• Entoto Maryam Church - The journey begins with a drive north to Mount Entoto.

In 1881, Emperor Menelik II established his permanent camp here after discovering remnants of an ancient town, believed to be the capital of the 16th-century monarch Lebna Dengel. Menelik considered this a divine and favorable omen.

Addis Ababa, situated at an altitude of 2300 – 2500 meters, is the third highest capital in the world, and Entoto is a few hundred meters higher. As the drive ascends the hill, there is a noticeable drop in temperature, and the air is filled with the fragrance of Eucalyptus trees lining the road.

From the summit, there is a breathtaking view of the capital and the surrounding countryside. Entoto serves as a significant watershed, with water flowing north to the Blue Nile and south to the Awash River. The guide will highlight the city’s important landmarks.

Entoto was eventually abandoned as the capital site due to its cold climate, difficulty in provisioning, and wood scarcity. Empress Taytu is credited with leading the move to the plain of Finfine, naming the new capital Addis Ababa, or New Flower. However, two significant structures remain within the old imperial compound: the churches of Mariam and the Archangel Raguel. Menelik was crowned Emperor of Ethiopia in the Mariam church in 1889, and the small museum in the compound houses various clothes, court and household implements, and weapons from that period. The Raguel church is unique for its octagonal shape, unlike the typical round design. Menelik enjoyed strolling around the first-story balustrade.

• National Museum of Ethiopia - After visiting St. Mary Church, King Menelik and Empress Taitu Museum, the tour descends to Addis Ababa, stopping at the National Archaeological Museum. Here, visitors can explore exhibits ranging from the 3.5 million-year-old bones of Lucy to the Axumite and Gondarene periods, and the reigns of monarchs Tewodros and Menelik.

A lunch break follows, with several options available: dining at the Lucy Restaurant within the National Museum grounds, at Blue Tops across from the museum, or enjoying Ethiopian cuisine at the atmospheric Addis Ababa restaurant, formerly the home of Empress Zauditu.

After lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies, showcasing clothing from various regions, artifacts, household utensils, and a separate section featuring paintings that reflect the country’s history and culture.

This building was once the Genete Palace of Emperor Haile Selassie.

• Mercato Market - Following a visit to St. George Church of King Menelik and sampling coffee at the renowned Tomoca coffee shop in Piassa, the tour proceeds to the Mercato, Africa’s largest market area. Here, virtually every commodity is available, from livestock to computers. For visitors skilled in bargaining, there is an extensive selection of Ethiopian arts and crafts.

The tour concludes with a return to the hotel.

End of Tour!

• Holy Trinity Cathedral - Established during the reign of Emperor Menelik II, the Holy Trinity Cathedral was reconstructed under Emperor Haile Selassie’s orders to achieve its current architectural style, with the cornerstone laid in 1931.

Inaugurated in 1943, this grand and ornate cathedral is considered the second most important place of worship in Ethiopia, following only the ancient church of St. Mary of Zion in Axum. The exterior is adorned with statues of saints and angels, which is uncommon in Ethiopian church tradition. Its large copper dome, slender pinnacles, and flamboyant mix of international styles offer an intriguing glimpse into many historical episodes of Ethiopia’s history. Inside, a beautiful crystal chandelier, numerous notable paintings, murals, and attractive stained glass windows enhance the decor. The paintings were created by renowned Ethiopian artists and a Greek named Germinis. The cathedral also serves as a cemetery for members of the Imperial family.

• Private transportation
• Bottled water
• All fees and taxes included
• Tea and coffee provided

• Breakfast
• Dinner
• All personal expenses

This full day exploration of Addis Ababa provides an unparalleled combination of uncovering the city’s hidden allure, cultural richness, historical background and local flavour!

In the year 1881, Emperor Menelik II established his perpetual encampment here, upon the vestiges of an ancient town.

Positioned between 2300 – 2500 meters, Addis Ababa is the world’s third loftiest capital, and Entoto, even a few hundred meters higher. As we ascend the hill, you will observe a noticeable drop in altitude and soak in the aromatic fragrance of the Eucalyptus trees along the route.

A sweeping view of the capital city and surrounding landscapes can be captured from the peak. Entoto plays a significant role as a watershed, draining water to the Blue Nile in the north and to the Awash River in the south. Your guide will indicate the city’s significant landmarks.

Embark on this journey with us today and uncover the local nuances of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia with our expert tour guides!

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