Axum : tall, carved obelisks, relics of the ancient Kingdom of Aksum.
Active
3m - 6m
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
History
• The Church that houses the original Ark of the Covenant (St. Mary Zion Church)
• Stella field, vastly tall, monolithic granite monuments erected between the 1st and 3rd century AD
• The remnant of the palace of the famous Queen of Sheba and her swimming pool
• The memorial inscription of King Ezana ("Ethiopia's Rosetta Stone"), in which the king tells of his Conquest of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. King Ezana built the first church in Sub-Saharan Africa
• The Tombs of King Kaleb and his son, which are an illustration of the masterpiece interlocking architecture of the Axumites in the 6th Century
Culture and Adventure
Axumites are best known for the craftsmanship that dates back to ancient craftsmanship that dates back to ancient times.
• You will see the craftsmen behind the intricate weaving's of traditional wear
• You will see a variety of authentic Ethiopian jewelry made by the best gold and silver smith in Ethiopia
Available options
Axum : tall, carved obelisks, relics of the ancient Kingdom of Aksum.
Pickup included
What's included
Local tour guide
A bottle of water and hot drinks
Hotel/airport pick up and drop-off
Cup of Ethiopian aromatc coffee on the street side
Detailed itinerary
1
Experience the history, nature and culture of Ethiopia’s ancient capital on this guided excursion. After a convenient hotel pickup, learn about Axum’s fascinating history and impressive craftsmanship from a local guide and see important sites like St. Mary Zion Church and the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s palace. Admire local jewelry and traditional clothing, enjoy a coffee ceremony, and hike to a beautiful mountain top monastery.
2
The structure at Dungur is popularly known as Queen of Sheba’s Palace, though archaeologists are divided over whether it was the great woman's palace or the 6th-century-AD mansion of a nobleman. Most leaned towards the latter, but the find during recent excavations of a relief carving depicting a beautiful woman (in the museum at St Mary of Zion Church) has caused some to wonder whether her palace may lie beneath the current ruins.
Details
Hours
8am-5.30pm
Price
archaeological sites combined ticket Birr50
Climb the observation tower at the back of the site for a view out over the 50-room layout. It has small undressed stones and walls recessed at intervals and unusually tapering with height. The well-preserved flagstone floor is thought to have belonged to a throne room. The palace also contains hidden treasure rooms, a private bathing area and a kitchen, where a large brick oven can still be seen. The stairwells suggest the existence of at least one upper story.
What's not included
Lunch
Alcoholic beverages
Tip for tour guide
Other cost not offered in this program
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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
