Merkato

This place is a local market, which is good for the experience but not practical for a person that is travelling you won't find anything good to buy you will stand out from the crowd and the kids will hassle and accompany you for at least a kilometer asking for money. This for me was more of a been there thing than enjoyment

Be ready for all cultural shock But you will love it if you want to discover Ethiopia really side I bought my shield there

Nice place, one has to watch out for their belongings. The people are nice

What is Merkato? Merkato (Amharic: መርካቶ) is a massive open-air market in the Addis Ketema district of Addis Ababa. It is often cited as one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, spanning many square kilometers and involving thousands of vendors. The name “Merkato” itself comes from the Italian “mercato” (meaning “market”). History & Evolution The present location was largely established during the Italian occupation (1936–1941). Under segregationist policies, local vendors were moved from earlier marketplaces (e.g. near St. George Church) into the area that became Merkato. Initially, the “St. George Mercato” was reserved for Europeans, and Arab merchants were pushed westward; over time, local Ethiopian traders gradually came to dominate the market by the 1960s. The market grew organically (without strict planning), expanding in all directions, and developed many specialized “zones” (for spices, electronics, metals, textiles, etc.).

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.

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.