Ethiopia coffee cupping class/Ethiopian food injera making

Stepping into Ethiopian culture through food and coffee is a highlight for many travelers, and this tour aims to do just that with a rich, hands-on approach. While we haven’t personally taken this exact class, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a genuinely authentic, culturally enriching experience.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of coffee expertise, interactive injera baking, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. You’ll enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides, savoring fresh local dishes, and participating actively rather than just observing.

However, consider that this experience is relatively structured and lasts about four hours—so it’s best for those who want a well-organized, meaningful culture. Suitable for food lovers, coffee enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see Ethiopian traditions up close, it offers a practical, authentic taste of Addis Ababa’s culinary scenes.

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Key Points

Authentic Cultural Experience: Learn how to brew Ethiopian coffee and make injera, the country’s iconic flatbread.
Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable locals who share their passion and insights into Ethiopia’s food and coffee traditions.
Interactive & Hands-On: Not just a demonstration—expect to roll up your sleeves and participate actively in both brewing and baking.
Community & Connection: Finish with a communal meal and traditional coffee ceremony, engaging with locals in a relaxed setting.
Good Value for Money: At $70 per person, it combines education, entertainment, and delicious food, making it a practical cultural experience.
Limited Age & Health Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 15 or those with altitude sickness, but flexible cancellation makes it easier to plan.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This 4-hour adventure provides a comprehensive introduction to two fundamental Ethiopian traditions: coffee and injera. Starting with a guided coffee cupping session, you’ll learn how Ethiopian coffee is different from others worldwide. A local coffee expert leads the tasting, helping you identify aromas, flavors, and brewing techniques that make Ethiopian coffee famous. You’ll discover the various regional coffee varieties and roast levels, giving you a deeper appreciation for each sip.

The reviews highlight guides like Mike and Joe, both praised for their attentiveness and extensive knowledge. One reviewer, Sooyoung, mentioned Mike as an “excellent guide, very attentive and accommodating,” which suggests you’ll be in good hands, with clear explanations and friendly interaction.

Next, it’s time for the injera-making workshop. Under the guidance of a friendly host, you’ll learn how to prepare this sourdough-risen flatbread traditionally baked on a mitad, a clay griddle. The process involves mixing, fermenting, and flipping the injera—skills that can seem simple but require a bit of practice. Guests have expressed how satisfying it is to craft their own bread and then enjoy it fresh, paired with classic dishes like shiro (a chickpea stew) or misir wot (spiced lentils).

The Atmosphere and Setting

The workshop takes place in a cozy, well-equipped indoor or outdoor kitchen setting—clean, comfortable, and designed to foster a communal feeling. The use of traditional tools like the mitad and clay coffee pot adds authenticity to the experience. Reviewers appreciated the friendly, casual vibe, where they could relax and ask questions freely.

The Food and Drink

After crafting your injera, you’ll sit down to enjoy it with a variety of local dishes. This communal meal is a highlight, allowing you to sample authentic flavors and engage with other participants and hosts. The coffee ceremony is a relaxing, ritualistic moment, where freshly brewed coffee is served in small cups—an essential part of Ethiopian hospitality that leaves many visitors enchanted.

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Value and Practical Aspects

Priced at $70 per person, this experience offers good value considering the inclusions: tasting multiple coffee varieties, hands-on cooking, a traditional meal, and a cultural experience with a local guide. All ingredients, equipment, and spices are provided, so there’s no need to worry about extra costs during the activity.

The flexible “reserve and pay later” option also makes it easier to plan without immediate commitment. It’s worth noting that the experience isn’t suitable for children under 15 or those with altitude sickness, which is common for high-altitude regions like Addis Ababa.

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What Travelers Say

Lea and Pascal called their day “really great,” praising Joe’s careful planning and the opportunity to see Addis from above in Entoto Park afterward. Similarly, Sooyoung appreciated Mike’s attentiveness and the combination of coffee, cuisine, and nature. These reviews underscore the guides’ friendliness and the well-rounded nature of the experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This class is perfect for foodies eager to learn Ethiopian cooking, coffee lovers wanting a deeper understanding of Ethiopia’s famed brew, and culture seekers interested in authentic local traditions. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate interactive experiences rather than passive sightseeing.

While the experience is in a shared group setting, the focus on hands-on participation means you’ll leave with skills, new knowledge, and a full belly. It’s ideal for those who want a meaningful, engaging introduction to Ethiopia’s culinary scene without the need for extensive travel or complex arrangements.

The Sum Up

This Ethiopian coffee and injera class offers more than just tasting—it’s about learning, participating, and connecting with local traditions in a relaxed environment. For around $70, you receive a detailed introduction to Ethiopia’s two most iconic culinary staples, guided by friendly experts who are passionate about sharing their culture.

If you’re curious about Ethiopian food, love coffee, or simply want a memorable cultural activity, this experience ticks many boxes. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy interactive, authentic, and affordable experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing.

While it’s not a tour for very young children or people with altitude-related health concerns, most travelers will find it a practical and rewarding way to spend a few hours in Addis Ababa. Expect good food, rich conversation, and a chance to leave with new skills—and perhaps a newfound appreciation for Ethiopia’s beloved coffee and injera.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Not quite—it’s designed for participants aged 15 and above, mainly because of the hands-on nature and the duration.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get a guided coffee cupping, a hands-on injera baking class, a traditional Ethiopian lunch, coffee ceremony, and all ingredients and equipment needed.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about four hours, making it a manageable activity even if you have a busy schedule.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility.

Are guides friendly and knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides like Mike and Joe are praised for their attentiveness, clear explanations, and warm personalities.

Will I learn practical skills?
Absolutely—many guests leave with the ability to brew Ethiopian coffee and make injera at home, which is quite the culinary accomplishment.

Is the experience physically demanding?
Not especially, but be prepared for some standing and manual work during the injera-making process.

This tour promises a delightful blend of culinary education, cultural insight, and community connection—a well-rounded way to deepen your Ethiopian experience.