Best of Addis Ababa: Coffee Ceremony, Lucy, & Authentic Tour

Overview

Available languages

English

Mobile ticket

When you land in Addis Ababa, it can feel like a lot to take in all at once. We built this tour to show you the version of the city we love the best coffee, the most vibrant markets, and the quietest views.

The plan for the day:

We’ll start with a bit of a "time travel" session at the National Museum to meet Lucy fossils dating back 3.2 million years, then head straight up to the Entoto Hills. It’s the best way to see the whole city laid out under the eucalyptus trees.

We’ll also take a walk through Mercato. It’s a bit of a maze, but that’s the fun of it, you will see the city’s real energy. Along the way, we’ll hit the landmarks like St. George’s Cathedral and the old palace to give you the backstories that make this place so unique.

A few things to make your life easier:

The Logistics: We’ll grab you from your hotel or the airport and drop you back off when we're finished.

The Coffee: You aren't leaving without a proper coffee ceremony. It’s the law of the land here.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

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

What To Expect

Holy Trinity Cathedral

IF YOU ONLY VISIT ONE CATHEDRAL, MAKE IT THIS ONE! Built in the 1940s by Emperor Haile Selassie I, this cathedral was created as a grand monument to celebrate Ethiopia’s victory over Italian occupation. Hidden Stories: Discover the grave of Sylvia Pankhurst, a British activist who moved to Ethiopia and became part of its story. Few travelers expect this connection. When you walk inside, you’ll be surrounded by massive stained-glass windows and royal tombs that feel more like a palace. It’s a very peaceful place, where you can see the crown jewels and ancient history right in the heart of the city.

1 hour • Admission Not Included

National Museum of Ethiopia

The National Museum of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa is a world-class historical landmark that offers a profound journey through the origins and the grandeur of African civilization. Main Highlights: What to See 1. The Prehistoric Basement (The "Lucy" Exhibit) The museum’s most famous resident is Lucy (Dinkinesh), the 3.2-million-year-old hominid skeleton. Seeing her remains is a bucket-list experience; she serves as a tangible link to our common ancestors. The basement also houses "Selam" (a 3.3-million-year-old child) and various extinct megafauna fossils. 2. The Ground Floor: Ancient & Imperial Glory This level focuses on the power of the Aksumite and Solomonic dynasties. The Thrones: View the massive, ornate wooden throne used by Emperor Haile Selassie. 3. The Upper Floors: Art and Culture The Gallery: Features stunning traditional and contemporary art, including the works of Afewerk Tekle.

1 hour • Admission Included

What‘s Included

Entry/Admission - Mount Entoto

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Bottled water

All Fees and Taxes

Entry/Admission - Tiglachin Memorial

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entry/Admission - Ethnological Museum

Professional Guide

Entry/Admission - National Museum

Free WI-FI

Dinner

Alcoholic Beverages

Souvenirs

Options