Aksum

Ethiopia, Africa

Aksum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famed for its remarkable ancient obelisks, the ruins of its once-mighty civilization, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. The city's rich history as the heart of the Aksumite Empire, coupled with its stunning archaeological sites, makes it a captivating destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike. Its ancient currency and inscriptions tell tales of one of Africa's great empires, inviting exploration and discovery.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Mekele

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Aksum

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Obelisks of Aksum

Explore ancient monolithic obelisks, symbols of Aksum's glory.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Church of St. Mary of Zion

Discover the legendary site of the Ark of the Covenant.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Aksum Archaeological Museum

Delve into Aksum's rich history and archaeological finds.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Ruins of Aksum

Wander through the remnants of ancient Aksumite civilization.

No booking required
5

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Admire the Lion of Judah

Behold the iconic symbol of Ethiopian pride and history.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Tombs of the Kings

Explore the burial sites of Aksum's ancient kings.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

See the Aksum Stelae

Marvel at the towering stone monuments of Aksum.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the local market

Immerse in vibrant culture and shop for unique crafts.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-14 (#189 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Ethiopian Birr

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Amharic

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Doro Wat

Spicy chicken stew with berbere. (National dish)

Injera

VE

Sourdough flatbread, staple of Ethiopian meals.

Kitfo

Minced raw beef with spices and clarified butter.

Tibs

Sautéed meat, often served with vegetables.

Shiro Wat

VE

Chickpea stew with spices, thick and flavorful.

Phrases to learn

English

Amharic

Hello

Selam

(Seh-lahm)

Yes/No

Eshi / Aydelem

(Eh-shee / Eye-deh-lehm)

Thank you

Ameseginalehu

(Ah-meh-seg-gen-ah-leh-hoo)

Excuse me

Yikirta

(Yee-keer-tah)

How much?

Besent?

(Beh-sent)