Things to do in Tigray Highlands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Tigray Highlands has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the ancient heart of Tigray through iconic stones and ruins that whisper of Axum's great past and early civilizations.
Axum Stelae Field
A plaza of giant granite stelae and ancient ruins marking Axum's historic capitals.
Ezana Stone
Royal inscriptions from Emperor Ezana detailing early Christianization and Axumite rule.
Kaleb's Tomb
An ancient tomb near Axum attributed to the Axumite king Kaleb, set in a dramatic landscape.
Museums
Learn about the region’s ancient civilizations and culture in compact, informative collections.
Axum Archaeological Museum
Displays artifacts from Axum’s ancient civilization and stelae complex.
Tigray Regional Museum
Curated exhibits on Tigray history, culture, and local lifeways.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites that showcase Ethiopia’s legendary faith and architectural ingenuity.
Saint Mary of Zion Church (Axum)
Historic church associated with Ethiopian religious tradition and legends.
Debre Damo Monastery
Famous cliff-top monastery accessible by a rope ladder, renowned for its isolation and traditions.
Temple of Yeha
Ancient pre-Aksumite temple ruins reflecting early Ethiopian religious architecture.
National & Theme Parks
Natural landscapes and protected areas in and around the Tigray Highlands.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Tigray Highlands. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Get a feel for city life and local markets in the region’s main hubs.
Mekelle Old Town
Historic center with traditional houses, markets, and vantage points over the city.
Adwa Town Center
A notable town square and gateway to the Adwa highlands and battle history.
Free Things to Do
Experiences that don’t require an entrance fee, with stunning scenery and local life.
Sunrise hike in the Tembien Highlands
Catch a breathtaking dawn over dramatic gorges and terraced landscapes.
Stroll through Axum’s Stelae Field (self-guided)
Walk the ancient stelae complex and enjoy panoramic views.
Market wander in Mekelle
Experience daily life, colors, and local produce at the city market.
Gastronomy
Taste the flavors of Tigray through traditional dishes and coffee culture.
Injera with doro wot or kitfo (Ethiopian staple)
Savour the classic Ethiopian flatbread with stews, a regional staple.
Tigrayan coffee ceremony
Experience the ritual brewing and fragrant coffee in a local setting.
Shiro and kitfo pairings
Simple, hearty chickpea stew and minced meat combinations common in the area.
Nightlife
Evening atmosphere centers around Mekelle’s relaxed cafes and live music venues.
Mekelle cafe culture
Relaxed evenings with coffee, tea, and light snacks in town cafes.
Local live music nights
Traditional and contemporary Ethiopian music in select venues.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and storytelling rooted in Tigrayan traditions.
Traditional Tigrayan dance evenings
Energetic dances performed at community events and gatherings.
Storytelling and poetry in local markets
Casual cultural performances that showcase regional folklore.
Sports
Active pursuits in dramatic highland scenery.
Hiking the Tembien Highlands
Multi-day or day hikes through scenic canyons and terraces.
Ridge trekking near Adwa
Spectacular viewpoints and terraced landscapes for trekking.
Off the Track
Unconventional routes to discover hidden gems of the highlands.
Tembien Gorge viewpoints
Seek out panoramic overlooks along the canyon trails.
Rural homestays in Hawzen-Gheralta area
Experience local life and hospitality in remote villages.