Addis Ababa Layover Tour: Mercato Market & Airport Transfer
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Experience Addis Ababa’s legendary Merkato Market like a local on a private, guided shopping tour designed for a truly authentic cultural experience.
This is not a standard market visit—it is a personalized journey through one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, where you’ll explore hidden corners, artisan workshops, and local trading hubs that most visitors never see.
With your expert local guide, discover authentic Ethiopian crafts, meet skilled artisans, and learn the traditional art of bargaining in a friendly, engaging way. The experience is fully tailored to your interests, allowing you to shop at your own pace and focus on unique, high-quality products.
Beyond shopping, gain a deeper understanding of Ethiopia’s vibrant trade culture and daily life in this dynamic commercial center, often described as the heartbeat of the nation’s economy. Complete your experience with a traditional Ethiopian coffee break, immersing yourself in local hospitality.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Mercato Market
Don't just sit around the airport: make the most of your layover at Bole International airport with 3 to 4 hours tour of Addis. pick you up from the airport and takes you to the Mercato, 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. The primary merchandise passing through the Merkato is locally grown agricultural products — most notably . Visit Oldest Coffe shops Museums before transferring you back to the airport in time for your connecting flight
Meskel Square
Previously it was known as Stephen Square[1] before its name was changed to Meskel Squre in the early 1950s. Traditionally, the Meskel holiday (finding of the true cross)bonfire in Addis Ababa was lit by the Emperor of Ethiopia accompanied by members of the Imperial Family, the nobility, and high officials of the Orthodox Church and the government. The bonfire was initially lit in a square near the southern gate of St George's Cathedral during the reigns of Emperor Menelik II and Empress Zewditu, but was moved to its present location in the specifically constructed Meskel Square by Emperor Haile Selassie.
Options
Local Market and view points
Duration: 5 hours Car mini van Pickup included
Addis Ababa & Mount Entoto..
Lunch and dinner Muzum’s local market top views Car Pickup included
What‘s Included
Pick up and drop off
Professional Driver/guide
Open air Market walking Tours
Air-conditioned vehicle
Coffe & Coffee ceremony Tours
Bottle of water + WiFi on board
Lunch
Tips for your guide
Alcoholic beverages
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
3 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Unforgettable Mercato Experience with an Amazing Guide
pablorK4586QZ,Feb 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00"Incredible experience! The Mercato is a unique place, with a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of fresh and delicious products. It's the perfect spot to explore the local culture and enjoy. What really made this experience exceptional was the guide, truly amazing! Their deep knowledge of the place and passion for sharing the story of each stall made the visit even more special. They truly brought the experience to life with their enthusiasm and expertise. I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the area. Don’t miss it!"
Half Day City Tour
berandens,Dec 6, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I chose to go with Daily Addis Tours given the great feedback I had read on here. They did not disappoint with the half day tour. With a short stay in Addis, we wanted to experience many of the sights and feel like we received a comprehensive tour without the being rushed. Our guide Yonas, and driver Adisu made that possible. Their professionalism, historical knowledge, light personalities and overall candor added to a wonderful excursion for my mother & myself as we took in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Addis Ababa
Our amazing Addis day tour with Yonas
25elda34na,Jan 27, 2020
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My husband and I recently visited Addis on a long layover. We had a day tour with Tour guide Yonas. he was very kind and knowledgeable, he answered all our questions and took us to all the main attractions. Everything was walking distance. Lunch was excellent too. Over all we had a great day. Would highly recommend this tour
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Operated by Daily Addis Tours