Travel advice for Ethiopia
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Ethiopia
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Debre Damo monastery, Ethiopia
1. Addis Ababa
Don’t miss the National Museum, a fine introduction to Ethiopian history, or the incendiary local food and dancing at Habesha 2000.
2. Lake Tana
Basing yourself at the port city of Bahir Dar, take a scenic boat trip to the monasteries of the wooded Zege Peninsula.
3. Blue Nile Falls
Witnessed in the rainy season, the Blue Nile Falls are one of the most spectacular cataracts anywhere in Africa.
4. Gondar
Head north from Lake Tana to absorb the Portuguese-influenced stone castles and churches of the former capital.
5. Simien Mountains National Park
Day walks or overnight hikes in this mountainous park come with a certainty of encountering, among others, the endemic gelada monkey and spectacular lammergeyer.
6. Aksum
Explore the ancient stelae and ruined palaces that litter this most ancient fulcrum of Ethiopian culture.
7. Lalibela
A tour of the town’s famous rock-hewn churches could be followed by a day hike to Asheton Maryam or a drive to the churches around Bilbilla.
8. Harar
Fly east, via Addis Ababa, to enjoy this Islamic walled citadel and its legendary hyena men.
1. Lake Ziway
Spot abundant birdlife from the fishing jetty, or take a boat trip to Tulu Gudo Island to see its ancient monastery.
2. Lake Langano
The most resort-like of the lakes could be bypassed by hyperactive, time-restrained travellers. Equally, you could chill out here for days.
3. Abijata-Shala National Park
This protected area near Langano warrants a day-trip, both for its aquatic birdlife and the dramatic Rift Valley landscapes.
4. Hawassa
Southern Ethiopia’s largest town is orderly and modern, and blessed with a gorgeous setting on a lake rimmed by monkey-filled forests.
5. Bale Mountains National Park
Allow at least three days for a diversion to the high plateaus and forests of this misty stronghold of the endangered Ethiopian wolf and mountain nyala.
6. Nechisar National Park
Basing yourself in Arba Minch, explore the best wildlife destination in the Ethiopian Rift Valley.
7. Karat (Konso)
Visit the Konso Museum and the fortified hilltop village of Mecheke.
8. South Omo
Continue southwest to this fascinating repository of traditional cultures, basing your itinerary around market days.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Ethiopia
written by Andy Turner
updated 26.04.2021
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