Day Trip to Axum, the Heartland of Ethiopian Civilization
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Journey back in time to the legendary city of Axum, the heart of Ethiopia’s ancient civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage Site! This exclusive day trip is your chance to walk among towering obelisks, explore hidden tombs, and uncover the secrets of a kingdom that once rivaled Rome & Persia.
What you will Visit:
✔ The Great Stelae Fields; Marvel at the iconic Axum Obelisks, some standing over 20 meters tall, carved with intricate details over 1,700 years ago.
✔ Queen of Sheba’s Palace; Step into the ruins of her legendary palace and imagine the splendor of her reign.
✔ Ark of the Covenant Chapel; Visit the sacred Church of St. Mary of Zion, where tradition says the Ark rests.
✔ King Ezana’s Inscription; See the ancient stone tablet in three languages, Ethiopia’s version of the Rosetta Stone.
✔ Underground Tombs; Venture into the mysterious Tomb of Kaleb and Gebre Meskel, filled with ancient relics and stories of Axumite kings.
Book now & explore Ethiopia’s greatest ancient wonder!
Available options
Day Trip to Axum, the Heartland of Ethiopian Civilization
Pickup included
What's included
Professional guide
Entrance fee
Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points within Axum town
Bottles of drinking water
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
You will be picked up from any of your location in Axum city.
2
Begin the tour with a visit to Northern Stelae field. These famed granite obelisks are relics of this time and have gained UNESCO World Heritage site status. The tallest, the Great stelea, has fallen and broken in to six massive pieces, but when standing was 33 meters (108 feet) tall and weighed about five hundred twenty tones and other remarkable pre - Christian monuments.
3
Visit the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion. The first church of St. Mary was built in the 4th century by the first christian kings of Axum King Ezana and Syzana.
The Church of our Lady Mary of Zion is believed to be the final resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. This makes Axum to be considered the second Jerusalem and the holy city in Christian tradition.
4
Visit the tomb of King Kaleb and his son King Gebremeskel located on 2 km north of the city and built at strategic place. This site was built in the 6th c and excavated in 1906 by the German Archaeologist.
5
The Queen of Sheba Palace is localy called the Dongur palace. This wise Queen was living in the 10th century B.C. She was the mother of Menilik I the one who went to his father King Solomon and brought the Ark of Covenant to Axum then he become King of Axum.
6
The Queen of Sheba's Bath was built by Queen of Sheba for her own recreational purpose according to the local tradition but people call it Mayshum means the chieftain water. Today local people use the pool for swimming and during epiphany festival.
7
After the tour you will be transferred to your preferred location in Axum city. End
What's not included
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Accommodation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Axum
Axum, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Africa, is a historic treasure trove with ancient ruins, mysterious obelisks, and a rich cultural heritage. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Obelisks of Axum
These ancient obelisks, or stelae, are towering monuments that date back to the Kingdom of Axum. The largest one, the Great Stele, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Axum St. Mary's Church
This ancient church is believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. It's a significant pilgrimage site for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.
Religious
1 hour
Small donation
Queen of Sheba's Bath
This large, rectangular bath is associated with the Queen of Sheba and is a significant archaeological site.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Injera
A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, served with various stews and dishes.
Staple
Vegetarian
Doro Wat
A spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice and served with injera.
Main Dish
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking to nearby historical sites
Enjoying local coffee ceremonies
Visiting ancient ruins and historical sites
Attending a traditional coffee ceremony
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This is the dry season with pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and historical sites.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Amharic
- Widely spoken: Tigrinya, English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Axum is generally safe, but petty crime can occur. Be cautious with valuables and avoid walking alone at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious with street food
Getting there
By air
- Axum Airport • 2 km from city center
By bus
Axum Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the primary mode of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
City Center
Yeha
Day trips
Yeha
30 km • Half day
Yeha is an ancient town with significant archaeological sites, including the Temple of the Moon.
Festivals
Timket • January 19
Pro tips
- Visit the Obelisks of Axum early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Try local Ethiopian coffee at a traditional coffee ceremony
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites
- Carry small denominations for local purchases and tips
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
