Shopping in Addis Ababa centers on three well-organized tours that cut through the tourist confusion. The practical City Tour connects visitors with authentic Ethiopian life and food stops. I especially love the Market Tour and Cooking Class – it’s a smart way to learn local recipes while discovering where ingredients come from. The Half Day Shopping Tour hits all the right spots: Merkato (Africa’s largest open-air market), historic Piazza, and the reliable Sumeta Souvenir Gallery. Each tour includes a knowledgeable local guide and private transportation, making these outings hassle-free. Let’s look at my favorite shopping tours in Ethiopia’s capital.
Key Points
- The Half Day Shopping Tour provides an engaging shopping adventure with visits to Merkato open-air market, Piazza district, and Sumeta Souvenir Gallery.
- The Market Tour and Cooking Class offers an immersive cultural experience with a market visit and hands-on cooking class to learn authentic Ethiopian cuisine.
- The Comprehensive City Tour showcases local culture with a flexible itinerary featuring Ethiopian food tastings, a traditional coffee ceremony, and fresh juices.
- All tours include private transportation, local guides, and are rated highly by previous travelers, with 5.0 overall ratings.
- The tours cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian options, and provide an unforgettable way to explore the vibrant culture of Addis Ababa.
City Tour, Food Tour, Shopping Mercato Market
During this comprehensive tour, travelers explore the bustling city of Addis Ababa, seeing the vibrant local culture.
The private tour is highly recommended, earning a 5.0 rating from 28 reviews. Travelers can expect a flexible itinerary, with the opportunity to try various Ethiopian foods from three restaurants.
The tour includes a food tasting, an Ethiopian traditional coffee ceremony, and fresh juices – all suitable for vegetarians and carnivores alike. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the experience provides an intimate and personalized exploration of the city.
The tour logistics are seamless, with all fees, taxes, and tips included. Travelers can choose to meet the guide at a designated spot or request pickup.
The tour operates daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, ensuring flexibility for participants. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
With its comprehensive offerings and positive customer feedback, this Addis Ababa city, food, and shopping tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive cultural experience.
Read our full review: City Tour, Food Tour, Shopping Mercato Market Review
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Market Tour and Cooking Class With a Coffee Ceremony at a Home in Addis Ababa
For an immersive cultural experience in Addis Ababa, travelers can embark on a captivating Market Tour and Cooking Class with a Coffee Ceremony at a local home. This highly-rated tour, with 32 reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation, offers an authentic glimpse into everyday Ethiopian life.
Hosts Daniel and Tigist, expert cooks, welcome guests into their friendly, intimate home kitchen to share their culinary expertise and cultural traditions.
During the tour, participants learn to prepare classic Ethiopian dishes like injera, and participate in a coffee ceremony featuring freshly roasted beans. The private, customizable experience caters to various dietary needs, including vegetarian options.
Travelers can choose between a lunch or dinner tour, which includes a market visit, cooking class, and coffee ceremony, along with all beverages, taxes, and gratuities. With free cancellation and rescheduling, this market tour and cooking class is an unforgettable way to connect with the vibrant culture of Addis Ababa.
Read our full review: Market Tour and Cooking Class With a Coffee Ceremony at a Home in Addis Ababa Review
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Addis Ababa Half Day Shopping Tour
The Addis Ababa Half Day Shopping Tour offers travelers an immersive and engaging shopping experience in Ethiopia’s vibrant capital city. With a 5.0 overall rating based on 3 reviews, this tour provides an opportunity to explore local markets and discover authentic products like coffee, jewelry, and leather goods.
Participants will visit notable locations, including the expansive Merkato open-air market, the charming Piazza district, the Sumeta Souvenir Gallery, and the lively stadium area.
The tour includes a local guide, round-trip private transfers, and complimentary meals, including a traditional dinner and coffee ceremony.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, with a child rate available when sharing with two paying adults. The tour is private, ensuring an intimate experience with only your group participating.
With a price starting from ₹6,094.75 per person and a lowest price guarantee, the Addis Ababa Half Day Shopping Tour offers a compelling shopping adventure in the heart of Ethiopia.
Read our full review: Addis Ababa Half Day Shopping Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Addis Ababa offers a diverse range of shopping experiences. The Mercato Market provides a vibrant and authentic marketplace, while guided tours offer the chance to explore the city’s cuisine and culture. Whether you’re seeking unique handicrafts, local textiles, or a traditional coffee ceremony, Addis Ababa’s shopping tours provide an engaging and immersive way to discover the heart of Ethiopia’s capital.