Addis Ababa , Ethiopia

Private Addis Ababa City Tour

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About this experience

Addis Ababa City Tour is a must for first-time visitors to Ethiopia. This family-friendly tour provides a personalized experience in the historical and metropolitan heartbeat of the country. Highlights include the palace of HIM Haile Selassie I (Rastafari I), the largest open-air market in Africa (Merkato), and landmarks such as the Victory Monument and the Lion of Judah. Along the way, you'll hear fun facts and stories about Addis Ababa and Ethiopia.

Available options

Private Addis Ababa City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Tour guide

Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony

Lunch: Ethiopian Dish, Shekla Tibes or Beyaynetu

A glass of Ethiopian Honey wine

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Home to the famous fossil "Lucy," this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Ethiopia's prehistoric past, as well as exhibits on the country's rich cultural heritage.

One of the most important religious sites in Ethiopia, this stunning cathedral is the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie and his wife. Its architecture and stained-glass windows are remarkable.

Stop 3

Located in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie, this museum provides an insightful overview of Ethiopia's diverse ethnic groups and their cultural artifacts.

An iconic octagonal church known for its beautiful frescoes and historical significance. It also houses a small museum with religious artifacts.

The best place to buy traditional Ethiopian clothing, including the famous handwoven scarves and shawls known as "shamas.

Offering panoramic views of Addis Ababa, this mountain is also home to Entoto Maryam Church and the former palace of Emperor Menelik II. The eucalyptus forest provides a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

One of the largest open-air markets in Africa, Merkato offers an exhilarating experience with its vibrant atmosphere and vast array of goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and crafts.

What's not included

Personal Expenses: Costs on souvenirs, personal shopping.

Tips (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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