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Portuguese Bridge

4.5
·92 reviews·Abaro, Ethiopia

Iconic suspension bridge in Lisbon or a historic gateway to Ethiopia's dramatic Jemma Gorge, offering stunning views and adventure.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning photos

CrowdMedium
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minor waterfall

Portuguese Bridge

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic suspension bridge in Lisbon or a historic gateway to Ethiopia's dramatic Jemma Gorge, offering stunning views and adventure.

4.5
(92 reviews)

"The views of the valley are incredible, and the hike is so much fun!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Choose the Right Bridge

Lisbon's Ponte 25 de Abril is iconic; Ethiopia's offers hiking & gorges. Know which 'Portuguese Bridge' you're visiting!

👟 Hike with Good Shoes

The path to the Ethiopian bridge can be steep. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must for enjoying the hike.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ponte 25 de Abril Views

Ponte 25 de Abril Views

Lisbon, Portugal

Iconic suspension bridge offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River.

Debre Libanos Gorge

Debre Libanos Gorge

Near Debre Libanos, Ethiopia

Dramatic canyon vistas and lush greenery surround this historic bridge, a gateway to Ethiopia's 'Grand Canyon'.

Sunset Spectacle

Sunset Spectacle

Portuguese Bridge, Ethiopia

Witness one of the most beautiful sunsets of your life painting the Ethiopian landscape with vibrant colors.

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Planning Your Visit

Choose Your Portuguese Bridge

Portugal boasts multiple 'Portuguese Bridges'! The most famous is Lisbon's Ponte 25 de Abril, often compared to the Golden Gate. For a unique adventure, consider the Portuguese Bridge near Debre Libanos, Ethiopia, offering stunning gorge views and hiking.

Ethiopian Bridge: Day Trip Essentials

The Portuguese Bridge in Ethiopia is best accessed via a day trip from Addis Ababa. Opt for local tour operators to avoid inflated prices. Pack sturdy shoes for hiking and be prepared for steep paths to reach the best viewpoints.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for stunning photos
Crowd
Medium
When
End of rainy season
Why
Lush green landscapes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

and at that exact moment I realized I’m actually afraid of heights… but very proud of myself bc I ended up crossing the bridge back and forth and watching one of the most beautiful sunsets of my life💔 📍Dom Luís I Bridge #portugaltiktok #portocity #visitporto #travelportugal
@ugc.uli
216.2K likes • 2.7M views

🎯 Choose the Right Bridge

Lisbon's Ponte 25 de Abril is iconic; Ethiopia's offers hiking & gorges. Know which 'Portuguese Bridge' you're visiting! TikTokInstagram

👟 Hike with Good Shoes

The path to the Ethiopian bridge can be steep. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must for enjoying the hike. InstagramReddit

construcción del puente que divide a Lara portuguesa
@antonella.20_15
32K likes • 965.1K views
Join Our Exclusive Day Trip to Debre Libanos & Portuguese Bridge Every Weekend & Weekdays Explore Ethiopia’s historic monastery, hike to the legendary cave of St. Tekle Haymanot, enjoy breathtaking views of Jemma Gorge, and walk across the iconic Portuguese Bridge — all in one unforgettable day! Spot wild Gelada baboons and marvel at rushing waterfalls in the scenic Ethiopian Highlands. Departur...
beki_kibret
13 likes • 367 views

💰 Book Local Ethiopian Tours

Avoid expensive international operators for Ethiopian day trips; book directly with local guides for better value. Reddit

📸 Capture the Sunset

The sunset views from the Ethiopian bridge are legendary. Plan your visit to catch this magical spectacle. TikTok

Portuguese Bridge, Debre Libanos #travelhabesha #tobiyahiking
tobiyahiking
268 likes • 8.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Choose the Right Bridge

Lisbon's Ponte 25 de Abril is iconic; Ethiopia's offers hiking & gorges. Know which 'Portuguese Bridge' you're visiting! TikTokInstagram

👟 Hike with Good Shoes

The path to the Ethiopian bridge can be steep. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must for enjoying the hike. InstagramReddit

💰 Book Local Ethiopian Tours

Avoid expensive international operators for Ethiopian day trips; book directly with local guides for better value. Reddit

📸 Capture the Sunset

The sunset views from the Ethiopian bridge are legendary. Plan your visit to catch this magical spectacle. TikTok

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially if hiking in Ethiopia, carry plenty of water. The terrain can be challenging and the sun intense. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(92 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by the spectacular views offered by both Portuguese Bridges, whether it's the iconic urban panorama of Lisbon's Ponte 25 de Abril or the dramatic gorge vistas near Debre Libanos in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian location is particularly praised for its lush scenery and hiking opportunities, though some find the journey challenging for the bridge itself. Booking local Ethiopian tours is highly recommended for value.

"Even though the bridge has been rather rebuild than restored, the views of the valley are incredible. Now at the end of the rainy season everything is lush green. The path is steep but its really worth a visit."

C N

"Highly recommend visiting this area, beautiful part of Ethiopia, easy as a, day trip from Addis 10/10"

Jamie NS

"It's not worth travelling as it's too far and nothing interesting and difficult to walk to it, just a little bridge. Only the view is beautiful among mountains. If you have options, go on a real trip like Safari or Cultural to see authentic Ethiopia."

Habib

What People Like

Incredible gorge views
Lush green landscapes
Iconic bridge architecture

What People Dislike

Steep, challenging paths
Can feel far for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ponte 25 de Abril in Lisbon is easily accessible by public transport. You can take buses or trams that pass over or near the bridge. Driving is also an option, but be aware of tolls. TikTok

The Portuguese Bridge near Debre Libanos is best visited as a day trip from Addis Ababa. Hiring a local guide or joining a tour is highly recommended for ease of access and local insights. InstagramReddit

It's a manageable day trip, typically taking a few hours to reach by car from Addis Ababa, depending on traffic and road conditions. Instagram

Public transport directly to the bridge is limited. Most visitors opt for organized tours or private car hires from Addis Ababa for convenience. Instagram

While you can walk to the bridge itself, the surrounding area and viewpoints often require hiking on steep paths. Ensure you have appropriate footwear. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no specific entry tickets to walk or drive across the Ponte 25 de Abril. However, there are tolls for vehicles crossing the bridge. TikTok

While the bridge itself is accessible, some tours or organized trips might include entrance fees for the surrounding park or specific viewpoints. It's best to confirm with your tour operator. Instagram

The area is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific monastery visiting hours or tour schedules should be checked in advance. Instagram

For the Lisbon bridge, vehicle restrictions might apply during certain events. For the Ethiopian bridge, be mindful of the terrain and weather conditions. TikTok

Yes, you can visit independently, but hiring a local guide or joining a tour is highly recommended for the best experience and to navigate the terrain safely. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Visitors can hike to viewpoints, admire the gorge, visit nearby caves and monasteries, and enjoy the stunning natural scenery. InstagramReddit

The bridge itself is generally safe, but the paths leading to viewpoints can be steep and uneven. Exercise caution and wear appropriate footwear. TikTokReddit

Expect breathtaking panoramic views of a vast gorge, lush green landscapes (especially after rain), and dramatic rock formations. InstagramReddit

While primarily a road bridge, there are pedestrian walkways on the sides, offering a unique perspective of the city and river. TikTok

Yes, it's possible to spot Gelada baboons and other wildlife in the Debre Libanos area, adding to the adventure. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints overlooking the gorge offer spectacular photo opportunities. The bridge itself, especially during sunset, is also a prime subject. TikTokInstagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone, especially near protected areas or monasteries. TikTok

Late afternoon for the golden hour and sunset provides the most dramatic lighting. Early morning can also offer beautiful, soft light. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Instagram

Yes, some tour operators in Addis Ababa offer photography-focused day trips that can take you to the best vantage points. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families, the Ponte 25 de Abril in Lisbon offers a relatively accessible experience. While walking across the entire bridge might be a bit much for very young children, the surrounding areas provide great views and photo opportunities. Consider a short walk on the pedestrian path for a taste of its grandeur. TikTok

In Ethiopia, the Portuguese Bridge experience is more suited for families with older children who enjoy hiking and nature. The steep paths require good stamina and caution. However, the reward of stunning gorge views and the chance to see wildlife like Gelada baboons can be very engaging for adventurous kids. Ensure you pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Adventure Seekers

The Portuguese Bridge in Ethiopia is a dream destination for hikers. The challenging trails leading to panoramic viewpoints offer an exhilarating experience. The dramatic landscapes of the Jemma Gorge provide a stunning backdrop for any trek. InstagramReddit

Be prepared for steep ascents and descents, and always check weather conditions before you go. Local guides are invaluable for navigating the terrain and discovering the best routes. The combination of physical activity and breathtaking scenery makes this a highly rewarding adventure. Instagram

📸 Photographers

Both Portuguese Bridges offer incredible photographic opportunities. In Lisbon, the Ponte 25 de Abril provides iconic urban and riverine shots, especially during the golden hour. Capture its impressive structure against the city skyline. TikTok

The Ethiopian Portuguese Bridge is a paradise for landscape photographers. The vastness of the Jemma Gorge, the vibrant greenery, and the dramatic sunsets create unforgettable scenes. The bridge itself, set against this natural grandeur, makes for compelling compositions. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens for the expansive views and be ready for challenging light conditions during sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Two 'Portuguese Bridges'

When people refer to the 'Portuguese Bridge,' they might be talking about two very different, yet equally captivating, landmarks. The most globally recognized is the Ponte 25 de Abril in Lisbon, Portugal. This iconic suspension bridge spans the Tagus River and is often compared to San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge due to its striking red-orange hue and impressive engineering. It's a vital artery for the city and offers spectacular views for both drivers and pedestrians who venture onto its walkways. TikTok

In contrast, the Portuguese Bridge in Ethiopia, located near Debre Libanos, offers a more rugged and natural adventure. This historic bridge, with origins debated between the 16th and 19th centuries, serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Jemma Gorge, often dubbed the 'Grand Canyon' of Ethiopia. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls, making it a prime destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Instagram

Understanding which 'Portuguese Bridge' you're interested in is key to planning your visit. While Lisbon's bridge is an urban marvel, Ethiopia's offers a profound connection with nature and history, often involving challenging yet rewarding hikes. TikTokInstagram

Experiencing the Ethiopian Portuguese Bridge

A visit to the Portuguese Bridge in Ethiopia is an immersion into stunning natural beauty and a touch of history. The journey itself, often a day trip from Addis Ababa, is part of the experience. Travelers frequently highlight the breathtaking views of the Jemma Gorge, describing the landscape as lush and green, especially after the rainy season. The path to the bridge and its viewpoints can be steep, so comfortable and sturdy footwear is essential. InstagramReddit

Many visitors combine their trip to the bridge with visits to the nearby Debre Libanos Monastery and ancient caves, adding a cultural dimension to the adventure. The opportunity to spot wild Gelada baboons in their natural habitat is another significant draw for nature lovers. The experience is often described as a rewarding hike with spectacular scenery, making it a highly recommended excursion for those seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations in Ethiopia. Instagram+1

However, some reviews suggest that for those with limited time or seeking more conventional tourist attractions, the trek might feel arduous for 'just a little bridge.' The consensus leans towards recommending it for those who appreciate hiking, natural landscapes, and are looking for an authentic Ethiopian experience away from the city bustle. Reddit

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