Things to Do in Axum

Axum stands as one of Ethiopia's most significant historical sites, serving as the ancient capital of the Aksumite Empire that once rivaled Rome and Persia. The city's towering granite obelisks pierce the sky like ancient skyscrapers, marking burial sites of long-dead kings and creating one of Africa's most striking archaeological landscapes. What makes Axum particularly fascinating is how seamlessly ancient history blends with living tradition - you'll find locals going about their daily lives among ruins that date back over 2,000 years. Beyond the famous stelae field, Axum holds deep religious significance as the supposed resting place of the Ark of the Covenant, housed in the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion. The city feels authentically Ethiopian rather than touristy, with traditional markets, coffee ceremonies happening on street corners, and a pace of life that seems unchanged for centuries. It's the kind of place where you might find yourself chatting with a priest about ancient manuscripts one moment and watching kids play football among millennium-old ruins the next.

Axum's dining scene centers around traditional Ethiopian cuisine served in family-run restaurants that feel more authentic than polished. You'll find excellent injera with various stews at places like Yeha Hotel Restaurant or Consolar International Hotel, where vegetarian platters during fasting periods (Wednesdays, Fridays, and Lent) showcase the complexity of Ethiopian Orthodox cuisine. Local tej houses serve honey wine in traditional glasses, and the coffee ceremony remains a daily ritual worth experiencing - locals often invite curious travelers to join. That said, international food options are limited, so come prepared to embrace Ethiopian flavors or stick to the few hotel restaurants that attempt continental dishes with varying degrees of success.

The dry season from October to March offers the most comfortable weather, with clear skies perfect for photographing the stelae and daytime temperatures in the pleasant 20-25°C range. December through February tends to be coolest and driest, making it ideal for walking between sites, though this is also peak tourist season. The rainy season from June to September brings lush green landscapes and fills the Queen of Sheba's Bath, but daily downpours can make getting around muddy and some rural roads impassable. Interestingly, the shoulder months of April-May and September-October offer a nice compromise - fewer crowds, decent weather, and lower accommodation prices, though you might catch the occasional shower.