How to get to Aksum

The legendary Aksum, located in the north of Ethiopia, is rightfully considered the cradle of Ethiopian civilisation and one of the most mysterious places on the African continent. This ancient city, which once served as the capital of a mighty empire, attracts travellers with its majestic granite obelisks, underground tombs, and palace ruins steeped in myths about the Queen of Sheba.

The atmosphere of Aksum is permeated with a spirit of history and sanctity. A walk through its streets allows you to travel thousands of years back in time, exploring UNESCO World Heritage monuments and places where, according to legend, the Ark of the Covenant is kept. This destination is ideal for those seeking deep cultural experiences and wishing to witness the traces of a great past with their own eyes.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city is by air. Aksum is served by its own airport (IATA code: AXU), located just a few kilometres from the centre. This makes the journey as convenient as possible and saves time for sightseeing.

There are usually no direct international flights to this small airport, so the main route lies through the capital of Ethiopia—Addis Ababa. Regular domestic flights connect these cities, with a flight time of about one and a half hours. This option makes it easy to include a visit to the ancient capital in a broader itinerary across the country.

Direct travel by train to Aksum is not possible, as there is no railway infrastructure in the city or its surroundings. The northern region of Ethiopia, where this historical centre is located, is not yet connected by rail to the rest of the country, so tourists should consider alternative methods of transport.

The nearest major cities, such as Shire or the regional administrative centre Mekelle, also lack active passenger railway services convenient for travellers. The country's main railway lines run significantly further south, so it is better to use domestic flights or road transport for a trip to this part of the country.

Bus services connect Aksum with key settlements in the Tigray region and other tourist centres in the north of the country. This is a budget-friendly way to travel, allowing you to enjoy the rugged and impressive landscapes of the Ethiopian Highlands. The main transport on these routes consists of medium-sized buses and minibuses.

The shortest and least tiring journey awaits travellers coming from the neighbouring city of Shire (Inda Selassie). Local minibuses cover the distance of about 65 kilometres in an average of an hour to an hour and a half. The road here is paved and in decent condition, making the trip quite comfortable.

A longer journey lies ahead for those departing from the city of Mekelle, located approximately 250 kilometres to the east. The trip takes from 5 to 7 hours and passes through picturesque mountain passes. The route from Gondar is also popular: it is a beautiful but challenging road crossing the valley of the Tekeze River and the Simien Mountains. The trip from Gondar can take an entire daylight day due to winding roads, but the views outside the window compensate for any fatigue.

Travelling by car to Aksum offers an opportunity to see the Ethiopian Highlands in all their glory, turning the transfer into a separate adventure. The drive from the neighbouring city of Shire is quick on good asphalt, whereas the road from the administrative centre of Mekelle consists of a series of mountain serpentines. Although this path requires time and attention, having your own transport allows you to turn it into a fascinating excursion with the chance to admire breathtaking panoramas at high passes.

The scenic route from Gondar deserves special attention. This road, known as "Lima-Limo", runs through the spurs of the famous Simien Mountains and descends into the deep gorge of the Tekeze River. The landscapes here change around every bend: from misty green peaks to majestic rocky canyons. The main advantage of a car over a bus on this section is complete freedom of action: you can stop on the roadside at any moment to take unique photos or simply enjoy the grandeur of nature in Ethiopia.

For comfortable movement around the region, travellers often hire SUVs with experienced local drivers. This is the safest and most convenient option, as mountain roads require specific driving skills. Renting a car with a driver provides flexibility in planning the route and allows you to focus on contemplating the views without being distracted by complex road conditions.

A trip to ancient Aksum will be much more comfortable if you prepare in advance for the local way of life and climate. We have compiled useful recommendations to help you avoid awkward situations and focus on exploring the great history.

1. Clothing and Essentials. Aksum is an important religious centre, so for visiting temples and monasteries, choose modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees; women are advised to carry a light headscarf. Since the city is located in the highlands, it is hot during the day, but evenings can be cool—be sure to bring a fleece jacket or windbreaker.
2. Transport. The most convenient and affordable way to get around the city is by three-wheeled auto-rickshaws, locally called "Bajaj". You must agree on the fare with the driver strictly before boarding. The city centre is quite compact, so it is pleasant to walk between the main attractions.
3. Currency and Payments. The national currency is the Ethiopian Birr. Bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted only in a few large hotels and tourist offices, so cash is the foundation of your financial freedom. It is best to exchange Dollars or Euros at banks, as street money changers may deceive you, and ATMs do not always work stably.
4. Health and Safety. Drink exclusively bottled water and use it even for brushing your teeth. The sun in the highlands is very strong, so sunscreen and a hat are mandatory. There are pharmacies in the city, but their range is basic—it is better to bring necessary medicines with you.
5. Communication. The main language of communication in the region is Tigrinya, and Amharic is also widely spoken. Guides and hotel staff speak English well, but in shops and at the market, you often have to explain yourself with gestures. Learning a couple of local greetings will endear you to the residents.
6. Local Etiquette. When entering any Orthodox church, you must remove your shoes. If you are invited to a meal or are eating traditional injera in a restaurant, use only your right hand—the left is considered "unclean".
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph local residents, especially clergy and the elderly, without their explicit permission—this may cause conflict. It is also strictly not recommended to photograph government institutions, bridges, and people in uniform.
8. Additional Advice. To visit the park of obelisks and palace ruins, it is strongly recommended to hire a licensed guide. There are few information signs at the sites, and without a knowledgeable guide, many historical nuances will remain a mystery to you.

Following these simple rules will help you show respect for the traditions of Ethiopia and feel confident in any situation. May your acquaintance with the legendary city leave only warm and vivid memories.