A Guided Tour of Addis Ababa That Includes a City Viewpoint
Active
4h - 5h
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
First, visit the National Museum of Ethiopia, which contains some of the best and most diverse exhibitions. The archeological exhibitions include Lucy (Dinkinesh, 'beautiful' in the local vernacular), a 3.5 million-year-old Australopithecus Afarensis hominoid woman. In 1974, Lucy's fossil revealed that our ancestors walked 2.5 million years earlier than imagined, rewriting our genealogy. The National Museum features several exquisite pre-Axumite artifacts.
Next, visit St. George's Cathedral. Near the northern end of Churchill Road. The Cathedral, erected in 1896 in the usual octagonal shape to honor Ethiopia's victory over the Italians in the Battle of Adwa, has Afewerk Tekle's stained-glass windows from the Africa Hall.
Drive to Entoto to explore Shiromeda market, one of the main Ethiopian traditional clothing markets. Continue driving to the peak to see Mount Entoto's stunning city view.
Final stop. Stop at Tomoka Coffee! Excellent city coffee. Tour Ends
Available options
A Guided Tour of Addis Ababa That Includes a City Viewpoint
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
All Fees and Taxes
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
This is one of the best museums in quality and diversity of the exhibits. Archeological exhibits include the 3.5 million-year-old fossil of Lucy (or Dinkinesh – ‘wonderful’- in the native language),
2
St. George's Cathedral is an iconic church in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Known for its beautiful neo-Byzantine architecture and majestic dome, the cathedral is a significant landmark in the city. It holds great importance in Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity and is a popular site for worship and visitors alike. The cathedral is dedicated to St. George, who is considered the patron saint of Ethiopia.
3
Stop 3
After lunch, you will drive to Merkato visit, the largest open-air market in the continent you will explore by walking with your guide in the market.
4
Stop 4
visit Shiromeda market one of the biggest market for Ethiopian traditional cloths continue drive to the mountain to visit the commanding panoramic view point mt Entoto, offers the stupendous view of the city.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
25 reviews
5★
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3★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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