Full Day Tour of Addis Ababa with Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
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Full Day Tour of Addis Ababa with Hotel Pickup and Drop-off

Active
(498 reviews)
6h - 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

Full day city tour of Addis Ababa which include the National Museum, Ethnographic Museum, Merkato, St. George Cathedral and the view of Addis Ababa from Mount Entoto.

Tour starting in the afternoon does not have lunch stop, Clients must have their lunch prior to the tour pickup.

Available options

Full Day Tour of Addis Ababa with Hotel Pickup and Drop-off

Pickup included

What's included

Blue Badge guide
Hotel drop-off
All entrance fee except Entoto View point
Driver/guide
Round-trip shared transfer
Hotel pickup
Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

You will start your city tour of Addis Ababa with the National Museum of Ethiopia. This is one of the best museums in quality and diversity of the exhibits. Archeological exhibits include the 3.5 million-year-old fossil of Lucy (or Dinkinesh – ‘thou art wonderful’- in the native language), a hominoid woman of the specious of Australopithecus Afarensis. The discovery of Lucy’s fossil in 1974 forced a complete rethink of human genealogy, providing that our ancestors were walking 2.5 million years earlier than had been supposed. The National Museum also contains many wonderful artifacts dating back to pre-Axumite civilization.

Please note that the National Museum Will be closed on Monday.

2

Yekatit 12 Martyrs Square Monument is located near the Addis Ababa University and the Lion Zoo. This place has a significant historical background.

3

Before Moving up to mount entoto we will pass by Chiromeda market. The market has a variety of traditional clothing like Dress, Shawl, Scarf, Bed Cover, Napkins, Mens Shirt, etc... all locally hand made product are being sold here.

Stooping here is optional.

4

Myazia 27 Square Monument or Dillachin ( Victory Monument )
The historic monument depicts a Lion of Judah and a circle of relief figures and monumental panels celebrating the liberation of Ethiopia.

5
Stop 5

we will drive uphill to Entoto, which once was Emperor Minilik II’s permanent camp. Driving the hill there is a considerable drop in altitude and the air is filled with the scent of the Eucalyptus trees which cover the area. From the top, there is a panoramic view of the capital and surrounding countryside. Please note that entrance fee to the Entoto park is not included, If you wish to enter the park the cost will be 20 USD/Person

6
Stop 6

We continue our tour of Addis Ababa with visit to the Ethnographic Museum which is found inside the compound of the Addis Ababa University. This museum is very different to the National Museum, but equally absorbing, this museum exhibit, a varied array of artifacts and daily objects related to most ethnic groups living in Ethiopia.

7
Stop 7

Lunch at Addis Ababa Restaurant

Addis Ababa Restaurant, the first restaurant established in the city over 120 years ago, was a marriage gift to Ethiopian princes from the emperor. This historic venue offers a variety of dining options, making it a great place for lunch.

Every Wednesday and Friday, the restaurant features a delicious vegan buffet, but guests can also choose from an extensive menu. Don't miss the opportunity to try the traditional honey wine, known as Tej.

8

Our visit continues with St. George Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedral in Addis Ababa and the most colorful church. Due to renovations the St. George cathedral is closed for sometime, We will take our client for alternatives to the B’atta Le Mariam Church Bata Mariam Church, also known as the Church of St. Mary of Zion, is a prominent Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo church located in Addis Ababa. Renowned for its striking architecture and intricate murals, the church serves as a significant place of worship and cultural heritage. It features a unique circular design and is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes. The church is a key site for religious ceremonies and festivals, attracting both pilgrims and visitors alike. Its serene atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the rich spiritual and cultural landscape of Ethiopia.

9

After lunch, city tour of Addis Ababa continues with the visit to Merkato, the largest open-air market in Africa, where almost every possible commodity is on sale.

10

Tiglachin Memorial is a memorial to Ethiopian and Cuban soldiers involved in the Ogaden War. It was built under Mengistu Haile Mariam on Churchill Avenue in Addis Ababa.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks
Mount Entoto

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
124 reviews
5★
113
4★
7
3★
2
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor 4.9
374 reviews
5★
356
4★
16
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Dress code is smart casual
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Meeting point

The Full Day Tour of Addis Ababa will start by a visit at the National Museum, and travelers can meet us at this place

Important notes

• Dress code, As we are going to a church recommended to have a proper attire, and Avoid wearing shorts, and skirts above the knee.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Minimum drinking age is 18 years
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

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

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

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
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-50
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 1-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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