The name of this sprawling capital city means “New Flower.” Founded by Emperor Menelik in 1887 and with a population of about 6 million, Addis Ababa is Africa’s diplomatic capital with the headquarters for the AU (African Union) located here.
Impressive monuments of colonial architecture are scattered among stretches of sun-bleached shacks. Drive through “Mercato” the largest open market on the continent. Make interesting stops that include the National Museum, the Ethnological Museum and the Ba’ata Church known as Menlo Mausoleum. Enjoy souvenir shopping and visits to special art galleries.
Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours patronizes local charities providing guests with opportunities to make purchases that support them. Hotel accommodations range from tourist class to luxury collections and a variety of restaurants serve delectable dishes from around the world including, of course, Ethiopia.
Merkato is the perfect place to experience the sights and sounds of Addis Ababa. From cosmopolitan down towns to the busiest and the largest open air market of the continent named as Merkato, a name given to the place by Italians during their five years occupation of the city. You’ll travel past famous landmarks, broad squares, monuments and statues and you will take a short stroll along the colorful streets of the market to view the dazzling hive of activities that permeates at every corner and alley of Merkato.
