Things To Do
in Ābīy Ādī

Ridges above Ābīy Ādī provide sweeping panoramas of the valley, agricultural terraces and layered cliffs—excellent at sunrise and sunset.

Vibrant colors, spices, textiles and daily commerce offer candid opportunities to capture local life and close-up portraits—ask permission before photographing people.

Cliff-top rock-hewn churches nearby (accessible via guided hikes) are dramatic subjects and offer unique architectural and cultural photography.

Trails and ridgelines on Emba Alaje present rugged mountain landscapes, wildflowers in season and distant vistas of the Tigray highlands.

Injera is the fermented flatbread served with various stews (tsebhi) made from beef, lamb, chicken (dorho), lentils or chickpeas; available at most local eateries.

Must-Try!

A distinctive Tigrayan dish of roasted barley dough balls often served with a spicy sauce—more common in Tigray than in central Ethiopia and worth seeking out locally.

Minced beef typically served raw or lightly cooked with clarified butter and spices—ask for it well-cooked if you avoid raw meat.

A thick, savory chickpea or broad bean stew dusted with spices—one of the better vegetarian-friendly options found in local eateries.

The local market (weekly/main market day) sells fresh produce, teff, spices and roasted coffee beans; ideal for sampling fruit, roasted corn and buying local honey and spices.

Look for sambusas (samosa-like fried pastries), roasted maize and small fried bread and dough snacks sold near the market and main junctions.

Handshakes and the word 'Selam' are common. Greet elders first and be polite and soft-spoken—formal greetings go a long way.

Most locals are Orthodox Christians; when visiting churches remove shoes, dress modestly, and avoid entering during services unless invited.

Always ask before photographing people, especially women and religious ceremonies. A smile and a polite request usually works.

Modest clothing is expected—cover shoulders and knees, especially in rural areas. Public displays of affection are frowned upon.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Small tips for guides (USD 5–15/day depending on service), drivers and helpful hotel staff are common. In small eateries a small rounding up or a few Birr is fine.

Cash (Ethiopian birr) is king—carry sufficient local currency. Credit/debit cards are rarely accepted outside major cities; ATMs are limited and may be unavailable locally, so withdraw in Mekelle or a larger town before arrival.

Main rainy season: expect heavy afternoon rains that can turn dirt roads muddy and make some rural tracks impassable; however the landscape is green and dramatic—carry waterproofs and plan for travel delays.

Drying season with pleasant daytime temperatures, clear skies and good conditions for trekking and photography; insects and mud reduce after the rains.

Generally dry and cool, with chilly nights—layers are essential. Roads are usually passable and visibility is excellent for long-distance views.

Short rains may occur in parts of the region; temperatures rise and wildflowers appear in some areas—good for birding and seeing farmland activity.

A prominent mountain ridge near Ābīy Ādī offering several hiking routes, panoramic views and historical sites—routes vary in difficulty and are best tackled with a guide.

Series of hikes to remote cliff churches (including the famous Abuna Yemata Guh in the wider Gheralta area); expect ropes, ladders and adventurous scrambles on some routes.

Shorter walks down into nearby valleys and gorges showcase agricultural terraces, birdlife and rural villages—good options for half-day excursions.

Hills and ridgelines around the historic Adwa area offer less strenuous hikes with cultural and historical interest, suitable for day trips from Ābīy Ādī.