Mekele - Discovering Ethiopia

Travelling to Mekele

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mekele, a pretty good destination in Ethiopia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Mekele and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Mekele, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ethiopia, here's everything to know about Mekele for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mekele

Mekele is a city located in the northern part of Ethiopia and is the capital of the Tigray region. It has a population of approximately 350,000 people and is situated at an elevation of over 2,200 meters above sea level. Mekele is known for its rich history, cultural traditions, and stunning landscapes. The city has several historic sites, including the Mekele Museum and the Martyr's Memorial Monument, which commemorate the Tigrayan resistance during the struggle against dictatorship in Ethiopia during the 1970s and 80s. Mekele is also a gateway to the nearby Danakil Desert, a unique and otherworldly landscape of salt flats, volcanoes, and hot springs.

What to visit in Mekele

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Mekele, Ethiopia: 1. Negash Mosque: Negash Mosque is an Islamic holy place located a few kilometers from Mekele. It is one of the oldest mosques in Africa, established in the 7th century. The mosque is a popular pilgrim destination for Ethiopian-Muslims and a significant historical site.
2. Emba Soira: Emba Soira is a mountain peak that offers excellent hiking and climbing opportunities. At 3,000 meters above sea level, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, including the town of Mekele and the Lake Ashenge.
3. Mekele Museum: This museum showcases the culture and history of Tigray province. Visitors can learn about Tigrayan traditions, artifacts and cultural artefacts dating back over three thousand years. Inside, you can see artefacts from the region's pre-Axumite times, Axumite civilization times, and modern Tigray.
4. Hawelti: Hawelti is a commemorative monument dedicated to Tigray's war of independence. It's an impressive 30-metre tall obelisk built primarily with marble stones. It serves as a symbol of the bravery of Tigrayans during their quest for freedom. Nearby, visitors can find exhibitions, museums, and archaeological sites.
5. Danakil Depression: Danakil Depression is a vast lowland of unique geological formations and lava flows, located in the north of Ethiopia, around 200 km from Mekele. It is home to a variety of fascinating natural attractions, including the Erta Ale volcano, Dallol volcano, and hot springs.
These are just a few examples of the tourist attractions in Mekele, Ethiopia. There are also many local markets, coffee shops, and restaurants that provide a unique glimpse into the local culture and cuisine, making Mekele an amazing place to visit.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ethiopia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Mekele.

When to go on holiday to Mekele

The best time to visit Mekele is during the dry season, which typically lasts from October to February. During this time, the weather is cooler and there is little to no rainfall. The rainy season in Mekele is from June to September, and during this time, there can be heavy rainfall which could make travel more difficult. However, Mekele can still be visited during the rainy season if you are comfortable with potentially encountering wet conditions.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Mekele

Mekele is a city located in northern Ethiopia. Here are the ways you can get there: 1. By Air: Mekele has an airport called Alula Aba Nega Airport, which is served by Ethiopian Airlines and other domestic airlines. From Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, there are several flights to Mekele each day.
2. By Bus: Several bus companies operate buses between Addis Ababa and Mekele. The journey takes around 10-12 hours, and the buses are comfortable and affordable.
3. By Car: You can rent a car in Addis Ababa and drive to Mekele. The distance between the two cities is around 785 km, and the journey takes around 12 hours.
4. By Train: There is currently a train line connecting Addis Ababa and Mekele. The train operates twice a week, and the journey takes around 12-13 hours.
Note: It is recommended to check the current status of transportation to Mekele, as schedules and routes are subject to change.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mekele, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mekele

Here are some typical foods of Mekele, Ethiopia along with a short description: 1. Tsebhi Derho: This is a spicy chicken stew prepared with tomato sauce, ginger, garlic, and various spices.
2. Injera: This is a sourdough flatbread made from fermented teff flour. It is a staple food in Ethiopia and is often used as a utensil for eating other dishes.
3. Tibs: This is a stir-fry dish made with diced meat (usually beef or lamb), vegetables, and spices. It is typically served with injera or rice.
4. Shiro: This is a delicious chickpea flour-based sauce made with various spices and served with injera. It can be made with or without meat.
5. Kitfo: This is a popular Ethiopian dish made with raw minced beef mixed with spices, butter, and sometimes herbs. It is often served with injera or bread and can be cooked or served raw.
6. Doro Watt: This is a spicy chicken stew that is typically served during special occasions and festivals. It is usually eaten with injera and is made with berbere spice, ginger, garlic, onion, and tomato sauce.
7. Atkilt Watt: This is a vegetarian dish made with onion, garlic, vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, potatoes, and green beans), and various spices. It is usually served with injera or rice.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ethiopia here.

Is Mekele an expensive destination for tourists?

Mekele is generally considered to be more expensive than other destinations in Ethiopia, but it is still relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations around the world. The cost of travel and accommodation in Mekele will depend on your budget, travel style, and preferences. In general, accommodation and food in Mekele tend to be more expensive than other parts of Ethiopia, but there are options available for different budgets. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices ahead of time to get an idea of what to expect.

Where to find accomodation in Mekele

To find accommodation in Mekele, it is recommended to look for places near the city center or Belay Zeleke Street, which is the main street in the town. Other good areas are Kedamay Weyane, Kalamino, Endayesus, and Semayat Hotel, which are all conveniently located close to the town's main attractions. It's also worth noting that some hotels may arrange tours and transportation to nearby attractions like the Danakil Depression or the Tigray rock-hewn churches.
You can check hotel prices at Mekele here:
Booking.com

Is Mekele a safe destination for tourists?

Generally, Mekele is considered safe for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is important for visitors to take common-sense precautions to ensure their safety. This may include avoiding walking alone at night, staying alert to your surroundings, and being cautious of pickpockets and other petty crime. Additionally, it is always a good idea to stay updated on any current events or travel advisories in the area.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ethiopia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Mekele.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mekele the most?

Mekele, Ethiopia is a great destination for families, couples, and young people. Mekele has a rich cultural heritage, and the city offers plenty of opportunities to explore the country's history and culture. Families and couples will love the historic sites, the colorful markets, unique food experiences, and the scenic landscapes, while young people looking for adventure and fun can enjoy hiking the beautiful mountains that surround the city, water-sports activities at Lake Assale, and nightclubs and bars in town. Overall, Mekele offers something for everyone, regardless of age or interest.

How to get around Mekele

In Mekele, you can use different means of transportation to move around the city, including taxis, minibusses, and tuk-tuks. Taxis are the most common and convenient mode of transportation, and they can be hailed from the street or booked through a taxi app. Minibusses operate on specific routes around the city and are a more affordable option for a budget traveler. Tuk-tuks are also available and provide a fun way to explore the city, especially for short distances. However, it is important to agree on the fare beforehand to avoid overcharging.

What to see around Mekele

Certainly! Here are some suggestions for nice places to visit in a day trip from Mekele, Ethiopia: 1. The Rock-hewn churches of Tigray: These are ancient churches carved into rocky mountainsides, and are considered one of Ethiopia's most impressive historical sites. Some of the best-known rock-hewn churches include Abuna Yemata Guh, Maryam Korkor, and Daniel Korkor.
2. Gheralta Cluster: This is a collection of peaks and mountains that offer great hiking opportunities and stunning views. Some of the most popular peaks in the Gheralta Cluster include Mount Abuna Yosef, Mount Gugsa, and Mount Gheralta.
3. Danakil Depression: This is an otherworldly desert landscape that features salt flats, hot springs, and active volcanoes. Some of the highlights include Dallol, Erta Ale Volcano, and Lake Asale.
4. Axum: This ancient city was the center of the Aksumite Empire, and is famous for its stelae (obelisks) that date back to the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. Other notable attractions include the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion, the Axum National Museum, and the Palace of the Queen of Sheba.
5. Debre Damo Monastery: This is a remote monastery that is perched atop a sheer cliff face. It is accessible by a rope and pulley system, and is considered to be one of Ethiopia's most unique and impressive religious sites.
I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Ethiopia you can click here.

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