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Ethiopia’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

Ethiopia’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

Ethiopia’s Background

 

Skeletal relics in the lower Awash River basin trace Ethiopia’s history back 3 million years. Modern records place a large agricultural civilization in modern-day Ethiopia between 8000 and 6000 BC. By the 2nd millennium BC, Sudan and people speaking Ge’ez, introduced plowing to Ethiopia, and came to dominate the rich northern highlands of Tigray. By the 7th century, they established the kingdom of D’mt (Da’amat), which dominated western lands and traded ivory, tortoiseshell, rhinoceros horn, gold, silver, and slaves to South Arabian merchants. After 300 BC, the Aksum took over. Aksum’s culture included G’eez, written in a modified South Arabian alphabet, art and building based on South Arabian prototypes, and local and Middle Eastern deities, suggesting a strong relationship between Aksum and the Arabian Peninsula. Aksum was a dominant trading power, an open harbor with even Greco-Roman traders. Such settlers brought Christianity to Ethiopia around 300 AD, but the Ethiopian Church followed the Coptic Church in Egypt. At its height, Aksum’s power reached the kingdom of Meroe, the Omo River, and the spice ports of the Gulf of Aden and Yemen.

The Aksumite expansion was deflated by the Persians and Arabs, leading to the Zagwe dynasty to rise in Ethiopia in the 12th and 13th centuries while Aksum faded. Zagwa dynasty opponents concentrated on “Solomonic” validity, since o nly those of Solomonic heritage could govern. In the 15th century, the great monarch Zara Yaqob destroyed all opposition and heretical cults. He dreaded the invasion of Muslims, and since he valued national unity and feared the encroachment of Muslims, he organized attempts to destroy them. In 1520, Ahmad ibn Ibrahim al-Ghazi led his warriors in a jihad, or holy war, against Ethiopia, easily conquering Solomonic-ruled territory, until Ahmad was captured and murdered in 1543 after the Portuguese trained the Ethiopian soldiers with European tactics.

Centuries of upheaval, power struggles, external interferences and internal conflict marked the coming centuries, until the late 17th century, when Emperor Susenyos abdicated his crown to his son Fasilides who founded a new capital at Gonder, supporting the arts, educational, religious, and social organizations, Beta Israel handicrafts, Muslim traders, and a vast population of farmers, day laborers, students, and soldiers. Ethnic, regional, and religious rifts damaged the monarchy and culminated to its fall in 1769. Internal warfare and the division in power between rival groups and kings from different areas brought Ethiopians many challenges and difficulties, but also some prosperity. Ethiopia was controlled by one emperor for the first time in the late 19th century, but it was also when the Italians and Egyptians invaded what is now Eritrea. Egyptians were removed by the end of the 19th century, although Italians lasted until 1896.

Under the reign of Menilek, he expanded Ethiopia between 1896 and 1906, absorbing most of its periphery. Iyasu gained control and ousted several of Menilek’s governors and absorbed Muslims into the administration, outraging Ethiopia’s Christian ruling elite until he was toppled in 1916. Menelik’s daughter Zaudita was next in line, but she didn’t govern. Her cousin Tafari did. Ethiopia thrived under his administration, primarily due to coffee exports, but also l ocal government also developed roads and enhanced communications to attract traders and enterprises. Tafari compelled foreigners to accept local partners and controlled concessions, so Ethiopians controlled the economy. Tafari became Emperor Haile Selassie I after Zauditu’s death. Due to Ethiopia’s success, Benito Mussolini wanted to hit Ethiopia before it became stronger, so he started a war, ousted the emperor in 1936, and Ethiopia became part of Italian East Africa for 5 years, but not without opposition. Haile Selassie I returned thanks to a British-led Ethiopian army that was training in Sudan in 1941. Too many conflicts, including a war with Eritrea in the 1970s and 1990s, made Ethiopia an attractive target for foreign and domestic enemies. Ethiopia transitioned to socialism during the 1990s famine. Since then, various rulers have brought reforms, wealth, conflict, or both. Ethiopia, unlike other African nations, was never colonized and today, it is taking strides to enhance its economy.

Ethiopia, in Eastern Africa, is a massive country with a land area four times that of the United Kingdom. It’s a unique African country with a lot of interesting things to see. The north is verdant and beautiful, dotted with little towns and historical sites like Lalibela. It is rich in both culture and history, with deep links to both Islam and Christianity and natural wonders like the Blue Nile Falls. Southern regions are home to indigenous populations that have maintained their centuries-old ways of life. The Merci people of the Omo Valley are known for their distinctive clay plates and jewelry. Back in Addis Abeba, you may observe a developing and evolving African metropolis that is more interconnected with the rest of the globe. People frequently split their travels to Ethiopia in two, with the first leg focusing on the culturally rich northern region, where they may see Lalibela and the Blue Nile Falls, among other attractions. Even though it’s a fantastic region, getting across the South usually requires more money because most people fly or drive alone. Still, economically speaking, this is one of Africa’s most affordable nations.

“Ethiopia, being one of the world’s oldest civilizations, is rich in African culture and history and offers breathtaking scenery all around. The nation has become a haven for adventurers in quest of wildlife, but also the rich cultural experiences that accompany their journey.”

Ethiopia is a unique and beautiful country that has been endowed with a rich history, amazing wildlife, and some of Africa’s friendliest people. There are mountains in Ethiopia that are more than 2,900 meters high, such as Simien and Bale, yet there is also the lowest point on the African continent, the Danakil Depression. Rich woods, hills, deserts, savannahs, lakes, and plateaus dot the nation in amongst these other environments. Important sites, such as the beginning of the Blue Nile and several volcanoes, can be found with some exploration. Ethiopia is one of the world’s oldest countries, and since it fought off European colonialism, it has managed to preserve much of its unique culture. From Africa’s earliest human skeleton, Lucy, through ancient Aksum and Christianity to ancient Israel, each culture has left behind remarkable structures that draw tourists from all over the world.

You just cannot ignore the depth and variety of Ethiopia’s cultural traditions. Traditional practices of groups including the Surmi, Afar, Mursi, Karo, Hamer, Nuer, and Anuak have been preserved almost totally. From ancient ceremonies marking rites of passage to Christian celebrations of individual passion, the impact on people who see such events may create travel experiences that last a lifetime. Ethiopia’s unique cuisine is the result of the country’s diverse religious and cultural traditions.

The vast variety of sights in Ethiopia guarantees that visitors won’t be bored. Tourists can spend three weeks or more touring the country’s top sights and yet feel like they haven’t seen it all. The south Omo Valley has some of the highest tribal diversity and is home to a wide range of rare animals found only there. Historians and archaeologists will be fascinated by the rock-hewn cathedrals and hominid fossil sites, while ardent trekkers will be drawn to the breathtaking hiking opportunities. The possibilities here appear to be limitless.

Because of the country’s immensity, it’s not unusual to spend a whole day on the road in Ethiopia. In this more urbanized part of the nation, taking the bus is an alternative. Bus lines are widespread, and road infrastructure is continually being upgraded. After dark, however, accidents are more common than usual due to the presence of wild animals, lighted donkey carts, and villagers herding livestock. Traveling south will take you across the Rift Valley, which is home to some unexpectedly verdant lakes and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills, valleys, escarpment, and forest. The aroma of frankincense and fresh popcorn should lead you to a roadside stall where you may get a refreshing cup of coffee before continuing on your journey.

Staying on the move will allow you to take advantage of all that Ethiopia has to offer visitors. This Cruisit Ethiopia travel guide provides an itinerary that strikes a balance between leisure and exploration. Arrive in this untapped African paradise and enjoy it to the fullest. The following itinerary for Ethiopia is tailored to the country’s peak tourist season, but may still be enjoyed during the shoulder months. With sunny days spent in ancient towns in the company of legend, or surrounded by verdant peaks and dramatic picture-perfect scenery, and tens of animal species to explore, Africa will fulfill your wildest dreams.

Moreover, we will provide you with all the information you need to go across Ethiopia with ease by providing you with a comprehensive travel guide. As you read on, you’ll learn about the best of what Ethiopia has to offer—its cities, sights, transit options, and more. If you’re pumped up enough, then let’s get started!

Top Places in Ethiopia

Simien Mountains

This mountain range, one of the largest in all of Africa, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 and is popularly known as the “rooftop of Africa.” Numerous endemic animals, such as the gelada baboon, walia ibex, and Ethiopian fox, inhabit the mountain. Hikers marvel at the spectacular landscape as they make their way along the steep and high ridge-lines, which include more than a dozen peaks higher than 12,000 feet. You should use a d ay hike around Sanqaber or the multi-day Simiens Trek to Bwahit Peak. Don’t hike alone or without a certified guide and licensed armed guard. Carefully select the appropriate trail for your fitness level, as there are a number of trails that can take anywhere from two days to two weeks to complete.

Dallol

Danakil Depression’s Dallol is a salty, boiling hellscape uninhabitable by humans. This region of the world is both extremely low and extremely hot. Boiling hot springs surround the area, bringing with them hot minerals and toxic gas bubbles. Despite its uninhabitability, the mixture of orange, yellow and green colors make the area picturesque. In the same area, you’ll find Erta Ale, also called the “Gateway to Hell,” due to its reputation as one of the hottest places on Earth, complete with its own lava lakes. Both locations are difficult to get to, so don’t go on your own.

Abuna Yemata Guh

This breathtaking church is only accessible to daredevils due to the 45 minute risky climb that passes through rickety bridges, narrow ledges, half a mile high sandstone pinnacle, and the view of an open air tomb filled with the skeletons of the deceased church’s priests who supposedly did not die falling of the cliff. This is all worth it once you reach the amazing church and you see its beautiful frescoes and colorful goatskin sheets of the Orthodox Bible. This church is very sacred for Ethiopians that they risk bringing their newborns up this climb to have them baptized there.

Priest Father Yemata carved the church into the cliff face in the fifth century. Some say he went there to seek true divinity, while others say he just wanted to get away from his enemies.

Omo National Park

Located on the western bank of the Omo River, Omo National Park was established in 1980. It’s often called the most remote park as it’s hard to reach. Wildlife in the park includes Buffalo, Burchell’s zebra, elands, beisa oryx, tiangs, lelwel hartebeest, lions, giraffes, ostriches, greater kudus, hyenas, warthogs, gazelles, and occasional cheetah, wild dog, colubus monkey, brazza monkey, and elephants. The Omo is made up of numerous tribes, including the Mursi, Bena, Surma, Nyangatom, Bodi, and Dizi. As you engage with the locals there, you’ll learn about the tribes’ culture and customs.

Blue Nile Falls

Blue Nile Falls, also known as ‘Tis Abay’ meaning “great smoke” because of how strong the falls are during rainy season. The falls are about 42 meters (138ft) high, consisting of four streams. As the falls are downtown of Bahir Dar, you might want to enjoy a boat trip across Lake Tana first before heading to the falls. You can also choose to hike there through their 17th century bridge (the hike takes an hour each way). And to have the full experience, you can bring along binoculars to watch endemic bird speeches like wattled ibis near the countrysides of the Blue Nile Falls.

7-day Itinerary in Ethiopia

Day 1

 

Arrive in Addis Ababa

As the largest city in the country, Addis Abeba welcomes a whopping 5.3 million residents in 2022. Site of the African Union’s headquarters a status of both a city and a state. It is home to several different ethnic groups from Ethiopia, but the largest is the Amhara, and is known as the “political capital of Africa.” If you have a day to spend in the city, you should check out the Mercato market and one of the many cathedrals or museums.

Get yourself to your accommodation through a taxi, rental vehicle, or pre-arranged transportation as soon as you land. You can leave your things and explore Addis Ababa for a whole day or a half day, depending on when you get there. Stop by the Entoto Hills outside of town, the Ethnographic Museum, the National Museum, Trinity Cathedral, and Mercato (Africa’s largest market).

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When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is some reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the city since there is some crime recorded in Addis Ababa to warrant worry. You can walk safely at day, but be wary while walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets. You can always take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

Day 2

 

Exploring Bahir Dar

It is the third-largest city in Ethiopia and a regular stop on most Historic Routes trips due to its location on the southern bank of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile River. A well-built and well-organized city by African standards, it welcomes visitors with a vibrant market, unique shops, and tasty eateries. Visit the breathtaking Blue Nile Falls in the countryside or explore the ancient monasteries and churches dotted throughout the islands of Lake Tana.

You can reach Bahir Dar on a flight that leaves bright and early in the morning. After settling into your accommodation, you sail on Lake Tana to visit some of the area’s stunning cathedrals. The most renowned church, Uhre Kidane Mehret, is located on the Zeghe Peninsula and can be reached by boat in approximately an hour. Visit the other churches on the peninsula by taking a stroll in the forest, where you could spot monkeys and exotic birds. Get on the waiting boat at the end of the peninsula and head out to Kibran Gabriel Island (unfortunately women are not allowed). The boat trip to the Blue Nile’s beginning includes a chance to see hippos and other waterfowl before returning to Bahir Dar. The Blue Nile Falls are roughly an hour’s drive from Bahir Dar and are worth a trip if you have the time. But if you can’t make it, you can pass by Bezawit Hill to see the sunset.

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When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is some reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the city since there is some crime recorded in Bahir Dar to warrant worry. You can walk safely at day, but be wary while walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets. You can always take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

Day 3

 

The Royal Capital

The city is very beautiful since it has the ruins of several ancient castles and churches and was once the royal capital of Ethiopia. Some have called it the Camelot of Africa, and now it serves as the primary departure point for expeditions into the nearby Simien Mountains. Fasilides’ Castle and the other major structures, including the emperor’s principal residence, were located within the royal enclosure known as Fassil Ghebbi, which is now a magnificent ruin.

You will head for Gondar shortly after breakfast. Spend the afternoon seeing Gondar’s numerous top attractions, including as the Royal Enclosure, Fasilidas Bath, and Debre Birhan Selassie, the chapel with the painted angel faces.

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When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is some reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the city since there is some crime recorded in Gondar to warrant worry. You can walk safely at day, but be wary while walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets. You can always take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

Day 4

 

Exploring Axum

This city is another “can’t miss” stop along the way back in time since it was the seat of power for the Aksumite Empire, a powerful trade empire in northern Africa that included modern-day Eritrea, Sudan, Egypt, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia in the 10th century. Tall obelisks and stelae constructed at gravesites, as well as damaged churches and other structures, are among the remnants of this once-mighty empire that may still be seen today. The Ark of the Covenant is said to have been buried there, and it is widely believed that it was formerly the Royal Palace of the Queen of Sheba. This city is a stop on most of the major tourist routes across Ethiopia and is featured on most of the key highlights tours.

Legends and history collide at Axum. Start out by visiting the sites associated with the Queen of Sheba and the Christian Emperor Ezana. You will head to the Maryam of Tsion churches and marvel at the Axum Stelae (Obelisk). (sadly, ladies cannot enter the historic church). If time is not a concern, there are many more attractions to see.

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When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is some reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the city since there is some crime recorded in Axum to warrant worry. You can walk safely at day, but be wary while walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets. You can always take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

Day 5

 

Marvelous Lalibela!

This town in northern Ethiopia is a highlight of any trip along the Historic Route or via Ethiopia’s key attractions because of the ancient rock-hewn churches that have been there since at least the 12th century. Some of Ethiopia’s most revered religious leaders have said that the town’s design was inspired by Jerusalem, making it a popular pilgrimage site.

In the morning, take a quick trip to Lalibela, Ethiopia, the country’s most famous tourist attraction. Lalibela’s legacy includes the chapels he had carved out of solid rock in the 12th century. According to legend, it was after seeing Jerusalem that he was moved to construct those 11 churches. Seeing all of these magnificent temples and cathedrals in a single day is not possible. There are no words that could do this place justice. You won’t believe the sheer beauty till you see it.

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When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is some reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the city since there is some crime recorded in Lalibela to warrant worry. You can walk safely at day, but be wary while walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets. You can always take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

Day 6

 

Continue Exploring Lalibela

Spend the second half of your second day in Lalibela seeing the remaining attractions. You can then either drive to the Asheton Maryam Church or hike to the Yemrehane Kristos church, depending on how much time you have. There is a nice market in town every Saturday that you should check out. If you want to spend more time here, you can absolutely stretch your plan the extra day. If not, today will be your last night in Addis Ababa before your flight tomorrow.

Day 7

 

Departure Day

Once you’ve seen the wonderful sights of Lalibela, you may get a flight back to Addis Ababa and, if you have time, spend your final day in Ethiopia exploring the city. It’s possible to hire a car service to take you and your luggage about all day, or to get a hotel room for the day. Spend time with loved ones, have a traditional meal, and pick up any last-minute gifts and keepsakes before you part ways. Even if your flight is delayed, you still have time for supper before you need to drive to the airport.

The Most Popular Food in Ethiopia

Ethiopian cuisine has been dominated by beef and lamb and is largely devoid of pork and shellfish due to influences from Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Traders from Europe and the Far East brought exotic spices to Ethiopian cuisine. Because of this combination, Ethiopian cuisine became unique in Africa. Ethiopia is known for its distinctive and flavorful food, which often has a lot of meat and a variety of spices on a pancake-like bread called Injera. You can find spaghetti in most cities if you become sick of the standard Ethiopian fare. There is a great selection of western eateries in Addis Abeba.

Injera

This typical pancake-like flat bread, prepared from teff wheat, is the cornerstone of most Ethiopian meals. People have said that it tastes similar to sour dough bread, although it is more chewier in texture. Dishes resembling stew are commonly served atop bread, which diners then use to savor with their bare hands.

Kitfo

This Ethiopian dish is similar to tartare. Kitfo is made with raw meat and spicy clarified butter. Mitmita is an Ethiopian spice blend. The delicate meat works wonderfully with sautéed greens and fresh, creamy cheese. Besides injera, the meal is paired with kocho. Curtis says it’s one of the Ethiopians’ favorite dishes and is served during festivities, holidays, etc. Some friends complete their 55-day Easter fast with kitfo.

Wat

This dish is a spicy, hearty stew of beef and vegetables served over injera. It’s one of Ethiopia’s most well-liked stew-like recipes and may be prepared with a variety of meats.

Tibs

Tibs is beef chunks sautéed in butter or oil with onions, garlic, spicy pepper, and rosemary the country’s “go-to meat meal.” As with any dish from an Ethiopian restaurant, this is typically served with injera.

Azifa

This lentil salad is something like an Ethiopian pico de gallo. Vegan and gluten-free green lentils are mixed with fresh tomatoes, red onions, and green chiles. It’s a good way for unadventurous foodies to taste Ethiopian food.

What's the Travel Budget for Ethiopia

Final Thoughts on Ethiopia

Legacy seen through traditional buildings and a greatly diverse culture, stunning and unusual landmarks, some of which are pilgrimage sites, unbelievable warmth despite the cooler weather, exciting tunes and festivities, and vivid picture-perfect surroundings of highlands and pristine reserves best for wildlife sightings from the remaining big five all contribute to Ethiopia’s allure. Ethiopia’s recorded history dates back to at least 8000 BC. Among the best places to visit in all of Africa. Ethiopia is a traveler’s paradise due to its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and fascinating historical monuments. Interested in visiting Ethiopia?

Have you ever been to Ethiopia? Leave your comments or questions in the section below.

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Cruisit Team

1 Comment

  • Reply
    Bali_ghPi says:
    July 19, 2023 at 10:08 pm

    I liked this post about Ethiopia but also how to explore the Possibility of Living in Bali through your blog

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