Summary
Present-day Ethiopia encompasses a fascinating blend of diverse elements, serving as both an ultimate destination for backpackers and a historical paradise for enthusiasts. The nation preserves an ambiance reminiscent of medieval times through its ancient Christian traditions while prominently displaying the obelisks and tombs of Aksum.
From a cultural perspective, Ethiopia boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage sites as well as opportunities to glimpse a more recent and turbulent past, marked by the remnants of abandoned and burnt Russian tanks. The country’s landscape is equally diverse, featuring lakes, rivers, rocky mountains, grasslands, and lowlands.
Additionally, visitors can experience extraordinary wildlife, captivating tribal communities, delectable cuisine, and splendid weather. However, Ethiopia transcends mere tourist attractions; it offers a transformative journey that deeply resonates with every traveler.
Let us delve into the finest destinations to explore in Ethiopia:
1. Danakil Depression
Situated on the border with Eritrea, the Danakil Depression is recognized as one of the driest and hottest regions on the planet. With temperatures frequently exceeding 50 degrees Celsius, its surreal terrain features active volcanoes, salted basins, hot springs, and a lava lake, creating a landscape that resembles the moon.
As the lowest point in Africa and second globally (after the Dead Sea), this region necessitates careful planning to navigate its harsh climate effectively. Nevertheless, the unique beauty and intrigue of this area justify any advance preparations made.
2. Lalibela
Lalibela captivates every visitor with its remarkable significance. This medieval settlement was intended to serve as a second Jerusalem, a distinction of which the current inhabitants take great pride. Nestled within a vast church complex carved entirely from rock, Lalibela is home to 11 monolithic churches constructed by King Lalibela in the 12th century.
The architectural ingenuity of these churches is truly awe-inspiring, as they are excavated into the earth itself. Of particular note is St. George’s Cathedral, which stands as an iconic monument of immense beauty. Further explorations may lead to several nearby monasteries worth visiting.
3. Harar
This sacred, historic walled city appears as a mesmerizing labyrinth of narrow passageways. Established in the early 16th century, it ranks as the oldest Islamic city in Africa. Once serving as the vital commercial link between Africa and the Middle East, Harar now enchants visitors with its ancient walls and timeless buildings.
Within the city limits, there are approximately 99 mosques, and a noteworthy attraction includes the evening ritual of hyena feeding, which takes place on the city’s outskirts. Participants can engage in this long-standing tradition, should they seek adventure.
4. Babile Elephant Sanctuary
With around 1,000 elephants remaining in Ethiopia, the largest and most prominent herd resides in the Babile Elephant Sanctuary, located a short drive from Harar. This sanctuary is also home to various species including gazelles, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and numerous exotic birds amidst a stunning backdrop that transitions from rocky formations to beautifully tree-dotted terrain.
Approximately 400 elephants inhabit this sanctuary, where daily walking safaris offer incredible experiences to observe them in their natural habitat.
5. The Rift Valley
The Rift Valley comprises a series of seven lakes, each possessing unique characteristics. This region features beautiful lakes, thermal springs, and an abundance of wildlife. For those interested in Africa’s rich biodiversity, the Rift Valley presents an exceptional opportunity to engage with nature.
Both residents and visitors often congregate near the hot springs for their therapeutic advantages, making it an idyllic spot to unwind. Taking a road trip along the entirety of the valley is a delightful experience.
6. The Blue Nile Falls
Recognized as Africa’s longest river, the Nile has the Blue Nile and White Nile as its two primary tributaries. The Blue Nile originates in Ethiopia and along its course lies the spectacular Blue Nile Falls, often regarded as a contender to Niagara Falls.
Located around 90 minutes from Bahar Dar, the scenery is simply breathtaking. Locally referred to as Tis Abbay, or ‘great smoke,’ the falls can reach a height of approximately 45 meters during the rainy season. Just downstream, visitors can find Ethiopia’s first stone bridge, constructed in the 17th century.
7. The Omo Valley
Offering a wonderfully unique insight into the tribal cultures of Ethiopia, the Lower Omo Valley villages remain mostly untouched by external influences, much like the Maasai in Kenya. Here, visitors can engage with communities that exhibit strikingly different cultural practices.
The Daasanach village invites exploration, featuring the visually striking lip-plates of the Mursi people, along with the bull-jumping ceremony celebrated by the Hammer tribe. The region itself consists of open savannah that transitions to lush forests in the hills, providing opportunities for adventurous safaris during your visit.
8. Gondar
The 18th-century city of Gondar is renowned for the fairytale castles constructed by Emperor Fasiladas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site presents an impressive museum complex that narrates the history of the nation’s emperors over the centuries.
Nestled within a scenic bowl of mountains, Gondar serves as the alluring ‘Camelot of Africa,’ reflecting the vast wealth and grandeur of its historical capital. Despite its size, Gondar is easily navigable on foot, with a pleasant stroll beginning at the Italian piazza in the city center, complemented by opportunities for shopping, dining, and accommodation. Nearby Gorgora hosts a small but notable Christian monastery.
9. Aksum
Aksum is a city rich in mythology, reputed to have been the residence of the Queen of Sheba and home to the Ark of the Covenant. It stands as one of Africa’s oldest cities. Visitors can gaze upon the walls of the St Mary of Zion Church Complex, believed to house the Ark, and explore the Northern Stelea Field to admire the ancient Aksumite obelisks.
Despite its remarkable history, Aksum is often overlooked by tourists due to its small-town charm. Visitors will appreciate the opportunity to uncover relics scattered throughout the city, visit mountaintop monasteries, and descend to explore Aksumite empire tombs. Furthermore, don’t miss Mai Shum, a sizable rock-hewn reservoir thought to have been used by the Queen of Sheba for bathing.
10. Addis Ababa
Though Addis Ababa is a bustling metropolis characterized by traffic and urban expansion, it remains a place where shepherds navigate the streets alongside their flocks. Many regard it as the ‘capital of Africa’ since the African Union’s headquarters is located here, representing nearly all of the continent’s 57 nations.
The city boasts Africa’s largest market, extraordinary cathedrals, diverse churches, and mosques, along with the museum that houses Lucy, the world’s oldest known humanoid. For local residents, Addis Ababa is a magical place; visitors are drawn to its harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary Ethiopian culture.
11. Simien Mountains
The Simien Mountain range is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is aptly known as ‘God’s playground.’ Trekking along the escarpment unlocks some of the most breathtaking views in the country.
Visitors are likely to encounter groups of Gelada bleeding-heart baboons, unique to this region. Moreover, the Simien National Park shelters diverse wildlife, including the Walia ibex, a goat species found nowhere else on Earth.
12. Bahar Dar
As the third-largest city and an initial destination on Ethiopia’s historic circuit, Bahar Dar offers a laid-back atmosphere, further enhanced by the proximity to serene lakes and monasteries. A true Bahar Dar experience involves leisurely moments spent by the lake.
Visitors often marvel at the tankwa canoes, seemingly fragile boats woven from papyrus, yet completely unsinkable, capable of carrying both people and livestock.
13. Rift Valley Lakes
Spanning from the Red Sea to Mozambique, the Rift Valley represents a monumental geological feature. Its ongoing rifting process indicates that millions of years from now, it will eventually divide the African continent.
This vast geographical feature is so significant that it can be perceived from space. Traveling overland through this area, southeast from Addis Ababa via Mojo, Lake Ziway, Awash National Park, and beyond offers breathtaking views.
Along this route, five lakes showcase their unique appearances and characteristics.
14. Lake Chamo ‘Crocodile Market’
Contrary to popular belief, Lake Chamo is not a bustling marketplace filled with tourist-oriented crocodile merchandise. Instead, the lake teems with vibrant wildlife, providing an opportunity for visitors to experience these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat through afternoon or early evening boat rides.
Enjoy breathtaking moments as massive Nile crocodiles bask along the banks, some measuring over six meters in length.
15. Arba Minch
Named from the Amharic phrase meaning ‘forty springs,’ Arba Minch boasts numerous small springs that bubble up from the ridge below. A picturesque 3-kilometer walk through Nechisar National Park leads to these invigorating springs. Utilizing this area as a stop on the southern Ethiopian circuit is sure to be a rewarding experience.
