Addis Ababa Uncovered: A Journey through Ethiopian Heart
Active
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 tour offers a unique blend of Ethiopia’s ancient past, rich cultural diversity, and vibrant local life all in just half a day. You'll meet “Lucy,” one of the oldest human ancestors, and dive into the lively chaos of Mercato, Africa’s largest open-air market. Guided by locals, this tour connects history, culture, and everyday Addis life in an immersive and unforgettable way.
Available options
Addis Ababa Uncovered: A Journey through Ethiopian Heart
Pickup included
What's included
Ethiopian coffee
Unlimited bottles of water
Hotel or airport pick up and drop off
Professional Tour guide
National Museum Entrance fee
Photo and video fee
Transportation
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your guide at the airport or your hotel and head to the National Museum of Ethiopia. We'll kick off our journey at the famous National Museum, where you'll get to delve into an amazing collection showcasing our human ancestors. You'll be able to admire ancient hominid fossils, including Lucy, who lived 3.2 million years ago, Selam, a 3.3 million-year-old fossil, and Ardi, dating back 4.4 million years. Plus, you’ll have the chance to see Stone Age tools, offering insight into the early stages of human history.
2
Wrap up your tour with a guided walk through Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. This lively, sprawling marketplace is a world of its own filled with colors, sounds, and the hustle of everyday life. Explore sections dedicated to spices, textiles, recycled goods, and street food. Your guide will navigate you through the busy alleys, pointing out unique finds and offering insights into the market’s vital role in the city’s economy and culture.
3
Stop 3
Finally your visit at the Ethnological Museum with a guided tour through its extensive collection of cultural artifacts, where you’ll explore the traditional crafts, costumes, and daily life of various global societies. Spend time in the museum’s dedicated sections showcasing indigenous cultures, ancient civilizations, and regional folk traditions, offering a deeper understanding of humanity’s diverse heritage.
What's not included
Lunch
Tips
any alcoholic Drink
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Go to street in bole international airport and turn to in the left in circle area and you look the guide in front of the hotel!
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
