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Best stops along Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar drive
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7 Best Stops Between Addis Ababa and Bahir Dar

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedApr 10, 2023

How long is the drive from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar?

The direct drive from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar is 343 mi (552 km), and should have a drive time of 7 hrs 14 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with top places to visit like Ethnological Museum and Africa Traditional dresses, or the ever-popular National Museum of Ethiopia.

Visiting Addis Ababa or Bahir Dar? See our Addis Ababa Trip Planner and our Bahir Dar Trip Planner.
343 mi
Total Distance
7 hrs 14 mins
Drive Time
7 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Best stops along Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar drive

The top stops along the way from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar (with short detours) are National Museum of Ethiopia, Mount Entoto, and Ethnological Museum. Other popular stops include Entoto St. Maryam Church, Portuguese Bridge, and Africa Traditional dresses.
1

National Museum of Ethiopia

Mentioned on 
+75 other lists 
Museum
National museum
Specialty Museums
The National Museum of Ethiopia, located in Addis Ababa, is a must-visit for those interested in human evolution and ancient history. The museum houses the famous fossilized bones of Lucy, an early hominid dating back 3.2 million years. Additionally, visitors can explore artifacts, clothing, jewelry from different Ethiopian cultures and enjoy a modern art exhibit. The museum offers insights into why Ethiopia is often referred to as 'the cradle of civilization.'
I really enjoyed my visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia. It was incredible to see Lucy and other ancient human fossils up close such a powerful reminder of Ethiopia’s place in human history. The museum also has a great collection of royal artifacts, traditional clothing, art, and cultural items that give a strong sense of the country’s heritage. It’s a meaningful and worthwhile experience overall.
Abraham Y — Google review
Where else in the world can you see Lucy, our oldest ancestor? 💕🇪🇹 Only in Ethiopia! I can not recommend this gem of a museum enough. I'm a lover of natural history museums, and this has the most comprehensive collection of human evolution fossils I've ever seen. It was sheer joy. Plus, Ethiopian history as well. ❗ Foreigners may be surprised at the depth of Ethiopian history. When Romans were trading, Ethiopians were there with them. Really great artifacts. 💲 Entrance is very inexpensive, we paid 160 birr for two adults and a kid. However, I recommend against the guide. Ours just read the signs aloud and wanted a substantial tip (honestly, I've never had someone tell me the tip I offered wasn't enough, he was only happy with 5 times the entrance fee) A must-see in Addis!
Stacey T — Google review
Enjoyed my visit last week ! Still under renovation around ! It contains local archaeological and fossilized of early hominids, the most famous one is LUCY ! the partial skeleton of a specimen of Australopithecus Afarensis ! Easy to visit and only 50 Barr entrance fee !
Kanchan A — Google review
Beautiful museum. Small but perfectly organized and explained. Of course the highlight is Lucy but great to have a glimpse about Ethiopian rich history.
Miguel S — Google review
Should be one of the first things to do when you arrive in Ethiopia/Addis Ababa. All informational displays are in English. Upstairs it gives a great overview of the history of Ethiopia going back to 1,000 years BCE covering Ethiopian Antiquity, Christian Kingdoms, Ethiopian Sultantes, and Megalithic Societies. Not a huge display but supported with artifacts and photos of actual sites. Also maps of locations of churches and fossils across Ethiopia. Plenty to see in a day. Downstairs is the famous Lucy skeleton, both reconstructed and the partial skeleton pieces found. Plenty of information about the origins of our species and some interesting fossils of native animals.
Scott F — Google review
The National Museum of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa offers a fascinating look into the country’s rich history and culture. Highlights include the famous Lucy fossil, ancient artifacts, royal treasures, and traditional art. The museum is well organized, and the staff and guides are knowledgeable and friendly. Overall, it’s an educational and highly recommended place to visit in Addis Ababa.
Ezaldeen N — Google review
Probably the most iconic exhibition is Lucy, the museum is small and currently only the basement and ground floor are open. Entrance is only 50 Birr.
C N — Google review
It's good it's fun it have interesting things but currently some part of it is in repair or something like that would recommend if u wait a bit so u can have the full experience u want but still its enjoyable
Yimirhane A — Google review
4.1
(1695)
•
3.8
(1747)
2QQ6+7PR, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
+251 11 156 9680
2

Ethnological Museum

Mentioned on 
+46 other lists 
Heritage museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
The Ethnological Museum, located in Addis Ababa, is a captivating showcase of Ethiopian culture housed within the former Guenete Leul Palace. The museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, crafts, and religious icons that offer insight into the country's rich heritage. Situated on the main university campus, visitors can enjoy the beautiful surroundings before delving into the fascinating exhibitions.
This museum is a collection of Haile Selassies items , outfits , house and a touch of traditional items from different regions in Ethiopia. It is inside the university so you can also walk around and see different buildings . It has a great green environment
Cynthia K — Google review
We were quite disappointed with the Ethnological Museum. The exhibits lacked a clear structure, were poorly presented, and had few explanations provided. Many of the walls showed signs of water damage, and the pictures were either dirty or improperly hung. It seemed that there was little emphasis on conservation. Overall, our experience was disappointing. I would recommend visiting the National Museum instead.
Dori T — Google review
This is a must to visit. The old palace converted to a university and has all the memorabilia from the emperor and African Union. It’s great to see the traditional culture and the different ethnicity that exist in Ethiopia
Kandan L — Google review
The museum is located in Addis Ababa university campus and houses exhibits on all aspects of Ethiopia, including tribal customs, wars against the Italians, and emperor Haile Selassie’s home. Over a nice collection of items, although there is significant room for improvement in terms of wayfinding and explanation.
Chua L — Google review
What an interesting museum. I stopped here on a day trip and was happy I did; there's a lot of history in this museum and you could spend hours here.
Heather S — Google review
For anyone like me who loves history, this is a must visit when in Addis Ababa. I could literally spend hours here with all the artefacts on display. Highly recommend.
Buka A — Google review
I cannot explain how much I love this place! I lived here for a few years over ten years ago and coming back was a surprise: it has been renovated many times fully maintained its charm and essence. The former house of Emperor Haile Selassié is a national treasure and absolutely worth visiting to learn more about this amazing country!
Elisabetta B — Google review
Hidden gem of Addis Ababa. You have to walk through campus. Building is not marked well. It says institute at the entrance. Beautiful palace with a lot of historical things inside and art gallery.
Ivan G — Google review
4.3
(339)
•
4.1
(595)
Algeria St, Addis amama, Ethiopia
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3

Africa Traditional dresses

Market
Shopping
Flea & Street Markets
The Shiro Meda Market is a large and eclectic Ethiopian textile market located in the heart of Addis Ababa. It features a wide variety of traditional Ethiopian textiles, including wedding dresses, everyday clothing, linens, and fabrics. If you can find a guide, this is a must-see market for anyone interested in Ethiopian folk culture.
It's the best place to shop Ethiopian traditional wear for women as well as men. Most of the items sold are Ethiopian cotton dresses with local handmade embroidery. The quality of the apparels is good & the prices are notch higher than reasonable. However one can't bargain much. There are more than 100 shops under one roof, and a lot of variety to choose from!
R41nm4k3r _ — Google review
is a good place to see traditional dresses of Ethiopians. A bit far from city centre but worth to visit.
Roozbeh — Google review
A great option if you can’t make it to Merkato. Prices are very affordable and this is near Entoto Park. Lots of traditional clothing and a few crafts but outside there is pottery.
Christina B — Google review
Loved it there. Lots of traditional clothes, fantastic people and good prices once you manage to bargain.
Avinash M — Google review
A famous market for traditional clothes. For foreigners they charge much more. So don't hesitate to ask a local friend to negotiate about the price. Also different quality standards are offered there.
Thomas S — Google review
The best place to buy Ethiopia traditional clothing you can get all the Ethiopian nationality clothes and souvenir.
Semamlak A — Google review
shiromeda is a must visit if you are in Addis Ababa. here is all the traditional stuff. as Ethiopian folk costumes in all models (very difficult for us women 🤣), Ethiopian as baskets, paintings, Ethiopian coffee ceremony accessories rekobot, gebena, cini with short distances to go . it's a wonderful place to find lots of things. affordable 🙏🙏
Ansha M — Google review
When it comes to clothes, this is one of the best places to shop on Addis, nice people, very big with thousands of options, very cheap products, you absolutely will end up buying a lot of stuff from there. You can find whatever you are looking for.
Ahmed A — Google review
4.3
(111)
•
3.9
(47)
Shiro meda market, ሽሮሜዳ አደባባይ, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
https://ariftibeb.com/
4

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
5

Rock-hewn Kiddus Raguel Church

Eastern Orthodox Church
Sights & Landmarks
The Rock-hewn Kiddus Raguel Church is a breathtaking site that truly captivates visitors with its stunning architecture and rich history. Nestled in a serene landscape, this church offers an enchanting experience, especially when enveloped by low-hanging clouds that add to its mystical charm. It's a sacred place where many come to reflect and connect spiritually. Whether you're drawn by religious significance or simply the beauty of ancient craftsmanship, this church is an essential stop for anyone exploring historical sites.
An absolute must see church. I was not expecting it to be this beautiful. When I went there it was very cloudy and the cloud was on the ground. But it made it that much beautiful. Highly recommend it for anyone who’s interested in visiting religious sites.
Yohannes T — Google review
Awesom
Sabarish R — Google review
historic church and with an amazing arithetacture
Dawit F — Google review
Holly place
Andualem D — Google review
(Translated by Google) This photo is misplaced. It corresponds to the Church, which is just opposite, on the opposite side of the road. (Original) Esta foto está mal ubicada. Corresponde a la Iglesia, que está justo enfrente, al lado opuesto de la carretera.
Diego R — Google review
(Translated by Google) May the Creator give us life and sanctify us as we walk in the morning like children. (Original) እድሜ ይስጠንና እንደልጅነታችን በጠዋት እየሄድን ለማስቀደስ ፈጣሪ ያብቃን።
Heni M — Google review
(Translated by Google) Saint Raguel and Elias (Original) ቅዱስ ራጉኤል ወ ኤልያስ
Kirubel G — Google review
4.4
(20)
•
4.3
(32)
3QQ2+RF6, Goro, Ethiopia
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6

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
7

Portuguese Bridge

Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Bridges
The geographical features is breathtaking, I had an amazing time, also went to see the caves which were built in the 16th century, by the famous war lord Geragne Ahmed. I would definitely visit the place again, because the hiking was so much fun.
Meklit B — Google review
It's not worth travelling as it's too far and nothing interesting and difficult to walk to it, just a little bridge. Only the view is beautiful among mountains. If you have options, go on a real trip like Safari or Cultural to see authentic Ethiopia.
Habib — Google review
The views from this are spectacular..i highly recommend going here on a tour from addis ababa. Don't go with tour operators like viator, its a big ripoff, instead boom directly with local operators. I paid just 60USD for both debre lebanos and Portuguese bridge directly while its 80USD on viator
Chandra R — Google review
A very good place for site visitation and see some nature. Has a good waterfall and so many mountains and caves. It's one of good places to see if u can, the locals are good people and very nice.
Kalid S — Google review
It is one of the day trip place in Ethiopia. Two and half hour drive to the north part of Addis and you will reach the beautiful view. Portuguese Bridge is built in the 18th century. The water fall is beautiful rainy season time.
Birhanu M — Google review
Beautiful landscape overlooking a valley at the blue nile gorge You can go for a swim and shower at the waterfall in the dry season, hike the hills and interact with baboons! The nearby Ethio-German lodge has a great camping spot It's close to Addis so it can be a great day trip!
Liben A — Google review
Amazing in the rainy season. Park at the hotel. They do coffee etc. We were charged 200br each at the entrance. No receipt so could be a scam, correct me if I'm wrong. Well worth the trip from Addis.
Simon D — Google review
Quite a drive from Addis (2 and half hours), and a bit bumpy in places, but it is definitely worth it, and must be among the top options for day trips from Addis. There is a bridge, but in the right season, a raging river running under it, then over a huge waterfall off a massive cliff. Looking out over the cliff from various viewpoints is a spectacular view of the whole valley below for miles and miles. On top of all of that, there were dozens of baboons, which you get pretty close to!
Jack M — Google review
4.5
(80)
•
4.5
(20)
PRM7+GGF, Abaro, Ethiopia
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