Mekele,Ethiopia

Mekele is the capital city of the Tigray region in northern Ethiopia. It is known for its rich history, ancient churches, and diverse cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys, offering breathtaking views to visitors.

Mekele also serves as an important hub for trade and transportation in the region.

Day Plans

Things To Do

Famous Food

Pet Sitters

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

"ሰላም" - peace
"እንቅስቃሴ" - development
"እንጽሕፈስ" - progress
"ድጋፍ" - harvest
"ግምት" - culture

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Historical exploration

morning:Start your day with a visit to the stunning Queen Sheba's Palace ruins and learn about the ancient history of Mekele. Enjoy a traditional injera breakfast at Lalibela Restaurant.

afternoon:Explore the fascinating displays at the Mekele Museum, showcasing artifacts from different historical periods. Have lunch at Yordanos Restaurant for a taste of authentic Ethiopian cuisine.

evening:Unwind with a leisurely stroll around the peaceful Hawelti Square in the heart of the city, then head to the lively Awash Bar for a night-out with live music and dance. 💃🕺

day 2

Cultural immersion

morning:Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the bustling Mekele Market to browse traditional crafts and interact with friendly vendors. Don't miss the chance to savor a local coffee at ETTA Café.

afternoon:Gain insight into the artistic heritage of the region at the Alula Gallery, showcasing vibrant Ethiopian art. Indulge in a delicious lunch at Planet Hotel Restaurant.

evening:Experience the vibrant traditional music scene at Merkeb Club, where you can enjoy live performances and mingle with locals. 🎶

day 3

Natural wonders

morning:Embark on a scenic drive to the awe-inspiring Debre Abbay viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at Grand Holidays Hotel.

afternoon:Discover the unique flora and fauna of northern Ethiopia with a visit to the Mekele Camel Market, a hub of local trade and cultural exchange. Enjoy a delightful lunch at Nilos Restaurant.

evening:Take a serene evening walk along the lush Tekeze River, followed by a sunset visit to Axum Hotel's rooftop bar for a mesmerizing view of the city. 🌅

day 4

Adventurous escapade

morning:Embark on an exciting off-road adventure to the mystical landscapes of Gheralta, where ancient rock-hewn churches await exploration. Savor a hearty breakfast at StarLand Hotel Restaurant.

afternoon:Experience a thrilling camel trekking excursion through the captivating Hawzen area, offering a unique perspective of the region's beauty. Enjoy a satisfying lunch at Debre-Aina Restaurant.

evening:Unwind with an unforgettable stargazing experience at the tranquil Gheralta Lodge, where you can marvel at the constellation-studded night sky. ✨

Mekele Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Tsebhi

Tsebhi, a spicy stew usually made with beef, lamb, or vegetables, is a staple in Mekele. It is packed with aromatic spices and served with injera. For an authentic taste, head to the bustling Merkato area where many local eateries serve this dish.

Must-Try!

Kitfo

Kitfo, a minced raw meat dish seasoned with spiced butter and mitmita (a chili powder), is a must-try for adventurous foodies. It's commonly found in traditional restaurants known as 'Gursha Bet' around the city.

Shiro

Shiro, a smooth and savory chickpea or bean stew, is a popular vegetarian option in Mekele. You can sample delicious Shiro at the Hawelti area, where many small eateries serve this comfort food.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Merkato

Merkato, the largest open-air market in Mekele, is a food lover's paradise. Here, you can find a vibrant array of fresh produce, local spices, and street food stalls offering delectable snacks like roasted maize, spiced nuts, and injera with various toppings.

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Old Town Street Food Stalls

Exploring the charming old town area, you'll encounter numerous street food stalls offering sizzling meats, flavorful stews, and traditional snacks. It's a great way to experience authentic flavors and interact with the friendly locals.

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