Ethiopia, often referred to as the cradle of civilization, is a nation teeming with ancient history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. From the soaring peaks of the Simien Mountains to the enigmatic rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, Ethiopia offers an array of unforgettable experiences. Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or a culture seeker, this 2020 travel guide will help you discover the top 10 places to visit in Ethiopia.
### 1. **Lalibela**
Home to eleven medieval monolithic churches carved out of rock during the 12th century, Lalibela is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Ethiopia’s most sacred towns. These churches are a feat of engineering and artistry that still draw pilgrims and tourists alike. The most famous among them, Bet Giyorgis (St. George), is shaped like a cross and is best viewed from above.
### 2. **Gondar**
Known as the “Camelot of Africa,” Gondar was once the capital of Ethiopian emperors who built several castles here in the 17th century. The city’s main attraction is Fasil Ghebbi – a fortress-city that hosts palaces, halls, and churches – another UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing regal architecture that reflects those ancient times.
### 3. **Simien Mountains National Park**
This national park is a paradise for trekkers with its dramatic landscapes that include deep valleys and high peaks like Ras Dejen (4th highest mountain in Africa). Known for its unique wildlife, it is home to species such as the Gelada baboon, Ethiopian wolf, and Walia ibex which can’t be found anywhere else in the world.
### 4. **Axum**
The ancient city of Axum marks the location of an old empire which was once one of the greatest civilizations in the world. Key attractions include obelisks (stelae), royal tombs, and ruins of ancient castles. The Church of St. Mary of Zion here supposedly houses the Biblical Ark of Covenant.
### 5. **Harar**
Enclosed within jagged walls, Harar is an eastern city known for its vibrant markets and over 80 mosques which some claim it has more per square meter than any other town on earth. This UNESCO-listed city offers a peek into traditional lifestyles while allowing visitors to partake in feeding wild hyenas at night – an unusual but fascinating experience!
### 6. **Omo Valley**
Omo Valley is renowned for its cultural diversity among various ethnic tribes who live relatively untouched by modern life. Tours here offer insights into their distinct customs including bull jumping ceremonies with Hamer tribe or body painting practices with Karo people.
### 7. **Bahir Dar and Lake Tana**
Bahir Dar serves as a gateway to explore Lake Tana – Ethiopia’s largest lake known for its island monasteries adorned with beautiful frescoes and treasured religious artifacts from as early as the fourteenth century.
### 8. **Danakil Depression**
One for adventure seekers! Danakil Depression features one of Earth’s hottest landscapes with active volcanoes like Erta Ale emitting lava lakes periodically; sulphur springs; salt flats; and colorful mineral deposits which create an almost alien terrain on Earth.
### 9.
**Addis Ababa**
The capital city serves not just as an administrative center but also exhibits rich Ethiopian culture through museums like National Museum where Lucy (one of our oldest known ancestors) resides; Mercato – Africa’s largest open-air market; plus vibrant restaurant scenes offering traditional dishes like injera accompanied by stews known as wat.
###10.
**Tiya Stelae Field**
Located south from Addis Ababa lies Tiya stelae field filled with approximately forty large stone monuments or stelae marked with mysterious carvings believed to be grave markers dating back between centuries ago offering yet another glance at ancient rituals practiced long before our time village life styles while allowing visitors partake feeding wild hyenas night—an unusual yet intriguing sight!