Mekelle: The Heart of Tigray
Discover the captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes in Mekelle, the vibrant heart of Ethiopia's Tigray region.
Mekelle, the vibrant capital of the Tigray region in Ethiopia, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking authentic experiences. Explore its rich heritage, friendly locals, and stunning landscapes.
A brief summary to Mekelle
- Mekele, ET
Local tips
- Visit the local markets in the morning for the freshest produce and handicrafts.
- Try the traditional Tigrayan dish, 'Zigni,' at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, to respect local customs.
- Hire a local guide to explore the historical sites for deeper insights into the region's rich history.
- Plan your visit during the dry season for the best hiking conditions in the surrounding mountains.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the center of Mekelle, head towards the main square known as 'Meskel Square'. From Meskel Square, walk north towards the Tigray Cultural Center, which is approximately 1.2 kilometers away. Follow the main road, which is known as 'Abraham Deboch Road'. Look for local signs indicating Tigray Cultural Center along the way. This route should take around 15-20 minutes on foot.
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Bicycle
For those looking to rent a bicycle, start from the central marketplace (Merkato) area of Mekelle. Ride north on 'Abraham Deboch Road', which leads directly towards the Tigray Cultural Center. The ride is about 1.5 kilometers and should take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on your pace. Be cautious of pedestrians and local traffic as you navigate through the streets.
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Public Transport (Bus)
From the central bus station in Mekelle, locate a bus heading towards the Tigray Cultural Center. Buses frequently depart from the station, so wait for one that is labeled for this destination. The ride will take about 10-15 minutes. Once you arrive, follow the signs directing you to the center, which is just a short walk from the bus stop.
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Motorcycle Taxi (Bajaj)
To travel by motorcycle taxi, find a Bajaj (three-wheeled motorcycle) near your location. Simply tell the driver that you want to go to the Tigray Cultural Center. The fare is usually negotiable, so confirm the price before starting the ride. The journey should take around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.
Discover more about Mekelle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mekelle
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Atse Yohannes Hotel
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Tekele Haymanot Church
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Palazzo dell'imperatore Giovanni IV
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Atse Yohannes IV Museum ሙዝየም ሃፀይ ዮዉሃንስ 4ይ
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ሓውዜን ኣደባባይ(Hawzen Adebabay)
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Romanat Square
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Gheralta Trekking Tours
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Noble House Yehdega Luxury Boutique Hotel
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lucy ethiopia tours
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Mekelle City Administration
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Rock Ethiopia Tours
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Axum hotel
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danakil depression
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Mekele University Enda EYESUS Campus
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Unmissable attractions to see
Enda Kidane Mihret
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Emperor Yohannes IV Palace Museum, Tigray ቤተ መዘክር ቤተ መንግስቲ ሃፀ ዮሃንስ ፬ይ፣ትግራይ
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ሙዝየም ሃፀይ ዮዉሃንስ 4ይ / Hatsey Yohannes IV Museum
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Fyriplaka beach
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Luci
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Ethiopian Martyrs Park የኢትዮጵያ ጀግኖች ሰማዕታት ስፍራ
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Tigray rock churches
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ጮምዓ መስቀል / ch’omi’ā Mekele Meskel Square
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ቤተ መዘክር ሓወልቲ ሰማእታት መቐለ / Martyrs' Monument Museum Mekelle
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ሓወልቲ ሰማእታት መቐለ | Martyrs' Memorial Monument MeKele
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Martyrs Memorial Center Office
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wezete
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Adihawsi recreational center
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Essential places to dine
NatNa Spot
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Green Valley cafe
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Sara Restaurant
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Enat restaurant
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New day
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Geza Gerlase
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Tsigereda Snack Bar
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Lazopreea restaurant and cafe
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Leziz restorant
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Sabisa Grill & Bar
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KIKI's CAFE & RESTAURANT
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Royal Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Seti Supermarket
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Ahati Kids Zone
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Haben Computer Centre
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Mizer Decor
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Baloni Coffee - ቡን ባሎኒ
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ኤማ ኮምፒዩተር(AEMA COMPUTERS & RELATED EQUIPMENTS SALES )
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Harer Electronics
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NOAH Super market
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Samrawit Entertainment & Accessories
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Moyale
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Haben cafe
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Tea Chat cafe
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Meaza Bar & Restaurant
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Tee chat lounge
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Nucamp cafe
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Da adeway sport bar
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Freedom Bar
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Zol Dominos sport bar
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