Addis Ababa city guided tours

Addis Ababa, ET
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (9 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Bottled water
    Bottled water
  • inclusion
    Lunch
    Lunch
  • inclusion
    Other
    All Fees and Taxes
  • inclusion
    In-vehicle air conditioning
    Air-conditioned vehicle
  • inclusion
    Tea and coffee
    Coffee and/or Tea

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Other
    personal interest like gift souvenir shops

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Bole Airport
We can pick up our guests at the Airport, apartment, and any other places travelers want to be picked up..

What to expect

1
National Museum of Ethiopia

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.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
2
Ethnological Museum

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.

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Included
3
Mount Entoto

It is a historical place where Emperor Menelik II resided and built his palace, when he came from Ankober and founded Addis Ababa. It is considered a sacred mountain and has many monasteries. Mount Entoto is also the location of a number of celebrated churches, including Saint Raguel and Saint Mary.[1] The mountain 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. The Ethiopian Heritage Trust, a non-profit, non-governmental organization, is working actively to change part of the mountain to its old state, a natural park. Entoto Natural Park is the northeastern rim of Addis Abeba, on the southeastern slopes of Mt. Entoto, covering an area of 1,300 hectares. It is situated at

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
4

Tiglachin Memorial

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293791-d1205703-Reviews-Tiglachin_Memorial-Addis_Ababa.html

Duration 30 minutes
5
Mercato Market

Mercato is the largest open-air market in Africa, covering several square miles and employing an estimated 13,000 people in 7,100 business entities.[citation needed] The primary merchandise passing through the Merkato is locally grown agricultural products — most notably coffee. Prior to the current Mercato, there was an open marketplace in Addis Ababa near St. George Church at the site where the City Hall stands now, but it ended with the Italian occupation of the 1930s. The occupiers moved the market further west to the area around the premises of Fitawrari Habte Giyorgis Dinagde, which they named Merkato Dinagde. Thus, the present Addis Merkato was founded by the segregationist policies of the Italian occupational government. Meanwhile, the Italians restricted the historic St. George Merkato to Europeans, renaming it Piazza, which featured European-style shops that displayed commodities through glass windows. The mostly Arab tradesmen who owned stores there eventually

Duration 120 minutes
6
Meskel Square

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meskel_Square

Duration 30 minutes
7

Menelik II Square

Menelik II Square is located in the heart of Addis Ababa, the area locally known as Arada. At the center of the square stands a magnificent equestrian statue of the Emperor. The monument was erected by Emperor Haile Selassie I, in 1930, just before his coronation.

Duration 30 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Glamour Omo Valley Tours

What our experts say

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    Don't miss the coffee ceremony!
  • icon
    Try local street food at Merkato.
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    Visit Entoto Mountain for views.
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    Check out nearby museums at the university.
  • icon
    Bring cash for Mercado market shopping.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Explore the vibrant and culturally rich city of Addis Ababa with a guided tour that showcases the best of this bustling Ethiopian capital. From ancient fossils at the National Museum to the lively Merkato market, this full-day experience offers a comprehensive look at the historical and cultural highlights of Addis Ababa.

What to expect?

Embark on a journey through time as you visit the National Museum and witness the famous 3 million-year-old fossils of Lucy. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Merkato, Africa's largest open-air market, and indulge in traditional Ethiopian coffee and cuisine. Enjoy panoramic views of Addis Ababa from Enoto and gain a deeper understanding of the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

Who is this for?

This guided tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and curious travelers looking to immerse themselves in the unique heritage of Addis Ababa. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this experience offers something for everyone who wants to explore the hidden gems of the Ethiopian capital.

Why book this?

Discover the allure of Addis Ababa with a guided tour that takes you on a memorable journey through the city's most iconic landmarks and attractions. From the ancient artifacts at the National Museum to the colorful stalls of Merkato market, this experience offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Addis Ababa's past and present.

Good to know

For a hassle-free experience, this guided tour includes bottled water, lunch, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. All entrance fees and taxes are covered, allowing you to focus on soaking in the sights and sounds of Addis Ababa. Be sure to come with an open mind and a hearty appetite to fully enjoy the flavors and aromas of traditional Ethiopian coffee and cuisine.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on this Addis Ababa city tour rave about the knowledgeable guides, immersive experiences, and unforgettable memories created along the way. From the awe-inspiring fossils at the National Museum to the bustling energy of Merkato market, visitors praise the diversity of sights and activities included in this comprehensive tour. Overall, guests express high satisfaction with the value and quality of this guided exploration of Addis Ababa's cultural and historical treasures.

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