Surrounded by an ancient walled fortress, Gondar was once a stronghold for Ethiopian emperors. The city is perched high in the north of the country and will captivate you with its fascinating history and heritage-listed castles.
Things to do in Gondar
Gondar lives up to its reputation as the “Camelot of Africa” and is peppered with ancient castles and fortresses. Built in the 16th century, the Fasil Ghebbi Royal Enclosure is surrounded by a 900-metre-long wall. Inside the monumental UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find beautiful palaces, castles, monasteries and churches.
Fasiladas’ Palace towers 32 metres over the royal compound and is topped with tooth-shaped battlements and soaring domed towers. On the first floor, the emperor’s prayer room commands sweeping views over the compound and its churches.
Just outside the Fasil Ghebbi Royal Enclosure is Debre Berhan Selassie, one of the oldest and most enchanting churches in Ethiopia. Inside the beautiful stone walls are colourful frescoes painted by the famous 17th-century Ethiopian artist, Haile Meskel.
Stepping into the bustling Saturday Market, you’ll be overwhelmed by the scents, sounds and colours of Africa. Shop for handmade souvenirs, stock up on fresh produce and exchange smiles with the friendly locals.
Gondar boasts some of the best restaurants in the country and is a fantastic place to discover Ethiopian cuisine. Save your appetite for spicy meat stews and vegetable curries served with delicious “injera” flatbread. Wash down your meal with a glass of “tej” honey wine while coffee aficionados love sampling the locally-grown beans.
Getting around Gondar
Taxis are often the fastest and most comfortable way to get around Gondar. You can also ride in horse-drawn taxis known as “garis” and three-wheeled motor vehicles called “bajajs”. Local buses and minibuses operate in the city centre and Gondar Airport is a 25-minute drive south.