Merkato

The basics

Merkato is one of the most popular attractions in Addis Ababa, and many city tours spend a bit of time here. Given the spread-out location, it’s wise to go with a guide if you plan to shop, as it can be hard to find specific products (such as souvenirs) if you don’t know where to look. If you plan to spend a lot of time at the market, opt for a private, customizable tour or join a shopping-focused city tour.

Things to know before you go

• Merkato is a must-visit for shoppers and photographers.

• Parts of the market are wheelchair accessible, but there are many areas that are narrow or can only be reached by stairs.

• Bring cash for your purchases, as only some vendors here accept credit cards.

How to get there

Merkato is in central Addis Ababa, about a 15-minute drive or taxi ride from Meskel Square, or 10 minutes from the Holy Trinity Cathedral and the National Museum of Ethiopia. The easiest way to get there is by booking a tour or going by taxi—your hotel can call one for you, or you can download the RIDE taxi app to arrange it yourself.

When to get there

Merkato is open Monday to Saturday from morning to evening and closed on Sundays. The best time to visit is between October and May, when the weather is at its driest. Though temperatures don’t vary too much throughout the year, the rainy season—which runs from late May to late September—can make spending time outdoors less than pleasant.

What gifts to buy in Ethiopia

While most of Merkato is geared toward traders rather than tourists, it does have a few sections with vendors selling souvenirs. Popular items to take home include traditional brass Ethiopian Orthodox crosses, notable for their silver latticework. Colorful miniature icons, scarves, spice blends, woven baskets, and coffee are also popular.