Things To Do
in Mekele
Mekele is the capital city of the Tigray region in northern Ethiopia, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. It is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, including the Simien Mountains, making it a stunning destination for nature lovers. The city is also home to several historical sites and museums that reflect its deep-rooted heritage.
Mekele serves as a gateway for exploring the ancient rock-hewn churches of Tigray and the nearby historical town of Aksum.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Tigray Martyrs Memorial, which honors those who fought for the region's liberation. Afterward, explore the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for traditional handicrafts.
Visit the Mekele Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Spend some time at the nearby university campus for a chance to see local students and enjoy the green surroundings.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, followed by a cultural performance showcasing local music and dance.
Take a guided tour to the ancient rock-hewn churches of Tigray, which are known for their unique architecture and stunning locations. Spend the morning hiking to a few of these incredible sites.
Return to Mekele and visit the Church of Saint Mary of Zion, an important historical site. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local café.
Head to a local bar or lounge to experience the nightlife, enjoying traditional drinks and mingling with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20 |
| 📚Local SIM card | $5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical heritage.
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Delicious local cuisine.
- Political unrest in some areas can be concerning.
- Limited access to modern amenities in certain parts.
- Language barrier may exist for non-Amharic speakers.
- "Selam" - Hello
- "Amasegnalew" - Thank you
- "Dehna neh?" - How are you?
- "Iwedihalehu" - I love you
- "Bemin Amlak" - God willing
Places to Visit in Mekele
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning monument with panoramic views of Mekele, perfect for capturing the cityscape.
Incredible ancient churches built into cliffs, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique architecture.
A short drive from the city, these mountains offer dramatic vistas and opportunities for stunning nature photography.
Food in Mekele
Mekele Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sourdough flatbread that serves as the base for most Ethiopian meals, often topped with various stews.
Must-Try!
Sautéed meat (beef or lamb) served with vegetables and spices, commonly enjoyed with injera.
Spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice, served with hard-boiled eggs and injera.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks.
Various vendors sell delicious snacks like sambusas (savory pastries) and roasted corn.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common, often followed by a shoulder pat. It's polite to greet everyone in the group.
Always show respect to elders by standing when they enter a room and addressing them first.
It is customary to share food from a communal plate; use the right hand to eat, as the left is considered unclean.
Safety
Tipping in Mekele
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up is also appreciated.
Cash is preferred; however, some establishments may accept credit cards. Local currency is Ethiopian Birr (ETB).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm days and cool nights, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.
Expect heavy rains, especially in July and August, which can affect travel plans and accessibility to some sites.
This is a vibrant time in the region as locals celebrate the harvest; expect lively markets and fresh produce.
Timkat (Epiphany) celebrations occur in January, offering unique cultural experiences and colorful festivities.
Mekele at Night
Hiking in Mekele
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike that leads to stunning views from the summit of Abune Yosef, the second-highest peak in Ethiopia.
Famous for their unique rock formations and ancient churches, the trails here offer both cultural and natural beauty.
Airports
How to reach Mekele by plane.
Located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center, Mekele Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, providing access to major Ethiopian cities and some neighboring countries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in the region, Tigrayans are known for their rich cultural heritage and contributions to Ethiopia's history.
A significant group in Mekele, Amharas contribute to the diverse cultural landscape of the city, with language and traditions that enrich the local community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Mekele, with local teams drawing significant support from the community.
Due to the high altitude, running and long-distance races are popular among locals, with many participating in local marathons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mekele.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ethiopian dishes are naturally vegetarian or vegan, but it's advisable to confirm with the restaurant.
Injera is made from teff, which is gluten-free; however, confirm with the restaurant about cross-contamination.