Things To Do
in Mekele
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.
- "Selam" - Hello
- "Tenastelen" - Good morning
- "Amesegenallo" - Thank you
- "Dehna neh" - How are you?
- "Bemin shalem" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the impressive Martyrs Memorial Monument to learn about the history of the Tigray region. Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian breakfast at a local café.
Explore the local market, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Take some time to relax at a nearby park.
Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Tigrayan dishes. Experience Ethiopian coffee ceremony to close the day.
Hike to the beautiful Gheralta Mountains, soaking in breathtaking views. Discover ancient rock-hewn churches hidden in the mountains.
Enjoy a packed lunch while admiring the scenic beauty of the area. Continue exploring more churches and the surrounding nature.
Return to Mekele and enjoy a well-deserved dinner. Relax at your hotel or visit a local coffee shop.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, including ancient churches and archaeological sites.
- Beautiful landscapes surrounding the city, including mountains and valleys.
- A burgeoning food scene with delicious local cuisine.
- Growing opportunities for education and investment in various sectors.
- Civil unrest and political instability in the region can affect safety and security.
- Limited infrastructure facilities, including healthcare and public transportation.
- Economic challenges and poverty affecting a portion of the population.
- Environmental issues, such as drought, can impact agriculture and resources.
Best Activities in Mekele
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience breathtaking views and diverse landscapes while hiking in the Atsbi Wemberta Mountain Range near Mekele.
Explore the ancient rock-hewn churches of Hawzien, located a short distance from Mekele, and marvel at their historical and architectural significance.
Embark on a journey to the Gheralta cluster of rock-hewn churches, known for their spectacular location amidst sandstone cliffs and offering a glimpse into Ethiopia's religious heritage.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mekele with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mekele
Visit one of these nice places.
The Hawelti (Martyrs' Memorial) in Mekele offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape, making it a great spot for photos and sightseeing.
The Mekele Palace, also known as the Enda Mariam, is a historic site with beautiful architecture and gardens, providing a picturesque backdrop for photography and leisurely walks.
Adi Hawisha is a scenic hill located just outside Mekele, offering breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings, making it an ideal location for capturing stunning photographs.
Food in Mekele
Mekele Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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, 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, 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.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mekele better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
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.
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.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mekele, it is important to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. It is common to exchange pleasantries and inquire about each other's well-being.
When giving or receiving something, it is polite to use your right hand, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean in Ethiopian culture.
Respect for elders is a fundamental part of Ethiopian culture. It is important to address older individuals with respect and deference, using appropriate titles and showing consideration for their wisdom and experience.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mekele with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mekele
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mekele, Ethiopia, tipping is not a common practice and is not expected in most situations. However, in some upscale restaurants or tourist areas, a small tip of 5-10% may be appreciated for good service.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Mekele, Ethiopia. Credit cards are generally not widely accepted, so it's important to carry enough cash for daily expenses. Some hotels and larger establishments may accept major credit cards, but it's always best to have cash on hand.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mekele.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Mekele, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rainfall, cooler temperatures, and green landscapes. The countryside is lush, and it's a good time to experience the local culture and traditions.
Mekele at Night
Hiking in Mekele
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot located north of Mekele, known for its stunning views and historical significance. The hike offers both moderate trails and challenging routes.
Famous for their dramatic cliffs and rock-hewn churches, the Gheralta Mountains provide various hiking trails with breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences.
An ancient monastery situated atop a steep cliff accessible only by a rope. The hike is challenging, but the views and historical significance make it worthwhile.
This area features beautiful landscapes and is perfect for hiking that combines nature with the local culture. Various trails offer different experiences for hikers.
While primarily a wildlife sanctuary, the surrounding areas offer easy hiking trails through scenic landscapes and opportunities to view rare wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mekele through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mekele by plane.
The main international airport serving Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. It's approximately 780 km southwest of Mekele.
Located in Asmara, Eritrea, this airport is about 430 km north of Mekele and serves international flights.
Situated in Djibouti, this airport is around 895 km southeast of Mekele, providing access to various international destinations.
Serving the town of Lalibela, this airport is about 290 km southwest of Mekele, with domestic flights primarily.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Mekele, Tigrays are known for their rich cultural heritage and historical significance in the region.
A significant minority in Mekele, Amharas contribute to the cultural diversity of the region.
The Oromo population in Mekele is part of Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, known for their unique traditions and language.
This includes a variety of smaller ethnic communities living in Mekele, contributing to the city's multicultural tapestry.
The Soul of Mekele
Discover the essence of Mekele through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Mekele, with numerous local clubs and a passionate fan base. Matches often draw large crowds.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Mekele, with several schools and community courts providing opportunities for youth to participate.
Athletics, particularly long-distance running, is a notable sport in Mekele, benefiting from Ethiopia's reputation for producing world-class runners.
Volleyball is also popular, especially among women, with local teams competing in regional tournaments.
A traditional game, Buzkashi, is sometimes played in rural areas surrounding Mekele, reflecting cultural heritage and community spirit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mekele.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Mekele cater to vegetarian and vegan dietary preferences. Dishes like Shiro, Gomen (collard greens), and Misir Wot (spiced lentil stew) are widely available as meat-free choices.
While injera is a staple, some establishments offer gluten-free alternatives such as rice or teff-based injera, ensuring that those with gluten sensitivities can still relish the local cuisine.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mekele with these cultural adventures.
