Thinking of visiting Ethiopia’s vibrant capital? Addis Ababa is a city of incredible contrasts, blending ancient history, stunning natural beauty, and modern urban energy. To truly capture its spirit without feeling rushed, a 3-day itinerary is ideal.

Here’s our curated guide, designed to immerse you in the best of Addis, all of which we can effortlessly coordinate for you!

Day 1: History, Heritage, and Modern Monuments

Your first day focuses on the foundational sites that tell the story of Ethiopia.

Morning: Ethiopia’s Deepest Roots Start at the National Museum, home to “Lucy,” the 3.2 million-year-old hominid fossil that changed human history. Next, move to the Ethnological Museum located within Addis Ababa University to explore Ethiopia’s diverse cultures and traditions.

Midday: The Imperial and Political Hub See the regal Lion of Judah Statue—a symbol of Ethiopian royalty and resilience. After lunch, visit the nearby Menelik II Square, a historic center of the city, before heading to the National Archives & Library of Ethiopia to glimpse the nation’s documented past.

Afternoon: Reflection and Resilience Conclude with a powerful visit to the Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum and the towering Derg Monument. These sites offer sober reflection on the nation’s political struggles and resilience, providing vital context for modern Ethiopia.

Day 2: Nature, Views, and Royal Peaks

Day two is dedicated to escaping the city bustle and enjoying the refreshing mountain air surrounding Addis.

Morning: Ascending Entoto Mountain We’ll take you up to the majestic Entoto Natural Park and the Entoto Panoramic Viewpoint. These heights offer breathtaking, sweeping views of the entire sprawling city below. Enjoy a gentle hike, immerse yourself in the eucalyptus forests, and breathe the fresh air.

Midday: Lunch with a View Dine at a local spot on Entoto, enjoying traditional Ethiopian cuisine with the city as your backdrop. This is a perfect photo opportunity!

Afternoon: Forest Immersion For the true nature lover, we head slightly west to the Menagesha National Forest. As the country’s oldest protected forest, it offers beautiful trails and a chance to spot endemic wildlife, providing a stunning contrast to the city below.

Day 3: Art, Urban Flow, and Local Color

Your final day mixes contemporary art with the lively, everyday commerce of the city.

Morning: Art and Creativity Explore the unique architecture and vision of the Zoma Museum, which focuses on eco-friendly buildings and contemporary art. Follow this with a private visit to Afewerk Tekle’s Home & Studio, celebrating Ethiopia’s most renowned modern artist.

Midday: Unity and Progress Visit Unity Park, a recently renovated historical palace compound that offers beautiful gardens, historical exhibitions, and even a lion enclosure. It’s a wonderful example of Addis Ababa’s investment in public spaces.

Afternoon: The Marketplace Experience Dive into the organized chaos of the Chiromeda Market for textiles and crafts, then experience the sheer scale of Africa’s largest open-air market, Merkato. This sensory overload is the true beating heart of Addis Ababa’s commerce.

Ready to explore? This is just a sample of what we can arrange. Contact us today to start customizing your own 3-day Addis Ababa journey!