Ethiopia
As one of the oldest Christian countries on the planet, Ethiopia possesses a fascinating history rich in culture and legend. The awe-inspiring ancient churches of Lalibela and the medieval castles of Gondar are premier archaeological destinations. Combine breathtaking mountain scenery and rare wildlife for an unusual and memorable African experience.
Addis Ababa
Nestled in the foothills of the Entoto Mountains, Addis is the country’s largest city and an important administrative centre for the whole of Africa. A blend of past and present create an exciting cultural experience: old imperial statues stand beside colonial Italian architecture and modern hotels. You can find the famous fossilised remains of ‘Lucy’, thought to be the earliest child, in the Ethiopian National Museum.
HIGHLIGHTS: City tours.
Lalibela
Also referred to as ‘New Jerusalem’, this historic town was built by King Lalibela in the 12th century. Perched on steep slopes among craggy mountains, Lalibela boasts 11 churches hewn into the rocky hills - the focus of Christian pilgrimage for Ethiopians. Discover the equally unusual houses: two-storey stone structures built in a circular shape with thatched roofs.
HIGHLIGHTS: Historical walking tours.
Simien Mountains
National Park Positioned between the towns of Gondar and Axum, the Simien Mountains form one of the major massifs in Africa. The unusual and rugged topography makes it popular with trekkers. You can try and spot the distinctive red breasts displayed by the rare gelada baboons amid the region’s rocky plateaus and deep gorges; a unique wildlife experience.
HIGHLIGHTS: Trekking, bird-watching. Lake Langano
One of the most popular lakes in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Langano is naturally red in colour and covers a vast expanse of 250 sq km. A myriad of wildlife such as monkeys, baboons and warthogs can be found among the cliffs surrounding the freshwater lake. For a beach-like atmosphere, stay in one of the lodges perched around its sandy shores and enjoy the water sports.
HIGHLIGHTS: Swimming, water-skiing, windsurfing.
Bale Mountains
National Park Home to Ethiopia’s tallest peak, Mount Batu, the Bale Mountains National Park is a destination of outstanding natural beauty. Rare and endemic wildlife such as mountain nyalas and endangered Ethiopian wolves roam across the Sanetti Plateau, whereas the unspoilt Harenna Forest is popular with some 280 species of bird.
HIGHLIGHTS: Hiking, horse riding, wild trout fishing, bird-watching.
Gondar
Frequently referred to as the Camelot of Africa, Gondar was founded by Emperor Fasilidas in 1635 and was Ethiopia’s capital until 1855. Flanked by the Simien Mountains, the ancient city’s many medieval castles evoke a feeling of stepping back in time. The Church of Debre Berhan Selassie is particularly worth a visit for the richness of its intricate interior paintings, a masterpiece of Gondarene art.
HIGHLIGHTS: Historical walking tours.
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