Melka Kunture Prehistoric Site
መልካ ቁንጡሬ
One of Africa's most important Stone Age sites, Melka Kunture preserves layers of hand-axes, obsidian tools and hominin remains along the upper Awash. Small site museums built over the actual excavation trenches let you see archaeology exactly where it was found.
☀️ Local tip
Usually combined with Adadi Mariam and Tiya in one southern loop day trip; the open-air walk is hot at midday, so bring a hat and water.
More like this
Adadi Mariam Rock-Hewn Church
Outside Addis — 65km southwest
The southernmost Lalibela-style underground church, still in active worship
Bishoftu (Debre Zeit) Crater Lakes
Outside Addis — 47km southeast
A resort town ringed by volcanic lakes — kayaking, birdlife and lakeside lunches
Debre Libanos Monastery & the Portuguese Bridge
Outside Addis — 110km north
Sacred 13th-century monastery, gorge-edge bridge and wild gelada monkeys
Ensessa Kotteh Wildlife Rescue Centre (Born Free)
Outside Addis — 30km northwest (near Holeta)
Born Free's sanctuary for rescued lions, cheetahs and monkeys