Addis Ababa in 1 Day for Seniors - Entoto Maryam Church and panoramic views over Addis Ababa
In Collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour . Updated on February 13, 2026.
A one-day guided city tour of Addis Ababa covering Entoto, the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Merkato market and a traditional coffee break. Pickup and drop-off from Bole International Airport or your hotel are included.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour , inspired by the tour Explore Addis Ababa City tour with Half or full Day . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Entoto Maryam Church and panoramic views over Addis Ababa
- National Museum of Ethiopia (home of "Lucy")
- Holy Trinity Cathedral
- Merkato, Addis Ababa's large open-air market
- Traditional Ethiopian coffee at Tomoca Coffee
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided city tour with easy pacing, regular rest stops and short transfers between sites. Start 08:30 — end 16:30.
Pickup and tour introduction
Pickup from Bole International Airport or your hotel (meeting at Edna Mall is also supported). Brief introduction to the day's itinerary and safety/comfort notes.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your pickup location and a contact phone number the evening before the tour.
- If you are arriving by flight, keep a copy of your arrival card and passport easily accessible for rapid pickup at the airport.
- Allow the guide to help load/unload any mobility aids; vehicles used for this tour have space for short-ride assistance.
Entoto Park & Entoto Maryam Church (mount viewpoint)
Drive to Mount Entoto for panoramic views over Addis Ababa and visit Entoto Maryam Church. Short walk at the viewpoint and time to rest and take photos.
Tips from local experts:
- The road up Entoto is winding; sit toward the front if you are prone to motion sickness and inform the guide if you need breaks.
- Women should wear clothing that covers the knee and head (a scarf) before entering Entoto Maryam Church as required for church visits.
- Bring a light jacket—temperatures on Entoto can be cooler than in the city and there is limited shaded seating.
Transfer to National Museum of Ethiopia
Drive from Entoto area down to the National Museum area. Short transfer with a restroom break if needed.
Tips from local experts:
- The transfer between Entoto and the museum takes time — use this period to rest and hydrate.
- If you require mobility assistance (wheelchair or seating), notify the guide early so transfers can be paced accordingly.
- Carry any small personal medications in your day bag rather than checked luggage for quick access during stops.
National Museum of Ethiopia visit
Guided visit to the National Museum to view key exhibits including the fossil known as "Lucy" and learn about Ethiopia's archaeological and cultural history.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring your ID; some museums require identification for group visits and staff can help with accessible routes inside the museum.
- Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes — there are short standing periods during exhibits.
- Ask the guide to prioritize the main exhibits if you prefer a shorter visit to reduce standing time.
Holy Trinity Cathedral
Visit Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of Ethiopia’s most significant churches, including viewing notable tombs and the cathedral interior. Short guided walk and seated time available.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress modestly; women should have knees and shoulders covered and may be asked to cover their head when entering the church.
- The cathedral has steps at the entrance; request assistance from the guide if you need step-free access or a seat near the entrance.
- Keep voices low and photography restricted where signs indicate; guides will advise on permitted areas.
Lunch — traditional Ethiopian meal
Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian meal at a local restaurant (options commonly used: Yod Abyssinia, Kategna, or Totot Cultural Restaurant). Seated, relaxed meal with time to rest.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the guide of dietary restrictions or mobility needs before seating so the restaurant can accommodate seating preferences.
- Ethiopian meals are often shared and eaten with injera; if you have difficulty using hands, ask staff for utensils—they are commonly available on request.
- Carry any medications you might need during the meal (e.g., for indigestion or allergies) and ask the guide for assistance ordering if needed.
Merkato (open-air market) exploration
Short guided visit to Merkato to experience the market sections for spices, textiles and handwoven crafts. The guide will navigate quieter routes and highlight accessible stalls.
Tips from local experts:
- Merkato is busy and uneven in places — keep personal items secure and use a small cross-body bag that zips closed.
- If long walking is difficult, request a shorter route focusing on a few sections (spices or textiles) rather than the entire market.
- Carry small local currency in low denominations for small purchases; ask the guide to help with bargaining if desired.
Coffee break at Tomoca Coffee
Relaxed coffee break at Tomoca Coffee to experience traditional Ethiopian coffee culture and watch a short demonstration of coffee preparation.
Tips from local experts:
- Tomoca has several branches; the guide will choose a nearby, quieter branch suited for seating and accessibility.
- If you prefer decaffeinated or a mild brew, request it when ordering — staff are familiar with customer preferences.
- Use this time to rest and use restroom facilities; inform the guide if you need extra time before the final transfer.
Return transfer and drop-off
Return drive to your hotel or Bole International Airport. The guide will confirm drop-off details and help with luggage or mobility assistance as needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your drop-off preference with the guide during the coffee break to ensure timely arrival for flights or check-ins.
- Allow extra time at the airport for security and check-in if you have an onward flight; the guide will advise on traffic conditions.
- If you need assistance carrying luggage or help to the terminal entrance, request it before leaving the vehicle.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Outdoor, Culture, Meal, Shopping, Break |
