city tour of Addis Ababa ( history ,culture , food and more)
Active
4h - 5h
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 the itinerary for private and group day tour so the itinerary is customized to go at your own pace and you can take this tour in the morning or in the afternoon. Depending on the circumstances, city traffic jams, time, or date, time may vary. I hope you will have an unforgettable time and get to know the history of this multicultural city of Addis Ababa, while taking some great pictures.
What can you expect?
When embarking on a city tour of Addis Ababa, expect to experience a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich cultural heritage. Here are some highlights you can expect during your visit:
# Dressing modestly and respectfully is necessary for visitors to this religious site. Women are expected to cover their heads with scarves and wear modest clothing, and both men and women must take off their shoes before entering the main prayer area.
Available options
Addis Ababa ,Food and market
Addis Ababa city tour.: Full Day city tour of Addis and experiencing traditional Ethiopian dishes.<br/>Duration: 6 hours: maximum one hour in each destination and attraction one hour and for lunch and coffee depending on the guests interest.<br/>Ethiopian national dishes .: Experiencing Ethiopian dishes Enjera (like round pan cake used to make from a super grain known us teff) with variety foods <br/>Addis Abeba : museums ,statues ,markets ,panoramic views .<br/>4WD air conditioned cars: sometimes we will use smart mini cars in order to escape from high traffic and crowd of Addis Ababa.<br/>taking photo: walking through market and taking unlimited photo <br/>Pickup included
half day tour
Lay over travelers <br/>Duration: 4 hours: morning or afternoon <br/>Coffee/tea<br/>Addis Abeba and its land marks: This tour is intended to craft for those who have limited time :-business ,layover and transit traveler.<br/>4WD: Smart car/for traffic jam <br/>Mini bus<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Fuel surcharge
Coffee and/or Tea
Driver/guide, Hotel pick up and drop-off, All entrance fee Entry/Admission -In the museum
What you'll see
Full day city tour of Addis Ababa which include the National Museum( home of the prominent human hominid) Ethnographic Museum (it was a palace for the last Ethiopian monarch), walking through Merkato (consider to be the largest open market in Africa) , Bahita Mariam church (beautiful stain glass works) and experience the authentic coffee culture Addis Ababa .
What's not included
alcoholic drinks are available to purchase
Use of SCUBA equipment
WiFi on board
Excess luggage charges (where applicable) , Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
8 reviews
5★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.
Most travelers can participate
National museum is closed on Monday .
Meeting point
Any hotel in Addis Ababa
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
