Addis Ababa , Ethiopia

Addis Ababa Half Day Shopping Tour

Active

(3 reviews)

5h - 6h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Shopping At Merkato

Merkato is the largest open air market in Africa and The primary merchandise passing through the Merkato is locally-grown agricultural products — most notably coffee. We will take you to differnt places or station for different tools and objects … spicy , soveniours ,coffee

Shopping At Piazza

Piazza is an important shopping area in Addis Ababa. There are many small shops and street stalls there. It is a favorite place for shopping among women as there are many jewelry shops.

Sumeta Souvenir Gallery

This is one of the best collection gallery for tourists that will find Collectible silver spoons, Ethiopian crosses, coins, jewelries, traditional paintings on parchment, mugs, traditional clothes, traditional musical instruments, colorful Ethiopian scarf, pottery, t-shirts

Shopping At Addis Ababa Stadium

There is a shopping at the stadium area in Addis Ababa. It is generally known for its genuine, Ethiopian leather goods, like clothes and bags.

Available options

Addis Ababa Half Day Shopping Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Local guide

Round-trip private transfer

Detailed itinerary

Merkato is the largest open air market in Africa which is covering several square miles and employing an estimated 13,000 people in 7,100 business entities and The primary merchandise passing through the Merkato is locally-grown agricultural products — most notably coffee. We will take you to differnt places or station for different tools and objects … spicy , soveniours ,coffee

What's not included

Drinks

Food and drinks

Lunch

Gratuities

Dinner

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship

Dress code is formal

Important notes

• Dress code is formal
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• You MUST confirm and obtain any visa requirements prior to border crossing. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler

All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

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