Addis Ababa Private City Tour with Immersive Cooking Class Lunch
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Addis Ababa Private City Tour with Immersive Cooking Class Lunch

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(1 reviews)
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience

What makes this tour of Addis Ababa unique is its seamless blend of historical landmarks and vibrant cultural experiences in just 6 hours. Guests begin with the inspiring views and spiritual history of Mount Entoto, followed by an immersion into local artistry at the bustling Shiro Meda Market. The national museum enriches visitors with its diverse cultural exhibits related to Emperor Haile Selassie's former residence as well as many profound historical artefacts passed down from generations. The tour's highlight is by far the all out, immersive cooking experience where you follow the local guide through the joy in culinary gathering of ingredients and cooking hearty Ethiopian dishes. A standout feature is the inclusion of a "special secret place," promising an exclusive experience of hidden local gems known only to insiders as a way to conclude the tour. This ensures an unforgettable exploration of Addis Ababa, capturing its essence through a curated journey of discovery and intrigue.

Available options

Addis Ababa Private City Tour with Immersive Cooking Class Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
All Fees and Taxes
Cultural Coffee, Tea or Juice - A spontaneous stop as Ethiopian coffee is a novelty which we highly recommend so let us impress you.
Bottled water
Lunch
Licensed Guide/Driver
We can accommodate dietary restrictions

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Welcome to Ethiopia, on arrival we will meet you at the airport, or your hotel and then offer you a fresh perspective on Addis Ababa, widely considered the African Capital City / Headquarters. We typically begin this by sightseeing the bustling aspects Addis Ababa has to offer through a drive up to Mount Entoto, the highest peak on the Entoto Mountains, which overlooks the city for a panoramic view. This way you are given the freedom to stop should anything intrigue you on the way, we are more than happy to answer any questions you may have on the way up too. The mountain reaches 3,200 meters above sea level and is densely covered by eucalyptus trees that were imported from Australia during the reign of Menelik II, and mostly planted during Emperor Haile Selassie's reign. Thus, it is sometimes referred to as the "lung of Addis Ababa". The forest on the mountain is an important source of firewood for the city. It was also a source of building material in earlier times.

2

At Shiro Meda market, visitors can walk through or buy colorful handwoven locally made scarves, and dresses for men and women which are made from cotton and decorated with colorful embroidery. If visitors have time, they can visit the small startups working on weaving these colorful Ethiopian traditional clothes in the yellow condominium. This stop of the trip highlights local artistry where you may find enjoyment in bartering for the best price should anything interest you.

3
Stop 3

This is a great introduction to the history, culture and people of Ethiopia. It houses different collections like antiques, crafts, contemporary paintings, archaeological findings from different parts of the nation in exhibition to the public. This is also where the famous and oldest (3.2M years old) known human skeleton (fossil) - LUCY - Is displayed. We can even offer you a free guided tour at no additional charge, should you wish to learn more about the history of the contents in the museum which regarded as the treasure of the city. Please note that the National Museum is closed on Mondays in which case, we will have to interchange this experience with the Ethnological museum which we are confident will impress you just as much given that it is the palace of the former great emperor Haile Selassie who has had a rippling influence on Ethiopia as we know it today.

4
Stop 4

This is your most culturally immersive stop of the tour, right in the heart of the city where we will be guiding you through a cooking class of authentic Ethiopian cuisine!
By this point we are sure you will be hungry, so enjoy the traditional meal of this experience which comes with profound health benefits! Injera for example is a gluten free pancake made from fermented Teff flour that all Ethiopians love as it never feels heavy due to great digestive properties. You will be shown how to make and eat it with vitamin and protein rich Ethiopian sides like Shero and more.
We will start with the shopping experience that is done when it comes to making such flavorful cuisine and explaining the significance of the ingredients.
Settle into a lunch time created by you alongside an experienced chef/cook who will explain the process intimately.
This is the most fun, private and hands on experience rewarding you with a delicious meal that you can even take home with you by the end of the day.

5
Stop 5

This is a special secret of ours where we take you to a viewpoint that we get exclusive access to. Overlooking the city of Addis with a luxury 360 view whilst being very much in the heart of it, you are sure to be tempted to click some scenic pictures.

What's not included

Breakfast
Dinner
Personal expenses and tips
Restroom on board

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We can accommodate dietary restrictions

Important notes

Please present the ticket such that it entails the number of people the booking is for upon meeting your tour guide so that we can do a head count.

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

Adults
Age 18-49
1
Childs
Age 5-12
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 4
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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