Gullele Botanical Garden
A breathtaking green sanctuary offering panoramic city views, camping, and a connection with nature at Addis Ababa's highest peak.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Gullele Botanical Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking green sanctuary offering panoramic city views, camping, and a connection with nature at Addis Ababa's highest peak.
"A magical night followed with some hiking. I highly recommend!!"
📞 Book Camping in Advance
Secure your tent, parking, and safety by calling ahead. Ensures privacy and a magical camping experience.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and hiking involved. Explore the vast grounds with ease.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Highest peak in Addis Ababa
Experience breathtaking vistas of Addis Ababa from the garden's highest point. Perfect for photos and soaking in the cityscape.
Nature's Embrace
Throughout the garden
Wander through lush greenery, discover beautiful flowers, and connect with nature in this expansive green refuge.
Camping Under the Stars
Designated camping areas
Enjoy a magical night with cozy tents, campfire dinners, and live music. A unique experience combining nature and comfort.
Architectural Gems
Various locations within the garden
Explore unique architectural designs, including 'The Agora,' showcasing Ethiopian creativity amidst nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Safety First
Timing is Everything for Picnics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📞 Book Camping in Advance
Secure your tent, parking, and safety by calling ahead. Ensures privacy and a magical camping experience.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and hiking involved. Explore the vast grounds with ease.
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
Ideal for birthdays, weddings, and general photoshoots with stunning backdrops.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
Enjoy this natural beauty for a small entrance fee, around 50 Birr per person.
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Book Camping in Advance
Secure your tent, parking, and safety by calling ahead. Ensures privacy and a magical camping experience.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and hiking involved. Explore the vast grounds with ease.
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
Ideal for birthdays, weddings, and general photoshoots with stunning backdrops.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
Enjoy this natural beauty for a small entrance fee, around 50 Birr per person.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
The garden offers convenient parking, making your visit hassle-free.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gullele Botanical Garden is praised as a beautiful green oasis and a great spot for picnics and photoshoots, offering a peaceful escape. Some visitors note it's similar to other gardens globally, but its natural setting and potential for wildlife encounters add a unique charm. Development is ongoing in some areas.
"It's a garden!
I think this is one of those places that's a fantastic green oasis if you live here... but if you're visiting, it's a bit like, uh, a garden just like many others in the world.
Nice flowers, places to walk, green grass. We saw heaps of people doing photo shoots for birthdays and weddings.
Lovely that Addis has some green refuge, but for a visitor experience, Entoto is much more unique and worth the trip."
Stacey Trock
"Great spot for seeing green forest and connecting with nature. one can host nice picnics here as well.
When I visited I saw lots of wedding photography. Some portion of the park is still under construction, can't wait to check back after it's complete"
Daniel
"I have a chance to come over this place, it was honestly breathtaking. It was the best camping I’ve ever had. We called ahead and made sure everything was in order. Our tents, parking space, and security was provided by them. I highly suggest doing the same. They made sure our privacy and safety was kept. There are boars, hyenas and leopards within the place. We got to see all except leopards. So don’t go unless you’re ready to see the wild animals at random time of the day and night. But as an overall experience it was a magical night followed with some hiking. I highly recommend!!"
Kidus Befekadu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gullele Botanical Garden is located on the outskirts of Addis Ababa. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
While direct public transport might be limited, local minibuses can get you close to the general area, from where you might need to take a short taxi ride. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are the most convenient options.
Gullele Botanical Garden offers parking facilities. It's advisable to confirm parking availability and any associated fees when booking camping or planning a visit.
Some areas of the garden are accessible, but due to its natural terrain and hilly landscape, certain paths might be challenging. It's best to inquire about specific accessible routes beforehand.
For group visits or events, it's recommended to contact the garden management in advance to discuss transportation options and arrangements.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is generally affordable, around 50 Ethiopian Birr per person. There might be separate charges for parking or specific activities.
For general entry, booking in advance is usually not required. However, if you plan to camp or attend a special event, advance booking is highly recommended.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. For camping, arrangements are made for overnight stays. It's best to check their official channels or call ahead for the most current information.
Discounts may be available for special events or group bookings. Keep an eye on local event listings or social media for promotional offers.
Camping packages often include guided hiking, tent accommodation, campfire dinner, live music, breakfast, and entrance fees. Prices can vary, so confirm details when booking.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, picnicking, photography, bird watching, and camping. Some areas are also suitable for events like birthdays and weddings.
The garden is a natural reserve and home to wildlife like boars and hyenas. While sightings are possible, it's advised to be cautious and follow safety guidelines, especially during camping.
Guided hiking tours are often part of camping packages and can be arranged for other visitors. Inquiring at the entrance or with tour operators is recommended.
Yes, Gullele Botanical Garden is a popular spot for picnics. There are many scenic spots perfect for enjoying a meal amidst nature.
Facilities can vary, but you can expect parking and designated areas for activities. Some parts may still be under development, so amenities might be limited in certain sections.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Currently, there are no major restaurants or cafes within the garden. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks for picnics or day visits.
Camping packages typically include campfire dinners and breakfast with fresh coffee. These are usually part of the organized experience.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged for picnics, allowing you to enjoy a personalized dining experience in nature.
While the garden is somewhat secluded, you can find various dining options back in Addis Ababa city center after your visit.
Information regarding alcohol consumption is not widely available. It's best to check with the garden management or adhere to general park regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The highest peak offers stunning cityscapes, while various floral sections and natural landscapes provide beautiful backdrops for nature photography. The architectural elements also make for unique shots.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, for commercial photoshoots or professional filming, you might need to seek permission or pay a fee.
Yes, Gullele Botanical Garden is a very popular location for wedding and birthday photoshoots due to its beautiful scenery.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, creating a soft, golden glow. The panoramic views are also spectacular at sunset.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in natural reserves and urban areas. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the garden management regarding drone policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours for a safe and enjoyable experience. The open spaces are perfect for games, and the variety of plants can be educational for younger visitors. If planning a longer stay or camping, ensure all safety precautions are discussed beforehand.
💰 Budget Travelers
For an even more economical experience, consider visiting during weekdays when it might be less crowded and potentially more peaceful. While camping packages offer a comprehensive experience, a day visit allows you to enjoy the garden's beauty without significant expense.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Content creators will find ample opportunities to capture engaging visuals, from serene nature shots to dynamic event coverage. Remember to check for any specific regulations regarding commercial photography or drone usage to ensure a smooth creative process.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Gullele's Natural Wonders
Beyond the visual appeal, Gullele serves as a vital ecological refuge. It's home to various plant species and provides a habitat for local wildlife. While the garden is a place of peace, it's important to remember that it is a natural reserve. Visitors might encounter wildlife such as boars and hyenas, especially if they opt for overnight stays. This adds an element of adventure to the experience, but also necessitates caution and preparedness.
For those seeking a more active engagement with nature, hiking is a popular activity. The garden's elevated position offers opportunities for treks with rewarding views. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Gullele Botanical Garden offers a unique blend of natural beauty and serene ambiance.
Camping and Stargazing Adventures
The garden's location at the highest peak in Addis Ababa provides an exceptional setting for stargazing. Away from the city's light pollution, the night sky reveals its full splendor, offering a breathtaking celestial display. This makes Gullele a prime spot for those looking to connect with the cosmos.
Safety and comfort are prioritized for campers. It's highly recommended to call ahead to arrange tents, parking, and security, ensuring a private and secure stay. This proactive approach allows visitors to fully relax and enjoy the unforgettable moments of camping at Gullele.
Architectural Highlights and Artistic Expression
These architectural interventions are thoughtfully integrated into the environment, providing aesthetically pleasing spaces for visitors to explore and appreciate. They stand as testaments to Ethiopian creativity and contribute to the garden's overall charm and appeal.
Beyond permanent structures, the garden also serves as a venue for various events, including musical performances and art installations, further enriching the visitor experience with cultural and artistic expressions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit