Addis Ababa City Tours Culture History & Culinary Delights
Highlights
- Explore iconic landmarks like the National Museum
- Stroll through vibrant Friendship Park and Meskel Square
- Indulge in the flavors of Ethiopian cuisine
- Engage with local markets for unique souvenirs
- Perfect for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers
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Duration 8-10 hours
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Private transportation included
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English-speaking guide
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Visit National Museum
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Explore local markets
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Wheelchair accessible
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Addis Ababa City Tours: Culture, History & Culinary Delights. Immerse yourselves in the vibrant energy of Ethiopia's capital as you explore iconic landmarks like the National Museum and Entoto Hill. Indulge in the flavors of Ethiopian cuisine, shop for unique souvenirs in local markets, and feel the pulse of Meskel Square and Friendship Park. Engage with the stunning architecture of the Holy Trinity Cathedral and uncover the captivating stories of this dynamic city. Ideal for history buffs and cultural explorers, this tour offers a perfect blend of heritage, tradition, and culinary delights. Join expert guides on a journey through the heart of Addis Ababa and create lasting memories in this enchanting destination.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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8 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Immerse yourself in Addis Ababa's culture, history, and culinary delights on this comprehensive city tour, perfect for cultural enthusiasts.
Included
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Private transportation
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Entrance fees
Excluded
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Alcoholic beverages
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Meals
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
The National Museum of Ethiopia, located in Addis Ababa, is a treasure trove of Ethiopia's rich cultural and historical heritage. Renowned for its world class collection, the museum is home to the famous fossil Lucy, a 3.2 million year old Australopithecus afarensis that revolutionized your understanding of human origins. Visitors can explore four main sections: paleontology and prehistory, history, ethnography, and modern art, each offering a unique glimpse into Ethiopia's past and present. Highlights include ancient artifacts from the Aksumite Empire, royal memorabilia from Emperor Haile Selassie, and vibrant Ethiopian art spanning centuries. The museum also features fascinating exhibits of extinct creatures, such as the saber toothed feline Homotherium. With its diverse displays, the National Museum provides an unforgettable journey through Ethiopia's natural and cultural legacy.
Entoto Natural Park
Entoto Natural Park is a breathtaking natural retreat located on the southeastern slopes of Mount Entoto in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Covering an expansive 1,300 hectares, the park sits at an altitude between 2,600 and 3,100 meters, offering visitors stunning panoramic views of the city below. Visitors can explore lush forests, meandering streams, and waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and outdoor activities. The park features cafeterias, restaurants, an art center, an amphitheater, and even free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable experience for guests. Additionally, it has five entrances, four public and one VIP, allowing easy access from different parts of the city.
Holy Trinity Cathedral, also known as Kidist Selassie, is one of the most significant religious sites in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Built in 1942, it serves as the highest ranking Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in the country. The cathedral was constructed to commemorate Ethiopia’s victory over Italian occupation and stands as a symbol of national pride and resilience. Inside, the cathedral houses the tombs of Emperor Haile Selassie and Empress Menen Asfaw, along with other members of the imperial family. The crypts and monuments within the compound also serve as a resting place for Ethiopian patriots who fought against Italian occupation. Additionally, the cathedral is home to the Holy Trinity Theological College, a museum, and a monastery, making it a center for religious and cultural learning.
Mercato Market, also known as Addis Mercato, is the largest open air market in Africa, located in the Addis Ketema district of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Covering several square miles, it is a bustling hub of commerce, culture, and daily life, employing an estimated 13,000 people across 7,100 business entities. Originally established during the Italian occupation in the 1930s, Mercato has grown into a chaotic yet fascinating marketplace where visitors can find everything from fresh produce and spices to textiles, electronics, and handcrafted goods. The market is particularly famous for its coffee trade, as Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee and one of the world's leading producers.
The Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, stands as a solemn tribute to the victims of the Red Terror campaign carried out by the Derg regime between 1977 and 1978. Established in 2010, the museum is located near Meskel Square, a historically significant site in the city. Inside, visitors encounter powerful exhibits that include torture instruments, photographs of victims, blood-stained clothing, and human remains, all of which bear witness to the atrocities committed during this dark period. The museum also features a bronze statue at its entrance, depicting three crying girls, symbolizing the suffering endured by countless Ethiopians. The phrase "Never again" is inscribed in both English and Amharic, serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering history to prevent future atrocities.
Meskel Square is a historic and cultural landmark in the heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It serves as a major public gathering space, hosting religious celebrations, political rallies, concerts, and national events throughout the year. The square derives its name from the Meskel Festival, an annual Ethiopian Orthodox celebration commemorating the discovery of the True Cross. During this festival, thousands gather to witness the lighting of the Demera bonfire, a tradition that dates back centuries
Tomoca Coffee
Tomoca Coffee is one of Addis Ababa’s most iconic coffee establishments, renowned for its rich Ethiopian coffee heritage. Founded in 1953, Tomoca was the first commercial coffee roaster in Ethiopia, pioneering the art of high quality Arabica coffee roasting. The branch near Laghar train station offers a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy expertly brewed coffee. The café is known for its strong, flavorful espresso and traditional Ethiopian coffee, often served in small cups that highlight the bold taste and aroma. The ambiance is simple yet inviting, with a steady flow of customers stopping by for a quick caffeine fix or a moment of relaxation.
The Ethnological Museum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a fascinating institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage. Located within the Addis Ababa University campus, the museum is housed in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie, adding a layer of historical significance to its setting. Established in 1955, the museum features an extensive collection of over 13,000 artifacts, including religious manuscripts, ceremonial items, paintings, and intricately embroidered robes. Visitors can explore exhibits on anthropology, ethnomusicology, philately, and numismatics, offering a deep dive into Ethiopia’s diverse traditions and artistic expressions.
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
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All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Service animals allowed
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Specialized infant seats are available
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
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Try local dishes at Tomoca Coffee.
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Visit the Ethnological Museum nearby.
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Explore Mercato Market for unique finds.
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Check out the view from Entoto Hill.
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Enjoy coffee breaks at local cafés.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Addis Ababa with the Addis Ababa City Tours: Culture, History & Culinary Delights. Immerse yourself in the vibrant urban life of Ethiopia's capital, where rich culture and history await at every turn.What to expect?
Experience an enriching adventure as you visit iconic landmarks like the National Museum, where you can marvel at the world-renowned fossil Lucy. Take in breathtaking panoramic views from Entoto Hill and explore the stunning architecture of the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Engage with the local markets, savor the flavors of Ethiopian cuisine, and feel the pulse of Meskel Square and Friendship Park.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers who seek an authentic glimpse into the heart of Addis Ababa. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or someone looking to immerse themselves in a new culture, this experience caters to anyone eager to discover the beauty and vibrancy of Ethiopia's capital.Why book this?
The Addis Ababa City Tours offer a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, providing a comprehensive overview of the city's essence. From iconic landmarks to local markets and delicious cuisine, this tour ensures an immersive and unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Ethiopia's capital.Good to know
As you explore Addis Ababa, be prepared to engage with local vendors, taste the authentic flavors of Ethiopian cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant energy. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, an open mind, and a sense of curiosity to fully enjoy all that this tour has to offer.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced the Addis Ababa City Tours rave about the knowledgeable guides, the immersive cultural experiences, and the delicious culinary delights. Many highlight the National Museum, Entoto Hill, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral as must-see attractions that truly capture the essence of Addis Ababa. Overall, visitors praise this tour for its well-rounded itinerary and unforgettable moments that showcase the best of Ethiopia's capital.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is