Shopping in Addis Ababa is a study in contrasts: from the organized chaos of a massive traditional market to sleek modern malls — both well worth your time.

Merkato: Africa's largest open-air market: Merkato, in the heart of the city, is the largest open-air market on the entire African continent, sprawling across a vast area with thousands of shops and stalls. You'll find almost everything here: spices and local coffee, textiles and traditional "habesha kemis" fabric, handicrafts and wood carvings, distinctive Ethiopian copper and silver crosses, and gold and silver at competitive prices. The best time to visit is early morning when the market is less crowded, and it's best to go with a local companion or tour guide, especially if you don't speak Amharic, as the market is enormous and easy to get lost in.

Haggling etiquette: Bargaining is a core part of shopping culture at Merkato and most traditional markets — the first price quoted is usually well above the real price. Negotiate with a smile and good humor, start by offering roughly half the asking price as an opening point, and be prepared to walk away if the final price doesn't suit you, since the seller will often call you back with a better offer.

Modern shopping in Bole: The Bole area is the best destination for comfortable, secure, fixed-price shopping, with malls like Edna Mall and Century Mall offering international and local fashion stores, restaurants, cafes, and ATMs. These malls are an excellent choice for anyone who prefers a shopping experience closer to what they're used to in the Gulf, or who wants professionally packaged gifts.

Best souvenirs to buy: Among the top things worth buying in Addis Ababa: genuine Ethiopian coffee beans (and a clay jebena coffee set as a distinctive gift), handmade Ethiopian crosses, traditional hand-embroidered habesha kemis clothing, local leather goods, and colorful handwoven baskets.

Shopping safety tips: Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spots like Merkato, where pickpocketing is relatively common, as it would be in any large, busy market. Avoid carrying large amounts of visible cash, spread your money across more than one pocket or bag, and use a trusted taxi or ride-hailing app to get back with your purchases, especially if they're large or heavy.

A note on payment: Most shops at Merkato and traditional markets deal in cash birr only, while the larger Bole malls generally accept credit cards. Always carry enough small-denomination cash when heading to traditional markets.

Between Merkato's timeworn chaos and Bole's modern polish, Addis Ababa offers a shopping experience that captures the city's beautiful tension between deep heritage and fast-moving present.