Addis Ababa , Ethiopia

Best of Addis Ababa Guided City Tour

Active

(13 reviews)

5h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

If you are looking to explore Addis Ababa in just one day with an experienced guide who has lived all their life in the City, you have come to the right place! On this all-inclusive tour, we have hand-picked the must-see places for you, some of which are listed below:

Nature & Viewpoint - Entoto Mountains offers the best viewpoint of Addis Ababa surrounded by the densest forestry in the City. You will also get to experience a highlight of the typical Ethiopian countryside life

Culture & Market - The LARGEST TRADITIONAL TEXTILE MARKET in Ethiopia (ShiroMeda)

Culture & Market - The LARGEST OPEN AIR MARKET IN AFRICA (MERKATO).

Museum - The National Museum, home to the fossil replica of your ancestor Lucy

Dining Experience - Nothing tops dining at the first hotel in Ethiopia (Taitu Hotel). Their vegetarian buffet at lunch time is claimed to be one of the best for its authenticity, healthiness, variety and taste

Available options

Best of Addis Ababa Guided City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Pickup and drop-off at any location in Addis Ababa (Hotel, house or airport)

Lunch

Accompanying English speaking guide

Ground transportation including a car, a driver and fuel

Local tour guides

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The tour follows a chronological order of the expansion of Addis Ababa, starting with where it all started at the famous Entoto mountain. Here, you will see the vast parts of Addis Ababa from an impressive viewpoint.

Stop 2

You will walk around the historic Entoto Church, which in its compound has the first church in/around Addis Ababa. It is a tranquil church with typical ancient architecture of Ethiopian Churches.

You will visit the palace of the Mighty King who kept Ethiopia independent from Colonial Powers (Emperor Menelik II). The Emperor was so busy fighting back imperialists that his palace is a humble one.

One the way down from the mountains, visit Ethiopia largest textile market with displays of Ethiopia's finest hand craftsmanship

Stop 5

Here, you will get to see fossil replicas of your ancestor, Lucy

Stop 6

You will drive through the center of Addis Ababa, called Old Piazza, where you will see old Italian buildings, and also masses of people transiting to different parts of the city. It is a good highlight of Addis Ababa's way of life.

Guided walking tour of the largest open air market in Ethiopia

What's not included

Alcoholic beverages

Tip for tour guide

Other cost not offered in this program

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 8 years

May be operated by a multi-lingual guide

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

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