Hotels in Ethiopia

Top reasons to visit Ethiopia

• Rich Cultural Heritage: Ethiopia boasts a vibrant cultural scene, showcasing lively music, dance performances, and engaging cultural tours that reflect its diverse traditions.
• Stunning Historical Sites: Explore the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the historical landmarks in Gondar, which highlight the nation's rich history.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Outdoor enthusiasts will revel in Ethiopia's stunning landscapes, including scenic lakes and majestic mountains.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Enjoy a range of lodging, from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, that cater to various budgets.
• Welcoming Locals: Experience warm hospitality from friendly locals, ensuring memorable interactions throughout your visit.

Find great hotels in Ethiopia

Discover the diverse accommodation options in Ethiopia, ranging from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses. Whether you're on a business trip or seeking a family vacation, you'll find facilities tailored to your needs. Experience Ethiopia's hospitality while enjoying top-notch services and spa-themed retreats. Explore the best hotels and guest houses that promise a memorable stay in this enchanting destination.

• Ghion Hotel: Located in the heart of Ethiopia, the 3.5-star Ghion Hotel offers a tranquil resort experience tailored for those seeking relaxation and wellness. With a strong focus on spa-themed amenities, guests can indulge in a variety of services including steam rooms, massage treatments, and an outdoor pool. The hotel is particularly suited for business travellers who appreciate a serene environment to unwind after a day's work. The full-service spa provides a peaceful escape, ensuring a rejuvenating stay amidst the bustling city.
• Best Western Plus Addis Ababa: This eco-certified 4-star hotel, rated 8.8 out of 10 by guests, embodies a blend of comfort and sustainability. Ideal for eco-conscious visitors, it boasts a range of spa services, including Swedish massages and on-site sauna facilities for ultimate relaxation. The hotel's commitment to green practices makes it a standout choice for those looking to minimise their environmental impact while enjoying modern comforts. Its strategic location provides easy access to local attractions, making it a popular choice for both business and leisure travellers.
• Ethiopian Skylight Hotel: With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this family-friendly 4-star hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere for guests travelling with children and pets. The Ethiopian Skylight Hotel features an array of child-specific amenities such as babysitting services and safety features, ensuring peace of mind for parents. Its pet-friendly policy, complete with necessary amenities, allows furry companions to join in the adventure. Additionally, the hotel offers a comprehensive spa service with various relaxation treatments, making it a versatile choice for families looking to unwind in a comfortable setting.

Where to stay in Ethiopia

Ethiopia offers a captivating blend of culture and history, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking vibrant city experiences or serene escapes. Explore the bustling streets of Addis Ababa, immerse yourself in the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, or visit the historical sites in Gondar. With friendly locals and diverse excursions, Ethiopia promises memorable experiences for every type of visitor, whether you're seeking luxury or budget-friendly adventures.

• Addis Ababa: As the bustling capital of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa is a vibrant metropolis that serves as the country's cultural and political hub. Nestled in the heart of the Ethiopian highlands, it offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Visitors can explore the bustling public markets and shopping centres, where local artisans showcase their crafts. The city's highlights include the majestic modern civic government buildings and the historic Piazza Square, perfect for leisurely strolls. With a seasonal influx of travellers, particularly in January and during the October-November period, Addis Ababa is an ideal destination for business, family experiences, and urban exploration.
• Bishoftu: Situated just a short drive from Addis Ababa, Bishoftu is renowned for its stunning natural scenery and serene lakes. This charming city offers a delightful escape for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic getaway. With its picturesque landscapes, visitors can enjoy activities such as picnicking by the lakeside or exploring the local markets. Notable attractions include the beautiful lakes and a prominent mosque, which showcase the city’s cultural heritage. The peak travel periods align with those in Addis Ababa, making Bishoftu a perfect complement to your Ethiopian adventure.
• Awassa: Known for its tranquil lakeside environment, Awassa is a city that captivates with its natural beauty. Located further south, it offers a less seasonal influx of tourists, with peak visits occurring in June to July and September. Awassa is ideal for those seeking outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery, and romantic settings. Visitors can engage in wildlife education and enjoy boating on the beautiful lakes, which serve as a backdrop for relaxation. The local modern college university adds a vibrant atmosphere to the city, making Awassa a unique blend of learning and leisure.

Things to do in Ethiopia

Shopping

In Addis Ababa, the sprawling Edna Mall offers a variety of shops and eateries, while the bustling Merkato market provides a vibrant atmosphere for unique handicrafts and local goods. Don't miss the chance to explore the traditional items at Shiro Meda Market for authentic Ethiopian souvenirs.

Recreation

Jewel of the Nile Wellness Centre offers holistic treatments, yoga sessions, and relaxation therapies amidst tranquil surroundings. Meanwhile, the Bale Mountain Lodge invites guests to unwind with nature walks, bird watching, and scenic views, promoting rejuvenation through its serene atmosphere and stunning landscapes.

Adventure

Explore the Simien Mountains, where you can trek through stunning landscapes and encounter unique wildlife. For an exhilarating experience, try rock climbing in the Tigray region, famed for its dramatic cliffs and ancient churches. Discover the Danakil Depression's otherworldly scenery with a guided tour of its volcanic landscapes.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Addis Ababa is vibrant, featuring lively bars like the trendy Bole Sky Lounge for cocktails and the bustling Fendika for traditional music and dance. For a more casual vibe, visit the local taverns in Kazanchis where you can enjoy Ethiopian beer and traditional dishes.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ethiopia

To save money during your visit to Ethiopia, consider travelling in the cheaper months of August and October to November, with Saturday being the least expensive day for accommodation. Use Expedia to filter and compare hotel prices, focusing on eco-certified options for sustainable stays. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can yield further savings. Public transport is affordable, so utilise it for getting around, and seek out free activities to maximise your budget while enjoying the rich culture and landscapes of Ethiopia.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ethiopia are August and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and June, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ethiopia is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Ethiopia is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search feature enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can easily arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that you find the most affordable hotels at the outset. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Ethiopia with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Ethiopia

Ethiopia offers a captivating blend of city and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Visitors can explore stunning churches, scenic lakes, and significant landmarks that highlight the country's rich heritage. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Ethiopian culture, a visit to the Ethiopian Museum is highly recommended, providing insights into the nation's history and artistry. Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the breathtaking scenery that the region has to offer.

• Lake Bishoftu: Nestled in the Ethiopian highlands, Lake Bishoftu offers stunning natural beauty with its serene waters and picturesque surroundings. Ideal for a romantic getaway or a peaceful day out, visitors can enjoy activities such as picnicking, boating, and simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
• Meskel Square: A vibrant hub of cultural activity, Meskel Square is the heart of Addis Ababa. This bustling piazza hosts various events and festivals, providing a unique glimpse into Ethiopian life. It's an excellent spot for people-watching and experiencing the city’s dynamic energy.
• National Museum of Ethiopia: Home to remarkable artefacts and exhibits, the National Museum of Ethiopia presents a deep dive into the country’s rich history and culture. Highlights include the famous fossil of Lucy and captivating artworks, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Ethiopia

The best time to visit Ethiopia can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ethiopia falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Ethiopia falls in November, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.5°F (26.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
February	61.2°F (16.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	60.3°F (15.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	65.3°F (18.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	58.5°F (14.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average