Addis Ababa City Tour: Merkato, Entoto, Culture, History & Coffee
Active
4h - 7h
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
Pick up from hotel and drive through land mark monuments and visit Ethiopian National Museum, Home of the ancient Fossilize Lucy, our Human ancestor. Wonder bustling street of Merkato, Africa Largest open air market, where vibrant colors exotic spices and traditional crafts await.
Visit Entoto Mountain which is 3000 above see Level Enjoy the view of Addis Ababa
Available options
Best of Ababa city tour
City transfer Addis<br/>Privet<br/>Duration: 6 hours<br/>Water only<br/>Automobile <br/>Pickup included
Enjoy Addis Ababa night tour
Dinner<br/>Traditional Restaurant-Local : Pick up: From your hotel (around 6:30 PM)
Stop 1 – Traditional Restaurant: Enjoy a classic Ethiopian dinner with injera and <br/>Car<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Coffee and water
Tour escort/host
Air-conditioned vehicle
Entrance fee
Professional experienced English speaking tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Visit the Ethnological Museum located within the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie. Discover Ethiopia’s diverse cultures and traditions through fascinating exhibits.
2
La Gare Train Station & Lion of Judah Monument
Visit the historic La Gare train station, once the main railway hub of the city. Nearby stands the iconic Lion of Judah monument, a symbol of Ethiopian heritage.
3
Shola Market is located in the **Shola area of Addis Ababa**, near **Kazanches** and the **Mexico Square** area.
- It is easily accessible from major roads and is a well-known local trading hub.
2. **What is Sold?**
- **Secondhand Clothing (መከርከሚያ - "Mekermiya")** – One of the biggest secondhand markets in Addis.
- **Household Goods** – Electronics, furniture, kitchenware.
- **Textiles & Fabrics** – Traditional Ethiopian fabrics like **habesha kemis** materials.
- **Shoes, Bags & Accessories** – Both new and used items.
- **Spare Parts & Tools** – For vehicles and machinery.
3. **Why is it Popular?**
- Affordable prices compared to formal retail stores.
- A bustling atmosphere with a mix of bargaining and fast-paced trading.
- A go-to place for thrift shoppers and small business owners.
4. **Visiting Tips
Bargaining is expected Prices are rarely fixed.
4
Stop 4
You will visit the monument of king menilik ll
The old building of the mayor of Addis Ababa from the time of Italy.
Walking through The victory of Adwa musuem from out side and see the Old buildings made by italian
What's not included
Lunch
Alcohol drink
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
5.0
18 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
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
In the Lobby of the hotel
Important notes
Ticket of entrance fee are paid by the company and can be used for full day
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
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Free cancellation available
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