Imagine ending your Ethiopian adventure in absolute luxury—that’s exactly what I experienced at the Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa, a stunning hotel nestled in the heart of the capital. But here’s where it gets controversial: is it worth the price tag in a country where $150 a night is considered steep? Let’s dive in and find out.
Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa Review
During my first visit to Addis Ababa, I stayed at the Hilton. Since then, Hyatt has made its mark in Ethiopia with its first property, the Hyatt Regency. My nightly rate was around $150, which might seem high for Ethiopia, but it’s the standard for upscale hotels here. Interestingly, using 12,000 points (it’s a Category 4 property) or a Chase free night certificate wasn’t an option for me this time.
First Impressions
The lobby is a sight to behold—spacious, elegantly decorated, and instantly welcoming. As a Globalist member, I was upgraded to a Regency Suite and granted a late checkout at 8:00 PM, which was a lifesaver for avoiding the chaos at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport before my flight to Frankfurt.
Guest Room
Room 309 was a sprawling suite featuring a living room, guest bathroom, bedroom, and master bathroom. The bedding was top-notch, the air conditioning worked flawlessly, and the in-room French Press with Ethiopian coffee was a delightful touch. But what truly stole my heart? The fresh-cut flowers in the living room and bathroom—a small detail that made the space feel incredibly special.
Welcome Amenity
Speaking of special touches, I was greeted with a bag of Ethiopian coffee and a bowl of fresh strawberries—a nod to my love for berries, which someone thoughtfully noted on my profile years ago. And yes, while Hyatt likely knows I’m a blogger, this kind of treatment seems more aligned with Globalist perks than anything else. But here’s a thought: does being a blogger influence the experience, or is it all about loyalty status? Let me know what you think in the comments!
Dining Options
The hotel boasts an impressive array of dining choices, each with its own unique charm.
- Lobby Lounge/The Market: Perfect for a quick bite, offering Ethiopian coffee, tea, pastries, wine, dried fruits, and spices.
- The Kitchen: A buffet-style restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I indulged in breakfast here, complete with freshly squeezed juice, omelets, fresh fruit, and barista-made coffee. I skipped the Ethiopian dishes after a week of local cuisine, but they looked tempting.
- The Oriental: This restaurant blends Western BBQ with Asian flavors. I treated my group to dinner here, specifically for the Ethiopian Highland Lamb Shoulder In Casserole, which was absolutely divine. My friends thought I was overspending, especially with the recent devaluation of the Ethiopian Birr, but it was worth every penny.
- Cascara Coffee & Cocktails: A cozy spot with outdoor seating, specializing in coffee-inspired cocktails.
- Pool Bar & Lounge: Ideal for poolside snacks and drinks.
- Room Service: Available 24/7, with a limited menu from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Amenities
- Pool: An outdoor heated pool open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Fitness Center: After five nights in Awassa, I appreciated the modern LifeFitness strength-training equipment.
- Wellness + Spa: A full-service spa is available, though I only used the sauna in the men’s locker room.
- Regency Club: Unlike many U.S.-based Hyatt Regency properties, this hotel maintains a fantastic Regency Club lounge. It offers coffee, tea, and soft drinks all day, plus alcoholic beverages and hors d’oeuvres in the evening.
- Business Center: Located next to the Regency Club, it provides complimentary computers and printers.
Final Thoughts
My stay at the Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa was nothing short of flawless. From the luxurious accommodations to the warm service, everything exceeded my expectations. And this is the part most people miss: as a Hyatt Globalist, you’re treated like royalty here. I honestly can’t think of a single criticism—this hotel is a must-stay.
But here’s a question for you: In a country where luxury comes at a premium, is the Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa worth the investment? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear your take!
