Half Day Addis Ababa City Tour
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Half Day Addis Ababa City Tour

Active
(31 reviews)
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the vibrant energy, rich history, and captivating culture of Addis Ababa in an unforgettable half-day adventure! Perfect for travelers with limited time, this immersive tour takes you through the must-see highlights of Ethiopia’s bustling capital, offering a perfect blend of tradition & modernity.

Why you will love this tour:
✔ Explore Iconic Landmarks – Visit the National Museum, home to "Lucy," one of the oldest human fossils, and marvel at the grandeur of St. George Cathedral.
✔ Soak in Breathtaking Views – Drive up to Mount Entoto for panoramic city vistas and fresh mountain air.
✔ Dive into Local Culture – Wander through Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market.
✔ Taste Authentic Ethiopian Coffee – Enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony, a cornerstone of Ethiopian hospitality.
✔ Expert Local Guide – Get insider stories and hidden gems from a knowledgeable guide.

Flexible Departures (8:30AM or 1:30PM)
Hotel/Airport Pickup/Dropoff Included
Highly Rated Experience

Available options

Half Day Addis Ababa City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

You will serve tea/Ethiopian traditional coffee after the tour.
Private transportation
Entrance fee
You have bottles of drinking water in the car.
Air-conditioned vehicle
Pickup and drop off from service at your designated location within Addis Ababa.

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The National Museum of Ethiopia is a treasure trove of history, culture, and ancient wonders! Located in Addis Ababa, it’s most famous for housing "Lucy" (Dinkinesh), the 3.2-million year old hominid skeleton that revolutionized our understanding of human evolution.
Beyond the famous Lucy, the museum showcases;
✔ Prehistoric artifacts: Fossils, tools, and relics from Ethiopia’s ancient civilizations.
✔ Royal treasures: Crowns, thrones, and artifacts from Ethiopia’s imperial past.
✔ Ethnographic exhibits: Traditional clothing, crafts, and cultural displays from diverse Ethiopian regions.
✔ Religious art: Stunning Ethiopian Orthodox crosses, manuscripts, and paintings.

2

Visit Saint George Cathedral, a historic and spiritual gem in the heart of Addis Ababa!
Built in 1896 to commemorate Ethiopia’s victory over Italian forces at the Battle of Adwa, this striking octagonal church is a masterpiece of Ethiopian Orthodox architecture. Named after the patron saint of Ethiopia, St. George, its iconic dome and vibrant stained-glass windows draw visitors into a world of faith and heritage.
Inside, you will find exquisite religious artwork, ancient manuscripts, and the throne of Emperor Haile Selassie, who was crowned here in 1930. The adjacent museum houses ceremonial robes, royal crowns, and sacred artifacts, offering a fascinating glimpse into Ethiopia’s imperial past.
A visit to St. George Cathedral isn’t just a sightseeing stop, it’s a journey into Ethiopia’s soul, where history, religion, and culture intertwine. church which is a famous cathedral church with a lot historical and religious importance.

3

Step into Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, where the energy is electric and the sensory overload is thrilling! A maze of bustling alleys, vibrant stalls, and passionate vendors, this iconic marketplace offers everything, from handwoven textiles and aromatic spices to handcrafted jewelry, fresh produce, and traditional Ethiopian coffee.
A Cultural Microcosm; Watch artisans at work, haggle for souvenirs, and soak in the lively chaos of daily Ethiopian life.
A Feast for the Senses; The scent of roasting coffee, the vibrant colors of spices, and the hum of bartering create an unforgettable experience.
The Soul of Addis; More than just a market, Merkato is where the city’s spirit comes alive.
A visit to Merkato is not just shopping, it is an adventure!

4
Stop 4

Rising over 3,200 meters above sea level, Mount Entoto offers breathtaking panoramic views of Addis Ababa and the surrounding highlands. Once Emperor Menelik II’s first capital, this lush, eucalyptus covered mountain is steeped in history and fresh mountain air. Visitors can stroll through aromatic forests, and witness local women carrying massive bundles of firewood a striking symbol of resilience. The climb rewards you with cooler temperatures, sweeping vistas, and a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. A must visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike!

Then we will complete the tour by safely delivering you to your chosen destination, be it your hotel, the airport or any other preferred location

What's not included

Souvenir (available to purchase)
Breakfast and Lunch is not included but available to purchase

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3
9 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
2
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.4
22 reviews
5★
14
4★
3
3★
4
2★
1
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, is a vibrant and historically rich city nestled in the highlands of the Horn of Africa. Known as the political, cultural, and economic heart of the country, it offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Ethiopian culture.

Top Attractions

Entoto Mountain

A scenic mountain offering panoramic views of Addis Ababa and the surrounding highlands. It's a great spot for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Nature Half day to full day Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Addis Ababa Museum

A museum showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Ethiopia, including artifacts from the ancient kingdom of Aksum and the medieval Solomonic dynasty.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (around 100 ETB or 3 USD)

Mercato

One of the largest open-air markets in Africa, offering a vast array of goods, from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and livestock.

Market Half day Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

St. George's Cathedral

A historic cathedral built in the 19th century, known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Doro Wat

A spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice, onions, and hard-boiled eggs.

Main Dish Contains meat and spices

Injera

A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, used as both a utensil and a base for other dishes.

Staple Vegan

Tibs

Sautéed cubes of meat, often served with vegetables and spices.

Main Dish Contains meat and spices

Shiro

A chickpea or lentil-based stew, often spiced with berbere or mitmita.

Stew Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Entoto Mountain Boating in Lake Bishoftu Coffee ceremony Spa and wellness treatments Visiting museums and historical sites Attending traditional music and dance performances N/A Participating in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony

Best Time to Visit

October to June

This period offers the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

12°C to 26°C (54°F to 79°F) 54°F to 79°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Amharic
  • Widely spoken: English, Oromo
  • English: Moderately spoken in urban areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Ethiopian Birr (ETB)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Addis Ababa is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
  • • Use reputable tour operators and guides
  • • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas

Getting there

By air
  • Addis Ababa Bole International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center
By bus

Addis Ababa Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable but can be crowded. Tickets are purchased on board.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ride

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Piazza District Bole District Mercato District

Day trips

Debre Berhan
130 km (80 miles) from Addis Ababa • Full day

A historic town known for its beautiful church and traditional Ethiopian architecture.

Lake Bishoftu
40 km (25 miles) from Addis Ababa • Half day to full day

A series of volcanic lakes known for their scenic beauty and birdlife.

Festivals

Timket (Epiphany) • January 19 Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) • September 27

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Amharic to enhance your experience and connect with locals
  • Hire a local guide for a more authentic and insightful experience, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites
  • Try traditional Ethiopian coffee and participate in a coffee ceremony for a unique cultural experience
  • Bargain politely when shopping in markets, as it is a common practice
  • Be patient and flexible, as punctuality and schedules can be more relaxed in Ethiopia
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-64
1
Childs
Age 3-11
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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