About Bole

Bole is the district of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's capital, that's home to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), about 6km southeast of the city center. It's a mix of modern development and long-established neighborhoods, with sub-areas including Bole Medhaneialem (around the Medhane Alem Cathedral), Bole Arabsa, CMC, and Atlas - each with a somewhat different character, from busy commercial strips near the airport to quieter residential streets further out.

Getting to Bole

From within Ethiopia

Bole is part of Addis Ababa itself and well-connected to the rest of the city by taxi and ride-hailing apps.

Arriving from abroad

International visitors fly directly into Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), located within the district - many hotels here are just minutes from the terminal.

Where to Stay in Bole

With around 229 properties listed, options span every budget:

• Ethiopian Skylight Hotel and Golden Tulip Addis Ababa - well-known upscale options close to the airport.
• Skylight In-Terminal Hotel - located directly inside the airport terminal, ideal for short layovers.
• Hotel Lobelia and Best Western Plus Addis Ababa - well-reviewed mid-range choices.

Compare live USD pricing, guest ratings, and exact locations directly on Traveloka before booking.

Things to Do in Bole

• Medhane Alem Cathedral - a major Ethiopian Orthodox cathedral in the Bole Medhaneialem area, one of the largest churches in Addis Ababa.
• Millennium Hall - a large event and exhibition venue on Airport Road, hosting trade shows, concerts, and conferences.
• Bole's restaurants and cafes, especially around Bole Medhaneialem, are a good introduction to Ethiopian cuisine and coffee culture before venturing further into the city.

Local Tips

The local currency is the Ethiopian birr (ETB), though Traveloka displays and books hotel rates in USD. Uber does not operate in Ethiopia, but local ride-hailing apps like Ride, Feres, and Yango are available; for street taxis, agree on a fare before the ride since meters aren't always used. Ethiopia's emergency numbers are 991 (police) and 907 (ambulance).

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, roughly October through May, offers the most reliable weather, with October-March generally the mildest and clearest. The rainy season (June-September) brings the heaviest rain in July and August, though Addis Ababa's high elevation keeps temperatures mild year-round.

More Ways to Plan Your Trip

Continue planning your Ethiopia trip with more hotels around Addis Ababa, browse activities, or check flights into Addis Ababa on Traveloka.