
Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture
Traveler rating
4.5/5
Based on 2 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture worth booking?
Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture is a 8-hour experience in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from $130 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 2 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 59 / 100
- Rating
- 4.5/5 (2)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $130 per person
This is one of the best journey where history, culture, and adventure come together in a single unforgettable day! Unlike standard tours, our Day Trip to Tiya, Gurage Village, and Melka Kunture offers a perfect blend of UNESCO-listed heritage, authentic local encounters, and prehistoric wonders, all in one seamless experience. Unique experience in this trip; Authentic Gurage Village Immersion; Enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony, taste delicious Gurage cuisine (like kitfo and kocho), and interact with welcoming locals for a genuine cultural exchange. Small Group, Big Experience; We keep groups intimate for a personalized and engaging adventure, led by expert guides who bring each site to life with captivating stories. Scenic Drives & Local Insights; Travel through Ethiopia’s stunning landscapes while learning fascinating facts from our knowledgeable guides.
What you get
About this experience
This is one of the best journey where history, culture, and adventure come together in a single unforgettable day! Unlike standard tours, our Day Trip to Tiya, Gurage Village, and Melka Kunture offers a perfect blend of UNESCO-listed heritage, authentic local encounters, and prehistoric wonders, all in one seamless experience. Unique experience in this trip; Authentic Gurage Village Immersion; Enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony, taste delicious Gurage cuisine (like kitfo and kocho), and interact with welcoming locals for a genuine cultural exchange. Small Group, Big Experience; We keep groups intimate for a personalized and engaging adventure, led by expert guides who bring each site to life with captivating stories. Scenic Drives & Local Insights; Travel through Ethiopia’s stunning landscapes while learning fascinating facts from our knowledgeable guides.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Admission fees to Melka Kunture
- Admission fees
- Entrance fees
- Admission fees to experiance coffee and local bread
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Admission fees to Gurage village
- Admission fee to Tiya
- Airport and departure taxes
- Surcharges on fuel
- Parking fees
What you'll see and do
Tiya World Heritage Site
Today you depart from Addis Ababa and drive south to visit Tiya, a UNESCO World Heritage site that contains 36 monuments, including 32 carved stelae covered with enigmatic symbols.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Then you will visit Gurage village. On this cultural safari, you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Gurage people as you explore their authentic village and witness their unique way of life, where you’ll discover the fascinating process of making bread from the false banana plant, known as Enset, a staple food that is carefully harvested, fermented, and transformed into a nutritious and delicious part of their daily diet, showcasing the deep connection between the Gurage community and their natural environment while offering you a hands-on opportunity to engage with their customs, taste the distinctive flavors of their cuisine, and gain a deeper appreciation for their rich cultural heritage.
120 minutes here
Melka Kunture
On your way back to Addis Ababa, you will visit the Melka Kunture Archaeological site, which is a significant prehistoric location situated in the Upper Awash Valley. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into early human history with its rich collection of Stone Age tools and fossil remains. The excavations at Melka Kunture have uncovered evidence of human activity dating back over two million years, making it an important destination for understanding early hominin life. The open-air museum showcases various artifacts, including hand axes and other tools used by our ancestors. The surrounding landscape, with its scenic views and geological formations, adds to the site's historical and natural appeal. Visiting Melka Kunture provides a unique opportunity to connect with Ethiopia's deep archaeological heritage while enjoying the beauty of the Awash River valley.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, fr
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 11 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- GishAbay Ethiopia Tours
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos


Traveler reviews
2 verified traveler reviews for Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A beautiful, varied day!
The tour did not take place on April 10, but on April 15, 26. The driver Tilahun arrived very punctually. After the guide Biruk got in, it was time to start. Biruk was very helpful and told a lot about the country and the people and animals. He showed me many beautiful places and explained what he saw. Thanks again to the driver for his driving skills on the bad road and the guide for his open and pleasant nature!
via Viator (translated)
Tiya, Melka Kunture and a village visit
The trip to Tiya was a special experience. The village is located south of Addis Ababa and is known for its mysterious stone steles, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On site you can immediately feel the historical significance of the place. Then we went on to Melka Kunture, one of the most important archaeological sites in East Africa. There, impressive finds provide insight into the lives of early humans. The visit to the local village was also a highlight – friendly people, laughing children and a warm atmosphere. The landscape was green and wide, the weather pleasant. Overall, it was a successful day full of culture, history and beautiful encounters.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience! We’re delighted to hear that your visit to Tiya, Melka Kunture, and the local village left such a lasting impression. The ancient stelae of Tiya and the fascinating archaeological finds at Melka Kunture truly bring history to life, and we’re so glad you felt the significance of these remarkable sites. The warmth of the village community, with its friendly atmosphere and vibrant energy, sounds like an unforgettable highlight. It’s fantastic that the lush landscapes and pleasant weather added to your enjoyment. We’re thrilled happy to have been part of your cultural and historical adventure and look forward to welcoming you back for more enriching experiences!
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 1
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by GishAbay Ethiopia Tours, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 69.7.
See everything GishAbay Ethiopia Tours runsWhy this scores 59
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Addis Ababa.
How much does Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture cost?
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Prices start at $130 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Addis Ababa usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Addis Ababa is not rushed.
Is Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 2 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Addis Ababa, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture?
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Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Addis Ababa can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Addis Ababa and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Addis Ababa within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Addis Ababa?
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On Outty we rank every Addis Ababa experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Addis Ababa Authentic Private City Tour, Addis Ababa Guided City Tour With Airport & Hotel Pick Up, Full Day Tour of Addis Ababa with Hotel Pickup and Drop-off. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Addis Ababa?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Addis Ababa?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture?
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Included: Private transportation; Admission fees to Melka Kunture; Admission fees; Entrance fees; and Admission fees to experiance coffee and local bread. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 7 listed pickup locations in and around Addis Ababa.
What languages is Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture offered in?
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It is offered in English and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Day Trip To Tiya and Gurage Village and Melka Kunture if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Addis Ababa. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
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