Entoto Park — Attraction in Addis Ababa

Unfortunately, our visit to Entoto Park was very disappointing. Right at the beginning, a photographer at the main entrance approached us and started taking pictures without asking for our permission. Afterwards, we walked leisurely through the park and arrived at a café called Kaldi’s Coffee. I ordered a macchiato there – but it was basically just milk. When I complained, they offered to make a new one. However, the second and third attempts were just as bad. In the end, I still had to pay for all three coffees, which I found absolutely outrageous.

As we continued our walk, we arrived at the children’s activity area. Unfortunately, many activities were not functioning. For example, there were no working go-karts – only boring pedal-powered cars. Many restaurants and other attractions were closed, allegedly because there were not enough visitors. It was very disappointing, especially since these attractions were heavily advertised.

Another thing that really upset me was the entrance fee. I had to pay 1000 birr just because I don’t have an Ethiopian passport, even though I am originally Ethiopian. Children under 10 years old without an Ethiopian passport pay 500 birr, while Ethiopian citizens pay only 200 birr. I don’t mind paying a fair price, but with the poor condition of the park, it felt completely unreasonable.

At least the price for the pictures they take of you (30 birr each) was fair.

However, the worst experience came at the end of the day: We wanted to call a safe taxi through a ride app, just like we had done for the trip there. Outside the park, there were only old blue taxis in terrible condition. The police on site practically forced us to take one of these unsafe taxis. When we refused, the taxi drivers gave us angry looks, and the police intimidated us. Instead, we had no choice but to walk down through a dangerous forest and an unsafe neighborhood – with small children! It was extremely frightening and unsafe.

Overall, our visit to Entoto Park was a major disappointment. Many facilities were broken or closed, the service was poor, and the safety situation was alarming. I live in Switzerland but I am originally from Ethiopia, and it made me very sad to see the poor condition of what should be a beautiful park. Sadly, I cannot recommend visiting Entoto Park – especially not for families...

My experience at Entoto Park was one I won’t forget. The cold wind and high altitude didn’t compare to the fun we were about to have. First, the trampoline park was our first event. The basketball hoops and the super trampoline add to the excitement.

Second, we proceeded to the go-karts and this was what sold the experience for me the high speed, tight turns and drift, and your adrenaline going through the roof, I loved every part of it but I do wish it was a bit longer: 2 laps just ain't enough but I get it its a business after all.

Third, we made our way to the zipline only a brisk walk from the attractions we just went to. Here you become friends with fear and realize that all of life's greatest adventures are hidden behind fear. I sat as the instructor told me and leaped into the wind—feeling as if I could fly. Although it was cut short as the zipline ended, there were two more of those waiting for me and I think that just adds to the experience, but the 10 minutes I spent walking back to base, with our hear on could have been shorted by a dedicated route for zipliner to go back to base.

And lastly, the zipline Obstacle course. A mix of challenging courses with the laughs of your friends. This unique fast-paced and strategic approach adds a nice touch listen to your instructor, I didn't and I got my leg hit—mild pain that could have been avoided if I had just listened.

As the end of our time at Entoto Park came to an end, we admired the flower garden and the kids' playground on our way to Mama’s kitchen, where we had a really good fasting dining experience and the half-chicken looked like a buffet in itself. We devoured our food as we were hungry from all the attractions we had just gone through. To top it all off we had a surprise plate come in for a secret birthday 😉. The waiters and staff were honest and amazing, even asking about our experience (not a common thing in Ethiopia).

Overall for someone looking for a good time at a semi-high price, Entoro has managed to encompass the spirit of Ethiopia into every experience from the jokes our zipline instructor cracked to the staff at Mama’s kitchen who gave me the keys to the toilet. So come to Entoto and don't let your fears hold you back from having the experience...

My recent visit to Entoto Park in Ethiopia was nothing short of extraordinary. The park itself offered a serene and beautiful green space, complete with friendly horses and a picturesque environment. Entoto Park's commitment to cleanliness and the exceptional service I encountered during my stay truly left a lasting impression.

One of the standout aspects of my visit was the exceptional service provided by Aduna Abera. Aduna's warm and attentive demeanor added an extra layer of hospitality to our experience. He took the time to ensure our comfort by providing heaters for the chilly nights, and his delicious Ethiopian coffee, expertly prepared each morning and evening, was a delightful treat. Aduna's dedication to making our stay special was evident in every detail.

While most of our experience at Entoto Park was exceptional, I must mention a minor hiccup concerning the food. The pizza we ordered wasn't up to par, and on another occasion, the chips were not cooked properly. However, these were minor issues in an otherwise outstanding visit.

What truly stood out, beyond Aduna's excellent service, was the friendliness and professionalism of the entire staff, from the welcoming reception team to the helpful car park attendants. Their genuine warmth added to the overall inviting atmosphere of the park.

In conclusion, I highly recommend a visit to Entoto Park for its natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and the exceptional service provided by Aduna Abera and the entire staff. It's a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking for a tranquil escape. Despite the minor food issues, I'm eagerly looking forward to returning to this remarkable destination...