If you’ve got a layover in Makale, don’t let it go to waste sitting at MQX. The city, in Ethiopia, is within easy reach — roughly 45 minutes by Taxi / Minibus. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave MQX:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Ethiopia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Makale takes about 45 minutes by Taxi / Minibus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is ETB. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some ETB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Makale from the Airport
From MQX, the Taxi / Minibus gets you to Makale in around 45 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 65 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Minibus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How to Spend Your Time in Makale
For a layover visit to Makale, we’d suggest Martyrs’ Memorial Monument and Yohannes IV Palace. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds. You can see the main features in a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MQX, check out Mekele Airport Cafe or Souvenir & Newsstand Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
In Makale
If you make it into town, Lucy Restaurant Mekelle is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Keren Restaurant.
Inside MQX
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Main Canteen is your main option. Coffee & Pastry Corner works too if you want something quick.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Makale:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $4 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $19 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Makale.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at MQX aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Makale itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MQX should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Ethiopia and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at MQX
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MQX has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Makale exploring the streets or relaxing at MQX, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.