Addis Ababa in 1 Day for Seniors - See the fossilised remains of 'Lucy' at the National Museum of Ethiopia

In Collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour . Updated on February 13, 2026.

Addis Ababa in 1 Day for Seniors - See the fossilised remains of 'Lucy' at the National Museum of Ethiopia

Explore Addis Ababa’s history, skyline and markets with a local guide. This private, driver-led day tour visits the National Museum of Ethiopia (home of "Lucy"), Mount Entoto for panoramic city views and the sprawling Mercato market. Private transport, an in-person guide, bottled water, hotel and airport pick-up/drop-off and all fees & taxes are included. Meals and alcoholic beverages are not incl

Disclaimer

This itinerary was created in collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour , inspired by the tour From Lucy to Today: Addis Ababa’s Living History Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.

Highlights

  • See the fossilised remains of 'Lucy' at the National Museum of Ethiopia
  • Panoramic city views and historic churches on Mount Entoto
  • Walk through Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open markets
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More than 11 itineraries in Addis Ababa.

Itinerary

Day 1

A paced, accessible day covering Ethiopia’s ancient and modern history, a hilltop panorama and a guided walkthrough of Merkato.

National Museum of Ethiopia — see "Lucy"

08:30 – 10:00 • 1h 30m

Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia to view the hominid fossil "Lucy" and related paleoanthropological exhibits. The visit is timed to allow comfortable movement through the galleries with seating breaks as needed.

185 Haile Selassie St, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
4.1 (1,761 reviews)

Tips from local experts:

  • Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes before the scheduled start to collect tickets and use restrooms; allow a little extra time for museum security checks.
  • Carry a lightweight day bag only; larger bags are often asked to be left at a cloak area for security reasons.
  • If you require step-free access or an elevator, tell your guide on booking so they can assist with the most accessible route within the museum.

Mount Entoto — panoramic views and historic churches

10:30 – 12:00 • 1h 30m

Drive to Mount Entoto for elevated views over Addis Ababa and visit celebrated churches such as Saint Raguel and Saint Mary. Time at the summit includes short, level walking and seated photo stops; travel is by private vehicle along steep roads.

Mount Entoto, Ethiopia
4.5 (276 reviews)

Tips from local experts:

  • Expect cooler temperatures at altitude—bring a light layer even if the city is warm.
  • The road to Entoto is steep and reached by vehicle; if you use a mobility aid, notify the operator ahead so transfers and stopping points can be arranged.
  • Respect active church services: wear modest clothing and follow the guide's instructions about entering religious buildings.

Merkato — guided market walk

12:30 – 14:00 • 1h 30m

Explore Merkato, Addis Ababa’s large open market, with a local guide who will lead a safe route through the stalls and explain traditional goods, textiles and spices. The guide will manage the pace and meeting points to keep the group together.

Dubai tera building, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
4 (789 reviews)

Tips from local experts:

  • Merkato is busy and tightly packed; keep valuables in a front pocket or inside a zipped bag and follow the guide’s recommended meeting point and time.
  • Wear comfortable, flat shoes for walking on uneven ground and allow time for short, seated breaks during the market walk.
  • Ask your guide’s permission before photographing vendors or people; many sellers expect to be asked first and your guide can assist with introductions.

Itinerary Attributes

Days1
Highlights3
Season-
Month-
PersonaSeniors
Transfers-
Restaurants-
Total Activities3
Total Places3
Activities TypesCulture, Outdoor, Shopping

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From Lucy to Today: Addis Ababa’s Living History Tour