
Menagesha Suba Forest Park
Discover Africa's oldest national park, a serene sanctuary of ancient trees, diverse flora, and breathtaking waterfalls.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, fresh air

Menagesha Suba Forest Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, fresh air

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Africa's oldest national park, a serene sanctuary of ancient trees, diverse flora, and breathtaking waterfalls.
"Africa's oldest park is called Suba Menagesha Park. There are 7 routes in the park for hikers."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the 7 hiking routes and enjoying the wilderness. :athletic_shoe:
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes. :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Meti Waterfall Hike
From the ticket office
Embark on a scenic 1.5-hour hike each way to discover the enchanting Meti Waterfall. A total of 14km of wilderness awaits!

Ancient Trees and Diverse Flora
Throughout the park
Marvel at trees older than time and a remarkable variety of plant life, including juniper and Eric arboreal species.

Moru Campsite Experience
Moru Campsite
Experience a truly magical atmosphere by spending a night camping amidst the oldest forest park in Africa.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Embrace the Wilderness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the 7 hiking routes and enjoying the wilderness. :athletic_shoe:
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes. :camerawithflash:
🏕️ Overnight Stays
Consider camping or staying in guesthouses for a magical night experience. :tent:
📅 Book in Advance
Popular for day trips and overnight stays, especially on weekends. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the 7 hiking routes and enjoying the wilderness. :athletic_shoe:
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes. :camerawithflash:
🏕️ Overnight Stays
Consider camping or staying in guesthouses for a magical night experience. :tent:
📅 Book in Advance
Popular for day trips and overnight stays, especially on weekends. :calendar:
🌳 Africa's Oldest Park
Appreciate the historical significance as Africa's oldest national park. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Menagesha Suba Forest Park as a peaceful and refreshing natural retreat, highlighting its status as Africa's oldest park and the helpfulness of its staff. The hiking trails and the unique overnight camping experience are frequently mentioned as highlights, offering a magical escape into nature.
"Suba Forest is peaceful place to enjoy nature and get refreshed. The staff of the park are like family & very helpful. Day trip is possible but if you have time, I suggest two or three days spending the night in the guesthouses, dormitory or tent at camping sites makes the experience magical."
Mercy Admasu
"Best and nice place for day trip and to make Hiki with beautiful forest."
Arhibu tour
"Africa's oldest park is called Suba Menagesha Park. There are 7 routes in the park for hikers.
There are trees that are older than time itself.
It's remarkable how many different kinds of trees, bushes, and flowering plants there are.
The park's wildlife is protected by being maintained as untamed and unexplored as possible.
The extra-large trees and endemic creatures are fascinating.
I had the chance to go camping for a few nights. The atmosphere at night is unlike anywhere else I've ever been."
Henok Koira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Menagesha Suba Forest Park is located approximately 40 km southwest of Addis Ababa. You can hire a taxi or arrange transportation through local tour operators. Some videos mention it's accessible via the Ethio-Djibouti Railway route, suggesting potential transport links.
The park is best explored on foot, with 7 designated hiking routes. For longer distances or specific points like Moru Campsite, you might arrange transport with park staff or tour guides.
While direct public transport might be limited, some travelers suggest it's accessible via routes related to the Ethio-Djibouti Railway, indicating potential connections. It's advisable to confirm current options with local transport providers.
The park is situated about 40 km southwest of Addis Ababa, making it a feasible destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Yes, several tour and travel companies offer guided hiking trips and camping experiences to Menagesha Suba Forest Park, often including transportation and activities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information on specific entrance fees is not widely detailed in the provided content. However, it's a national park, so expect an admission fee. It's best to inquire locally or through tour operators for the most current pricing.
The park is generally open for day visits and overnight stays. Specific operating hours for entry and facilities might vary, so it's recommended to check with park authorities or your tour provider.
While not always mandatory for day visits, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for overnight stays in guesthouses or camping sites, as these can fill up quickly.
As a protected national park, standard entry fees apply. Special permits are generally not mentioned for regular tourist visits, but it's always wise to confirm if you plan any specific activities.
Vehicles are typically allowed up to certain points within the park, but much of the exploration, especially hiking, is done on foot. Parking is usually available at designated areas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers 7 distinct hiking routes. A popular choice is the hike to Meti Waterfall, which is about 1.5 hours each way and covers approximately 14km.
The park is home to endemic creatures like the Minilik Bushbuck, along with various trees, bushes, and flowering plants. The wildlife is maintained in its natural, untamed state.
Yes, Menagesha Suba Forest Park offers camping sites, including Moru Campsite, which is highly recommended for a unique overnight experience.
Besides camping, the park provides guesthouses and dormitory options for overnight stays, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
Absolutely! The park's ancient trees, diverse flora, waterfalls, and landscapes offer incredible photographic opportunities. The drone footage shared on Instagram highlights its scenic beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Specific dining facilities within the park are not extensively detailed. It's advisable to pack your own food and drinks, especially for day trips, or inquire about available options if staying overnight.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy during their visit, particularly for picnics and hikes.
Given its relatively close proximity to Addis Ababa, there are likely dining options available in the city or towns closer to the park entrance, though specific recommendations are not provided.
Information on food for purchase within the park is limited. It's best to assume that bringing your own provisions is the most reliable option.
For organized tours or larger groups, catering might be an option. It's recommended to coordinate with tour operators or park management in advance for such arrangements.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner of the park offers stunning photo opportunities, from the ancient trees and diverse flora to the Meti Waterfall and the serene landscapes. Drone shots also capture the park's vast beauty.
Drone footage has been shared on Instagram, suggesting that drone photography is permitted. However, it's always wise to confirm park regulations regarding drone usage.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and golden hues. The misty atmosphere after rain can also be very photogenic.
Focus on the ancient trees, unique plant species, the Meti Waterfall, and any wildlife you might encounter. The overall wilderness and tranquility are also key photographic themes.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing both landscapes and potential wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive forest views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
📸 Nature Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Nature
The park's landscape is characterized by dense woodland, rolling hills, and the captivating Meti Waterfall. It offers a variety of terrains for exploration, with 7 designated hiking routes catering to different fitness levels. The Moru Campsite is a highlight for those seeking an immersive experience, offering a unique atmosphere, especially at night. This blend of historical significance and natural beauty makes Menagesha Suba a compelling destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Planning Your Adventure: Hiking and Camping
Camping at Menagesha Suba Forest Park is highly recommended for those who wish to fully experience its magic. Facilities like the Moru Campsite provide an opportunity to connect with nature in a profound way, with visitors describing the night atmosphere as unparalleled. Accommodation options also include guesthouses and dormitories, offering alternatives for those who prefer a more structured stay. Given the park's popularity, especially for day trips and overnight stays, it's advisable to book accommodations in advance to secure your spot.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit