Ethiopia · Archaeology

9-Hour Adadi Mariam and Tiya Tour from Addis Ababa with Melka Kunture

9 Hours Round trip from Addis Ababa Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Visit the remarkable rock-hewn church of Adadi Mariam
02 Explore the local market near Adadi Mariam on Saturdays
03 Discover the UNESCO-listed Tiya Cemetery Field and its ancient stone stelae
04 Learn about Ethiopia's early history at Melka Kunture archaeological site
05 Enjoy traditional Ethiopian coffee at Tomoca Coffee in Addis Ababa

Embark on a 9-hour journey from Addis Ababa to explore some of Ethiopia's most remarkable historical and cultural sites. Visit the impressive rock-hewn church of Adadi Mariam for a glimpse into Ethiopia's ancient Christian heritage, especially for those who may not travel to Lalibela or Tigray. If you visit on a Saturday, experience the vibrant atmosphere of the local market near the church. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tiya Cemetery Field, renowned for its mysterious 12th- and 13th-century stone stelae marking the burial grounds of important historical figures.

Arrive at the rock-hewn church of Adadi Mariam, a remarkable semi-monolithic church.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Hours

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Addis Ababa, Tiya

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Adadi Mariam, Tiya Cemetery Field, and Melka Kunture

Early in the morning, pick up from your hotel, guest house, or Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa.
Depart southwards by car, travelling on the tarmac road towards the Omo Valley tribes region.
Arrive at the rock-hewn church of Adadi Mariam, a remarkable semi-monolithic church.
If the visit falls on a Saturday, explore the local marketplace near the church.
Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tiya Cemetery Field, famous for its 12th- to 13th-century stone stelae marking ancient burial places.
Enjoy lunch at a basic local restaurant near Tiya.
Drive back towards Addis Ababa, stopping at Melka Kunture archaeological site to view ancient stone tools and artifacts.
Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, have tea or coffee at the renowned Tomoca Coffee shop.
Drop off at your desired location in Addis Ababa.
End of service.

Where this trip takes you

Adadi Mariam rock-hewn church, Tiya Cemetery Field stelae, Melka Kunture archaeological site

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Addis Ababa 2 cities · 9 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Meal/lunch included
All entrance fees covered
Transportation by minivan
English-speaking guide provided
Tea, coffee, or a soft drink served at lunchtime
One litre of bottled water provided

What's Not Included

Shopping expenses
Personal expenses, such as cigarettes, alcoholic drinks, or overpriced items

What to bring

Camera only

Know before you go

Smoking cigarettes is forbidden in the compound of every Ethiopian Orthodox church.
Please take off your shoes and hat when you go inside the churches.
Women are advised to cover their hair when approaching any church.

Logistics