Discover Addis Ababa Half Day City Highlights Tour
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Discover Addis Ababa Half Day City Highlights Tour

Active
(2 reviews)
5h - 6h
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

Experience the best of Addis Ababa in just half a day, combining history, nature, adventure, and authentic Ethiopian coffee. This tour takes you to Mount Entoto, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking city views. Explore Ethiopia’s rich history at the National Museum, home to the famous fossil "Lucy," and stroll through the stunning Unity Park and Friendship Park. Discover the vibrant culture of Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market. To complete the experience, enjoy Ethiopian coffee with along with a refreshing bottle of water. Perfect for adventure seekers, families, and history lovers, this tour offers an immersive and unforgettable introduction to Ethiopia’s capital.

Available options

Discover Addis Ababa Half Day City Highlights Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Car, Fuel and driver allowance
Entrance frees to Church, National Museum, Parks
Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

1

The Adwa Victory Museum in Addis Ababa commemorates Ethiopia’s historic victory over Italy in 1896, celebrating the country’s resistance to colonization. The museum features artifacts, portraits, sculptures, and historical documents related to the battle, including items from key figures like Emperor Menelik II and Empress Taytu Betul. It highlights Ethiopia's strategic brilliance, unity, and resilience, and offers interactive displays to educate visitors about the significance of the battle. The museum serves as a symbol of national pride and African anti-colonial resistance, making it a must-visit for those interested in Ethiopian and African history.

2
Stop 2

Highlights of the Museum

- The Famous "Lucy" Fossil – Oldest Human Ancestor.

- The star attraction of the museum is "Lucy" (Dinknesh), a 3.2-million-year-old hominid fossil from the species Australopithecus afarensis.

- Discovered in 1974 in the Afar region, Lucy is one of the oldest and most complete skeletons ever found.

- Ancient & Medieval Artifacts (Prehistoric to Axumite Era)

- Tools, pottery, and artifacts from Ethiopia’s earliest civilizations.

- Axumite-era treasures, including royal crowns, thrones, and inscriptions from Ethiopia’s ancient kingdom.

- Royal and Imperial Exhibits

- Traditional clothing and jewelry from Ethiopian emperors, including items from Emperor Haile Selassie.

- Ancient weapons, coins, and manuscripts used by Ethiopian rulers.

- Ethiopian Art Collection

- Paintings and religious icons from medieval Ethiopian churches.

- Contemporary Ethiopian art from famous artists like Afewerk Tekle.

3

Holy Trinity Cathedral – A stunning Orthodox church and the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.

4

Merkato – Africa’s Largest Open-Air Market – Experience the bustling energy of Ethiopia’s biggest market.

5
Stop 5 Pass by

Entoto Hills – Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Addis Ababa from Entoto.

6

Unity Park & Friendship Park – Discover Ethiopia’s modern attractions and historical exhibitions.

Remark:-Here Entrance fee is excluded.

7

Lion of Judah Monument

Location: In front of Addis Ababa Train Station (La Gare)
The Lion of Judah is a symbol of Ethiopian monarchy and power. Originally erected in 1930 for Emperor Haile Selassie's coronation. Stolen by the Italians in 1935 during the invasion but returned in 1960.

8

Yekatit 12 Martyrs Monument

Location: Sidist Kilo Square. A tribute to thousands of Ethiopians killed by Italian forces in 1937. Commemorates the Yekatit 12 Massacre, when Italians retaliated against an assassination attempt on their viceroy. Features a tall obelisk with sculptures of people and flames. A place of reflection and history, surrounded by a small park.

9
Stop 9 Pass by

The Derg Monument (Tiglachin Monument)

Location: Churchill Avenue, near Meskel Square. A massive socialist-era monument built by the Derg regime in the 1980s. Features Soviet-style statues of soldiers commemorating Ethiopia’s victory in the Ogaden War (1977-78) against Somalia. Often visited for its historical significance despite mixed opinions on the Derg period.

10
Stop 10 Pass by

Menelik II Statue

Location: In front of St. George’s Cathedral, Piazza. Honors Emperor Menelik II, the Ethiopian leader who defeated Italy at the Battle of Adwa (1896). The statue of Menelik on horseback symbolizes Ethiopian independence. A must-visit for those interested in Ethiopia’s resistance against colonialism.

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages
Night Airport transfer, Phone calls, Laundry, any additional photography charges...

Available languages

Guide guide
AR DE EN ZH-CN IT FR ES
Written guide
AR DE EN ZH-CN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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 18-30
1
Childs
Age 5-9
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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