Famous for its rock-hewn churches and ancient monasteries, Ethiopia has spectacular scenery, the vast Rift Valley and volcanic lakes. With its indigenous wildlife and birds, the variety of its habitats and the diversity of its ethnic groups, Ethiopia offers visitors an unrivalled choice of experiences. Much of Ethiopia, the ‘Roof of Africa’, is fertile and well-watered, with breathtaking scenery dominated by highlands 2,000 metres above sea level – despite the television images portraying it as a country ravaged by famine and drought.
Ethiopia's geography & peoples
Twenty peaks in the central mountainous plateau rise to 4,000 metres or more whereas the Danakil Depression is the lowest point on the African continent. The Rift Valley Lakes are extraordinary and the Blue Nile Falls near Lake Tana are the continent’s second most impressive waterfalls.
Ethiopia’s 55 million people are made up of over 80 ethnic groups. Amharic is the first language, but English is widely spoken.
World famous historical sites
The breathtaking historic sites, mostly found in the north of the country, have attracted travellers to Ethiopia for centuries. The Solomonic dynasty is said to have originated with the Queen of Sheba’s visit to King Solomon in the 10th century BC. She returned to Ethiopia where their child, Menelik I, was born. The dynasty’s last ruler, Haile Selassie, was deposed in 1974. Among the most famous historical sites are the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the obelisks at Axum and the ancient monasteries of Bahir Dar.
Wildlife focused Ethiopia holidays
Ethiopia is also a marvellous wildlife destination, with a number of endemic mammals – the Simyen wolf and the Gelada baboon, and for birders, Ruspoli’s turacou and Harwood’s francolin – to be seen in its beautiful national parks. We can arrange walking and hiking in the Simyen Mountains, as well as mule-treks, which can be incorporated into most Ethiopia holidays that also include the historical sites.
Tailor-made private Ethiopia holidays
Our tailor-made private Ethiopia holidays are guided by knowledgeable guides and drivers who speak good English. A number of tastefully designed lodges and hotels have recently opened across the country – notably the Kuriftu Resorts and Spas in Bahir Dar and Debre Zeit, Bishangari Lodge on the shore of Lake Langano, Gheralta Lodge near Mekelle and the Jupiter International Hotel – and these make travel in Ethiopia considerably more comfortable.
Small group tours
Every January, we offer a small group departure, which is centred around the Ethiopian Epiphany or Timket, the most impressive event of the social calendar. We also offer a small group tour to see the Meskel celebrations in September and an Ethiopia historical tour which will run with a minimum of four people.
Ethiopia holidays & tours
All our Ethiopia holidays and tours can be tailor-made to suit special interests and dates. Just get in touch and we can help you to plan your trip so that you get the most out of your time on holiday in Ethiopia.
Zanzibar beach holiday add-on
Ethiopian Airlines flies to Zanzibar every day of the week, so you can combine most Ethiopia holidays with time to relax on the beach as well.