Dessie - Discovering Ethiopia

Travelling to Dessie

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Dessie, a pretty good destination in Ethiopia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Dessie and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Dessie, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ethiopia, here's everything to know about Dessie for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Dessie

Dessie is a city located in the northeastern part of Ethiopia, in the Amhara region. It is the capital of the Dessie Zuria district, and it has a population of approximately 300,000 people. The city is situated at an elevation of 2,470 meters above sea level and has a mild climate with an average temperature of 20°C. Dessie is known for its beautiful landscapes, nearby mountains, and for being a center of transportation and trade. There are several markets, restaurants, and shops that offer a variety of goods and services. Additionally, the city is home to several historical and cultural landmarks, such as the Emir Abddurahman Tomb and the St. Michael Church.

What to visit in Dessie

Dessie is a city located in northeastern Ethiopia. It is known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Dessie: 1. Dessie Zuria Palace: This palace is a historical landmark that was built in the 19th century. It reflects the traditional Ethiopian art and architecture of that era.
2. Hayk Estifanos Monastery: One of the most popular tourist destinations in Dessie, this 900-year-old monastery was founded by a famous Ethiopian saint named Estifanos. According to legend, he used to levitate above the ground while praying.
3. Aba Egipt Monastery: This beautiful monastery is located on a hill overlooking the city of Dessie. It was founded in the 17th century and has become one of the most important religious centers in the region.
4. Tarmaber Mountain: This scenic mountain range offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It is a popular hiking and trekking destination for tourists who want to explore the natural beauty of the area.
5. Dessie Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the town and its surrounding areas. It has a variety of exhibits including traditional clothing, textiles, and artifacts from Ethiopia's rich history.
6. Kombolcha town: Kombolcha is a nearby town, located only a few kilometers from Dessie. It is known for its beautiful scenery and is one of the largest commercial centers in the region. It is also a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the local culture. Overall, Dessie offers a unique combination of traditional Ethiopian culture, history, and natural beauty that make it a great destination for travelers looking to explore this fascinating country.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ethiopia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Dessie.

When to go on holiday to Dessie

The best time to visit Dessie in Ethiopia is during the dry season which runs from October to February. During this season, temperatures are moderate and there is little rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings. However, if you wish to see lush greenery, then the rainy season which runs from June to September, may be a good option. Just be aware that heavy rainfall may make it difficult to get around or engage in outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Dessie

Depending on your starting location, there are several transportation options to get to Dessie. Here are a few options: 1. By Air: You can take a domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Kombolcha Airport, which is the closest airport to Dessie. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Dessie. The flight takes approximately one hour.
2. By Bus: There are several long-distance buses that operate from Addis Ababa to Dessie. The journey takes around 7-8 hours. You can book your bus tickets in advance from one of the bus companies operating in Addis Ababa.
3. By Car: You can hire a private car or taxi to travel from Addis Ababa to Dessie. The journey takes around 6-7 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.
It's always a good idea to plan your trip in advance and book your transportation tickets in advance to avoid inconvenience.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Dessie, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Dessie

Here are some typical foods from Dessie, Ethiopia, along with a brief description of each: 1. Injera: A sourdough flatbread made from fermented teff flour. Injera is a staple food in Ethiopia and is traditionally used as a utensil to scoop up stews and other dishes.
2. Doro Wat: A spicy chicken stew made with onions, garlic, and berbere spice (a blend of chili peppers, ginger, garlic, and other spices). Doro Wat is commonly served with injera.
3. Tibs: A dish made with sautéed beef or lamb and vegetables such as onions and tomato. Tibs can be served plain or with a spicy berbere sauce.
4. Kitfo: A dish made with raw ground beef or lamb mixed with spices and served with injera. Kitfo is often served as an appetizer or snack.
5. Shiro: A thick stew made with ground chickpeas or lentils and spices such as garlic and ginger. Shiro can be served with injera or other bread.
6. Genfo: A porridge made from roasted barley or wheat flour and served with butter or honey. Genfo is a common breakfast food in Ethiopia. These are just a few examples of the delicious foods you can enjoy in Dessie, Ethiopia.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ethiopia here.

Is Dessie an expensive destination for tourists?

Dessie is not a highly sought after tourist destination, but it is not necessarily an expensive one. The cost of living in Dessie may be lower than in other more popular destinations in Ethiopia, such as Addis Ababa or Lalibela. However, as with any travel destination, the cost will depend on your accommodation, transportation, and activities. It is always a good idea to research and plan ahead to get the best deals and make the most out of your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Dessie

In Dessie, the best areas to find accommodation would be within the city center or in areas such as Asebot, Abede and Bole. These areas would provide easy access to the key attractions and facilities of the city, including museums, restaurants, shops, and transportation hubs. Additionally, there are a number of guest houses and hotels available in these areas, offering a range of prices and accommodations to suit different traveler preferences.
You can check hotel prices at Dessie here:
Booking.com

Is Dessie a safe destination for tourists?

The city of Dessie in Ethiopia is generally considered a safe place for tourists, especially if you take standard safety precautions such as avoiding deserted areas at night and not leaving valuables unattended. However, it is always recommended to research the latest travel advisories and warnings for any destination you plan to visit and to exercise caution and good judgment while traveling. It is also important to respect local customs and traditions and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ethiopia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Dessie.

What type of travelers will enjoy Dessie the most?

Dessie, Ethiopia is a great destination for all types of travelers, including couples, young people, and families. There are several attractions in Dessie that cater to different interests, so everyone is sure to find something to do. Couples looking for a romantic getaway can visit the beautiful Biete Medhane Alem church or hike in the stunning highlands surrounding the city. Younger travelers looking for fun can go to the local markets, attend traditional dance performances, or explore the local nightlife scene. Families can visit the Sof Omar cave complex, or go on a wildlife safari in the nearby Bale Mountains National Park.
Overall, Dessie offers something for everyone, and all types of travelers are sure to enjoy their time exploring the city and surrounding areas.

How to get around Dessie

In Dessie, the most common means of transportation are buses, taxis, and three-wheeled vehicles commonly known as "Bajaj." Buses are the cheapest option for long-distance travel within and outside of the city. Taxis and Bajajs are better suited for short distances within the city.

What to see around Dessie

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Dessie, Ethiopia: 1. Kombolcha: Located just 17 km north of Dessie, Kombolcha is a bustling market town known for its colorful markets and traditional crafts.
2. Hayk: Hayk is a beautiful lake located about 25 km south of Dessie. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, enjoy a picnic, and go fishing.
3. Bati: Bati is a small town located about 70 km north of Dessie. It is known for its camel market, where traders from all over the region come to buy and sell camels.
4. Fentale: Fentale is a stunning volcano located about 100 km south of Dessie. Visitors can climb to the top of the volcano and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding region.
5. Lalibela: While Lalibela is a bit further from Dessie (about 300 km), it is definitely worth a visit. The town is famous for its eleven rock-cut churches, which are considered some of the most impressive examples of Ethiopian medieval architecture.
For every travel information about Ethiopia you can click here.

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