10 Days in Addis Ababa & Awasa: From Bet Giyorgis to Tomoca Coffee

Upon arrival, proceed through immigration and customs. Take a taxi from the airport to your hotel area. Expect a journey of approximately 45-60 minutes.

"Wow, what a transformation! 😍 I've been flying through Addis Ababa for years, and I must say, the airport has undergone a massive upgrade. From the old days to the current standard, it's amazing! The new terminal is sleek, modern, and efficient. Security checks are smooth, and the staff are friendly. There's plenty to eat and shop, and the views are stunning. I've experienced it all, from transit to departure, and I can confidently say it's one of the best airports in Africa. Five stars, hands down! 🌟"¹ ²"— William Ward

Explore one of the most important museums in Addis Ababa, home to archaeological finds including the fossilized remains of 'Lucy', an early hominid.

"The National Museum of Ethiopia is one of the most important museums to visit in Addis Ababa. Set within calm, well-maintained grounds just north of the city centre, the museum presents Ethiopia’s extraordinary contribution to human history in a clear and accessible way. Its most famous exhibit is Lucy, the 3.2-million-year-old Australopithecus afarensis discovered in 1974 in the Afar region. Widely regarded as one of the most significant fossil discoveries in the study of human evolution, Lucy provided crucial evidence that early human ancestors were walking upright much earlier than previously understood. (A replica is on display, with the original carefully preserved.) Beyond Lucy, the museum features extensive collections of early hominid fossils, skulls, and prehistoric tools, offering real insight into the deep history of humanity. The lower floors focus on archaeology and paleoanthropology, while upper levels include artefacts from Ethiopia’s ancient civilisations, Axumite history, religious art, and royal regalia. The presentation is straightforward rather than flashy, but the historical significance of what is displayed is exceptional. For anyone interested in human origins, archaeology, or African history, this museum is an essential stop in Addis Ababa. Highly recommended."— Robert Walshe

Visit Ethiopia's most important Orthodox church, the burial place of Emperor Haile Selassie and other significant figures. Admire its impressive architecture and stained-glass windows.

"Beautiful cathedral. I see previous reviews stating they paid. I went multiple times and didn’t pay at all. I suggest visiting, it’s a spiritual experience. Also to the tourists who said the people were rude, there’s a cultural difference and I seen tourist walking in there as if they have some sort of right to carry on without considering Ethiopians have their own ways of worship."— Besha

Experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony at Tomoca Coffee, a historic establishment renowned for its quality beans and authentic brewing process. This is a vital cultural and social ritual.

"Visited Tomoca Coffee while in Addis Ababa and absolutely loved it. Tomoca has been here since 1953 and it feels refreshingly unchanged. Dark wood counters, old grinders humming away, locals stepping in for a quick espresso and heading back out. No fuss, no performance — just proper Ethiopian coffee. Ethiopia is widely regarded as the birthplace of coffee, and you really feel that sense of heritage here. Arabica grows wild in the forests of Kaffa, and the whole legend of Kaldi and his goats discovering coffee starts in this country. Coffee isn’t a trend in Ethiopia — it’s history and daily life. Tomoca represents the faster, urban side of that tradition. Strong, bold espresso served efficiently at the counter. We tasted, approved (my partner is the real coffee connoisseur), and bought beans to bring home. If you’re in Addis and want to experience authentic local coffee culture rather than a modern café concept, this is the place. Highly recommended."— Robert Walshe

Explore the lush Entoto Park, enjoy panoramic views of Addis Ababa, and visit Menelik's Palace and Entoto Maryam Church within the park. This location offers nature walks, cultural insights into royal history, and spiritual significance.

"I visited Entoto Park in Addis Ababa and I was very impressed. The park is beautifully developed, very clean and well-maintained, with fresh mountain air and excellent views over the city. It is a perfect place to relax away from the busy traffic of Addis. There are good walking paths, green areas and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the scenery. The design of the park, cafés and facilities is modern but still respects the natural environment. Security presence is visible and I felt safe throughout my time there. Overall, Entoto Park is a great achievement for Addis Ababa and for Ethiopia. I strongly recommend visiting this park to anyone coming to Addis Ababa, whether with family, friends or even alone."— PerksBD

Discover the octagonal St. George Church, a significant Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo church, known for its unique architecture and historical ties to Emperor Menelik II.

"The deacon of the church was kind enough to show me around, including taking me down into the sub level which was a surprise. The unique shape of the church was cool to see and the building itself is beautiful. It is a bit of a steep walk to get to the church from the parking area, and it's at a higher altitude so keep that in mind."— Heather S.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Merkato, a sprawling market offering everything from spices and traditional crafts to recycled goods. Experience the daily life and bustling commerce of Addis Ababa.

"If you really want to see how Ethiopians live their daily lives through shopping, visit Merkato Market. It is a bustling, crowded, bustling market that may seem chaotic but if you are patient enough, you will find many interesting things here. Almost everything is available and sold in sections so it is also called systematic. Be careful not to get lost or pickpocketed."— pixel vietnam

Delve into Ethiopia's diverse cultures and history at the Ethnological Museum, housed within the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie. Explore exhibits on traditional crafts, musical instruments, and regional customs.

"This is a must to visit. The old palace converted to a university and has all the memorabilia from the emperor and African Union. It’s great to see the traditional culture and the different ethnicity that exist in Ethiopia"— Kandan Loganathan

Discover Ethiopia's rich biodiversity through taxidermied specimens of local wildlife, offering insights into the country's unique fauna. A great place for families.

"It is a good place to place educational trips with family or with friends. The entrance fee is almost zero, free parking space,lots of animal bodies to discover, .... Check out the place if u can"— Eyob Abate

Explore this beautifully landscaped park, featuring historical exhibits, a traditional garden, and various attractions that showcase Ethiopia's rich heritage and natural beauty.

"I recently visited Unity Park with my family and it was a wonderful experience. The park is rich in history and a beautiful place to spend time with family and children while learning more about our country’s past. It was also exciting to see the wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and other animals. The renovation work is truly impressive. As an Ethiopian, I felt proud seeing the palace and historical sites preserved in such a beautiful way. It would be even better if there were more guided tours or historical explanations to help visitors fully understand the stories behind the sites. Overall, we really appreciated the effort put into this place. May God bless the hands that worked on this project, and may God bless our country."— Eden Zewdie.g

Immerse yourself in Ethiopian culture at Shiro Meda, a vibrant market specializing in traditional clothing, textiles, and crafts. A great place to observe local life and find unique souvenirs.

"This Vibrant place dedicated to Ethiopian Traditional clothes offers the glimpse of the rich Ethiopian Culture. For those who want to take a piece of Ethiopian culture home with them, this marketplace offers an array of options. You can buy, rent or special order a lot of cultural clothes for your occasions too. Vendors are also welcoming and eager to share the stories behind their creations."— etsub mengistu

Gain insight into a somber period of Ethiopian history at this memorial museum, dedicated to the victims of the Derg regime's Red Terror. The exhibits provide a powerful and educational experience.

"Free entry, so why not go. It’s a small museum which has painful stories. Can be little scary because you’ll see reall human body remains. I recommend to go while visiting the square, It doesn’t take time to see everything and they are only relaying on donation."— Hussain Almoamen

Visit the Medhane Alem Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in Africa. Admire its impressive architecture and experience a sense of spiritual tranquility.

"Absolutely beautiful, peaceful, powerful, immaculate place of worship and wonder. To sit inside this church is a very special feeling no matter what ones religion"— Naveen K

Relax and connect with nature at Sheger Park, a beautiful urban green space along the Kebena River. Stroll through its tree-lined paths and enjoy the fresh air.

"I tried to go to the park but I was told 50 birr, then 100 birr to enter. But they don't accept cash. An excellent way to keep tourists (and maybe poor people) from being able to go."— C Ray

Observe the majestic Ethiopian lions, including the rare black-maned Abyssinian lions, in this dedicated conservation center. Learn about their significance to Ethiopian culture and efforts to protect them.

"Lion Park offers a peaceful escape with open green space and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s a great spot for walks, photos, and quiet time with nature right in the heart of the city."— AleAya

Stroll through the lush landscapes of Addis Ababa's botanical garden, home to a diverse collection of indigenous plants and offering serene views and fresh air, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

"A great place to hike with all sorts of landscape and great view. I have also seen people that camped there overnight with campfires. Staff are friendly but could be more informative and organized. I haven't seen any place to eat and relax afterwards though."— Natnail Aberra

Explore the significant Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo monastery, known for its spiritual importance and historical artifacts. Learn about its founder, Saint Tekle Haimanot, and the church's role in Ethiopian history.

"We had booked a tour. The monk greeted us and gave us a tour in perfect English. The tour was good and he explained everything from the local calendar to the believes and the services. We really enjoyed it."— C N

Embark on a challenging and physically demanding hike through the Jemma River Gorge. The varied terrain and high altitude offer an adventurous experience with breathtaking views of the natural landscape and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

"I visited Entoto Park in Addis Ababa and I was very impressed. The park is beautifully developed, very clean and well-maintained, with fresh mountain air and excellent views over the city. It is a perfect place to relax away from the busy traffic of Addis. There are good walking paths, green areas and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the scenery. The design of the park, cafés and facilities is modern but still respects the natural environment. Security presence is visible and I felt safe throughout my time there. Overall, Entoto Park is a great achievement for Addis Ababa and for Ethiopia. I strongly recommend visiting this park to anyone coming to Addis Ababa, whether with family, friends or even alone."— PerksBD

Take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Awasa, a beautiful freshwater lake known for its abundant birdlife, including pelicans, storks, and kingfishers. Keep an eye out for hippos too!

"A beautiful and peaceful park with stunning views of Lake Hawassa. Amora Gedel Park is perfect for families, relaxation, and enjoying nature. The environment is clean, green, and refreshing, making it a great place for photos and leisure walks. Highly recommended for visitors and locals looking for a calm and enjoyable outdoor experience."— Solomon Eshete

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Hawassa Fish Market, where local fishermen bring in their fresh catches from Lake Awasa. Observe the lively trading and preparation of fresh fish.

"When you come in the morning, you’re going to see the fish market and then what they’re going to sell, and also the way they are going to clean the fishnets"— wegderes gudaey

Visit the impressive Saint Gebriel Church, an important Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in Awasa. Experience its spiritual ambiance and unique architecture.

"By God’s will, I had the blessing of being here on Tahisas (December) Gebriel, and the experience was truly mesmerizing. Spending time within the church compound feels deeply peaceful and spiritually uplifting. The church is conveniently located at the center of the town and is easily accessible by regular public transport. The surrounding area is safe and pleasant for walking, and just a few hundred meters from the main road you can reach the nearby lake, which adds to the serenity of the visit. I highly recommend visiting during the annual St. Gebriel celebrations on December or July 27–29, when the atmosphere is especially vibrant and spiritually enriching. May all who come here be blessed."— Yohannes Molla

Embark on a gentle hike up Tabor Mountain, known for its serene natural beauty and panoramic views of Awasa and Lake Awasa. Experience the tranquility and spiritual significance of this local landmark.

"Experiencing Mount Tabor near Hawassa is like stepping into a world where nature's raw beauty meets serenity. The journey begins as you approach the base, where the cool breeze carries the scents of pine and fresh earth. As you ascend the mountain, the winding paths lead you through dense greenery, with the occasional glimpse of rocky outcrops that add to the rugged charm of the landscape. The hike itself is an adventure, challenging yet rewarding. The view gradually transforms as you climb higher, with each step offering a new perspective of Hawassa town and its shimmering lake, nestled below the towering hills. The air feels fresher and more invigorating as you make your way up, and the surrounding silence is occasionally interrupted only by the sounds of nature—the rustle of leaves, birds chirping, and the distant hum of the town below. At the summit, the reward is beyond words. The panoramic views are breathtaking. From the top, you can see the expansive lake stretching into the horizon, surrounded by lush hills and valleys. The contrast between the rocky cliffs of the mountain and the lush vegetation surrounding them creates a picture-perfect scene. It's a place where you can pause, reflect, and simply take in the beauty of nature. For many, the experience at Mount Tabor is a moment of peace and connection with nature, an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're there for a quiet walk, to take in the view, or simply to feel the tranquility that comes with being in such an awe-inspiring place, Mount Tabor offers an unforgettable experience that lingers in your mind long after you leave."— Yisak Biru

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions and customs of the Sidama people at their cultural hall. Explore exhibits showcasing traditional attire, tools, music, and art, offering insight into their way of life.

"Sidama cultural Hall is like one of best place in Hawassa city which everyone should vist though I don't get a chance to vist the entire place the outside of place is kind of wonderful interesting explorable to any one who want to know his history and how Sidama nation live even if this is best place we didn't find anybody help us or quite some one who know and explain to us"— Badaftu Mulune

Experience the natural thermal hot springs at Wondo Genet. Enjoy the soothing steam and warm waters in a tranquil, natural setting, a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

"Nice place with an affordable price where you can enjoy natural steam. The place could use a bit of renovation to improve the overall experience, but it’s still a relaxing spot. Overall, it’s worth visiting while you’re in Wondogenet."— Eden Zewdie.g

Visit this local Orthodox church, offering a serene spiritual experience and a glimpse into Ethiopian religious life. Observe the architecture and possibly ongoing worship.

"Explore the mother nature weed good brith"— HANIBAL TADESSE

Wander through the bustling Hawassa Central Market, observing local commerce and traditional goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts. A great way to experience daily life.

"It is best app"— Feyisal Ahemd

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic shores of Lake Awasa. Observe local life, diverse bird species, and simply enjoy the tranquil environment, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

"Stunning view!"— Meklit Bekele

Enjoy a refreshing morning stroll through the verdant campus of Hawassa University, observing local student life and the green environment.

"One of the best universities in Ethiopia. It has a lot of green spaces but still hot weather."— Besufekad Kebede

Visit Awasa Millennium Park, a lovely urban green space perfect for a relaxing walk and enjoying the local atmosphere.

"A beautiful and peaceful park with stunning views of Lake Hawassa. Amora Gedel Park is perfect for families, relaxation, and enjoying nature. The environment is clean, green, and refreshing, making it a great place for photos and leisure walks. Highly recommended for visitors and locals looking for a calm and enjoyable outdoor experience."— Solomon Eshete

Begin your journey with a scenic 5-hour private transfer from Awasa to Bole Addis Ababa International Airport (ADD) for your international flight to New York, NY. This allows ample time for check-in, security procedures, and boarding for your 9:00 PM departure.

"Wow, what a transformation! 😍 I've been flying through Addis Ababa for years, and I must say, the airport has undergone a massive upgrade. From the old days to the current standard, it's amazing! The new terminal is sleek, modern, and efficient. Security checks are smooth, and the staff are friendly. There's plenty to eat and shop, and the views are stunning. I've experienced it all, from transit to departure, and I can confidently say it's one of the best airports in Africa. Five stars, hands down! 🌟"¹ ²"— William Ward