Ethiopia is one of the oldest countries in the world and a place of incredible combination of luxurious and modern north and primitive south inhabited by nomadic tribes. For centuries, Ethiopia has been a crossroads of trade and a place of exchange of precious goods, but it has also been a symbol of the freedom of the "Black Continent", because it is the only African country that has not been colonized. It was also called the "Land of a Thousand Smiles" and the cradle of civilization.
Ethiopia is special in every way. A beautiful country whose history you will hear through old stories and legends, endowed with rich flora and fauna and inhabited by some of the last tribal peoples in the world. Its areas are inhabited by tribes such as Surma, Afari, Mursi, Karo, Hamari, Nueri and Anuaki, whose ancient customs and traditions have remained almost completely intact.
Ethiopia is made up of some of the highest and most beautiful places on the African continent, such as the sharply carved Simien Mountains, and some of the lowest, such as sulfur fumaroles and a moon-like landscape, the Danakil Depression. Ethiopia is full of pristine national parks and ancient cities, the worldโs first coffee plantations are located here and the largest cave in Africa. It is also one of Africaโs largest cultural destinations, with no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the mystically carved rock-hewn churches, the Lalibela Church.
Ethiopia is also a gem in the crown of the African wildlife. An Ethiopian wolf, a charismatic gelada baboon from the mountains of the Semien Mountains, bird watching that is among the best in Africa, but also elephants from Babilla, crocodiles in Nechisar and hyenas in Harar could add a new dimension to your trip.
If you crave unique gastronomy then Ethiopia is the country for you because its cuisine is hard to compare to any other. Spicy food that is traditionally eaten with your fingers provides full enjoyment. Their local drink was created by fermentation of honey, and it tastes similar to bozi and beer, it combines perfectly with injera, sourdough bread.
With nice weather all year round and fairly stable temperatures, Ethiopia is a good destination to visit at any time of the year, and each season offers a different attraction.
Lively atmosphere, hospitable hosts and Afro-rhythms until the early morning are certainly experiences to remember.