Merkato

A beautiful way to experience Ethiopian culture but not without its risks. You can find lovely trinkets, insense, spice, fresh produce & lots of locally produced goods. The market has many people looking for an opportunity so keep your belongings out of sight. It is chaotic, massive crowds & narrow paths with high traffic. You need very comfortable walking shoes due to uneven ground & be weary of surroundings. Many people walking past with heavy loads of metal, steel pipes etc, it's easy to hurt if you are not mindful. Vehicle also make a route through these narrow ways. The experience can be quite overwhelming if you're not prepared for it.

The recycling center is perhaps one of the most interesting places in Addis Ababa. Here trash is broken down to be used for new items. It's very chaotic so if you're a tourist, I strongly advice bringing a local guide.

Merkato is a large open-air market in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It is one of the largest markets in Africa and is known for its bustling atmosphere and wide variety of goods for sale. Merkato is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering everything from clothing and textiles to spices, electronics, and traditional handicrafts. It is a vibrant and colorful place where you can experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Ethiopian culture.

It’s actually quite hard to write a review of this place. It’s huge, you may find everything here. But it’s really hard for tourists - both to find interesting things to buy (without a guide) and when it comes to your safety. As three girls we didn’t feel safe and finally even our guide who was with us decided that we need to leave this place earlier we thought at first. Basically - good place for shopping if you know where to go but be careful about your personal belongings all the time.

Merkato is one of the largest and most vibrant open-air markets in Ethiopia, located in the heart of Addis Ababa. Known for its bustling atmosphere, this traditional market offers a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce and spices to clothing, electronics, and handmade crafts. Unlike modern shopping centers, Merkato operates primarily through in-person transactions, where buyers and sellers engage in face-to-face bargaining. Whether you're looking for everyday essentials or unique local products, you can find almost anything here. The market also plays a key role in Ethiopia’s economy, serving as a major hub for trade and commerce. Visiting Merkato provides not only a shopping experience but also a deep dive into Ethiopian culture and daily life.

Controlled chaos. Amazingly fun to experience.

Very busy buzz market...lots of stuff on sale. Go with a guide if you're not a local. The people there are very helpful though

Eye opening to see something different from your conventional tourist attractions. Merkato is huge, wild, crowded, warm, colourful, busy, chaotic and more. There is a vast array of products here and you need patience to browse and find what you are interested in. You may feel exhilarated or overwhelmed depending on your appetite for adventure and curiosity.