjoy a massive platter of injera and wats, drink tej (honey wine) from glass flasks, and watch high-energy traditional dancing from various Ethiopian regions.
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