Thing to do
Merkato
Huge open-air market west of Piazza, often called Africa's largest, with sections for coffee, spices, grain, clothing, household goods and recycled metal.
Entoto Park
Large recreation park on the forested Entoto mountain above the city, opened in 2020, with viewpoints, trails, horse riding, cafes and restaurants.
At a glance
- Type
- Mountain park and viewpoint
- Area
- Entoto, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Good to know
- Viewpoint
- Walking and cycling trails
- Bike rental
- Horse riding
- Cafes and restaurants
- Children's play areas
Why we recommend it
Entoto Park occupies the slopes of Mount Entoto, the ridge that rises above the northern edge of Addis Ababa. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated it on 30 September 2020 as part of the Beautification of Sheger initiative, which turned neglected and riverside land into public spaces. For visitors it is the easiest way to reach the highlands that surround the capital, breathe cooler air and look back over the city spread below.
The mountain has deep historical roots. Emperor Menelik II lived here and built his palace on Entoto before moving down to found Addis Ababa, and the summit, at around 3,200 metres, is considered sacred, with churches including those of St Raguel and St Mary. The slopes are densely covered in eucalyptus, introduced from Australia in Menelik's time and planted on a large scale under Haile Selassie, which is why Entoto is sometimes called the lungs of the city. Average temperatures are noticeably lower than in the centre, so bring a warm layer.
The park itself is built for recreation. Paved paths and trails suit walking, jogging and cycling, with bikes available to rent, and a large lookout platform gives wide views over Addis Ababa. Horse riding, art galleries, children's play areas and an artificial lake have been added over time. Around a dozen hospitality businesses operate inside, including Kuriftu, which has run a spa, tents and a go-kart track. Kategna lists Entoto Park among its restaurant locations, and Galani Coffee runs a weekend branch here, open on Saturdays and Sundays from 08:00 to 18:00.
The park suits families, walkers and anyone wanting a half-day break from the traffic below. Weekends are busiest, when Addis residents come up for lunch and fresh air; weekdays are calmer. Allow at least three hours to walk, eat and enjoy the view, and longer if you want to visit the churches near the summit. Take a taxi or ride-hailing car up the mountain road, and arrange your return in advance if you are staying late.
Local operators such as Abeba Tours describe the Entoto Hills as a hiking area that gives a taste of the Ethiopian highlands, and the summit churches are an important pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians. Clear mornings in the dry season, from about October onwards, give the sharpest views across the city.
Entoto Park FAQs
When did Entoto Park open?
It was inaugurated on 30 September 2020 as part of the Beautification of Sheger initiative.
What can I do there?
Walk, jog or cycle on the trails, take in the views from the lookout, go horse riding, and eat at the cafes and restaurants.
Is it cold on Entoto?
It is noticeably cooler than central Addis Ababa, so bring a warm layer.
Which cafes and restaurants are there?
Operators have included Kategna and Galani Coffee, whose Entoto branch opens on Saturdays and Sundays from 08:00 to 18:00.
How do I get there?
By taxi or ride-hailing car up the mountain road from the north of the city.
Is it good for children?
Yes. There are play areas, open space and bikes to rent.
What is the history of Entoto?
Menelik II lived and built a palace on the mountain before founding Addis Ababa below it.