Addis Ababa & Surroundings

Addis Ababa is the capital city of Ethiopia as well as Africa. It is one of the most significant cities in Africa and encompass with garden trees and flowers. Its elevation ranges between 2000m and 3000m above sea level, which makes Addis Ababa the 3rd highest Capital next to Rieo-De Janero and Lapaze. Moreover, Addis Ababa is located almost the central part of the country with an average temperature of 160c (it is moderate temperature). The weather is usually sunny and dry, but there are two rainy seasons: the small rainy season (BELG) rains from February to April and the biggest (MEHER) rains from mid-June to mid-September.

Addis Ababa is first founded by Emperor Menilk II in 1887. Before Addis Ababa became the capital of the country, Entoto was the seat of the Shewa province king Menelik II. And his wife Empress Taitu called the place Addis Ababa which means “New Flower”. This big sprawling, hospitable city is 3,000 meters high in the foot hills of mount Entoto. Modern buildings and wide-open boulevards stand side by side with Historic Churches, Palaces and Monuments, as well as simple country huts, houses and old buildings. On the other hand, several such type of buildings remain starting from the Menelik II era and give an oriental touch with their charming wooden balconies.

As stated in “Lonely Planet” the capital contains Africa’s most important museums, vibrantly painted Cathedrals and cosmopolitan cuisine unseen elsewhere in Ethiopia. And also boasts traditional restaurants with cultural dishes, dances and music. Such a large city compared to others African capital remarkably friendly and safe. In Addis Ababa also several attractions are located. Such as Museums like National museum where 3.2 million years old LUCY is kept and Ethnological museum, Addis Ababa museum etc. Besides several churches, monuments and the largest open air market Merkato also available.