• Mount Entoto - The journey will take you uphill to Entoto, which was once the permanent camp of Emperor Minilik II. As you ascend, you’ll notice a significant drop in altitude, and the air is filled with the refreshing scent of Eucalyptus trees that blanket the area. From the summit, enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the capital and the surrounding countryside. Please note that the entrance fee to Entoto Park is not included. If you wish to enter the park, the cost is $9 per person. Duration: 35 minutes.

• Menelik Palace - This historical site is where Emperor Menelik II resided and constructed his palace after moving from Ankober and founding Addis Ababa. It is considered a sacred mountain and is home to many monasteries. Mount Entoto also hosts several renowned churches, including Saint Raguel and Saint Mary. The mountain is densely covered with eucalyptus trees, imported from Australia during Menelik II’s reign and mostly planted during Emperor Haile Selassie’s time. It is sometimes referred to as the “lung of Addis Ababa.” The forest on the mountain is a vital source of firewood for the city and was also a source of building material in earlier times. Duration: 1 hour.

• National Museum of Ethiopia - The National Museum of Ethiopia is renowned for its quality and diversity of exhibits. Archaeological displays include the 3.5 million-year-old fossil of Lucy (or Dinkinesh – ‘thou art wonderful’ in the native language), a hominoid woman of the species Australopithecus Afarensis. The discovery of Lucy’s fossil in 1974 prompted a complete reevaluation of human genealogy, proving that our ancestors were walking 2.5 million years earlier than previously thought. The National Museum also houses many remarkable artifacts dating back to the pre-Axumite civilization.

• Shiro Meda Market - Shiro Meda Market, also spelled “Chiromeda,” offers a wide range of Ethiopian textiles, from wedding dresses to various types of clothing and linens. Located near the US Embassy in Addis Ababa, it is one of the best local markets for shopping handwoven cotton clothes, mainly for women. It is also well-known for small gift items like bed covers, tablecloths, scarves, T-shirts, necklaces, earrings, and more. Why visit? At Shiro Meda, visitors can purchase colorful handwoven locally made scarves and dresses for both women and men, crafted from cotton and adorned with vibrant embroidery. Bargaining for prices is customary here. Duration: 35 minutes.

• Tiglachin Memorial - The Tiglachin Monument, also known as the Derg Monument, is a tribute to Ethiopian and Cuban soldiers who participated in the Ogaden War. It was constructed during Mengistu Haile Mariam’s rule and is located on Churchill Avenue in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The monument features a central statue, a 50-meter tall pillar, two wall reliefs on the sides, and two squares displaying portraits of Cuban soldiers. Some sculptures at the monument were donated by the North Korean government in 1984, making it one of the first monuments to be gifted to Africa.

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

• Tomoca Coffee - Experience the delightful aroma of Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee, celebrated worldwide for its distinctive flavor profile, often regarded as one of the best coffees globally. During the Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony, enjoy the scent of roasting coffee and frankincense. Ethiopia is known as the birthplace of coffee, and at the oldest Tomoca Coffee shop, you can savor a cup of coffee or macchiato brewed with over half a century of expertise. Here, you can purchase roasted beans or ground coffee as souvenirs for yourself or your family.

• Lion of Judah - The “Lion of Judah” is a symbolic title with biblical roots, referring to the tribe of Judah and, particularly, to Jesus Christ. It is also used to symbolize the Ethiopian monarchy, specifically Emperor Haile Selassie.

• Yekatit 12 Martyrs Square - The Yekatit 12 monument is a memorial in Addis Ababa commemorating the Yekatit 12 pogrom, an Italian war crime in Ethiopia. The pogrom occurred from February 19 to 21, 1937, and is named Yekatit 12 after the start date in the Ethiopian calendar. The memorial is an obelisk located in the center of the roundabout at Sidist Kilo Square, also known as “Yekatit 12 Square.”

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

• Addis Ababa - Enjoy lunch at The Addis Ababa Restaurant in downtown Silver Spring, named after Ethiopia’s capital city. The restaurant showcases several murals and lamps featuring historical and cultural elements from Ethiopia, including angels from Debra Birhan Selassie Church and a painting of the legendary Queen of Sheba with King Solomon of Israel. Addis Ababa means “New Flower” in Amharic. The city, home to over 5 million people, was founded in 1886. Nearly half of the population belongs to the Amhara ethnic group, while the majority of the remaining population is divided among the Oromo, Gurage, Tigray, and other ethnic groups. The site of Addis Ababa was chosen by Empress Taytu Beful and established by her husband, Emperor Menelik II. Here, you can try Doro Wat, the most popular traditional dish in Eritrea and Ethiopia. Considered the national dish, it is a favorite during both formal and informal gatherings, with vegan and vegetarian options available.

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

• 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.