Shire - Discovering Ethiopia

Travelling to Shire

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Shire, 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 Shire 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 Shire, 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 Shire for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Shire

Shire is a town located in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. It has an estimated population of around 100,000 people and is situated at an elevation of 2084 meters above sea level. Shire is known for its bustling market, where visitors can find traditional handicrafts, clothing, and food. The town is also a gateway to the Simien Mountains National Park, a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The predominant religion in Shire is Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, and the town is home to several monasteries and churches. The local language spoken in Shire is Tigrinya, although many people also speak Amharic and English.

What to visit in Shire

Shire is located in the northern part of Ethiopia and is a well-known tourist destination. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Shire: 1. Yeha Temple - One of the oldest structures in Ethiopia, the Yeha Temple dates back to the 7th century BC. It is a remarkable architectural gem that represents the country’s ancient history.
2. Debre Damo Monastery - An ancient monastery located on a cliff in the region, accessible only by a rope pulley, Debre Damo Monastery is a beautiful monument that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains.
3. Hawzien Rock Churches - Located near Shire, the Hawzien Rock Churches is a group of monolithic churches made out of rock. These churches are carved out of solid rock, and each church has its unique design.
4. Danakil Depression - The lowest point in Afar, the Danakil Depression is a unique landscape that will amaze you with its sulfuric gases, salt flats, hot springs, and active volcanoes.
5. Axum Historical Sites - The Axum Historical Sites contains ruins of ancient structures such as the Great Stele of Axum, an enormous stone obelisk that towers over 23 meters high.
6. Tigray Churches - Scattered throughout the region are the Tigray Churches. Still active churches, some of these ancient structures date back to the 4th century, carved out of stone on top of steep mountains that offer breathtaking views.
In summary, Shire is a place full of historical and cultural richness, and it is gradually becoming an essential destination for tourists visiting Ethiopia.
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.

When to go on holiday to Shire

The best time to visit Shire in Ethiopia is from late October to mid-February. During this period, the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing and cultural tours. The temperature is also more comfortable during this time as it is typically around 20-25°C during the day and drops slightly at night. The rainy season in Shire runs from late June to early October, which can make travel and sightseeing more difficult.

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

How to get to Shire

Shire is a city located in the Tigray Region of Ethiopia. To get there, you can fly to the nearest international airport, which is the Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Alula Aba Nega Airport in Mekelle, which is the closest airport to Shire. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive from Addis Ababa to Shire. The journey by bus takes approximately 15-18 hours and there are several bus companies that operate on this route. It is recommended to book your bus tickets in advance to secure your seats. Driving to Shire takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. It is important to note that the Tigray region has recently been affected by conflict, so it is recommended to check the current situation and consult with local authorities before planning a trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Shire, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Shire

Shire is a town located in the northern Tigray region of Ethiopia. Here are some of the typical foods of Shire: 1. Tihlo - Tihlo is a popular Ethiopian dish made from roasted barley flour mixed with butter and often served with meat stews or vegetables.
2. Injera - Injera is a type of sourdough flatbread that is a staple in Ethiopian cuisine. It is made from teff flour and is used to scoop up stews and other dishes.
3. Kitfo - Kitfo is a traditional Ethiopian dish made of raw minced beef marinated in spices and served with injera.
4. Doro Wat - Doro Wat is a spicy, slow-cooked chicken stew that is often considered the national dish of Ethiopia. It is usually served with injera.
5. Shiro - Shiro is a thick stew made from ground chickpeas or lentils, seasoned with spices and often served with injera.
6. Tsebhi Birsen - Tsebhi Birsen is a goat meat stew that is rich and spicy in flavor. It is often served with injera.
7. Tibs - Tibs is a stir-fry dish made with beef, lamb, or chicken, often mixed with vegetables and served with injera.
8. Tella - Tella is a traditional beer made from fermented teff flour, barley, or maize.
These foods are a must-try for anyone visiting Shire!
You can find general info about typical foods in Ethiopia here.

Is Shire an expensive destination for tourists?

Shire, Ethiopia is not known as a major tourist destination, so prices for accommodations, food, and activities may not be as high as in more popular destinations. However, it is always best to research the latest prices before planning a trip as prices can vary depending on the season and availability. It's also worth noting that transportation costs to get to Shire may be higher due to its remote location.

Where to find accomodation in Shire

In Shire, I would recommend looking for accommodation in and around the city center or the main market area. This is where you will find a variety of budget hotels and guesthouses to choose from. Popular options include Felina Hotel, Azmera Hotel, and Haile Resort. There are also some upscale lodges and resorts located outside the city, such as Gheralta Lodge and Korkor Lodge, which offer a more luxurious stay. It's best to book in advance to ensure you have a comfortable and affordable place to stay during your visit to Shire.
You can check hotel prices at Shire here:
Booking.com

Is Shire a safe destination for tourists?

Shire is located in the Tigray region of Ethiopia which has experienced conflict and security issues in the past few months. Therefore, it is currently not considered a safe place for tourists. The U.S Department of State has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory (Do Not Travel) for the Tigray region due to ongoing conflict and communication disruptions. It is important to stay up to date on the latest travel advisories and safety concerns before planning to travel to this or any other destination.
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 Shire.

What type of travelers will enjoy Shire the most?

Shire is a small town located in northern Ethiopia, surrounded by beautiful mountains, lakes, and forests. It is a great destination for nature lovers and those who are interested in exploring Ethiopia's rural areas. Shire is a family-friendly destination, as it offers many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and bird-watching. Families can also visit nearby traditional villages and learn about the culture and customs of the local people.
Couples who love nature and peace and quiet will also enjoy Shire. They can take romantic walks in nature, enjoy a picnic lunch in the mountains, and watch the sunset over the beautiful landscape.
Young people who are looking for exciting nightlife and parties may not find Shire to be the best option. However, there are plenty of adventure activities available such as trekking and mountain biking.
Overall, Shire is a perfect destination for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get a taste of rural Ethiopia.

How to get around Shire

To move around Shire in Ethiopia, you can use various modes of transportation such as buses, taxis, and minibuses. Buses are the most common and affordable mode of transportation in Shire, and they connect major cities and towns. Taxis are also available in most cities and towns, and they offer a more convenient and comfortable transport option, but they can be more expensive. Minibuses are small public vehicles that also operate between towns and cities and are affordable and convenient for short distances. Additionally, you can also hire a car with a driver or rent a car for self-drive if you prefer to have more control and flexibility on your travels.

What to see around Shire

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Shire in Ethiopia: 1. Hawzien - A town known for its rock-hewn churches and stunning landscape.
2. Axum - A city famous for its ancient ruins and historical significance.
3. Simien Mountains National Park - A stunning natural reserve with hiking trails, waterfalls, and unique wildlife.
4. Adwa Mountains - A mountain range known for its rich history and scenic views.
5. Maryam Korkor Monastery - A historic monastery located in a scenic location.
6. Lake Ashenge - A beautiful lake surrounded by mountains and forests, perfect for a picnic or boat ride.
7. Debark - A small town located at the entrance of the Simien Mountains National Park, known for its traditional market and local handicrafts.
8. Yeha Temple - An ancient temple that dates back to the 8th century BC, known for its archaeological significance and unique architecture.
For every travel information about Ethiopia you can click here.

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