Things To Do
in Āksum
Āksum, Ethiopia is a historically significant city known for its impressive archaeological sites, including towering obelisks and ancient churches. It is considered the heart of the ancient Kingdom of Aksum, which was a major trading empire. The city is located in the northern part of Ethiopia, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and mountains.
Today, Āksum is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a pilgrimage destination for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Aksum Obelisks, a collection of ancient stone monuments that showcase the city’s historical glory.
Head to the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant, for a glimpse into Ethiopia's rich religious heritage.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant where you can taste traditional Ethiopian dishes, followed by a leisurely walk around the town.
Visit the Aksum Archaeological Museum to learn about the artifacts and history of the Aksumite kingdom.
Take a short hike up to the nearby hills for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Relax in a café with local coffee and enjoy the vibrant evening atmosphere of Aksum.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $5 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1 |
| 🏨Night in a budget hotel | $20 |
| 🚌Public transport fare | $0.50 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or local craft | $3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage.
- Beautiful landscapes and unique photography opportunities.
- Welcoming and friendly locals.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Language barrier can be challenging.
- Some areas may have inadequate infrastructure.
- "Selam" - Hello
- "Amesegenallo" - Thank you
- "Betam dehna new" - I am fine
- "Iwedihalehu" - I love you
- "Yekermal" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Āksum
Visit one of these nice places.
The towering ancient obelisks are an iconic symbol of Aksum and provide stunning backdrops for photos.
The beautiful architecture of the church, combined with the surrounding gardens, makes for picturesque photography.
Capture the essence of Aksum’s history with the museum's intriguing artifacts in the background.
Food in Āksum
Āksum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sourdough flatbread that serves as a base for many dishes, typically served with stews.
Must-Try!
A spicy chicken stew that is often served during special occasions.
Sautéed meat (often beef or lamb) that is seasoned and served with vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food.
Look for vendors selling freshly made snacks like sambusas and roasted corn.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake is common, and it is polite to ask about someone's health.
Eat with your right hand and share food from a common plate, which is part of Ethiopian culture.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Āksum
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip service workers, typically around 10% for good service.
Cash is widely used, but some places may accept credit cards; it's best to carry cash for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit, with pleasant weather and minimal rainfall.
Expect heavy rainfall, which can make outdoor activities challenging but also brings lush greenery.
Timkat (Epiphany) is celebrated in January, offering unique cultural experiences.
Temperatures can be quite warm, making early morning or late afternoon the best times for outdoor activities.
Āksum at Night
Hiking in Āksum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike leading to a historic monastery located atop a cliff, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Although a bit further away, the Simien Mountains offer some of the best hiking trails in Ethiopia, with breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Āksum by plane.
The nearest airport, located about 10 kilometers from the city center, offers domestic flights primarily connecting to Addis Ababa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Aksum is Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, who celebrate many religious festivals throughout the year.
The Amhara people are one of the largest ethnic groups in the region, known for their rich cultural traditions and history.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Aksum, with local teams and youth leagues actively participating.
Running and track events are popular, with many young athletes aspiring to compete at national and international levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Āksum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ethiopian dishes are naturally vegetarian or vegan, particularly stews made from lentils and vegetables.
Injera is made from teff flour, which is gluten-free, making many Ethiopian dishes suitable for gluten-intolerant diets.