Flights to Addis Ababa (ADD)

The world's third-highest capital city, Addis Ababa is a buzzy metropolis that stretches out across spectacular mountainous terrain in central Ethiopia.

One of Africa’s major economic and political hubs, Addis Ababa is punctuated by beautiful historic buildings and burgeoning modern architecture. The city’s vast marketplaces showcase the locals’ unwavering energy, and its streets echo with the distinctive sound of traditional music and dance performances.

When visiting Addis Ababa, exploring the National Museum of Ethiopia is a must. Amongst its eclectic mix of exhibits – including evidence of extinct animals like sabre-toothed cats - you’ll find an incredible fossilised hominid that earned worldwide recognition. These 3.2-million-year-old female skeletal remains have been reconstructed in two life-size models, making for a surreal experience.

For a true insight into Ethiopian culture, head to Merkato, a huge open-air marketplace dubbed as one of Africa’s biggest. Navigate a seemingly endless maze of rickety stalls, stepping past swathes of hurrying people, cars and even livestock as the scent of incense fills the air. While this beautifully chaotic neighbourhood can make for a thrilling morning, you may want to follow it up with an afternoon in the tranquillity of Unity Park. In the compound of National Palace, this popular space offers open green lawns, sculpture gardens and a showcase of historical artifacts.

The dramatic landscape surrounding Addis Ababa is also part of its appeal. Sprawling over the south-eastern slopes of Mount Entoto, the region’s highest peak, Entoto Natural Park features a lush eucalyptus forest that’s teeming with bird species. Wander its myriad of paths and savour sweeping views across the striking Ethiopian Highlands.

To the east of the city, the Awash National Park is a glorious blend of acacia scrub, volcanic landscapes and tumbling waterfalls, fed by the Awash River. Tour the park to spot rare species like the East African oryx and grivet monkey.

South-west of Addis Ababa, the Wenchi Crater Lake makes for an incredible full-day trip. Travel to the summit of an extinct volcano to discover a breathtakingly blue expanse of water, dotted with tiny islands and backdropped by breathtaking green slopes.

You can find fantastic examples of mouth-watering Ethiopian cuisine around Addis Ababa. Try shiro wat, a rich and creamy chickpea stew, or kifto, minced raw beef with an infusion of spice - two dishes traditionally served with injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread. Meanwhile, a mug of the world-famous Ethiopian coffee is a sumptuous refreshment.