How to Plan Your Private Trip to Bole Tiya Adadi Mariam Melka Kunture from Addis Ababa

Are you in Addis Ababa and looking for an exciting day trip? Then look no further than the Bole Tiya Adadi Mariam Melka Kunture Private Trip! In this ultimate guide, we’ll show you what to expect and how to make the most of your tour.

Experience

On this private day tour, you’ll travel through the stunning East African Rift Valley, part of Ethiopia. You’ll visit unique and remarkable historical sites, including the rock-carved church of Adadi Mariam from the 13th Century AD, the ancient Tiya cemetery, and the UNESCO-registered world heritage site of Tiya stele. You’ll also gain insight into local village life, including visiting a Gurage family, before learning how to cook Enjera, a traditional Ethiopian pancake!

Highlights

This tour has something for everyone, including:

• Visiting the unique rock-carved Adadi Mariam church
• Exploring the ancient cemetery of Tiya
• Appreciating the breathtaking scenery of the Ethiopian Great Rift Valley
• Experiencing local village life and learning to cook Enjera

Tour Itinerary

Full Description

This tour departs from Addis Ababa and takes you on a scenic drive through the East African Rift Valley, passing through incredible scenery filled with lush green landscapes, impressive mountains, and stunning valleys. Your first stop is the still-operational Adadi Mariam church, a unique historical site located south of Addis Ababa, carved out of a single rock in the 13th Century AD. This amazing and significant church is still alive with traditional worship, and you’ll get to learn about its fascinating history from your expert guide. Next, you’ll visit the Tiya Steles site, a UNESCO world heritage site, and an ancient cemetery with dozens of carved stones dating back to the 14th century. You’ll see prehistoric symbols and engravings, learn about their significance, and appreciate the historical value of these stunning stones. Once you wrap up at the Tiya Steles, you will venture to visit a traditional Oromo village to enjoy a coffee ceremony and interact with the locals to experience their everyday life. Our final stop is at the prehistoric site of Melka Kunture where you’ll explore the museum and learn about the prehistoric stone tools found here. This prehistoric site was found to be over 1.5 million years old improving Ethiopia’s rich prehistoric sites. Lastly, you will visit a local family in the Gurage village where you will learn how to cook Enjera and taste it with other traditional dishes, a delicious end to a great day!

Booking and Additional Information

This tour requires a minimum of 1 participant and can accommodate a maximum of 6 participants. The tour lasts for 9 hours, and pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or accommodation in Addis Ababa is included. To book your tour, simply click here. Don´t forget to wear comfortable clothes, shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen and a bottle of water to stay hydrated. Now that you know what to expect, we can’t wait to take you on this exciting and unique tour of Bole Tiya Adadi Mariam Melka Kunture Private Trip, starting from Addis Ababa!

Frequently Asked Questions About Addis Ababa

Are you planning to visit Addis Ababa? Do you have questions about the city and your travel plans? Here are some common questions that will help you prepare and enjoy your trip to the Ethiopian capital.

1. What is Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa is the capital and largest city in Ethiopia. It is located in the central part of the country, surrounded by hills and mountains. Addis Ababa is the political, cultural, and economic center of Ethiopia, home to various museums, art galleries, restaurants, and shopping centers.

2. What is the best time to visit Addis Ababa?

The best time to visit Addis Ababa is during the dry season, which runs between October and June. During these months, the weather is mild and sunny, with less rainfall. The peak tourist season is during December and January, so expect higher hotel rates and more crowds.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa has several must-see attractions, including:

• The National Museum of Ethiopia, which houses the famous skeleton of Lucy
• The Holy Trinity Cathedral, a beautiful church with stained glass windows and intricate carvings
• Merkato, one of the largest open-air markets in Africa
• The Ethiopian National Theatre, which showcases traditional Ethiopian music and dance performances
• The Addis Ababa City Hall, a historic building with beautiful architecture

4. What is the local currency and what is the exchange rate?

The local currency in Ethiopia is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB). As of August 2021, the exchange rate is around 46 birr to 1 US dollar. It’s recommended that you exchange your money at authorized exchange bureaus or banks and avoid exchanging money on the street.

5. What are the transportation options in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa has several transportation options, including taxis, buses, and the city’s light rail system. Taxis are readily available and are the preferred mode of transportation for many visitors. Buses are also available, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. The light rail system is a convenient and affordable transportation option, with its routes covering most parts of the city.

6. What are the local customs and traditions in Addis Ababa?

Ethiopia has a rich culture and many customs and traditions. In Addis Ababa, it’s customary to greet people with a handshake, and it’s considered disrespectful to use the left hand while eating or passing objects. Additionally, dressing conservatively is highly recommended, especially when visiting religious sites or attending formal events.

7. Is it safe to visit Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa is generally safe for visitors, but like any other city, it’s important to take necessary precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid traveling alone at night. It’s also recommended that you use a reputable tour operator and avoid certain areas of the city, especially during political demonstrations or protests.

8. What is the local cuisine in Addis Ababa?

Ethiopian cuisine is known for its distinctive flavors and spices. In Addis Ababa, some of the must-try dishes include injera (a sourdough flatbread), doro wat (spicy chicken stew), and kitfo (raw beef seasoned with spices). Vegetarian options are also popular, with dishes such as shiro (a chickpea stew) and gomen (cooked spinach).

9. What is the language spoken in Addis Ababa?

The official language of Ethiopia is Amharic, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Amharic, such as “selam” (hello) and “ameseginalehu” (thank you), to show respect for the local culture.

10. What are some cultural events and festivals in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including:

• TIMKAT Festival, a celebration of the baptism of Jesus Christ by St. John the Baptist
• Enkutatash, the Ethiopian New Year, which falls on September 11th (or September 12th during a leap year)
• Ethiopian Christmas, known as Gena, which is celebrated on January 7th
• Ethiopian Easter, known as Fasika, which falls on a different date than Western Easter

Book Your Tour Now

Addis Ababa is a beautiful and culturally rich city with a lot to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, you’ll find plenty of things to keep you entertained during your visit. Make sure to prepare for your trip in advance, learn about local customs, and use common sense to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Addis Ababa – A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re planning to travel to Ethiopia, you should definitely include a visit to its bustling and vibrant capital, Addis Ababa. Also known as the “New Flower”, Addis Ababa has a lot of exciting places to visit and activities to do that will make your trip worthwhile. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to spend your time as a tourist in Addis Ababa.

1. Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia

The National Museum of Ethiopia is a must-visit destination for every tourist in Addis Ababa. The museum houses the famous skeleton of Lucy, one of the oldest human bones ever found, said to be 3.2 million years old. In addition, there are numerous other artifacts, fossils, and exhibits that represent Ethiopia’s rich history and culture. The entrance fee is roughly 10 USD for adults and 5 USD for students.

2. Explore Meskel Square

If you want to experience the daily life of the locals, Meskel Square is an excellent place to visit. It’s one of the busiest intersections of Addis Ababa, and you’ll find plenty of street vendors selling local food, clothes, and souvenirs. At night, Meskel Square transforms into a vibrant nightlife spot, with people enjoying street performances and music.

3. Visit the Red Terror Museum

The Red Terror Museum is a newly opened museum located in the heart of the city. The museum displays the atrocities committed by the Derg regime, which ruled Ethiopia from 1974-1991. Visiting this museum is a sobering experience and provides an insight into Ethiopia’s recent history.

4. Hike to Mount Entoto

Mount Entoto is a 3,200-meter high mountain that offers a spectacular view of Addis Ababa. The mountain is an ideal destination for nature lovers, and hikers can enjoy the breathtaking views of the city while hiking on the mountain trails. There are also several churches and monasteries located on the mountain that are worth visiting.

5. Visit Addis Mercato

Addis Mercato is the largest open-air market in Africa and is a paradise for people who enjoy shopping. Here you can find a wide variety of goods, including jewelry, fabrics, spices, and handicrafts. It’s recommended to visit the market with a guide to avoid getting lost or scammed.

6. Try Ethiopian Cuisine

Ethiopian cuisine is one of the most diverse and flavorful in the world, and Addis Ababa is home to some of the best restaurants. Don’t leave the city without trying traditional dishes like injera, kitfo, and tibs. If you’re not sure where to start, try visiting Yod Abyssinia, a popular restaurant that offers a wide range of Ethiopian cuisine and traditional dance performances.

7. Visit the Ethnological Museum

The Ethnological Museum is located on the campus of Addis Ababa University and has an extensive collection of artifacts that represent Ethiopia’s diverse cultures and tribes. The museum is housed in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie and offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle and customs of the former Ethiopian monarch.

8. Attend the Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony

Ethiopia is known for its delicious coffee, and attending a traditional coffee ceremony is an essential part of any visit to Addis Ababa. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste freshly roasted coffee and learn about the history and cultural significance of coffee in Ethiopia.

9. Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral

The Holy Trinity Cathedral is a significant landmark in Addis Ababa and the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. The cathedral is an excellent place to visit for those interested in the country’s religious and royal history. The cathedral is open to visitors every day and is free to enter.

10. Relax at the Yaya Africa Athletics Village

If you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, the Yaya Africa Athletics Village is a great choice. The village is located on the outskirts of Addis Ababa and features beautiful gardens and a peaceful environment. You can enjoy a massage or a yoga class and indulge in healthy, organic meals.

Final Thoughts

Addis Ababa is a fascinating city with a lot to see and do, and there’s something for everyone, from nature lovers to history buffs, and foodies to shoppers. We hope that our comprehensive guide has given you insight into how to spend your time as a tourist in Addis Ababa. Make sure to plan your itinerary well and take the necessary precautions, such as wearing comfortable shoes and staying hydrated. Have a wonderful trip!