Ethiopia in 1 Day for Seniors - Explore the prehistoric finds at Melka Kunture
In Collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour . Updated on February 13, 2026.
Full-day guided drive from Addis Ababa to three archaeological and historic sites south of the city: Melka Kunture (prehistoric site), Adadi Mariam (12th‑century rock‑hewn church) and the Tiya Stelae (UNESCO World Heritage). Includes hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, lunch, bottled water and a local guide.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour , inspired by the tour Day Trip Adadi Mariya, Melka kuntuire and Tiya steal . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Explore the prehistoric finds at Melka Kunture
- Visit Adadi Mariam, a 12th‑century rock‑hewn church
- See the UNESCO‑listed Tiya Stelae and learn about their cultural context
Itinerary
Day 1
Start from Addis Ababa in the morning; visit Melka Kunture, Adadi Mariam, and Tiya Stelae; return to Addis Ababa in the late afternoon.
Pickup from hotel or Airport Road (Addis Ababa)
Group pickup from a central hotel or the Airport Road meeting point. Boarding, brief safety orientation and departure toward Melka Kunture.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your ID or voucher ready for the guide at pickup to speed boarding.
- Bring a light jacket for early-morning wind; vehicle climate control may be limited when windows open.
- Request a low-step seat if you have limited mobility so boarding is easier.
Drive to Melka Kunture (transfer)
Scenic drive south from Addis Ababa toward the Melka Kunture archaeological area. Short restroom/stretch stops as needed en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer handy for roadside stops where facilities may be basic.
- Ask the guide to schedule a short stretch stop if you need extra breaks during the transfer.
- Carry any necessary medication in a daypack rather than checked luggage for quick access.
Visit Melka Kunture (prehistoric archaeological site)
Guided visit to the Melka Kunture area to view archaeological remains and learn about early hominin finds and ancient stone tools.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes — surfaces at archaeological sites can be uneven and dusty.
- Bring a sun hat and sunscreen; shade is limited at outdoor excavation areas.
- If you need a slower pace, tell the guide before starting so the route can be adjusted and benches used.
Transfer to Adadi Mariam
Short drive from Melka Kunture to the rock‑hewn church of Adadi Mariam. Brief stop to prepare for the church visit (dress modestly, remove shoes where required).
Tips from local experts:
- Carry a lightweight scarf to cover shoulders if needed for modest dress at the church.
- Expect a short walk from the vehicle to the church; request assistance from the guide if needed.
- Bring a small bag to store shoes if you must remove them before entering the church.
Visit Adadi Mariam (rock‑hewn church)
Guided exploration of Adadi Mariam, a 12th‑century rock‑hewn church with architectural links to Lalibela. Observe the exterior, enter where permitted, and hear about its religious and historical significance.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress conservatively: shoulders and knees should be covered inside the church for cultural respect.
- Photography may be restricted inside — ask the guide for current rules before taking pictures.
- There are uneven steps and low light in some areas; use handrails and move slowly to avoid trips.
Lunch (local restaurant or picnic near Adadi Mariam)
Lunch break with local food options arranged near the Adadi Mariam area. Seating provided and time to rest before the afternoon site visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the guide of any dietary restrictions before departure so lunch can be arranged appropriately.
- Choose lighter menu items if you are sensitive to travel-related stomach upsets; bottled water is provided.
- Use restroom facilities during the lunch stop as facilities at later sites may be limited.
Transfer to Tiya Stelae
Drive from Adadi Mariam to the Tiya Stelae site. Short vehicle transfer with time to rest before the guided visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep your daypack with essentials (water, hat, camera) accessible during the short transfer.
- If you have mobility concerns, ask the guide to park as close as possible to the site entrance.
- Road surfaces between sites can be uneven—remain seated until the vehicle comes to a full stop.
Visit Tiya Stelae (UNESCO World Heritage)
Guided walk through the Tiya Stelae field to view engraved stone pillars and learn about their cultural and historical context.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; paths are short but uneven and may be dusty.
- Carry a small water bottle — sheltered shade is limited between stelae.
- Be mindful of signage and barriers around monuments to help preserve the site; follow the guide's route.
Return transfer to Addis Ababa and drop‑off
Drive back to Addis Ababa with a scheduled drop‑off at the original pickup point (hotel or Airport Road). Short rest stop en route if required.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep any belongings you’ll need at drop‑off easily accessible to avoid delays when leaving the vehicle.
- If you feel fatigued, ask the driver for a brief stop during the return drive to stretch or use restroom facilities.
- Confirm your preferred drop‑off location with the guide early in the afternoon to ensure timely arrival.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Meal |