Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia was established in 1886 during the reign of emperor Menelik II. Its altitude ranges from 2400-3200metres above sea level thus making it the third highest capital in the world. Addis Ababa is the seat of the federal government of Ethiopia, the Economic Commission for Africa (E. C. A.),the African Union(AU),the European Union(E U),and many other United Nations regional offices, International and bilateral organizations. Many embassies and consular representatives are clustered in Addis too. Addis Ababa is therefore, an inviting diplomatic capital of Africa.
This charming city enjoys commendable facilities.
There are a good number of star hotels (including the luxury collection Sheraton and Hilton) and conference centers(UNCC). Finance institutions, communication medium and transportation services are also available.
Besides its bracing and crisp climate, the filwoha (hotspring), pungent aroma of coffee from roadside cafes, number of museums, and merkato-the largest open air market in Africa, Addis Ababa makes worthwhile sites for tourists to visit. Religious ceremonies like Timket(epiphany) and Meskel (the finding of the true cross) are celebrated with special jubilations. But there is more. Addis Ababa makes excursions to the surrounding areas possible.

Excursions from Addis Ababa

For those with time restraints, stopovers and businessmen/women Addis Ababa offers excursions to a variety of resorts, national parks, natural and historical attractions. The resort areas include Sodere, Langano, Abule-Basuma and Wondogenet. The Parks found around Addis Ababa are Awash and Abyata-Shalla lakes national parks. The other natural attractions include lake Wonchi, Suba (menagesha) forest, Debrezeit crater lakes and the northern rift valley lakes.
Among the historical and cultural attractions are the rock-hewn church of Addadimariam, Tiya stale site, Debrelibanos monastery and the portugese bridge.
It is also natural that along the roads to these destinations the visitor will definitely encounter breathtaking views.
OST programs treat these excursion sites on either a one or two days basis.