Ethiopia Tours & Safari Holidays, Trekking & Popular Destinations.
Ethiopia is renowned for its stunning scenery and is one of the best places in Africa to engage in a variety of outdoor activities. Since rain can occasionally block some roads, making it difficult to access some of the Ethiopian tour destinations where the activities can be conducted, these outdoor activities are often conducted during the dry season. When you travel to the country, you can engage in a variety of outdoor activities, such as:
Hiking & Trekking
In order for tourists to enjoy hiking and trekking, footpaths were also constructed. These lead to various tourist attractions that you can include on your list of things to see while in Ethiopia. The dry season is the ideal time to go and enjoy hiking and trekking, especially after the rains, when the terrain will be covered in lush foliage and the trek routes will be clear of mud and flooding.
During the trek, you will gain more knowledge about Ethiopia and the locations you are traveling from, and a tour guide will lead you through the hiking and trekking routes. The following are some of the several locations where you can go trekking:
Ethiopia’s Top 5 Hiking Destinations
National parks include the Gambella National Park, the Bale National Park, the Simiens National Park, and numerous others.
the area around Harar, where you can view the historical sites there.
You will hike through the hewn churches in the Lalibela district.
The country’s mountains are situated there.
Walking around the Great Rift Valley and many other locations
Crossing Ethiopia by foot
Another outdoor activity that you can enjoy in Ethiopia is running. Ethiopia has many athletes who have won gold in international tournaments because running is the national sport, whereas soccer is the primary sport of other nations.
Ethiopians have a reputation for being excellent runners, and the country’s top athletes participate in the yearly marathon that is held in Addis Ababa. Many athletes run from Meskel Square every morning and evening before the marathon, and you can join them if you’re visiting before the annual event in November.
Rafting in White Water
There are rivers in Ethiopia where rafting is possible. Due to its abundance of water, the Blue Nile is the primary location for white water rafting in Ethiopia. Rafting on the Awash River is another option, and if the weather permits, you can go for as many days as you choose. For everyone interested in the water rafting game, you need be well-prepared with your gear.
It should also be done after the rainy season because the rivers are too full of water during that time to permit rafting because the rapids are submerged. An professional tour guide leads every white water rafting excursion in case there are any mishaps.
An Automobile Journey Through Ethiopia
Since driving is typically the only means to travel to and see Ethiopia’s various regions, road tours have grown in popularity among visitors. Because of Ethiopia’s excellent terrain, you can use four-by-four-wheel drive cars to get from one part of the nation to another.
It is simple to plan a road vacation in Ethiopia since you may drive from one tourist spot to the next, relax at the lodgings that are offered at the destinations, and so on. During your road trip, Ethiopia’s well-marked routes to the many tourist destinations will be of great assistance.
The best major routes to take while traveling by car in Ethiopia
The Road to Addis Ababa
Ethiopia’s capital city is traversed by the Addis Ababa route, which is primarily utilized by tourists who wish to see the city core. You will be able to see the National Ethiopian Museum, the Red Terror Museum, and several national parks along the way.
You will also have the chance to see the annual run that takes place in September, and you will have the chance to meet the various residents of the capital city. The route is essentially intended for people who have a limited amount of time to travel throughout the entire nation.
The Eastern Path
For your road journey in Ethiopia, you can also choose the Eastern route, also called the Bales Mountain route. Its name comes from its passage through the Bales Mountain, and it also runs through Harar, the fourth-holiest city in the world and the capital of Ethiopia.
The Southern Path
Because it crosses the Great Rift Valley, which divides the nation in two, the southern route is sometimes referred to as the Rift Valley and cultural symbol route. You can enjoy the many activities that are offered here, such as bird watching, animal viewing, lounging on the lakeshores, trekking, meeting locals, and many more, as you drive through the Rift Valley and take in all the distinctive land formations that have formed in the form of mountains, crater lakes, and valleys.
The Northern Path
One of the many routes available to you for a road trip in Ethiopia is the Northern route, which passes through the Simiens Mountains, where you can rest, go trekking, eat some local cuisine, visit the Simiens Mountains National Park, and explore the surrounding areas.
The Western Path
Although the western route takes you directly to Gambella National Park, you won’t be bored en route. When you get at Gambella National Park, you will be able to take in the stunning views that the birds, animals, and trees have to give, as well as the rich greenery of the hills and woods that Ethiopia has to offer.
Although these are the main routes, the ones listed above are not the only ones you can take when traveling by car through Ethiopia. Because the roads are navigable and not inundated during the dry season, this is the ideal time of year to take a road trip.
The Caving Adventure
The majority of Ethiopia’s numerous caverns, which are open for exploration while there, were created during the Great Rift Valley’s creation. For obvious reasons, this outdoor pastime is primarily done during the dry season. The following are a few of the caves you can visit:
The Achare-Anyage caverns are situated in the eastern region of the country on the slopes of Mount Arba Gugu. As long as a tour guide is present, visitors can explore the cave’s seven kilometers of underground passageways.
The Sof-Oma caverns, which Muslim pilgrims visit every year. You can travel to the caverns with the many pilgrims, and they are conveniently accessible.
With the assistance of a tour guide who can assist with translation and direction, you may also visit and explore the caverns in the Aksum region that were converted into churches.
Balloon Rides in the Air
You can see the scenery from the balloon as it soars into space here, where several balloons are loaded with hot air. The best method to get on the balloon ride is to reserve in advance so that you do not find all the trips taken, and it also relies on the weather. Nevertheless, it is an enjoyable activity that you can enjoy with your loved ones. Accessing air balloon services is very difficult during the wet season, however it is very easy during the dry season.
Ethiopian Rock Climbing
There are many beautiful landscapes in Ethiopia that make rock climbing possible. There are numerous difficult rocks in the country where you may go and have fun, such as the Simiens Mountains, the hewn churches in Lalibela, and the Bale Mountain, because the Rift Valley formation had a significant impact on a portion of the country. For any adventure you undertake on the rocks, you will require rock climbing equipment and a tour leader.
Well-liked Places to Visit in Ethiopia
The northern region of Madagascar is home to Ethiopia, a nation renowned for its rich cultural heritage. There are nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ethiopia that you can visit to have a better understanding of Ethiopian history. People who are not interested in history are not the only ones who can visit heritage sites.
People from all over the world visit these cultural sites because they have a lot to offer all visitors, including some of the things that make them UNESCO heritage sites. Simiens National Park is the only natural heritage site in Ethiopia; the other eight are classified as cultural sites. You will need to go from one area of Ethiopia to another because these attractions are spread out across the nation.
The Valley of Omo
The presence of the Fossils site in the Omo Valley is one of the reasons it is a UNESCO heritage site, and the valley is rich in Ethiopian culture. Numerous fossils discovered in the Omo Valley have been used by various researchers to examine the evolution of human life. Aside from the fossils that have been preserved in a secure location for public viewing, everyone should experience the Valley’s distinctive culture because the various ethnic groups that call it home have distinct customs.
Look Around the Tiya Stelae
The Tiya stelae, which is located in the Soddo region two hours from Addis Ababa, is home to numerous massive monuments that reach a height of five meters. It is also only a short distance from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, and features a number of mass graves that are marked with various symbols.
What’s most beautiful about these monuments is that no one truly knows who built them. The fact that there is no written history regarding these standing stones adds to their mystique, making it enjoyable to visit them and create your own narrative about their formation.
Although no one knows who buried them, some people still think that the tombs depict elements of Ethiopian culture and that they belong to the dead warriors, both men and women, who were buried in a standing position.
Visit Gondar City
Known as the Camelot of Ethiopia, Gondar City is situated close to Lake Tana. Numerous factors contributed to its designation as a UNESCO heritage site, including the Fasil Ghebbi, which was built in the 17th century by Emperor Fasil and is situated in the city of Gondar, where numerous other heritage buildings are also visible.
The majority of the nation’s emperors also called it home. The monasteries, a castle, churches, a thermal area, and a bath are among the seven other locations at Fasil Ghebbi. You cannot just leave Ethiopia without visiting Gondar City since it will transport you back in time to witness the appearance of medieval Ethiopia and the way the Emperors lived during that era.
The Cultural Landscape of Konso
The earliest type of dwelling settlement in the nation is found in the semi-arid Konso terrain. The Daga-Hela, which the locals use for rituals, the old stone houses with their distinctive architectural designs, and the wooden statues that many locals, particularly the Waka people, erect in honor of their departed family members are the most fascinating sights to see in Konso.
Go to the city of Harar.
The city of Harar, which lies on the border between Ethiopia and Somalia, is thought to have been established in the thirteenth century. Because of the manner the dwellings were built out of rocks, Harar, which was formerly a merchant city, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Because of its distinctive design, the location was designated as a heritage site.
Other things to do in Harar besides strolling around the town include feeding the hyenas, though this is done with a tour guide present, and touring the museums, particularly the Arthur Rimbaud Museum, which features the majority of his paintings of the old Harar town. When you visit the museum, you’ll see that not much has changed in Harar compared to Arthur’s paintings.
The National Park of Simien
Home to the Simiens Mountain, the Simien National Park is the only natural site in Ethiopia designated as a UNESCO heritage site. Because it is home to endangered animal species that inhabit the park, such as the Ethiopian wolf and the Walia ibex, it was one of the first locations in the Horn of Africa to be designated a UNESCO heritage site in 1978. Keep in mind that the Ethiopian wolf is unique to Ethiopia and cannot be found anywhere else in Africa.
Trekking, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and camping are just a few of the activities that can be done at this heritage site. However, in 1996, Simiens National Park was listed as endangered because of interference from locals who continue to cut down trees to make way for farming and settlement. However, the Ethiopian government is making every effort to curb the widespread deforestation in order to preserve the forest and all of its endangered species.
Axum, the Ancient City
One of Ethiopia’s UNESCO heritage sites is the city of Axum, which is situated in the country’s northern region. The majority of Ethiopia’s emperors are said to have come from Aksum, commonly written Axum. The city’s numerous historical sites are one of the reasons it was designated a heritage site. Axum is home to a number of landmarks, such as the Ark of the Covenant chapel in Aksum, which is thought to be the location where the son of King Solomon and Queen Sheba housed the ark of God’s covenant.
The chapel is off-limits to the general public, therefore visitors are expected to see it from a distance. A single priest is on duty there every day. King Gebre Meskel and King Caleb’s graves are another fascinating sight to view in Axum. King Caleb was King Meskel’s son, and their tombs are connected to form twin tombs.
Even though Caleb’s grave is incomplete and some people think his remains was buried somewhere else in a monastery, these were built with distinctive architecture and their own interlocks. Three sarcophagi from King Meskel’s tomb have been examined by several historians, and one of them bears the ancient Axum kingdom’s insignia.
The Valley of Awash
Similar to the Omo valley, the Awash valley, which is only roughly 300 kilometers from Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, also contains fossils that were found some time ago. The only distinction is that the fossils in the Awash valley are much older than those found in the Omo valley. On the African continent, they are thought to be the oldest fossils.
The bones that were found helped to recreate Lucy, a skeleton representation of the human race, which is on display at the National Museum of Addis Ababa. The fossils are thought to have originated more than five million years ago.
The Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches
The churches of Lalibela are situated in the Amhara region, and the distinctive rock churches there are the reason they are listed as one of Ethiopia’s UNESCO heritage sites. Because of the area’s stunning and distinctive structures, the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela are sometimes known as the New Jerusalem.
Lalibela is home to thirteen churches, which are divided into three groups: the St. George church, the churches in the south, and the churches in the north. All of these have a rich history, particularly in relation to Lalibela’s Christian past. On occasion, pilgrims can be seen visiting Lalibela to pay their respects. One of the most revered locations in the nation, these cathedrals were constructed in the 13th century out of stones.
Investigating western Ethiopia
There are numerous tourist sites along Ethiopia’s western route, each of which is distinct from the others. Due to the numerous forests and coffee plantations that are visible on the various hills in the western part of the country, you will be met with flora that covers the majority of the area as you go through it. If you enjoy exploring the natural world, gather your belongings and join us as we explore Ethiopia’s Western Route and see what it has to offer in terms of tourism.
A trip to Jimma City
The majority of tourists stop in Jimma City, the largest town in Western Ethiopia, before continuing on to experience the rest of the Western side, including the southwestern region. Because of the Kofe marsh and Lake Boye, which serve as habitats for several bird species in the nation, Jimma has a lot to offer visitors, including coffee excursions and birdwatching. You can also visit and experience the following while in Jimma:
The Bonga coffee farm
It is thought that coffee beans were initially found in the region of Jimma, where Bonga is located halfway on the route to Tefari. After one of his animals ate the coffee beans and began acting strangely, the herdsman reportedly discovered them here. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to tour the coffee plantations that occupy a sizable portion of the Bonga when you visit Jimma.
You may even have the opportunity to observe the process of selecting coffee from the gardens, drying it, and then processing it. The benefit of visiting these farms is that you can sample freshly brewed coffee before anybody else does or before it is served outside of Ethiopia and in other areas of the nation.
Examine the mansion of Abba Jiffar.
After the death of their final ruler, Abba Jiffar, the little-known kingdom of Jimma was dissolved. The Ethiopian empire seized control of the kingdom after the king passed away, but the palace is still standing in Jimma’s northern region and is plainly visible when strolling around the city. You may discover more about the lost nation and its monarch at the Jimma museum, which is located directly next to the palace.
You will require a tour guide when visiting Jimma, who will lead you around the city and explain everything you see. They will also assist with communication by translating anything you do not understand, particularly when locals are speaking.
The portion of the voyage that goes to the southwest
A visit to the Omo Valley Most people think that the Omo Valley is where the earliest man lived because it is where fossils thought to be over 10,000 years old were found. The western route leads you to the southwestern part of Ethiopia, and since you will be taking the same route, there is no better way to experience everything that the country has to offer than to explore the southwestern part.
Prior to their discovery, Lucy’s fossils were thought to be the oldest; however, a comparison of the bones revealed that these fossils were significantly older than Lucy. You never know when you could find some fossils yourself when you visit the Omo Valley.
The National Park of Omo
One of the few tourist destinations in the southwestern region of the country is the Omo National Park, which is situated in the Omo Valley. When you hike through the park, you can clearly see the diverse array of wildlife, which includes both animals and birds. Additionally, while in Omo Park, you will have the opportunity to see the UNESCO-designated Omo River, engage in activities like boating and fishing, and meet the several tribes who call the park home to learn more about their customs and way of life.
Seeing the Suri people
The Suri people, who belong to the Mursi and Me’en people, reside in a community called the Kibish settlement. The Surmic language is spoken by all of these tribes, and they all share similar personalities. You will wish to experience or witness their distinctive cultural customs, such as the men competing in a stick fighting match with competitors from other communities.
It’s a fierce battle, but it’s entertaining to see. When you meet the women, you’ll notice that they have lip plates that they were designed to wear since they were young, and they also lengthen their earlobes to make themselves appear more attractive. They also use body painting to enhance their beauty and draw in the other sex. Since body painting is safe for your skin, you can do it too.
You may need to spend a day or a week exploring the Suri town and learning more about the surrounding area because of the hike.
Examining the coffee and tea plantations
The Tepi coffee farms and the Wushwush tea estates can be found when you travel to the southwest region of the nation. The Bebeka coffee farms, which are regarded as some of the biggest in the nation, are situated in the same region. The locals who work on the various farms will be able to tell you more about the growing, harvesting, and processing of tea and coffee.
In addition to touring the farms, you have the opportunity to buy freshly made tea and coffee at a reasonable price.
Keep in mind that if you are visiting the southwest region of the country, you will require a certified tour guide for all of these excursions, if not for guidance, then for communication purposes, as the majority of the people do not speak or comprehend English.
Traveling to the Gambella area
One of the few things you will be able to view when traveling to the country’s western side is the Gambella region. It boasts beautiful scenery that will wow you, especially if you enjoy taking pictures. Given that the Gambella region is somewhat hot, make sure to pack accordingly when you travel there to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable trip. The following are a few of the local tourism destinations in the Gambella area:
The National Park of Gambella
One of the greatest destinations for those looking to unwind and see the wildlife that passes through the Gambella National Park is this area. Its location along the Ethiopian-Sudan border has had a significant impact on the local wildlife population. Because of the continuous conflict in the adjacent country, the animals have either moved or been killed, but this does not make it hazardous to visit, especially for tourists.
Among the creatures that have survived and are still present in the park are buffalos, roan antelope, white-eared Kob, elephants, and many more. Not to mention the hike around the park with a certified tour guide who will show you every inch of the Gambella National Park, there are also several bird species that may be viewed, particularly in their natural habitats.
Getting to know the locals
One of the greatest things you can do when you travel to the Gambella region is to meet the locals. The Anuak and Nuer people are the two tribes who call the Gambella home. These people share traits with those in South Sudan, which is nearby. Their look differs greatly from that of other Ethiopians since they are taller and have darker skin than the majority of the population.
While the Nuer people are pastoralists who constantly move in search of grass and water for their livestock, the Anuak people are farmers. You will learn more about the people of Gambella, their culture, and everything they have to offer when you visit.
The western Ethiopian tour will be a single journey, allowing you to experience all of these locations along the same route from Jimma to Gambella. This will enable you to enjoy all that the west has to offer while saving a little money.
Commonly Asked Questions about Ethiopia (FAQs)
Is a visa required to enter Ethiopia?
All visitors to Ethiopia must have a passport that is valid for at least six (6) months from the date of their stay, in addition to a tourist visa, which can be obtained at the airport or at any border crossing. The cost of a tourist visa ranges from $50 to $70.
Is it necessary to have travel insurance when visiting Ethiopia?
Yes, it is recommended that you have a decent travel insurance policy anytime you are going abroad, ideally one that provides both medical coverage and repatriation in the event of an emergency.
Does traveling to Ethiopia require a yellow fever vaccination?
Yes, before being allowed entry into Ethiopia, visitors must show an immigration officer their yellow card certificate attesting to their vaccination against yellow fever.
What is Ethiopia’s local currency?
The Ethiopian brr (ETB), which is issued by the National Bank of Ethiopia, is the official currency of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.
Does Ethiopia accept credit cards?
Although credit cards are accepted at many prominent hotels, they are not widely utilized nationwide. It is recommended that you exchange your money and make all required cash withdrawals before traveling to the countryside because ATMs are only found in major cities and not in rural areas.
Is Ethiopian tap water safe to drink?
No, Ethiopian tap water is regarded as unsafe for human consumption. Because of this, you should only drink water that has been bottled, and when you buy or get it, make sure the bottle seal is still in place.
Does Ethiopia accept tips?
Tipping is not required in Ethiopia, although it is acceptable to do so if you receive outstanding service as a way of showing your appreciation for their excellent work.
Does Ethiopia have internet access?
Yes, most major cities in the nation have strong internet connectivity, with many upscale hotels, restaurants, and cafés providing the service. However, when you go to more isolated places, particularly national parks, the service might not be available.
Is it permissible to use a cell phone in Ethiopia?
Perhaps, however in order to stay in contact with your family back home, it is strongly recommended that you get a local sim card from one of the nation’s local phone networks, such as Etthio Telecom, Orange Group, Tana Communications, Ethio Net, Tecno Telecom, or Smadl, while you are in an urban area.
What is Ethiopia’s electric voltage?
Ethiopia employs plug types C, E, F, and L and is powered by a 220V, 50Hz power source. Visitors are encouraged to carry their own adapters and, if necessary, a converter to reduce the electric voltage.
The ideal time to travel to Ethiopia
The optimum time to visit this stunning country is thought to be between October and March, when it is usually bright and dry. Because of the sharp drop in nighttime temperatures during this period, vacationers are advised to pack enough warm clothing for the evenings and early mornings. Generally speaking, Ethiopia’s climate varies according to the region you are visiting.
The wettest months are June and July, particularly in the northern Highlands, and the wet season, which lasts from June to September, is marked by mild showers that can start in mid-March. There are two distinct rainy seasons in the South, particularly in the Omo Valley, so you should be aware of that if you intend to travel there.
The ideal time of year to hike the Simien Mountains
The Simien Mountains are a massive mountain range that is actually the highest in Africa, reaching a maximum elevation of 14,901 feet. Trekking adventures on this mountain, where visitors can take in the stunning scenery, explore water streams, view deep, beautiful vistas, and even spot some endangered wildlife species, like the Gelada baboons and the Walia ibex, are among the most popular tour activities in Ethiopia.
The greatest time to trek this mountain range is during the dry season, particularly in September and November when the flora is still green and the weather is generally dry. You will also have the chance to see the stunning wild flowers that will be in bloom when you visit in October.
The ideal season to travel to the northern Highlands
The greatest time to explore Ethiopia’s northern islands is during the dry season, which runs from October to February. The islands are most famous for their fabled ancient churches that were carved out of rocks. However, those on a tight budget who want to visit this island can also do so during the rainy months of March and April, when most lodgings offer reduced prices, and many tour companies also offer discounted Ethiopian Tour rates.
Even though it rains during this time of year, you will still be able to go and enjoy your tour. Because of the severe rains in June and July, it is not recommended to do your journey during those months due to the unfavorable weather conditions.
When to go to the Danakil Depression is best.
The Danakil depression, where temperatures can often reach over 122°F, is regarded by specialists as one of the hottest locations on Earth. The best time to visit this region is during the colder months of November through March, when temperatures are a little lower. A tour there will allow you to see ancient salt caravans, many active volcanoes, and get a firsthand look at the distinctive culture of the Afar people.
The ideal moment to ride a hot air balloon
A hot air balloon flight is one of the most unusual and daring ways to see Ethiopia and its stunning landscapes; however, it is best done between October and February, when it is dry.
The ideal time of year to take in Ethiopian festivities
Being a culturally diverse nation, it hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, the most of which are religious and can extend for several days. According to the country’s calendar, the Orthodox Christian holidays are the most important.
These include the Ethiopian New Year, which falls on September 11 and is also known locally as Enkutatash, and Ethiopian Christmas, also known as Ganna, which is celebrated on January 7 instead of December 25, as is customary elsewhere.
