Unity Park National Palace
A captivating blend of Ethiopia's history, culture, and nature within the historic National Palace grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Unity Park National Palace
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A captivating blend of Ethiopia's history, culture, and nature within the historic National Palace grounds.
"A beautifully envisioned and executed attraction, with a rich weave of history, culture, and natural beauty."
Allocate Ample Time
Give yourself at least 3-4 hours to explore everything. It's a large park with much to see! :stopwatch:
Foreigner Ticket Price
Expect to pay around $18-$20 USD for foreigner tickets. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ethiopian History Museums
National Palace Compound
Explore artifacts and exhibits detailing Ethiopia's rich past, from ancient times to modern history.
Unity Zoo
Unity Park
See a variety of indigenous Ethiopian wildlife, including lions, zebras, and baboons.
Imperial Residences
National Palace Compound
Step back in time by visiting the former residences of Emperor Menelik II and Haile Selassie.
Cultural Pavilions
Unity Park
Discover the diverse cultures and traditions of Ethiopia's various regions in beautifully designed pavilions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Unity Park
Tickets and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Ample Time
Give yourself at least 3-4 hours to explore everything. It's a large park with much to see! :stopwatch:
Foreigner Ticket Price
Expect to pay around $18-$20 USD for foreigner tickets. :moneybag:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the exhibits and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Architecture
The buildings and gardens are stunning, perfect for photos. 
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Ample Time
Give yourself at least 3-4 hours to explore everything. It's a large park with much to see! :stopwatch:
Foreigner Ticket Price
Expect to pay around $18-$20 USD for foreigner tickets. :moneybag:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the exhibits and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Architecture
The buildings and gardens are stunning, perfect for photos.
Educational Experience
It's a great place to learn about Ethiopian history and culture. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Unity Park for its beauty, security, and educational value, offering a comprehensive look at Ethiopian history, culture, and wildlife. While the foreigner ticket price is noted as being on the higher side, most agree it's a worthwhile investment for the experience. Some minor service challenges are occasionally mentioned, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
"Beautiful park, very secure and worth every minute. It has a variety of animals, good restaurants and easy to go around. It takes a few hours to complete the full circle but worth every time, you get to check out the History and the artefacts."
Imran Chiposyo
"Beautiful park, takes at least a couple of hours to visit fully. It has a zoo (included in the entrance ticket) and many buildings to visit. It will give you a lot of information about Ethiopia and its history. A must see! For foreigners, the ticket costs 18 $."
Marcello Panzone
"Unity park is one of the higher end parks in Addis. It includes museums about the history of Ethiopia, and zoos featuring zebras, lions, giraffes, wild dogs, baboons, something that lived underground, and fishes. This park also highlighted the different regions and cultures of Ethiopia.
The tickets are a bit on the pricey side for foreigners, USD 20 per person (including those with Residents ID). Overall, the park was educational and fun, even for kids."
KKG
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Unity Park is located within the National Palace compound in Addis Ababa. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services. Many visitors mention using taxis to get around the city. +1
Yes, Unity Park is a popular tourist destination and is generally easy to access. It's a well-known landmark within Addis Ababa.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps are common and convenient for getting around Addis Ababa. Some locals might also use public transport, but for tourists, taxis offer more direct access. +1
Unity Park is situated within the National Palace, a significant historical site itself. It's also near Meskel Square, a major public square in Addis Ababa.
This depends on your hotel's location. Addis Ababa is a large city, so it's advisable to check distances on a map or use a taxi for convenience, especially if you're not staying very close by.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For foreigners, the entrance fee is typically around $18-$20 USD. This price usually includes access to the zoo and all the historical exhibits within the park. +1
While advance booking might not always be strictly necessary, it's a good idea to check their official website or inquire locally, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
Yes, there are different pricing tiers. Foreigners pay a higher rate (around $18-$20 USD) compared to locals or residents.
The ticket generally covers entry to the zoo, historical museums, imperial residences, and cultural pavilions within the park. +1
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open daily. It's recommended to confirm the current operating hours before your visit, as they might change.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Unity Park boasts a zoo with diverse wildlife, historical museums showcasing Ethiopian heritage, the former imperial palaces, and cultural pavilions representing different regions.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the park, as there's a lot to see and learn. +1
Yes, Unity Park features a zoo with a variety of animals, including lions, zebras, and baboons, which is included in the entrance ticket. +1
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of Unity Park, but it's always good to be mindful of any specific restrictions in certain exhibits or buildings. The architecture and gardens are very photogenic.
Yes, Unity Park has restaurants and coffee shops where you can dine and relax during your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Unity Park offers dining options, including restaurants and coffee shops, allowing visitors to enjoy meals within the park.
The restaurants inside Unity Park likely offer a mix of Ethiopian cuisine and international options, catering to diverse tastes.
Dining prices within tourist attractions can sometimes be higher. It's advisable to check menus or ask for price indications before ordering.
Information on bringing outside food and drinks is not widely available. It's best to check the park's official policy or assume that outside food might be restricted.
Ethiopian cuisine is rich in vegetarian and vegan dishes (like 'beyaynetu'). It's likely that the restaurants within Unity Park will offer these traditional options.
📸 📸 Photography
The stunning architecture of the palaces, the diverse wildlife in the zoo, the beautifully landscaped gardens, and the cultural pavilions offer numerous photo opportunities.
Photography rules can vary within specific exhibits. While general park photography is encouraged, it's wise to look for signage or ask staff about restrictions inside museums or imperial residences.
Mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for photography. Weekdays are also better for avoiding crowds and getting unobstructed shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and national palaces due to security and privacy concerns. It's highly unlikely to be permitted.
Capturing the grandeur of the imperial palaces and the vibrant displays in the cultural pavilions are highly recommended for memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid peak crowds, making it easier to navigate with children. The park's educational aspect also makes it a valuable outing, allowing kids to learn about Ethiopian history and wildlife in a fun and accessible way.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to capture the diverse wildlife in the zoo and the vibrant displays within the cultural pavilions. +1Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light. Visiting on a weekday will also help you get clearer shots without the distraction of large crowds. Be mindful of any specific photography restrictions within the museums or imperial residences.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to absorb the details in the cultural pavilions, which showcase the heritage of Ethiopia's diverse ethnic groups. This comprehensive approach to history makes Unity Park an incredibly rewarding experience for those seeking to understand the country's past and present.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ethiopia's Rich History at Unity Park
The park also houses extensive museums dedicated to Ethiopian history and culture. These exhibits cover a vast timeline, from ancient civilizations and the Axumite Kingdom to the struggles for independence and modern nation-building. You'll find artifacts, historical documents, and informative displays that bring the nation's past to life.
Beyond the palaces and museums, Unity Park highlights the diversity of Ethiopia's ethnic groups and their unique traditions. The cultural pavilions are designed to represent different regions, showcasing their distinct architecture, customs, and art forms. This immersive experience allows visitors to appreciate the rich tapestry of Ethiopian heritage in one accessible location.
The Natural Wonders of Unity Park
Complementing the zoo are the Botanical Gardens, which feature a wide array of indigenous plants and trees. These gardens are meticulously maintained, providing a serene and green environment for visitors to explore. It's a testament to Ethiopia's rich flora and the park's commitment to conservation.
+1The park's design also incorporates aquariums and other natural exhibits, further enhancing its appeal as a destination for nature lovers. These elements, combined with the historical and cultural attractions, create a holistic experience that educates and entertains visitors about Ethiopia's natural and historical treasures.
Practicalities for Visiting Unity Park
For international visitors, the ticket price is approximately $18-$20 USD. While this might seem higher compared to some local attractions, it's generally considered worthwhile for the comprehensive and educational experience provided. The ticket typically includes access to all main attractions, including the zoo.
Comfort is key during your visit. Given the extensive walking involved, wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended. The park's layout encourages exploration on foot, and you'll want to be prepared for several hours of walking.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit