Unity Park inside the National Palace is one of the newer designed parks in Addis Ababa where solos, friends, or families can spend a relaxing day. There’s food, lovely gardens, history, and animals.
Ticket Cost
Ethiopians
Regular = 300 birr
VIP = 500 birr
Foreigners
Regular = $20
VIP = $50
I had no problem paying the $20 entrance fee in ETB, which was 1070 on the day I visited. The attendant at the ticket window actually quoted us the price in birr.
If you desire, you could opt for the VIP experience that includes a tour and access to the former palace.
Park Grounds
Once you get your ticket and go through security, take a ride up the escalator to get to the front gates.
The grounds are lovely, and one of the first things that greet you is the big Ethiopia sign.
Black Lion
First up were the black lions. The black lions are separate from Unity Zoo.
Indigenous Garden
After walking through the cave, you will probably head towards the indigenous garden.
There are a variety of plants and vegetables growing in the area. I saw cabbage and onions.
As I was walking around, enjoying the views and the sunshine, I spotted an ice cream stand, so naturally, I had to stop to get a cone. However, if you are not quite in the mood for ice cream yet, don’t worry. You will pass more ice cream stands throughout the day.
Throne House
On the way to the Throne House, you can stop and view a car of former emperor Menelik.
The throne house is not overcrowded with artifacts. However, there are a few notable items and a life-like statue of Halie Selassie.
After viewing everything in the initial area, continue on to recount highlights of Ethiopia’s rich history, going from the Queen of Sheba to the different rulers throughout Ethiopian history.
Coming out of the Throne House, if you go down the stairs lined with beautiful flowers
You’ll walk into a massive courtyard with different restaurants, cafes, a few souvenir shops, a bookstore, and more ice cream stands.
Unity Zoo
The entrance to the zoo is in the courtyard.
I was particularly excited about the zoo because I wanted to see what kinds of animals were there.
Meerkats
Small walk-through aquarium
Cheetahs
Lions
Giraffes
And other animals. In the area were stands selling cotton candy and more ice cream.
There is also a walk-through aviary next to the zebras and wildebeests.
Wrap up
As you continue through the park, you will likely end up in the Regions Pavilion next. The pavilion highlights the different regions within Ethiopia.
Unity Park also offers a nice playground area for kids to play.
After you have enjoyed spending time in the park, on your way out, you can stop for some souvenirs (inventory was low on the day we went) or a cup of coffee.
To exit the park, you go back the way you came using the escalator or steps.
I enjoyed my time at the park; it was an excellent way to spend a Saturday afternoon. You could easily spend 2+ hours at the park if you decided to eat or use the playground.
Unity Park in Addis Ababa is definitely worth a visit.
Don’t forget to check out and my other experiences in Ethiopia.