National Museum of Ethiopia - The National Museum of Ethiopia showcases the country’s artistic heritage and significant archaeological discoveries, including the renowned fossilized remains of early hominids, most notably “Lucy.” A recent addition is the exhibit on Selam, estimated to be 3.3 million years old, believed to be the earliest known child. The museum’s displays feature archaeological and paleoanthropological artifacts, items from ancient and medieval times, regalia and memorabilia from past rulers, artwork, and a collection of secular arts and crafts. The museum aims to provide an overview of the cultural diversity and richness of Ethiopia’s people. Lucy was discovered in 1974 near the village of Hadar in the Awash Valley of the Afar Triangle in Ethiopia. The Lucy specimen is an early australopithecine, dated to approximately 3.2 million years ago. The skeleton reveals a small skull similar to that of non-hominin apes, along with evidence of a bipedal and upright walking gait.

Ethnographic Museum (Muzeu Etnologjik) - The Ethnological Museum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a public institution focused on ethnology and culture. It houses anthropological, musicological, and cultural artifacts. The Ethnological Museum is the first university museum in Ethiopia and is located on the main campus of Addis Ababa University, which also hosts the Institute of Ethiopian Studies.

Mercato Market - Before the current Mercato, there was an open marketplace in Addis Ababa near St. George Church, where the City Hall now stands, but it ceased during the Italian occupation in the 1930s. The occupiers relocated the market further west to the area around Fitawrari Habte Giyorgis Dinagde’s premises, naming it Merkato Dinagde. Thus, the present Addis Merkato was established by the segregationist policies of the Italian occupational government. The Italians restricted the historic St. George Merkato to Europeans, renaming it Piazza, which featured European-style shops with glass window displays. The predominantly Arab tradesmen who owned stores there eventually moved half a mile west. Over time, local shopkeepers replaced the Arab merchants, and since the 1960s, the Addis Merkato has had a predominantly local character. The Mercato Dijino developed without a plan, gradually expanding in width and breadth with different categorical stocks known as “terras.”

Mount Entoto - This historical site is where Emperor Menelik II resided and built 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. As a result, it is sometimes called 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. The Ethiopian Heritage Trust, a non-profit, non-governmental organization, is actively working to restore part of the mountain to its original state as a natural park. Entoto Natural Park is located on the northeastern rim of Addis Ababa, on the southeastern slopes of Mt. Entoto, covering an area of 1,300 hectares.

City Tour and Around the City

Entoto Natural Park - Early in the morning, after breakfast, the tour proceeds to Entoto Mountain. Along the way, visitors will see Emperor Menelik’s palace.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Driver/guide
• Blue Badge guide
• Hotel
• All fees and/or taxes

• alcohol

1. Cultural Immersion:
   Local Insights: Rather than opting for a standard tour, an exceptional guide will offer profound insights into Ethiopia’s vibrant culture, traditions, and history. Visitors will have the opportunity to interact with locals, learn about their everyday lives, and perhaps even enjoy traditional coffee in a local home.
   Historical Sites: Exploring locations such as the National Museum of Ethiopia (home to “Lucy,” one of the oldest hominid fossils), the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the Ethnological Museum can provide a comprehensive understanding of Ethiopian history.

2. Local Markets and Handicrafts:
   Exploring markets like Merkato (one of Africa’s largest open-air markets) allows visitors to discover Ethiopian products such as spices, textiles, and handmade jewelry. An informed guide can lead you to artisan workshops to witness traditional crafts being created, fostering a deeper connection to the local culture.

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