• St. George’s Cathedral - This octagonal cathedral, located in the heart of Addis Ababa, was constructed to honor St. George for his invaluable support during the first Ethio-Italian war, the Battle of Adwa. The interior is adorned with beautiful paintings. It is the coronation site of King Haile Selassie I. A small museum houses an ancient collection of books, crosses, and other church treasures, offering insight into Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. Duration: 39 minutes.

• Mount Entoto - The drive uphill to Entoto, once Emperor Menelik II’s permanent camp, offers a significant drop in altitude and the refreshing scent of eucalyptus trees. From the summit, enjoy a panoramic view of the capital and surrounding countryside. Note: The entrance fee to Entoto Park is not included; entry costs 9 USD per person. Duration: 35 minutes.

• Menelik Palace - This historical site was the residence of Emperor Menelik II, who built his palace here after moving from Ankober and founding Addis Ababa. Considered a sacred mountain, it hosts many monasteries and celebrated churches, including Saint Raguel and Saint Mary. The mountain, densely covered with eucalyptus trees imported from Australia during Menelik II’s reign, is sometimes called the “lung of Addis Ababa.” The forest is a vital source of firewood and was historically used for building materials. Duration: 1 hour.

• Shiro Meda Market - Shiro Meda Market, near the US Embassy in Addis Ababa, is renowned for selling Ethiopian textiles, including wedding dresses and various clothing items. It is a top local market for handwoven cotton clothes, mainly for women, and is also famous for small gift items like bed covers, tablecloths, scarves, T-shirts, necklaces, and earrings. Visitors can purchase colorful, locally made scarves and dresses for both women and men, crafted from cotton and adorned with vibrant embroidery. Bargaining is customary here. Duration: 35 minutes.

• Addis Ababa - Enjoy lunch at The Addis Ababa Restaurant in downtown Silver Spring, named after Ethiopia’s capital. The restaurant features murals and lamps showcasing Ethiopia’s historical and cultural elements, including angels from Debra Birhan Selassie Church and a painting of the legendary Queen of Sheba with King Solomon of Israel. Addis Ababa, meaning “New Flower” in Amharic, was founded in 1886 and is home to over 5 million people. Nearly half of the population is of the Amhara ethnic group, with the rest comprising Oromo, Gurage, Tigray, and other ethnic groups. The city was chosen by Empress Taytu Betul and established by her husband, Emperor Menelik II. Here, try Doro Wat, a popular traditional dish in Eritrea and Ethiopia, considered the national dish and a staple at gatherings, with vegan and vegetarian options available.

• National Museum of Ethiopia - The National Museum of Ethiopia is renowned for its quality and diverse exhibits. Archaeological displays include the 3.5 million-year-old fossil of Lucy (or Dinkinesh, meaning ‘thou art wonderful’ in the native language), a hominid woman of the species Australopithecus afarensis. Lucy’s discovery in 1974 revolutionized human genealogy, proving our ancestors walked 2.5 million years earlier than previously thought. The museum also houses artifacts from the pre-Axumite civilization.

• Tomoca Coffee - Experience the aroma of Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee, celebrated worldwide for its unique flavor profile, at the oldest Tomoca Coffee shop. Enjoy a cup of coffee or macchiato brewed with over half a century of expertise. Purchase roasted beans or ground coffee as souvenirs. The Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony, featuring frankincense, highlights Ethiopia’s reputation for the world’s best coffee.

• Tiglachin Memorial - The Tiglachin Monument, also known as the Derg Monument, honors Ethiopian and Cuban soldiers from the Ogaden War. Built during Mengistu Haile Mariam’s rule, it stands on Churchill Avenue in Addis Ababa. The monument features a central statue, a 50-meter pillar, two wall reliefs, and squares displaying Cuban soldiers’ portraits. Some sculptures were donated by North Korea in 1984, marking one of the first African monument donations.

• Yekatit 12 Martyrs Square - The Yekatit 12 monument in Addis Ababa commemorates the Yekatit 12 pogrom, an Italian war crime in Ethiopia from February 19 to 21, 1937. Named after the Ethiopian calendar date, the memorial is an obelisk located at the center of Sidist Kilo Square, also known as Yekatit 12 Square.

• Lion of Judah - The “Lion of Judah” is a symbolic title rooted in the Bible, referring to the tribe of Judah and Jesus Christ, and symbolizes the Ethiopian monarchy, particularly Emperor Haile Selassie.

• Menelik II Square - Menelik II Square, in the heart of Addis Ababa, is a notable public space named after Emperor Menelik II. It features an equestrian statue of the ruler and serves as a popular gathering spot, especially during religious and national holidays.

• Addis Ababa - Visit the Pure Organic Ethiopian Honey tasting shop in Bole, conveniently located near Flamingo, in front of the Hyatt Regency Hotel. The shop offers a wide selection of premium honey products, each carefully sourced and crafted for exceptional quality and taste. From rich, robust varieties to light, delicate flavors, the honey caters to all preferences. Discover unique infusions and raw, pure honey with unmatched health benefits. The friendly staff is ready to help find the perfect honey for your needs. Visit Safi Honey today to experience the finest in natural sweetness and quality.

• Admission fees for Menelik Museum and Mount Entoto View Points
• Airport/Hotel pick up and drop off
• WiFi on board and all attraction fees included
• Admission fees for the National Museum of Ethiopia
• Transport by air-conditioned vehicle with driver/guide
• Admission fees for Menelik Palace and Saint Mary Church

• Lunch at Addis Ababa Restaurant
• Tips for your driver Guide + park fees
• Kindly note that the National museum is not open on Monday

Entoto Hill, standing at an elevation of 3,200 meters, is often referred to as the rooftop of Addis Ababa. As one drives up the steep road, they will pass by homes, small villages, and highland vegetation. With the increase in elevation, stunning views of Addis Ababa can be enjoyed, especially on a clear day. Menelik II established his palace on Entoto Hill, using it as his base during the founding of Addis Ababa. Near the summit of Entoto Hill is the Entoto Maryam Cathedral, also known as St. Mary’s Church. While it may not be the most grandiose cathedral, it is certainly worth a visit, including the museum. On the return journey from Entoto Hill, a stop at the Shiro Meda Local Market is recommended. This market, located near the US Embassy in Addis Ababa, is renowned for its Ethiopian textiles, offering a variety of handwoven cotton clothing, primarily for women. It is also a popular spot for purchasing small gift items such as bed covers, tablecloths, scarves, T-shirts, necklaces, and earrings.

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