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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos

Portuguese Bridge
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic suspension bridge in Lisbon or a historic gateway to Ethiopia's dramatic Jemma Gorge, offering stunning views and adventure.
"The views of the valley are incredible, and the hike is so much fun!"

🎯 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ponte 25 de Abril Views
Lisbon, Portugal
Iconic suspension bridge offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River.

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
Portuguese Bridge, Ethiopia
Witness one of the most beautiful sunsets of your life painting the Ethiopian landscape with vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Portuguese Bridge
Ethiopian Bridge: Day Trip Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
💰 Book Local Ethiopian Tours
Avoid expensive international operators for Ethiopian day trips; book directly with local guides for better value.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views from the Ethiopian bridge are legendary. Plan your visit to catch this magical spectacle.
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!
👟 Hike with Good Shoes
The path to the Ethiopian bridge can be steep. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must for enjoying the hike.
💰 Book Local Ethiopian Tours
Avoid expensive international operators for Ethiopian day trips; book directly with local guides for better value.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views from the Ethiopian bridge are legendary. Plan your visit to catch this magical spectacle.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if hiking in Ethiopia, carry plenty of water. The terrain can be challenging and the sun intense.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
It's a manageable day trip, typically taking a few hours to reach by car from Addis Ababa, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Public transport directly to the bridge is limited. Most visitors opt for organized tours or private car hires from Addis Ababa for convenience.
While you can walk to the bridge itself, the surrounding area and viewpoints often require hiking on steep paths. Ensure you have appropriate footwear.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
The area is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific monastery visiting hours or tour schedules should be checked in advance.
For the Lisbon bridge, vehicle restrictions might apply during certain events. For the Ethiopian bridge, be mindful of the terrain and weather conditions.
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.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can hike to viewpoints, admire the gorge, visit nearby caves and monasteries, and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.
The bridge itself is generally safe, but the paths leading to viewpoints can be steep and uneven. Exercise caution and wear appropriate footwear.
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of a vast gorge, lush green landscapes (especially after rain), and dramatic rock formations.
While primarily a road bridge, there are pedestrian walkways on the sides, offering a unique perspective of the city and river.
Yes, it's possible to spot Gelada baboons and other wildlife in the Debre Libanos area, adding to the adventure.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints overlooking the gorge offer spectacular photo opportunities. The bridge itself, especially during sunset, is also a prime subject.
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.
Late afternoon for the golden hour and sunset provides the most dramatic lighting. Early morning can also offer beautiful, soft light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
Yes, some tour operators in Addis Ababa offer photography-focused day trips that can take you to the best vantage points.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Adventure Seekers
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.
📸 Photographers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Two 'Portuguese Bridges'
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.
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.
Experiencing the Ethiopian Portuguese Bridge
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.
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.


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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit