'''Mekele''' is in the Tigrayan Highlands in Ethiopia.
Understand
Mekele, or the small town of Wukro just to the north, can be used as a base to explore the many rock-hewn churches of Tigray that are scattered across the stunning high-desert landscape of northern Tigray. The churches are as rewarding to visit as they are (often) difficult to reach. Abuna Yemata Guh is a particular highlight, although not recommended for those without a head for heights. The tourist office in Wukro can help to arrange guides and transport.
Get in
Get around
See
'''Yohannis IV Museum''' - in the old palace opposite the Atse Yohannis Hotel
'''Chele Anka Waterfall''' - 8km out of Mekele, to the southwest - a nice hike to get there, more dramatic in the rainy season.
Do
'''Sit on the balcony of the Atse Yohannis Hotel''' (situated near Ethiopian Telecomms building, on the roundabout that has a sometimes-on fountain in its centre) and watch the world go by while having a coffee/cold beer/fresh juice/lunch/dinner. It's a nice view and you're up on the first floor so you're away from beggars and street-stares.
'''Walk around the town''', the tree-lined streets are pleasant to walk around and observe life going on around you.
Buy
Eat
There are quite a few 'ferenji' restaurants in Mekele, serving pizza, meat, chicken, fish, vegetables and salads. There's also lots of national food restaurants and many cake/pastry/coffee shops.
'''The Geza Gerelassie''' - eating/drinking/dancing venue, has great beef dishes such as shish kebab and shekla tibs. Live Ethiopian music and dancing at the weekend (or is it Thursday and Saturday nights - maybe someone else can confirm?).
Pizza and other 'ferenji' dishes as well as national food in the '''Yordanos''' restaurant beside the Abreha Castle Hotel. They have another branch down the road into the town, called Yordanos Blue (this one doesn't have pizza but has everything else).
Drink
Sleep
Get out
Go to the '''Geza Gerelassie''' on a Thursday or Saturday night for live Ethiopian music and dancing - everyone gets up and joins in, it's good fun. They have good food too and a bar.