A great chance to meet Ethiopians and for them to meet you. Buy some wonderful, unexpected things. What's special about this huge market is its artisans. So much made locally, on site from local materials by blacksmiths, potters, carpenters, weavers, often recycled from scrap and made with real flair, creativity and intelligence. Flywhisks. Jewelry. Wonderful cosmetic traders with local traditional... More

Yes Merkato is very busy and crowded however, its worth visiting and experience to one of the largest market in East Africa. I was there several years ago and its been changed a lot since and the market is not all outside anymore. As always its very important to have a good walking shoe and of course camera to capture... More

I wish I would have had a few hours rather than 30 minutes to explore this place! The weather sent us packing early, but there is something for everyone here. It would be worth it to speak to someone in the know about the layout. We were wading through western clothing areas before someone asked us what we were looking... More

Marakarto in Addis. 1. You are NO more likely to be pickpocketed in Markarto than in other places in Addis. ALWAYS EVERYWHERE in Addis be on your guard and exactly as another contributor says IF someone grabs one arm expect a pickpocket on the other side OR if someone creates a deliberate argument with you at your front for NO... More

I am a Westerner and live in Addis Ababa. I only visit the Mercato occasionally when I need something cheap, because it is a great place for bargains. However, for tourists, I would not recommend it if you are traveling alone (male or female), definitely best to take an Ethiopian friend who knows the place well. It is a large... More

If you are bent on seeing Addis Ababa and its sites, you should include Merkato in your plans. However, like most crowded areas in Addis, one should watch your pockets. Con-artists and pick pockets abound. If someone pinches your arm, he is trying to distract you while his friend picks your pocket. It's a good idea to wear a moneybelt... More

I was in Ethiopia for nine weeks starting February 2005. A beautiful country. The mercato market was really something, you could buy anything, from soup to nuts from Camels to donkey's chickens and spices, Pots and Sandals, Clothing and FOOD.My friend and I spend about four hrs on two occasions and where totally thrilled.I will go there againin the future,... More