Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture

Addis Ababa , Ethiopia

Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture

Active

(1 reviews)

8h - 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

This is one of the best journey where history, culture, and adventure come together in a single unforgettable day! Unlike standard tours, our Day Trip to Tiya, Gurage Village, and Melka Kunture offers a perfect blend of UNESCO-listed heritage, authentic local encounters, and prehistoric wonders, all in one seamless experience.

Unique experience in this trip;

Authentic Gurage Village Immersion; Enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony, taste delicious Gurage cuisine (like kitfo and kocho), and interact with welcoming locals for a genuine cultural exchange.

Small Group, Big Experience; We keep groups intimate for a personalized and engaging adventure, led by expert guides who bring each site to life with captivating stories.

Scenic Drives & Local Insights; Travel through Ethiopia’s stunning landscapes while learning fascinating facts from our knowledgeable guides.

Available options

Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Admission fee

Entrance fee

Admission fee to Tiya

Air-conditioned vehicle

Admission fees to Gurage village

Airport/Departure Tax

Fuel surcharge

Parking Fees

Admission fees to experiance coffee and local bread

Admission fees to Melka Kunture

Detailed itinerary

Today you depart from Addis Ababa and drive south to visit Tiya, a UNESCO World Heritage site that contains 36 monuments, including 32 carved stelae covered with enigmatic symbols.

Then you will visit Gurage village. On this cultural safari, you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Gurage people as you explore their authentic village and witness their unique way of life, where you’ll discover the fascinating process of making bread from the false banana plant, known as Enset, a staple food that is carefully harvested, fermented, and transformed into a nutritious and delicious part of their daily diet, showcasing the deep connection between the Gurage community and their natural environment while offering you a hands-on opportunity to engage with their customs, taste the distinctive flavors of their cuisine, and gain a deeper appreciation for their rich cultural heritage.

On your way back to Addis Ababa, you will visit the Melka Kunture Archaeological site, which is a significant prehistoric location situated in the Upper Awash Valley. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into early human history with its rich collection of Stone Age tools and fossil remains. The excavations at Melka Kunture have uncovered evidence of human activity dating back over two million years, making it an important destination for understanding early hominin life. The open-air museum showcases various artifacts, including hand axes and other tools used by our ancestors. The surrounding landscape, with its scenic views and geological formations, adds to the site's historical and natural appeal. Visiting Melka Kunture provides a unique opportunity to connect with Ethiopia's deep archaeological heritage while enjoying the beauty of the Awash River valley.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

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