Shopping in Addis Ababa’s bustling markets is an adventure, and taking a guided tour makes it less overwhelming. The Market Tour and Cooking Class stands out as my favorite – you’ll learn to navigate local markets and prepare traditional dishes with friendly Ethiopian hosts. For folks who want it all, I recommend the City Tour, Food Tour, and Shopping combination. You get comfortable transport and hit all the main shopping areas while learning about local culture and cuisine. The Addis Mercato Market tour is perfect for serious shoppers who want to explore Africa’s largest open-air market, while the Half Day Shopping Tour offers a quick but thorough introduction to the city’s best shopping spots.
Let’s look at these top shopping tours in detail…
Good To Know
- The Addis Mercato Market Exploration offers an immersive shopping experience, featuring lush botanical gardens, side streets, and panoramic views from the tallest hill.
- The City Tour with Cooking Class provides a highly rated cultural experience, including air-conditioned transport, lunch, and freshly-cooked Ethiopian dishes.
- The Half Day Shopping Tour focuses on exploring local markets and authentic Ethiopian products, such as coffee, jewelry, and leather goods.
- The City Tour, Food Tour, and Shopping offer a comprehensive experience exploring Addis Ababa’s highlights and cuisine with a personalized touch.
- The Market Tour and Cooking Class provides an authentic cultural experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off, and a menu that may vary seasonally.
Market Tour and Cooking Class With a Coffee Ceremony at a Home in Addis Ababa
This market tour and cooking class with a coffee ceremony in Addis Ababa provides an authentic and immersive cultural experience.
Hosted by Daniel and Tigist, the private, personalized tour focuses on local cuisine and traditions. Guests meet at the Askos bus station and are provided hotel pickup and drop-off.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with dietary restrictions. With 32 reviews and a 5.0 overall rating, travelers praise the friendly hosts, authentic food, and cultural insights.
Confirmation is received at booking, and the menu may vary seasonally. Travelers with allergies or preferences should inform the hosts in advance.
Read our full review: Market Tour and Cooking Class With a Coffee Ceremony at a Home in Addis Ababa Review
Book now: Check availability
City Tour, Food Tour, Shopping in Mercato
Dive into the vibrant heart of Addis Ababa on this comprehensive city, food, and shopping tour.
You’ll explore the city’s highlights, indulge in delicious Ethiopian cuisine, and shop for unique souvenirs at the bustling Mercato Market.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience at your own pace. The air-conditioned vehicle makes getting around a breeze, and the tour’s flexible duration ensures you make the most of your time.
While not wheelchair accessible, this tour is a great option for most travelers, except those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Priced at €69.34 per person, this tour offers an excellent value for a well-rounded Addis Ababa experience.
Read our full review: City Tour, Food Tour, Shopping in Mercato Review
Book now: Check availability
Addis Mercato Market
Nestled in the heart of Addis Ababa, the Addis Mercato Market stands as a bustling epicenter of commerce and cultural exchange. This unique tour offers visitors a chance to escape the city’s hustle, exploring the market’s lush botanical gardens, side streets, and the city’s tallest hill for panoramic views.
Highlights include visiting Trinity Cathedral, learning about Ethiopia’s history and culture, and observing indigenous wildlife, trees, and plants. With a maximum group size of 12, the tour provides a personalized experience, including amenities like coffee, tea, and seasonal fruit.
Accessibility features make the market wheelchair and stroller-friendly, ensuring a comfortable exploration for all. At $98.18 per person, this tour is a must-visit for those seeking an immersive shopping experience in Addis Ababa.
Read our full review: Addis Mercato Market Review
Book now: Check availability
Addis Ababa City Tours With Cocking Class Of Ethiopian Food & Shopping
One of the top-rated experiences in Addis Ababa, this city tour with an Ethiopian cooking class offers visitors a chance to enjoy the vibrant culture of the capital.
With a 5.0-star rating based on 19 reviews, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, coffee/tea, and the opportunity to taste your own freshly-cooked Ethiopian dishes.
Priced at €73.19 per person, the tour includes all entrance and food ingredient fees, as well as pickup from hotels or the airport.
While alcoholic drinks and dinner are excluded, the experience is highly recommended by 100% of travelers and has earned a Badge of Excellence.
It’s an excellent way to explore Addis Ababa and learn the art of traditional Ethiopian cuisine.
Read our full review: Addis Ababa City Tours With Cocking Class Of Ethiopian Food & Shopping Review
Book now: Check availability
Addis Ababa Half Day Shopping Tour
This half-day shopping tour in Addis Ababa offers visitors a chance to explore the vibrant local markets and discover authentic Ethiopian products.
Priced from $70 per person, the tour takes you to Merkato – the largest open-air market, as well as Piazza and Sumeta Souvenir Gallery.
You’ll shop for coffee, jewelry, and leather goods while enjoying a complimentary dinner, dance performance, and traditional coffee ceremony.
The knowledgeable local guide, Aman Assefa, ensures you get reasonable prices for the handmade crafts.
With a 5-star rating based on 3 reviews, this private tour is a highlight of any trip to Ethiopia.
Just be aware it’s not wheelchair accessible, and late arrivals won’t be refunded.
Read our full review: Addis Ababa Half Day Shopping Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Ethiopian Cuisine Shopping and Music
Visitors to Addis Ababa can enjoy the city’s vibrant Ethiopian cuisine and cultural music scene through this engaging shopping tour.
Starting at 9:30 AM, the tour can accommodate up to 10 travelers and includes all fees, a driver/guide, bottled water, a car with fuel, lunch, dinner, an Ethiopian coffee ceremony, and alcoholic beverages.
The tour departs from the XQQQ+JWF meeting point in Addis Ababa and provides multiple pickup options.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Priced at €56.82 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded cultural exploration of Ethiopia’s capital.
Read our full review: Ethiopian Cuisine Shopping and Music Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for These Tours?
The average group size for these types of shopping tours is typically around 8-12 participants. This allows for a more personalized experience and allows the guide to provide more focused attention to each member of the group.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements?
Most shopping tours don’t have age restrictions, allowing participants of all ages to join. However, some tours may have minimum age requirements or recommendations for younger children to ensure their safety and enjoyment during the excursion.
Can Participants Bring Their Own Food or Drinks?
Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or recommendations. The tour itself focuses on the shopping experience.
Do the Tours Accommodate Specific Dietary Needs?
The tours generally accommodate specific dietary needs. Participants can let the tour organizers know about any dietary requirements, and they’ll ensure those needs are met during the tour. Most tours can cater to vegetarian, vegan, or other special diets.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs?
Most tours have transparent pricing, with no hidden fees. However, it’s best to check if there are any additional costs for specific dietary requirements or transportation. Travelers should inquire about these details to avoid unexpected expenses.
The Sum Up
Addis Ababa offers a variety of shopping tours, from exploring the bustling Mercato market to participating in a cooking class and coffee ceremony. These tours provide an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to discover the city’s vibrant markets, sample traditional cuisine, and bring home unique souvenirs. Whether you’re interested in textiles, handicrafts, or local ingredients, there’s a shopping tour to suit your interests in Addis Ababa.