ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES

An ancient land of fertile well-watered mountains that form the main source of the Blue Nile, northern Ethiopia has long stood at the cultural crossroads of Africa, Arabia and the Mediterranean. These divergent influences have bequeathed the region a unique cultural and historical heritage epitomized by a quartet of unique and magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Aksum, Lalibela, Gondar and the Simien Mountains National Park – as well as a vast array of lesser-known but equally fascinating historical sites.

WHAT TO SEE IN ETHIOPIA?

1. UNESCO's WORLD HERITAGES

Northern Ethiopia’s historic route offers a captivating journey through time, unveiling the region’s remarkable cultural heritage. Travelers can explore UNESCO-listed wonders, from the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the ancient obelisks of Aksum, guided by knowledgeable locals. Beyond the iconic sights, this adventure promises an immersive experience, allowing visitors to engage in traditional practices and witness vibrant festivals. With comfortable accommodations and a focus on culture, this itinerary promises an unforgettable exploration of Ethiopia’s rich history and enduring traditions. What awaits those who embark on this remarkable journey?

2. TIGRAY ROCK CHURCHES & GHERALTA MOUNTAINS

The Tigray region is the northernmost of the nine regions of Ethiopia, adjacent to the border with Eritrea. There are over 120 churches in the Tigray, most to be found in the mountainous region between Axum and Mekele.  The best known (and most visited) are the Gheralta churches, found around the Gheralta Mountains, about two hours away from Mekele. The Gheralta churches include Abuna Yemata Guh, carved into the top of a sandstone pinnacle, plus Maryam Korkor and Daniel Korkor.  The base to visit the Gheralta churches is Hawzen, a dusty two-street town halfway between Axum and Mekele. If you’re planning to head to Tigray on a tour, your accommodation in Hawzen and local guide to the churches will typically be included.   The Tigray churches are a well-kept secret because of their inaccessibility, which meant they were safeguarded from looters and vandals through the centuries. Nowadays, they can be visited easily – but only if you’re brave enough.

3. SIMIEN MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Ethiopia’s premier trekking and walking destination, the 412km2 Simien Mountains National Park was inscribed as a Natural World Heritage Site in 1979, whereupon UNESCO lauded it as “one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, with jagged mountain peaks deep valleys and sharp precipices dropping some 1,500m”.  The park is an ideal and the best place for trekkers and hikers as they do enjoy the breathtaking vast and ancient basaltic dome molded into a series of jagged pinnacles, The Afromontane vegetation, endemic mammals including Gelada Baboon, Simien Fox and Walia Ibex, abundant bird species, ...