Attraction
National Museum of Ethiopia
Ethiopia's national collection, home to the Lucy and Selam hominid fossils plus royal regalia, Ethiopian art from traditional to modern, and ethnographic displays.
Friendship Park
Landscaped city park opened in 2020 opposite Unity Park, with an artificial lake, evening fountain lights, playgrounds, sports courts and cafes.
At a glance
- Type
- Urban park
- Area
- Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Official site
- unitypark.et
Good to know
- Artificial lake
- Fountain light show
- Playgrounds
- Sports courts
- Cafes and restaurants
- Parking
Why we recommend it
Friendship Park, part of the larger Sheger Park project and known in Amharic as Wodajinet Adebabay, opened on 10 September 2020 and is the largest urban park in Addis Ababa. It was built under the city's riverside beautification programme and sits in the political centre of the capital, next to the Prime Minister's office and parliament and directly across the road from Unity Park. For residents it has become a favourite place to walk, meet and take photographs, and for visitors it offers a green break between museum visits.
The first phase is built around an artificial lake with walking paths, flower beds and a wide variety of plants. A large square is used for gatherings, and in the evening the fountains are lit in colour, which is when the park is at its most popular. Families come for the open space, and the park is a favourite backdrop for wedding photographs.
Phase two, beside Abrehot Library, covers 11 hectares and is aimed at activity. It has children's playgrounds and a children's centre, a small football pitch and basketball courts, a wedding garden with fountains and a stage, toilets, parking and a choice of cafes and restaurants. The park describes it as popular for wedding, birthday and graduation photography, so expect a cheerful crowd at weekends. Enquiries about the second phase go to the park's listed phone line, and it also posts updates on its Facebook page.
The park suits families with children, runners and anyone who wants fresh air without leaving the centre. An hour or two is enough for a walk around the lake and a coffee. Come in the late afternoon if you want to stay on for the fountain lights after dark. Commercial filming and organised photo shoots usually need permission, so check with the park office if you are planning more than holiday snaps.
Because it is opposite Unity Park, the two are easily combined: spend the morning on the palace and zoo tour, then cross over for lunch and a lakeside stroll. Abrehot Library, one of the city's newer public libraries, is beside the second phase, and the Science Museum is a short ride away.
Friendship Park FAQs
When did Friendship Park open?
The first phase opened on 10 September 2020.
What is there to do?
Walk around the artificial lake, watch the evening fountain lights, use the playgrounds and sports courts, or stop at a cafe.
Is it good for children?
Yes. Phase two has playgrounds, a children's centre and space to run around.
When is the best time to visit?
Late afternoon into early evening, when the fountains are lit.
Is there parking?
Yes, parking is available at the second phase.
Where is it?
Opposite Unity Park near the Prime Minister's office, with phase two beside Abrehot Library.
Can I hold a photo shoot there?
It is popular for wedding and event photography; contact the park office in advance for organised shoots.