Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, meaning “new flower” in Amharic, ranks as the third-highest capital city in the world at 1.5 miles above sea level. Home to 3.5 million people, Addis Ababa is full of historic and cultural attractions, museums, religious architecture, amazing cuisine and markets. It’s also one of Africa’s most important cities.

GETTING THERE & AROUND

Situated about four miles southeast of city center, Addis Ababa Bole International Airport is the city’s main gateway and the hub for Ethiopian Airlines. Served by other major airlines, non-stop service is available to Asia, Europe, North America and South America. Non-metered taxis are available to city center; negotiate fares in advance. From the airport and around Addis Ababa, blueand-white, privately owned vehicles operate as mini buses from about 5:30 a.m.–9 p.m. daily and until 8 p.m. on Sundays. Catch a ride from almost all major intersections in the city. A tram light-rail system operates two lines across 39 stations.

LODGING

Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa

Centrally located on Meskel Square, within short walking distance of the United Nations Conference Center and other attractions, Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa is oriented around a central courtyard with gardens and water features.

Meskel Square, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, tel 251 11 517 1234 hyatt.com

Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa

Also conveniently located to points of interest, Radisson Blu Hotel, Addis Ababa’s 212 guestrooms and suites complement premium amenities, Rainforest Day Spa, The Signature Bar & Terrace and 12 meeting rooms.

Kazanchis Business District, Kirkos Subcity 17/18, Addis Ababa, 1000, Ethiopia, tel 251 11 517 0400 radissonhotels.com

Sheraton Addis, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Addis Ababa

On a hilltop overlooking the city, Sheraton

Tribal Images:

Ethnological Museum

PHOTO: © DIMAMUTODAY | DREAMSTIME.COM

Addis offers more than just stunning views. There are also pools; a spa; 295 guestrooms; and secluded, three-story villas. Nearby are the National Palace and the prime minister’s residence.

Taitu Street, Addis Ababa 1000, Ethiopia, tel 251 11 517 1717 marriott.com

DINING

Effoi Pizza

Even though Italy’s occupation was brief, its culinary influence — namely pizza — still exists today. Since 2007 Effoi’s multiple locations deliver gourmet pizzas. Among the many varieties is a special with ground beef and green peppers.

Multiple locations, effoipizza.com

Romina

Three locations in Kazanchis, Arat Kilo and Balderas serve “dishes that are the restaurant version of what diners would experience at home.” Think recipes from your mother’s cookbook expertly prepared with a fresh produce commitment.

Multiple locations, rominaplc.com

Yod Abyssinia

Yod means “witness” or “speak out,” and Abyssinia is the ancient name for Ethiopia. Since 2003 Yod Abyssinia has been the place to experience local dishes and drinks alongside traditional music and dance performances.

Two locations, yodabyssinia.com

ATTRACTIONS

Ethnological Museum

Ethiopia’s first university museum, the Ethnological Museum, situated on the grounds of Addis Ababa University and in the former palace of Haile Selassie, has been dedicated to the ethnology and culture of Ethiopia since 1950.

Algeria Street, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, tel 251 11 123 1068

Entoto Hills

Hike or take a taxi through the Entoto Hills to Mount Entoto, the highest point of the mountains and boasting views across the entire capital. At the top, explore Entoto Maryam Church and Museum. Many opt to ride up but walk down.

National Museum of Ethiopia

Visit the home of the world-famous Lucy, among other fossilized remains of early hominids. Other floors of the National Museum of Ethiopia showcase Ethiopian art and arts and crafts, including from ancient and medieval periods.