Axum , Ethiopia

Full Day trip to Axum

Active

3h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Axum was the center of the marine trading power known as the Aksumite Empire, which predated the earliest mentions in Roman-era writings. Around 356 CE, its ruler was converted to Christianity by Frumentius. Later, under the reign of Emperor Kaleb, Axum was a quasi-ally of Byzantium against the Sasanian Empire which had adopted Zoroastrianism. The historical record is unclear, with ancient church records the primary contemporary sources.

Available options

Full Day trip to Axum

Pickup included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Bottled water

Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Breakfast

Detailed itinerary

Dungur (or Dungur 'Addi Kilte) is the ruins of a substantial mansion in Aksum, Ethiopia, the former capital city of the Kingdom of Aksum. The ruins are in the western part of Aksum, across the road from the Gudit stelae field.

Dungur is known locally and popularly as the Palace of the Queen of Sheba

Historic Site in Aksum
Despite the colorful legends, this large reservoir probably wasn’t where Sheba came to bathe. It was an important reservoir rather than a swimming pool or a gargantuan bath. Nobody is totally sure of its age, but it’s certainly been used as a water source for millennia. Its large size is even more impressive considering it’s hewn from solid rock. It’s also known as Mai Shum, which translates to ‘Chief’s Water’. It’s used for Timkat celebrations, just like Fasiladas’ Bath in Gonder.

The Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion is an Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in Ethiopia. It is claimed to contain the Ark of the Covenant. It is located in the town of Axum, Tigray. The original church is believed to have been built during the reign of Ezana the first Christian ruler of the Kingdom of Axum, during the 4th century AD, and has been rebuilt several times since then.

The Obelisk of Axum is a 4th-century CE, 24-metre-tall phonolite stele/obelisk, weighing 160 tonnes, in the city of Axum in Ethiopia. It is ornamented with two false doors at the base and features decorations resembling windows on all sides. The obelisk ends in a semi-circular top part, which used to be enclosed by metal frames

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages

any other equipment used for the tour

Available languages

Guide guide

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