About The Tour

Addis Ababa Layover Tour: See the City Between Flights

Turn your stopover into a taste of Ethiopia

Overview

Many travellers pass through Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines with a layover of several hours. Instead of waiting at Bole International Airport, join a private layover tour: your driver and guide meet you at arrivals, show you the best of the city, and bring you back in good time for your next flight.

We plan the route around the length of your layover and the time of day, and keep track of your flight. This tour is popular with travellers who have 6 to 12 hours between flights.

Duration

5 to 10 Hours

Suggested Accommodations

Detailed Itinerary

Short layover (5 to 7 hours)

Pick up at Bole International Airport arrivals once you have cleared immigration. Visit Holy Trinity Cathedral, the resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie, and the National Museum to see Lucy, the 3.2 million year old human ancestor. Finish with a traditional coffee ceremony and a taste of injera close to the airport, then return to Bole at least 2.5 hours before your next flight.

Long layover (8 to 12 hours)

Add Entoto Park in the hills above the city for fresh air and views, a walk through Merkato, one of the largest open air markets in Africa, and the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum or Unity Park. Lunch at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant is included. Return to Bole at least 2.5 hours before departure.

Price and Booking

Price: on request, depending on the length of your layover and the number of travellers. Send us your flight numbers and arrival and departure times, and we reply within 2 hours with a plan and price.

Get a free quote or message us on WhatsApp +251 988 111 222.

What Is Included

Private car with driver, pick up and drop off at Bole International Airport
English speaking city guide
Entrance fees to the sites visited
Coffee ceremony
Lunch on the long layover tour
Flight tracking, so we adjust if your flight is late

Not Included

International flights and Ethiopian visa fees
Travel insurance
Ethiopian visa or transit visa
Drinks, tips and personal expenses

Do I Need a Visa for a Layover Tour?

To leave the airport you need to pass immigration, so you need a valid entry visa: an e-visa, a visa on arrival where your nationality allows it, or a transit visa. Ethiopian Airlines passengers on some routes can get a transit visa. Rules change, so check before you travel. Read our guide to the Addis Ababa layover and transit visa or our Ethiopia visa requirements guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long a layover do I need?

At least 6 hours between landing and your next departure. Immigration and security at Bole can take time, so we always return you to the airport with a safe margin.

What if my flight is delayed?

We track your flight and wait for you. If a delay leaves too little time, we shorten the tour so you never miss your connection.

Can I leave my luggage?

Checked bags normally stay with the airline if you are on one ticket. Hand luggage can stay in the car with your driver.

Tour Languages

Amharic, English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. Please inform us of your preferred language when booking.

Note: The itinerary can be customized based on your preferences and time availability.

Booking Form

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