Addis Ababa: Ancient History & Creative Hands

Addis Ababa, the sprawling capital in the highlands, is a city where every corner tells a story. It’s a place of profound history, serving as the diplomatic heart of Africa and the gateway to the nation’s ancient past. Yet, it’s also a city of dynamic growth and resilient communities. This tour is designed to show you its many layers—from the scientific discovery of our ancient ancestors to the breathtaking natural vistas that surround the city, and finally, to the empowering community projects that shape its future.

The National Museum of Ethiopia:
This is the custodian of Ethiopia’s magnificent history. The museum’s collections span from ancient Axumite civilizations to royal regalia, but its crown jewel is the paleoanthropological exhibit. Here, you will encounter “Lucy” (known in Ethiopia as Dinknesh, meaning “you are wonderful”), the 3.2-million-year-old hominid whose discovery fundamentally changed our understanding of human evolution. It is a humbling and awe-inspiring start to the day.

Entoto Park:
Rising above the city, Entoto Park is a recently developed natural and cultural destination on the Entoto Mountains. It offers the single most spectacular and unobstructed panoramic view of Addis Ababa. From this vantage point, you can truly grasp the vastness of the capital, nestled in the valley below—a perfect photo opportunity and a moment of breathtaking natural beauty.

Ensira Women Association:
This is the heart of the tour—a transformative and hands-on cultural experience. The Ensira Women Association is a community-based organization that empowers local women through the traditional craft of pottery. Your visit here is an active participation, not just an observation. You will learn about their techniques, hear their stories, and, most importantly, sit down to create your own pottery piece with their expert guidance. This experience is a powerful way to connect, create, and contribute directly to a project that changes lives.