Day-Trip Church of Adadi Mariam from Addis Ababa
Active
7h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
It is about 8-hours guided day tour from Addis Ababa by drive with private vehicle. The tour includes: -
- Scenic stops at best viewpoints to see the Great East African Rift Valley
- Visiting the unique rock church of Adadi Mariam (13th Century AD)
- Exploring the ancient grave site of Tiya (UNESCO World Heritage from 14th Century AD)
- Learning Ethiopian history as you see the huge carved grave stones of Tiya
-
- Visiting villages of locals for cultural experience to learn how to make Enjera (Ethiopian bread)
- Experiencing traditional Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony and learn how Coffee is enjoyed with a ceremony
This private day tour from Addis Ababa is limited to a maximum of 6 people.
Day Tour to Adadi Mariam Rock Church and Steles of Tiya takes 8 to 9 hours. The day tour is with professional experienced French or English-speaking local tour guide.
We use private comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for the day tour from Addis Ababa. Total driving distance is about 200 km.
Available options
Day-Trip Church of Adadi Mariam from Addis Ababa
Pickup included
What's included
Local snacks, tea, and coffee
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Typical Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony attendance and Coffee
Air-conditioned vehicle
Lunch at a local Ethiopian restaurant
Local family visits
Professional experienced English speaking tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Drive 62 south of Addis Ababa to Adadi Mariam. On the way stop at viewpoints to see the Geat East African Rift Valley. At Adadi Mariam, visit the unique still functional church which was carved out of a single piece of rock in the 13th Century AD by the famous King Lalibela.
2
At Tiya World Heritage Site, visit about 40 huge stone grave markers erected in memory of local heros between the 12th to the 14th Century AD.
3
Take a guided tour to visit exhibits of ancient stone tools and fossils displayed in four sections. Focus of the exhibits and archaeological findings are on Prehistoric Africa, Geology, Paleoanthropology, and Prehistory of Melka Kunture.
Visit also the “Open Air Museum’, actual excavation site, which is older than 800,000 years.
What's not included
This payment is for entrance fee to visit Adadi Mariam Rock Church and Tiya Cemetery
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress code is formal and women are advised to cover hairs when visiting churches
If the tour is taken in June, July or August, please be prepared for the rainy weather and bring raincoat/umbrellas
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Vegetarian and Gluten-free options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
Important notes
• Dress code is formal and women are advised to cover hairs when visiting churches
• If the tour is taken in June, July or August, please be prepared for the rainy weather and bring raincoat/umbrellas
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Vegetarian and Gluten-free options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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