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Best stops along Addis Ababa to Lalibela drive
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2 Best Stops Between Addis Ababa and Lalibela

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedMar 31, 2023

How long is the drive from Addis Ababa to Lalibela?

The direct drive from Addis Ababa to Lalibela is 387 mi (622 km), and should have a drive time of 8 hrs 14 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Addis Ababa to Lalibela, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with top places to visit like Mount Entoto, or the ever-popular Entoto St. Maryam Church.

Visiting Addis Ababa or Lalibela? See our Addis Ababa Trip Planner and our Lalibela Trip Planner.
387 mi
Total Distance
8 hrs 14 mins
Drive Time
2 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Best stops along Addis Ababa to Lalibela drive

The top stops along the way from Addis Ababa to Lalibela (with short detours) are Mount Entoto and Entoto St. Maryam Church.
1

Entoto St. Maryam Church

Mentioned on 
+3 other lists 
Orthodox church
Sights & Landmarks
The Entoto Maryam Church is a famous and popular eastern orthodox church in the city. It was built by Emperor Hale Selassie himself and it still manages to attract many visitors every year.
Stopped by Maryam church after a visit ti Entoto Park. Was wonderful to walk the grounds with a guide and hear about the old palace. The church wasn’t open at the time of visit so couldn’t go inside. The museum was interesting as well.
Chris A — Google review
The weather literally clouded my overall experience here but it was really nice to have such a wonderful and engaging tour guide to show me around the place. He was genuinely interested in making my visit a pleasant event and I appreciated how detailed his explanations of the exhibits were. The view of Addis Ababa was obscured by clouds but this is still a magical place to visit any time of year.
Ian W — Google review
The road leading up to the church is very quiet and serene. The forest environment is very relaxing. The church provides a view of Addis from one of its sides. It also has a very sacred vibe.
Ashley N — Google review
The guide was so helpful and informative!! I loved the place and the history behind it.
Francis M — Google review
Visited but stayed outside. Walked to the church from the outskirts of the city below (parked near the US Embassy). The walk was definitely worth it. There is a museum co-located on the church property. The church was built by Emperor Menelik II and is the burial place of Menelik and his wife Empress Taytu. Entrance to the museum requires a fee. (I didn’t visit the museum.)
Andrew T — Google review
I was happy to learn more about it from the guide who understands everything
TysonAnunda — Google review
♥️
Mekuanint M — Google review
A good monastery trip with my grandmother.. as she was born in addis ababa she like to visit this church everyones in a while.
Yohannes K — Google review
4.6
(327)
•
3.9
(180)
3QQ7+RF9, Tulu Lench'a, Ethiopia
2

Mount Entoto

Mentioned on 
+32 other lists 
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Geologic Formations
Mount Entoto, a 10,500-foot mountain peak surrounded by forest, offers panoramic views of Addis Ababa and is home to an observatory and religious buildings. Historically significant, it was the seat of power for Emperor Menelik II until he moved to the nearby plain of Finfinne in 1886 due to the steep terrain that hindered railway construction.
You can get the beautiful view of the city from here, and the forest view is breathtaking. Entry is free, just show your passport or id.
Tticha. K — Google review
Visited this important and culturally rich place during a weekend break. The atmosphere was very serene, offering a peaceful space for reflection. I could truly sense the deep history of Ethiopia, including its connection to the emperors and the nation’s heritage. A meaningful experience for anyone interested in Ethiopian culture and history. Highly recommended for a quiet and insightful visit.
Jun A — Google review
Scenic but underwhelming in the rain—come prepared 🌧️🗻 Visited Mount Entoto on a rainy day, and while the location is vast and naturally beautiful, the experience felt limited due to the weather. Most activities were unavailable, and the view of Addis Ababa was foggy, with non-functional telescopes 🔭❌, which was disappointing given the mountain’s reputation for panoramic sights. The area includes two restaurants and one ice cream shop 🍽️🍦, but it was very cold 🧥❄️, so indoor seating and warm drinks are a must. The ambiance is peaceful, but without clear skies or active attractions, it’s easy to feel like you missed the full experience. Important tip: bring your own umbrella ☂️, as rentals are cash-only 🪙, and there’s no card option available. This small detail can make a big difference in comfort during unpredictable weather. Overall: 3 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️ for natural beauty and potential, but the visit needs better weather and working amenities to truly shine. Would love to return on a clear day to explore more of the park’s offerings and enjoy the full view.
Bent_uaq — Google review
A must to see place…. But not in the rain season and not on Ethiopian New Year (too many baggers around the church)
Ziad A — Google review
Place is awesome - a nice church and a very kind tour guide. We had a great time there but be aware - rather navigate to the church rather to the mountain top otherwise you will be stuck in the middle of nowhere.
Peter P — Google review
Nice view
Mohamed A — Google review
Had a great time @ the lung of Addis Ababa, the place to be if you are in need of spiritual uplifting or if you enjoy running on sundays upto the peak but be ready it is a treacherous uphill track of 8 km distance and for anyone who is a nature admirer. Mt. Entoto is @ 3100 mtr ASL
Tewodros W — Google review
Awesome views of Addis Once you get over the hardship of the hike to the top, you can expect to see most of the city from the newly contracted view point. I was surprised to find a pedestrian and bicycle trails which are located about a hundred meters up hill from the view point
Eyob T — Google review
4.5
(257)
•
4.1
(778)
Ethiopia
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