How to Plan Your Explore the Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes and the UNESCO Site of Steles of Tiya Tour in Addis Ababa

Are you planning a trip to Addis Ababa and looking for a day trip that takes you through the most exciting areas of Ethiopia’s Great Rift Valley? Look no further than the Explore the Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes and the UNESCO Site of Steles of Tiya tour. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your tour efficiently.

Overview of the Tour

The Explore the Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes and the UNESCO Site of Steles of Tiya tour takes you through Ethiopia’s Rift Valley, where you will enjoy scenic views, interact with local communities, and visit historic sites. This tour is perfect for anyone looking to explore Ethiopia’s rich culture and history in a short period. You can experience the most important sites in Ethiopia’s Great Rift Valley and be back in Addis Ababa before nightfall.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The tour includes a private comfortable Toyota Minivan or Corolla equipped with air conditioning and seat belts, a professional experienced English-speaking tour guide, meals, and admission fees. The tour also includes a visit to a local family’s home and attending a coffee ceremony where you can learn about Ethiopian coffee-making customs.

Itinerary of the Tour

The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in Addis Ababa in the morning. You will then embark on a scenic drive to the Great Rift Valley, where you will visit the following top attractions:

1. Lake Koka

Our first stop is Lake Koka, just an hour’s drive from Addis Ababa. Lake Koka is an ideal spot for birdwatching, and you can view various bird species such as storks, pelicans, and herons.

2. Lake Ziway

The tour continues to Lake Ziway, the largest of the seven lakes of the Ethiopian Rift Valley. You will enjoy a boat ride on the lake, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species such as the great white pelican, African fish eagle, and cormorants.

3. Lake Langano

The tour then proceeds to Lake Langano, where you can relax on the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

4. Swaynes Hartebeest Sanctuary

On the way back to Addis Ababa, we will stop at the Swaynes Hartebeest Sanctuary, a protected wildlife reserve where you can see the endangered hartebeest and other wildlife species.

5. Steles of Tiya

The final stop of the tour is the UNESCO-listed Steles of Tiya. These ancient standing stones, dating back to the 12th and 13th century, are a testament to Ethiopia’s rich history and a must-see attraction for any history buff.

Private Tour and Pickup Details

The Explore the Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes and the UNESCO Site of Steles of Tiya tour is a private tour, which means you can take the tour exclusively for your group of up to six people. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Addis Ababa, and the pickup time is between 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM local time.

How to Book the Tour

You can book the Explore the Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes and the UNESCO Site of Steles of Tiya tour through the Viator website by clicking on this link: book the tour here. The tour price per person is reasonable, and it offers excellent value for your time and money.

Book Your Tour Now

The Explore the Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes and the UNESCO Site of Steles of Tiya tour is an excellent way to explore Ethiopia’s Great Rift Valley, taking you through beautiful scenery, cultural interactions, historic sites, and wildlife reserves. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can efficiently plan your trip to Addis Ababa and experience the tour without any hassle. Book your tour today, and you will have an unforgettable experience in Ethiopia’s beautiful landscape.

Addis Ababa FAQ

If you’re planning a trip to Addis Ababa, the bustling capital city of Ethiopia, you likely have plenty of questions about what to do, where to eat, and how to get around. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Addis Ababa, along with helpful answers and tips to make your visit as enjoyable as possible.

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

Addis Ababa has a highland climate, which means cool temperatures year-round. However, the city does have distinct dry and rainy seasons. The best time to visit is from October to January or from June to September, during the dry season when the city is at its greenest, and the weather is milder.

2. What are some must-see attractions in Addis Ababa?

There are plenty of things to see and do in Addis Ababa. Some of the top attractions include:

• The National Museum of Ethiopia
• The Mount Entoto
• The Addis Ababa Ethnographic Museum
• The Holy Trinity Cathedral
• The Merkato Market

3. How can I get around Addis Ababa?

While walking is an option in some areas, Addis Ababa is a large city, and getting around on foot can be challenging. Taxis are plentiful and affordable, but it’s essential to negotiate the fare before your journey. There are also public buses and a light rail system.

4. What is the local currency in Addis Ababa?

The local currency is the Ethiopian Birr. You can exchange your currency for Birr at banks, hotels, or foreign exchange bureaus.

5. What are some popular local dishes in Addis Ababa?

Food is an essential part of Ethiopian culture, and visitors shouldn’t leave the city without trying some of the local dishes. Injera, a spongy flatbread made from teff flour, is a staple in most Ethiopian meals. Other popular dishes include Shiro, Tibs, and Kitfo.

6. Is it safe to travel to Addis Ababa?

Like any big city, Addis Ababa has its share of petty crime. However, by taking some simple precautions, you can reduce the risk. For instance, don’t wear expensive jewelry and don’t carry a lot of cash on you. Also, avoid walking alone late at night and stick to well-lit areas.

7. What should I wear when visiting Addis Ababa?

Ethiopia is a conservative country, and visitors are expected to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Additionally, it’s a good idea to pack warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings.

8. Is it necessary to tip in Addis Ababa?

Tipping is common in Ethiopia, but it’s not mandatory. Tour guides and hotel staff usually expect tips, and restaurant bills may include a service charge of around 10 percent. Overall, a small tip of a few birrs is always appreciated.

9. What are some customs and traditions in Addis Ababa?

Ethiopian culture is diverse and unique, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions. For instance, it’s customary to remove shoes when entering a home or place of worship. It’s also impolite to use your left hand when eating or interacting with others.

10. Can I drink the tap water in Addis Ababa?

It’s not advisable to drink the tap water in Addis Ababa as it may cause stomach upset. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available in the city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Addis Ababa

If you’re planning a trip to Ethiopia, making a stop in its capital city, Addis Ababa, is a must. A bustling city known as the political and cultural hub of the country, Addis Ababa is full of historical landmarks, local markets, and cultural centers waiting for you to explore. In this blog post, we’ll give you a detailed guide 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 great place to start your trip to Addis Ababa. The museum houses numerous collections of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich history of Ethiopia. One of the most famous exhibits in the museum is the Lucy skeleton, which is over three million years old and considered to be the oldest known remains of a human ancestor. You can also explore several art galleries as well as the Ethiopian Culture and Sport Hall of Fame.

2. Explore the Ethnological Museum

The Ethnological Museum is located within the Addis Ababa University’s main campus and offers a fascinating insight into Ethiopia’s many ethnic groups. The museum features displays of traditional Ethiopian clothes, weapons, and cultural activities like coffee ceremonies. A guided tour is recommended to get the most out of your visit.

3. Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral

The Holy Trinity Cathedral is one of the most impressive religious sites in the city and is often visited by locals and tourists alike. The church was built in 1941 to commemorate Ethiopia’s liberation from Italian occupation. Inside, you’ll find impressive murals, stained glass windows, and a royal mausoleum where Emperor Haile Selassie and his wife Empress Menen are buried.

4. Shop at the Merkato Market

The Merkato Market is an open-air market that is said to be the largest market in Africa. It is a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Addis Ababa. Here, you can buy everything from spices and coffee to traditional Ethiopian clothes and souvenirs. The market can be chaotic at times, so make sure to keep an eye on your belongings.

5. Visit Entoto Hill

Entoto Hill is located at the northern edge of Addis Ababa and is a great place to get a panoramic view of the city. You can also explore several historical sites, including the palace of Emperor Menelik II and the Entoto Maryam Church. It’s a bit of a hike to reach the top, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

6. Try the Local Cuisine

Ethiopian food is a must-try when visiting Addis Ababa. Injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread, is a staple in the Ethiopian diet and is typically served with a variety of stews and sauces. Doro wat and Tibs are other popular dishes that you should try. You can find local restaurants throughout the city, but keep in mind that traditional Ethiopian restaurants typically don’t serve alcohol.

7. Learn About Coffee Culture

Ethiopia is said to be the birthplace of coffee, so it’s no surprise that coffee culture is a big part of the country’s identity. You can learn about the history of coffee at several coffee shops throughout the city, including Tomoca Coffee, one of the oldest coffee shops in Addis Ababa. You can also experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, which involves roasting, grinding, and brewing the coffee in front of you.

8. Visit the Yekatit 12 Monument

The Yekatit 12 Monument is located in the center of Addis Ababa and commemorates the Ethiopian Patriots who were killed by occupying Italian troops in 1937. The monument is made up of several sculptures and is a great place to learn about Ethiopia’s struggle for independence.

9. Experience the Nightlife

Addis Ababa has a vibrant nightlife scene, with various bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Jazz music is a popular genre in the city, and you can experience it at venues like Gaslight, Jazzamba Lounge, and Fendika Cultural Center. Keep in mind that the nightlife scene in Addis Ababa can be quite lively, so be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

10. Discover Local Art

Ethiopia has a rich art culture, and you can discover it at several local galleries and museums throughout Addis Ababa. The Asni Gallery, Makush Art Gallery, and Addis Fine Art Gallery are all worth a visit. You can also visit the Zoma Museum, a contemporary art museum that showcases the works of several Ethiopian artists.

Book Your Tour Now

Addis Ababa is a city full of history, culture, and adventure. From exploring historical landmarks like the National Museum and Holy Trinity Cathedral to experiencing the local cuisine and coffee culture, there is always something to do in this fascinating city. So plan your next trip to Addis Ababa and explore all that it has to offer.