Ethiopia

Types of trips: Adventure, Cultural & Ecological Diversity, Geographical, Nature, Exploration, Language

Best known for: Ethiopian Alphabet, Ecological diversity, Coffee Beans

Why Go?: Ethiopia is a truly unique country - with it's own alphabet, calendar and local culture, this will be a destination you'll remember for the rest of your life. With the ancient religious buildings, awe inspiring national parks and animals and birds found only here, Ethiopia will amaze you!

Fact File

Population: 88,000,000

Capital: Addis Ababa

Language(s): Amharic

Ties to the UK?: Decent relationship, increasingly popular travel destination

Landscape: Central mountainous region surrounded by lowlands, savannahs and semi deserts. Some large lakes including Lake Tana & many endemic species

Climate/Seasons: Generally quite mild year-round, with heavy rains from June - October.

When to Go: Any time outside of the rainy season is a great time to visit, with the months directly after it turning the country green and lush and perfect for hiking.

Reasons to Visit: Local nature/geography/culture, diversity

How to Get There: There is only one international airport in Ethiopia but you can get direct flights there from the UK!

Places to Go: "Red Terror" Martyrs Memorial Museum, Ethnological Museum, 

Famous People: Mulatu Teshome, Marcus Samuelsson, Haile Gebrselassie

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Mago National Park, Gobodura Hill, Sor River Waterfalls

History: Only African country to defeat European colonisation & remain independent, and first African country to join the UN

Architecture: St George Cathedral & Museum, Royal Enclosure, Rock-Hewn Churches

Culture: Diverse culture influenced by interactions with India, Italy, Northeast Africa and the Arabian Peninsula

Sport: Athletics, Football, Basketball

Events: Genna Festival, Timkat-feast, Addis International Film Festival, Tensae Cycle Race

Watch Out For: There are some areas of Ethiopia its best to avoid because of local trouble - see the linked FCO page below for up to date information. You will also need a visa to enter the country - make sure to fully research what type you/your group will need and leave plenty of time for the process!

Medical Issues: There are some advised vaccines and boosters for travel to Ethiopia - see this page for a good general overview but always consult with a doctor.