Ethiopia is a popular travel destination because of its history, culture, and natural beauty. From Pedro Almodóvar's red-hued film sets in Madrid to the Venetian canals of Desperate Housewives, the TV drama set in the fictional city of Wisteria Lane, it's clear that there's inspiration to be found in urban design and architecture ᅳ and that inspiration begets tourists. In this post, we will go through the most beautiful places in Ethiopia and see what will make for a truly unique experience.
Lalibela
Known as the "New Jerusalem," Lalibela is a beloved World Heritage Site because of its rock-hewn churches. These spectacular structures, which are still used as places of worship today, were cut from the volcanic rock in the 12th century. And wandering the twisted walkways linking the churches is a journey into the past. The stunning carvings and the spiritual feelings of the temples make Lalibela a must-seek for history fanatics and cultures.
If you have time, visit iconic churches such as Bete Giyorgis (St. George's Church), which is shaped like a cross and is the pièce de résistance of Lalibela's architectural wonders. Or they can meet with local guides to hear the legends about King Lalibela, the king who is credited with building these marvels. Don't pass up the opportunity to see a traditional Ethiopian Orthodox ceremony, which makes your visit sparkle with magic.
Simien Mountains National Park
The Simien Mountains National Park is an adventurers' paradise. This park, a UNESCO site, features a striking landscape of jagged peaks, deep valleys and sweeping plateaus. Numerous local plants and animals can be found there, including the endangered Gelada baboons, Walia ibex, and Ethiopian wolves. The stunning views ᅳ a splash of baby-blue and milky-white against grassy green ᅳ have made it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Trekking across the Simien Mountains is rewarding despite its challenges. You can choose multi-day treks that immerse you in remote villages and spectacular lookouts, including Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia. You'll meet friendly locals along the way as you discover their unique way of life. For those on the lookout for less ambitious excursions, guided day hikes are also just as gratifying and allow for plenty of wildlife spotting and sweeping vistas.
Now you can easily and comfortably apply for an online visa for Ethiopia. Experience Ethiopia’s vast history from the mighty obelisks of Axum, to the buzzing city of Addis Ababa, and breathtaking landscapes, whilst receiving your visa online from anywhere, for ease of travel.
Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa is the thriving capital of Ethiopia and a center of culture and history. There is a mixture of old and new attractions to suit every type of traveler. Start your exploration at the National Museum of Ethiopia, which displays the famous fossil “Lucy,” one of the oldest known human ancestors. The museum offers some fascinating insights into Ethiopia's long-standing history and heritage.
It is also famous for its lively markets including Merkato, one of the largest open-air markets in Africa. You can shop here for everything from spices and textiles to handicrafts and souvenirs. Be sure to enjoy Ethiopian coffee at a local coffee house ᅳ a must during a visit to the country known as the birthplace of coffee.
Danakil Depression
The Danakil Depression is a geological wonder, one of the hottest, most inhospitable places on Earth. In northeast Ethiopia, it is a world of surreal red, yellow, and blue sulfur springs, salt flats, and active volcanoes. Which is why visiting the Danakil Depression, feels like walking onto another planet and means every adventurous travelers dream destination.
To explore this out-of-the-way locale, a guided tour is a must. Highlights include the Dallol hydrothermal fields, with their juice-bright yellow, green and orange colors, and the Erta Ale volcano, home to a lava lake. Meeting the Afar, who have demonstrated incredible flexibility and resistance to their severe environments, including their continued traditional salt-mining methods, is another opportunity to visit the Danakil Depression.
Dallol temperature extremes are among the most dramatic on Earth, as evidenced by constant 24-hour weather monitoring. This harsh yet colorful landscape, filled with vivid mineral formations and broiling hot springs, attracts people who are drawn to the planet's more unusual mysteries.
Lake Tana
Ethiopia’s largest lake, Lake Tana is a tranquil retreat for anyone wanting a little R&R and scenery. Ancient monasteries and churches dot the lake, many only reachable by boat. Some of these places of worship, like Elia Kato Monastery, are 14th-century structures with exquisite murals and rare relics.
The best way to explore Lake Tana’s hidden treasures is by boat tour. Break up the drive by stopping at the Ura Kidane Mihret monastery on the Zege Peninsula, which boasts colorful paintings and a tranquil setting. The lake is also the origin of the Blue Nile, and a visit to the nearby Blue Nile Falls, known locally as Tis Issat (“Smoke of Fire”), is a must. The combination of running water and flora creates a stunning and picturesque location for relaxation and photography.
Axum
Axum, one of the oldest cities in Ethiopia, is steeped in legend and history. It was formerly the capital of the powerful Axumite Empire, and if the archaeological sites are anything to go by, the city was magnificent in its heyday. Some of the most iconic landmarks are the towering obelisks, or stelae, which demonstrate impressive craftsmanship and engineering. Explore the medieval city of Axum in Ethiopia, which is home to many amazing obelisks and cultural artifacts.
Travelers in Axum can explore the mysteries of the Ark of the Covenant in Ethiopia, which, according to tradition, is kept in the Church of St. Mary of Zion. With its royal tombs, inscriptions, and other artifacts, the city also offers insight into ancient Ethiopian society. Having a guided tour ensures that you have a more profound understanding of Axum’s role in the country’s history and mythology.
