Aksum (or Axum) is an ancient city in northern Ethiopia, known for its rich history and archaeological significance. Here are some things to do and places to visit in Aksum:

1. Visit the Aksum Obelisks

• The towering granite obelisks (stelae) are one of the most iconic features of Aksum. The largest of these obelisks is over 24 meters tall. These structures date back to the 4th century AD and are believed to mark the tombs of kings or important figures.

2. Explore the Aksum Archaeological Site

• Aksum was the capital of the ancient Aksumite Empire, and its archaeological site is filled with ruins that highlight the city’s significance. Key sites include royal tombs, stelae, and palaces.

3. Visit the Church of St. Mary of Zion

• This church is considered one of the holiest sites in Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. It is believed to house the Ark of the Covenant, making it a pilgrimage site for many. The church itself is a stunning example of Ethiopian religious architecture.

4. See the Aksumite Minting Facilities

• Aksum was known for its coinage, and the minting facilities here offer a glimpse into the ancient economy of the kingdom. Visitors can view some of the coins at the Aksum Museum.

5. Explore the Aksum Museum

• The museum houses artifacts that detail the history of the Aksumite Empire, including ancient coins, inscriptions, and sculptures. It provides a deeper understanding of Aksum’s importance in the ancient world.

6. Visit the Queen of Sheba’s Palace Ruins

• These ruins are believed to be the remains of the palace of the legendary Queen of Sheba, who is said to have visited King Solomon in Jerusalem. The site includes foundations and a variety of structures.

7. Explore the Tombs of the Kings

• The Tombs of the Kings are a series of burial sites for Aksumite rulers. These tombs contain intricate carvings and give insight into the funerary practices of the ancient civilization.

8. Take a Trip to the Dungur Palace Ruins

• This is another royal complex in Aksum, believed to have been a palace for the kings of the Aksumite Empire. While much of it is in ruins, it still offers a fascinating look at the architecture and culture of the time.

9. Visit the Ezana Stone

• The Ezana Stone is an important historical artifact that features inscriptions in Ge’ez, Sabean, and Greek. It’s one of the most significant sources of information about the Aksumite Empire’s history.

10. Stroll Through the City

• Aksum is a relatively small city, so walking around allows you to take in both the historical sites and the local culture. You’ll encounter markets, traditional Ethiopian houses, and the modern side of Aksum as well.

11. Attend the Timkat (Epiphany) Festival (If Visiting in January)

• Timkat, celebrated on January 19th (or 20th depending on the Ethiopian calendar), is one of Ethiopia’s major religious festivals. If you’re in Aksum during this time, you can witness processions, rituals, and celebrations that draw crowds from all over the country.

12. Explore the Local Markets

• The Aksum markets offer local handicrafts, traditional clothing, and a chance to buy items unique to the region, including items such as colorful woven scarves, jewelry, and traditional Ethiopian spices.

13. Hike to the Top of Mount Tsion

• Mount Tsion is located near Aksum and offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. It’s a peaceful spot for a hike and also a significant place in Ethiopian history.

14. Try Local Ethiopian Cuisine

• Aksum has a variety of local eateries where you can enjoy traditional Ethiopian food such as injera (flatbread), kitfo (minced meat), and Doro Wat (chicken stew).

Aksum is a city steeped in history, and these activities will give you a deep understanding of its ancient and modern significance.

Aksum offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to more upscale hotels. Here are some of the popular places to stay in Aksum, Ethiopia:

1. Aksum Hotel

• Type: Mid-range hotel
• Description: A well-known hotel offering comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It’s located near the city center and provides both local and international food options. It’s one of the most popular hotels for travelers visiting Aksum.
• Facilities: Restaurant, bar, Wi-Fi, room service, and 24-hour front desk.

2. Sabean Hotel

• Type: Mid-range hotel
• Description: Sabean Hotel is a popular option offering comfortable rooms, good service, and a central location. It is ideal for those looking for a relaxing stay with easy access to Aksum’s historical sites.
• Facilities: Restaurant, bar, Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, and free parking.

3. Yeha Hotel

• Type: Budget hotel
• Description: Yeha Hotel offers more affordable lodging with basic facilities. It’s a good option for budget travelers, providing simple but clean accommodations.
• Facilities: Restaurant, basic rooms, and 24-hour front desk.

4. The Northern Star Hotel

• Type: Mid-range hotel
• Description: Northern Star Hotel offers clean and spacious rooms with a comfortable atmosphere. It’s a good choice for tourists looking for a quiet and relaxing stay.
• Facilities: Restaurant, Wi-Fi, and free parking.

5. Fana Hotel

• Type: Budget hotel
• Description: Fana Hotel is a low-cost option in Aksum, providing budget-friendly rooms for travelers. It’s simple but sufficient for those who plan to spend most of their time exploring the city.
• Facilities: Basic rooms, restaurant, and Wi-Fi.

6. Aksum Zion Hotel

• Type: Budget to mid-range
• Description: Aksum Zion Hotel is a smaller, family-run hotel that offers a comfortable stay at a reasonable price. The hotel is centrally located and convenient for tourists exploring the main attractions of Aksum.
• Facilities: Restaurant, Wi-Fi, and air-conditioned rooms.

7. Kedar Hotel

• Type: Mid-range hotel
• Description: Kedar Hotel is a welcoming option with spacious rooms and a friendly atmosphere. It provides good services and a restaurant with a variety of meals.
• Facilities: Restaurant, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and comfortable rooms.

8. Gideon Hotel

• Type: Mid-range
• Description: Gideon Hotel offers decent facilities at a reasonable price, located conveniently in the center of Aksum. It’s known for its good service and clean rooms.
• Facilities: Restaurant, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, and conference facilities.

9. Ashenda Guest House

• Type: Budget guesthouse
• Description: A friendly guesthouse with budget accommodation, perfect for travelers who prefer a more homey, informal setting. It’s a quieter option and may offer more personalized service.
• Facilities: Basic rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a shared kitchen.

Aksum (or Axum) is one of the most historically significant cities in Ethiopia, with its rich heritage dating back to the Aksumite Empire. Here are some of the key places to visit in Aksum:

1. The Aksum Obelisks (Stelae)

• The towering granite obelisks, or stelae, are the most famous landmarks in Aksum. These monumental structures, some as tall as 24 meters, are believed to mark the tombs of kings or important figures of the Aksumite Empire. The largest, known as the “Great Stele,” was once the tallest of its kind in the world before it collapsed.

2. Church of St. Mary of Zion

• This is one of Ethiopia’s most sacred sites and is believed to house the Ark of the Covenant, making it a key pilgrimage destination for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. The church’s architecture is stunning, and it is closely tied to the legend of the Queen of Sheba’s visit to King Solomon. The original church was built in the 4th century, but the current building was reconstructed.

3. Aksumite Royal Tombs

• Located near the stelae field, the Royal Tombs are believed to be the burial places of the ancient Aksumite kings. The most well-known tomb is the Tomb of King Kaleb, which contains carved inscriptions and a series of fascinating structures.

4. The Archaeological Museum of Aksum

• This museum showcases a range of artifacts from the Aksumite Empire, including coins, sculptures, inscriptions, and other items that tell the story of the ancient civilization. It provides valuable insight into the history of Aksum and the surrounding region.

5. The Tomb of the False Door

• A unique and fascinating tomb, the False Door Tomb is an intriguing historical site in Aksum. It features a false door, which was common in ancient Ethiopian burial practices as a symbol of a spiritual passage for the deceased.

6. Queen of Sheba’s Palace Ruins

• The ruins of the legendary Queen of Sheba’s palace are believed to be situated on a hill near the city. According to local tradition, the Queen of Sheba ruled the Aksumite Kingdom and visited King Solomon in Jerusalem. While the palace itself is in ruins, the area is still historically significant.

7. The Ezana Stone

• The Ezana Stone is an important historical artifact that contains inscriptions in Ge’ez, Sabean, and Greek. It commemorates the achievements of King Ezana, who converted to Christianity and made it the state religion. The stone is a critical piece of the puzzle in understanding the Aksumite Empire’s cultural and political history.

8. Dungur Palace Ruins

• Another historical site, Dungur Palace, is believed to have been a royal palace for Aksumite kings. Although much of the palace is in ruins, it still offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient kingdom’s architecture.

9. The Archaeological Site of Yeha

• Yeha, located about 30 kilometers from Aksum, is home to the ruins of a temple dedicated to the Sabean gods. The Temple of Yeha is the largest and most complete pre-Christian structure in Ethiopia, dating back to the 5th century BC, and it sheds light on the early history of the region.

10. St. Mary of Zion (Old Church)

• This ancient church is located near the modern Church of St. Mary of Zion. It was the original home of the Ark of the Covenant and is deeply tied to Ethiopia’s Christian history. While the modern church is much larger, the old church remains an important historical and religious site.

11. Mount Tsion (Mountain of Zion)

• For a scenic hike, consider visiting Mount Tsion, located just outside of Aksum. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area. According to legend, this is where the Ark of the Covenant was hidden, and it holds religious significance in Ethiopian Christianity.

12. Aksum’s Ancient Minting Site

• Aksum was once a major center for minting coins, and the ancient minting facilities are still a fascinating part of the city’s history. Some ancient Aksumite coins can be seen in the local museum, providing insight into the kingdom’s wealth and its extensive trade networks.

13. Aksum’s Local Markets

• While not historical in the traditional sense, Aksum’s local markets offer a chance to immerse yourself in Ethiopian culture. You can find traditional Ethiopian clothing, local crafts, and spices, and experience the lively atmosphere of the city.

14. The Monastery of Debre Damo (Near Aksum)

• Located on a rocky outcrop near Aksum, Debre Damo Monastery is a historic Christian monastery that dates back to the 6th century. It’s an important religious site, and the hike to the monastery is a bit challenging but offers a rewarding experience for those who are adventurous.

Aksum is located in the northern highlands of Ethiopia, which means the weather can vary based on the time of year and the altitude. Here are some general weather conditions and tips for your trip:

General Climate

• Aksum has a highland climate, with temperatures typically mild but subject to seasonal variations. It has two main seasons:
  • Dry Season (October to May): This is the best time to visit Aksum, as the weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.
  • Rainy Season (June to September): The rainy season brings cooler temperatures but can also result in heavy rains, which might make outdoor activities less enjoyable.

Average Temperatures

• Daytime Temperatures: During the dry season, daytime temperatures in Aksum are usually comfortable, ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). However, it can feel warmer in the sun.
• Nighttime Temperatures: Nights can be cool, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), especially during the dry season. Bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings.
• Rainy Season: During the rainy months, temperatures can cool down to around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) during the day, but the evenings may still feel chilly.

Best Time to Visit

• The best time to visit Aksum is during the dry season, typically from October to April. During this period, you can expect clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and less chance of rain. This is also the time when you can attend festivals like Timkat (Epiphany) in January, a major cultural and religious event.
• If you’re planning to visit during the rainy season (June to September), keep in mind that rain showers are frequent, especially in the afternoons. While the landscape can be lush and green, this can sometimes make traveling and outdoor activities more challenging due to muddy roads and occasional flooding.