Travel to Ethiopia

Ethiopia is one of the most varied countries I’ve travelled through. Few places shift so quickly between green highlands, dry desert, ancient cities, mountain trails and deeply rooted religious traditions.

The Ethiopian Highlands are cooler and greener than many people expect. Around Lake Tana, you’ll find the source of the Blue Nile, island monasteries, waterfalls and a much gentler climate than the country’s hotter lowland areas.

Head east and Ethiopia changes completely. The Danakil Depression is one of the hottest places on Earth, with salt flats, volcanoes and desert landscapes that feel almost unreal.

Then there are the Simien Mountains, where jagged escarpments, huge skies and troops of gelada monkeys make it one of the best hiking areas in Africa.

Ethiopia was one of only two African states (along with Liberia) to remain independent during the Scramble for Africa.

It was occupied by Italy from 1936 to 1941, but unlike most of the continent, it was never absorbed into long-term European colonial rule.

Its culture draws from the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea world, ancient Christianity, Islam and many local traditions.

It’s also one of Africa’s richest countries for UNESCO-listed heritage. That history isn’t tucked away in museums either, it’s still woven into everyday life.

In Lalibela, rock-hewn churches are still active places of pilgrimage for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. In Harar, narrow lanes, old city walls and centuries of Islamic history give the city a completely different feel.

Gondar adds another surprise, with the castles and palaces of Fasil Ghebbi looking unlike almost anywhere else in East Africa.

And then there’s the food. Injera, spicy stews, rich coffee, fasting dishes and big shared platters make eating in Ethiopia one of the most memorable parts of travelling there.

Here you’ll find all of my posts on Ethiopia, from practical planning to destination guides, cultural experiences and inspiration for your own trip.

Factsheet

Approximate Area:	1.1 million km²
Approximate Population:	135 million
Currency:	Birr
Official Language:	Amharic
International Dialling Code:	+ 251
Drives on the:	Right