Addis Ababa is a busy city in Ethiopia. It is surrounded by beautiful natural areas, historic towns, and cultural treasures. No matter if you’re a local looking for a quick getaway or a tourist wanting to see more of Ethiopia, weekend trips from the city will give you unforgettable experiences. There are vacations by the lake, in the mountains, and in between for all types of travelers.
Why go on trips on the weekends from Addis Ababa?
Just a few hours’ drive from the city, you can find UNESCO World Heritage sites, beautiful scenery, and peaceful places to spend time alone. You can see a lot of different parts of Ethiopia on these trips instead of taking long holidays.
If you need more ideas, check out our guide to the best culture sites in Ethiopia. Our blog post about the best places to visit near Addis Ababa goes into great depth about hidden gems, historic towns, and natural retreats that are great for short vacations. This tool will make it easy for you to plan your trips.
Top Places to Visit on the Weekend
Debre Libanos Monastery is a spiritual haven on a steep cliff with a view of the Jemma River Gorge. It’s about a two-hour drive away.
Lake Bishoftu is an hour’s drive away. It’s known for its crater lakes and is a peaceful place to sail and watch birds.
People often compare the Blue Nile Gorge to the Grand Canyon. It’s a nature lover’s dream.
Mount Entoto (30-minute drive) has beautiful views of the city and old buildings.
The wildlife, hot springs, and waterfalls in Awash National Park, which is three hours by car, are well-known.
Weekend Trip Guide from Addis Ababa
| Destination | Distance from Addis Ababa | Highlight | Ideal For |
| Debre Libanos | 2 hours | Monastery & river gorge views | Culture & nature |
| Lake Bishoftu | 1 hour | Crater lakes & birdlife | Relaxation |
| Blue Nile Gorge | 3 hours | Deep canyon & scenic views | Adventure trips |
| Mount Entoto | 30 minutes | Panoramic city views | Short hikes |
| Awash National Park | 3 hours | Wildlife & waterfalls | Safari lovers |
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How to Plan a Weekend
- For longer trips, bring small snacks and water bottles.
- Before you go out, check the area weather.
- To get the most out of your time at cultural and historical places, hire a local guide.
FAQs
What is the best trip from Addis Ababa?
It only takes an hour to get to Lake Bishoftu, which is a great place to relax.
What do I need to get into Awash National Park?
Yes, you should pay the entrance fee and hire a local guide for a smooth tour.
When is the best time to go on a weekend trip near Addis?
October through March is the best time because the weather is nice f
