Hidden Treasures of Addis Ababa - Food, Culture and History Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore with us the hidden treasures of Addis Ababa, like Bahita Mariam Church with the tomb of Addis Ababa's founders or the hustle and bustle of Africa's biggest open-air market. Let us say a greeting to our grandmother Lucy at the National Museum and take a break at Zoma museum with its permaculture garden and artistic clay-clad houses. Take part in a cooking and tasting session of traditional Ethiopian food and continue this fragrance and taste experience with a traditional coffee ceremony. Finally come with us to Mount Entoto at the entrance of Addis Ababa and explore with us the history of Ethiopia's capital. From here you will also enjoy the beautiful sunset over the skyline of Addis Ababa. This unique adventure is suitable for all types and ages of travelers. We will pick you from your hotel, or any place you prefer, and drop you again there after a day packed with cultural experiences, insider knowledge, and memorable encounters with local traditions.
Available options
Hidden Treasures of Addis Ababa - Food, Culture and History Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Snacks
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Mercator is the biggest open air market in Africa, crowded and vivid, full of merchants and customers. You will not only see traditional basketry, pottery and livestock to be sold here, but also the recycling market, where different items are made from waste.
2
Stop 2
We will have lunch at Zoma museum, taking a rest from the loud and crowded city in the peaceful permaculture garden of the museum. False banana trees and different herbs together with a small urban farm give an impression of Ethiopian urban agriculture. Here we will also see how traditional Ethiopian food is prepared and get a chance to try it afterwards. More scents and tastes are touched with the following Ethiopian coffee ceremony, where coffee is roasted and prepared, while incense is burned on a traditional charcoal stove.
3
In the old Bata Mariam Church with its quite compound inhabited by giant turtles, you will not only find underground the tomb of Menelik II, the founder of Addis Ababa, but also the ones from other members of the former royal family together with an original painting Michelangelo.
4
Stop 4
In the National Museum of Ethiopia you will learn about the evolution of mankind with examples of our ancestors that were found in Ethiopia. With her 3.2 million years our mother Lucy is one of the most prominent ones.
5
Stop 5
Our tour ends at Mount Entoto, where we see the first palace of the founder of Addis Ababa and a museum displaying Ethiopian history. We will enjoy the view of the skyline of Addis Ababa while watching the sunset.
What's not included
Alcoholic Beverages
Souvenirs and personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
70 reviews
5★
70
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
We will pick you from your hotel or from the airport.
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
Instant confirmation
