The Simien Mountains, located in northern Ethiopia, are one of the country’s most breathtaking natural attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Simien Mountains National Park was established in 1969 to protect the area’s unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 due to its exceptional beauty and rich biodiversity. The Simien Mountains offer a remarkable combination of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. The area is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and those interested in exploring Ethiopia’s highland treasures.

The Simien Mountains are home to some of Ethiopia’s most unique and endangered species:

• Gelada Baboons: Known as the “bleeding-heart monkeys” due to the bright red patches on their chests, geladas are endemic to the Ethiopian Highlands. They live in large groups and graze on grass.
• Ethiopian Wolf: The world’s rarest canid, which can only be found in the Ethiopian highlands.
• Walia Ibex: A type of wild mountain goat with large, backward-curving horns, also endemic to the Simien Mountains.
• Birdlife: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise with species like the thick-billed raven, lammergeyer (bearded vulture), and the wattled ibis.

There are numerous trails through the park, ranging from short day hikes to multi-day treks that can last up to two weeks. Treks often include visits to the spectacular viewpoints, lush valleys, and remote villages. The Simien Mountains are also rich in history and culture. The Amhara people, who inhabit the region, have lived in the highlands for centuries. The mountains have cultural and religious significance for the local population, and their way of life is deeply connected to the land.

Axum (also spelled Aksum) is a historically significant city in northern Ethiopia, located in the Tigray region. It was the capital of the ancient Aksumite Empire, one of the most powerful civilizations in the region between the 1st and 7th centuries AD. The Aksumite Empire was a major trading power, connecting the Roman Empire and ancient India through the Red Sea trade routes. 

Axum is famous for its giant monolithic obelisks or stelae, some of which are over 30 meters tall. These structures were carved from single pieces of granite and were erected to mark royal graves and represent Aksumite power. The most famous is the Obelisk of Axum, which was looted by Italian forces during World War II but was returned to Ethiopia in 2005.

According to Ethiopian tradition, Axum is believed to be the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. The Church of St. Mary of Zion in Axum is said to house the Ark, and only one guardian monk is allowed to see it. Today, Axum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains a spiritual and cultural hub for Ethiopia. It attracts tourists and pilgrims who visit the ancient stelae fields, archaeological sites, and churches. The city also plays a key role during religious festivals such as Timkat (Epiphany), where thousands gather for celebrations.

According to legend, the Queen of Sheba, known in Ethiopia as Queen Makeda, had her palace in Axum. Though historical evidence remains debated, it remains a significant part of Ethiopian tradition.

Erta Ale is a continuously active shield volcano located in the Afar Region of northeastern Ethiopia. It is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is part of the East African Rift system. Erta Ale is known for its persistent lava lake, which has been active for decades, making it a popular destination for adventurers and volcanologists. The volcano’s remote location in the Afar Desert and its constant volcanic activity give it a unique and rugged beauty.

Erta Ale is often referred to as “the gateway to hell” due to its remote, barren, and otherworldly landscape combined with the glowing, ever-active lava lake. The constant effusion of lava and occasional overflows can be dangerous, and while the volcano is rarely explosive, it can produce hazardous fumes and lava flows. There have been periodic eruptions, with notable activity in 2005, 2007, and 2017.

Despite the challenging conditions, Erta Ale has become a destination for adventure tourists and geologists. Visitors typically camp near the base of the volcano and trek to the summit to witness the molten lava. The local Afar nomadic people live around the volcano. Their livelihood traditionally depends on salt mining from the nearby salt flats, which they then transport by camel caravan to regional markets.

Erta Ale is a focal point for volcanologists and geologists because of its rare lava lake and its location at a tectonic boundary. Studying the volcano helps scientists understand how tectonic plates interact, as well as volcanic processes that are otherwise difficult to observe in more explosive volcanoes.

The medieval complex of 11 rock-hewn churches and 2 chapels at Lalibela, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” unquestionably ranks as the most spectacular historical monument in sub-Saharan Africa.Lalibela is best known for its 11 medieval churches, all carved from solid rock. These monolithic churches were designed to resemble a “new Jerusalem” after Muslim conquests made Christian pilgrimages to the Holy Land difficult.This intricate network of religious shrines, meticulously carved by hand into the isolated mountains of Ethiopia’s interior, is the pinnacle of a long-standing church-excavating custom that began when Christianity first arrived in Ethiopia in the fourth century.The complex at Lalibela, which curved towards the end of the 12th century, was built by the same-named king, who saw it as a king of “new Jerusalem.”

Lalibela was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 due to its historical and cultural importance. It stands as a monument not only to Ethiopian Christianity but also to the extraordinary achievements of its medieval civilization.

The rock-hewn churches are considered one of the most impressive feats of medieval engineering. Carved from living rock, the churches were shaped both inside and out by hand. Each church is unique, with its own intricate designs and symbolic meaning. The builders likely used simple tools such as chisels and hammers to create the churches directly out of the volcanic rock.

Lalibela remains a popular tourist destination and a center of religious life. Despite its remote location, it draws visitors from around the world who come to witness its architectural wonders and participate in religious traditions. The town has managed to maintain its spiritual atmosphere, and tourists are often able to experience the daily life and ceremonies of the local Orthodox Christian community.

Lalibela is a deeply spiritual and historical site that reflects Ethiopia’s long Christian heritage and architectural innovation. Its rock-hewn churches continue to inspire awe and remain vital to Ethiopia’s religious and cultural identity.

The Bale Mountains, located in southeastern Ethiopia, are an incredible natural wonder offering diverse landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich biodiversity. The area is especially known for its vast plateaus, alpine meadows, and cloud forests, making it one of the most ecologically significant regions in Africa. The Bale Mountains are known for their high-altitude plateaus and towering peaks, with the highest point being Tullu Demtu, which rises to 4,377 meters (14,360 feet), the second-highest peak in Ethiopia after Ras Dashen.

The Bale Mountains are a biodiversity hotspot, home to many endemic species found nowhere else in the world:

• Ethiopian Wolf: The world’s rarest and most endangered canid, with the largest population found in the Bale Mountains. They are specialized hunters of rodents.
• Mountain Nyala: A large antelope species endemic to Ethiopia, commonly seen in the park.
• Giant Mole-Rat: Found only in the Sanetti Plateau, it plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, particularly as a food source for the Ethiopian wolf.
• Menelik’s Bushbuck: A shy and elusive antelope species found in the forested regions of the park.
• Birdlife: Bale is home to over 280 bird species, including many endemic species like the blue-winged goose, Abyssinian catbird, and the wattled crane.

  The Bale Mountains offer one of the most diverse ecosystems in Africa:

  • Sanetti Plateau: One of the largest areas of Afro-alpine moorland in Africa, the Sanetti Plateau is known for its stark, treeless landscape covered with unique flora, such as giant lobelias and everlasting flowers.
  • Harena Forest: A lush, tropical cloud forest that contrasts sharply with the alpine plateau. It is rich in biodiversity and is one of the last remaining natural forests in Ethiopia.
  • Sof Omar Caves: Located on the eastern side of the park, these caves are some of the most extensive limestone cave systems in Africa and are considered sacred by the local Muslim community.
  • Tulu Demtu: A towering peak offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding areas, often considered the “roof” of the Bale Mountains.

The Danakil Depression, located in northeastern Ethiopia, is one of the most unique and extreme landscapes on Earth. Known for its intense heat, active volcanism, and surreal geological features, this area is often referred to as the “hottest place on Earth” and one of the most inhospitable environments for human life. Despite its harsh conditions, the Danakil Depression is an incredibly fascinating region with rich geological and scientific significance. The Danakil Depression experiences some of the highest temperatures ever recorded, with daily averages often reaching above 40°C (104°F) and occasionally exceeding 50°C (122°F). The region is considered the hottest inhabited place on Earth.

The Danakil Depression is known for its otherworldly landscapes, shaped by volcanic activity, tectonic movements, and extreme heat:

• Dallol Hydrothermal Field: One of the most surreal and colorful features of the region, the Dallol area is characterized by hydrothermal springs and salt formations. The vibrant colors—yellows, greens, and reds—are the result of the interaction between sulfur, salt, and minerals, creating one of the most alien-looking landscapes on Earth.
• Erta Ale Volcano: An active shield volcano located within the depression, Erta Ale is known for its persistent lava lake, one of only a few in the world. The lava lake has been continuously active for over a century, attracting volcanologists and adventure travelers.
• Salt Flats and Salt Pans: Vast salt flats cover much of the depression, including the Lake Assal and Lake Karum salt pans, where salt has been mined for centuries. The salt trade is still an important activity for local Afar people, who extract and transport salt blocks using camels.
• Sulfur Springs and Acid Pools: The region is also home to numerous sulfur springs, fumaroles, and acidic pools. The high concentration of minerals and extreme conditions give rise to acidic lakes with vivid colors, often filled with bubbling gases.
• Lava Fields: Extensive areas of basaltic lava fields, a result of previous volcanic eruptions, add to the region’s dramatic and rugged landscape.

Harar is a historic city located in the eastern part of Ethiopia, known for its rich cultural heritage, Islamic history, and unique architecture. It’s one of the oldest cities in Ethiopia and holds significant religious importance as the fourth holiest city in Islam. Harar is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its ancient walled city (Harar Jugol) and its distinct blend of African, Islamic, and Christian influences. The walled city, with its narrow alleyways and unique houses, is one of Harar’s most iconic features. The wall, built in the 16th century, has five gates and encloses a city filled with mosques, shrines, and bustling markets. It is home to over 80 mosques and 100 shrines.

Harar is known for its deep Islamic roots. It has been a center for Islamic scholarship and culture in Ethiopia since the 7th century. The city has a long tradition of trade and scholarship, linking it to the wider Muslim world. The Harari people are the indigenous inhabitants of the city. They have their own distinct language, Harari, which is part of the Afroasiatic language family. The Harari culture is also famous for its traditional clothing, handicrafts, and unique cuisine.

One of Harar’s most unusual attractions is the tradition of feeding wild hyenas. This has been practiced for centuries as a way to coexist with the animals. Every night, the “Hyena Men” of Harar feed the hyenas by hand, a spectacle that draws both tourists and locals.

The French poet Arthur Rimbaud spent some time in Harar in the 19th century, working as a trader after he quit writing. His house, which has been preserved as a museum, is a popular attraction in the city and a reminder of Harar’s international connections.

Harar’s markets are vibrant and full of life, offering visitors a chance to buy traditional Harari textiles, baskets, and other crafts. The city is also known for its coffee, which is said to be some of the best in Ethiopia.

Awash National Park is one of Ethiopia’s oldest and most scenic national parks, established in 1966. It is located in the Great Rift Valley, about 225 km east of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. The park covers an area of about 827 square kilometers and is named after the Awash River, which forms its southern boundary and provides vital water sources for the wildlife in the area. The park’s landscape is marked by a range of geographical features including volcanic calderas, rocky cliffs, savannas, and the Awash Gorge.

Awash National Park is home to a variety of wildlife including the Beisa oryx, Soemmerring’s gazelle, kudu, warthogs, baboons, and lesser kudu. Predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas also inhabit the park. The park is a haven for bird watchers with over 450 recorded species of birds, including the Abyssinian roller, hornbills, bustards, and the ostrich. The endemic Hamadryas baboon, along with other species such as vervet monkeys, can be spotted in the park.

The Awash River runs through the park and creates stunning waterfalls at some points, such as the Awash Falls, which are a popular attraction. The river’s deep gorge adds to the dramatic scenery.

The park is situated near Afar tribal lands, and the local Afar people have lived in harmony with the park’s ecosystem for centuries. Visitors can sometimes learn about the culture and lifestyle of the Afar people.

Tourism and Activities

• Wildlife Safaris: Game drives are popular, allowing visitors to see the diverse animals and bird species.
• Hiking: Hiking around Mount Fantale or exploring the gorge is a favorite activity for adventurous visitors.
• Hot Springs Visit: Many tourists relax in the Filwoha hot springs amidst a scenic environment.
• Bird Watching: With its rich birdlife, the park is a premier destination for bird enthusiasts.

Tigray, a region in northern Ethiopia, is home to some of the most fascinating and ancient rock-hewn churches in the world. These churches, many of which date back over a thousand years, are carved directly into the cliffs and mountainsides, showcasing remarkable architectural skills and spiritual devotion.

Key Churches in Tigray:

Abuna Yemata Guh: Perhaps the most famous rock-hewn church in Tigray, perched on a sheer cliff with an awe-inspiring view. Reaching the church involves a challenging climb, making it a pilgrimage for many devout followers. Inside, the walls are adorned with stunning ancient frescoes.

Debre Damo Monastery: Accessible only by climbing up a rope, this monastery is one of the oldest in Ethiopia, believed to have been founded in the 6th century. It is a male-only monastery, and its isolation has helped preserve many of its ancient traditions.

Medhane Alem Adi Kasho: Known for its large interior spaces and impressive architecture, Medhane Alem Adi Kasho is among the more accessible of the rock-hewn churches in Tigray. The church also has beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings.

Wukro Chirkos: Located near the town of Wukro, this church is easier to access compared to some of the more remote ones. Wukro Chirkos is believed to be one of the oldest churches in Ethiopia, with a rich history and well-preserved architecture.

Maryam Korkor: Another challenging church to reach, Maryam Korkor offers breathtaking views over the surrounding landscape. The church is known for its large interior spaces and beautiful ancient murals.

The Simien Mountains, located in northern Ethiopia, are one of the country’s most breathtaking natural attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Simien Mountains National Park was established in 1969 to protect the area’s unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 due to its exceptional beauty and rich biodiversity. The Simien Mountains offer a remarkable combination of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. The area is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and those interested in exploring Ethiopia’s highland treasures.

The Simien Mountains are home to some of Ethiopia’s most unique and endangered species:

• Gelada Baboons: Known as the “bleeding-heart monkeys” due to the bright red patches on their chests, geladas are endemic to the Ethiopian Highlands. They live in large groups and graze on grass.
• Ethiopian Wolf: The world’s rarest canid, which can only be found in the Ethiopian highlands.
• Walia Ibex: A type of wild mountain goat with large, backward-curving horns, also endemic to the Simien Mountains.
• Birdlife: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise with species like the thick-billed raven, lammergeyer (bearded vulture), and the wattled ibis.

There are numerous trails through the park, ranging from short day hikes to multi-day treks that can last up to two weeks. Treks often include visits to the spectacular viewpoints, lush valleys, and remote villages. The Simien Mountains are also rich in history and culture. The Amhara people, who inhabit the region, have lived in the highlands for centuries. The mountains have cultural and religious significance for the local population, and their way of life is deeply connected to the land.

Axum (also spelled Aksum) is a historically significant city in northern Ethiopia, located in the Tigray region. It was the capital of the ancient Aksumite Empire, one of the most powerful civilizations in the region between the 1st and 7th centuries AD. The Aksumite Empire was a major trading power, connecting the Roman Empire and ancient India through the Red Sea trade routes. 

Axum is famous for its giant monolithic obelisks or stelae, some of which are over 30 meters tall. These structures were carved from single pieces of granite and were erected to mark royal graves and represent Aksumite power. The most famous is the Obelisk of Axum, which was looted by Italian forces during World War II but was returned to Ethiopia in 2005.

According to Ethiopian tradition, Axum is believed to be the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. The Church of St. Mary of Zion in Axum is said to house the Ark, and only one guardian monk is allowed to see it. Today, Axum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains a spiritual and cultural hub for Ethiopia. It attracts tourists and pilgrims who visit the ancient stelae fields, archaeological sites, and churches. The city also plays a key role during religious festivals such as Timkat (Epiphany), where thousands gather for celebrations.

According to legend, the Queen of Sheba, known in Ethiopia as Queen Makeda, had her palace in Axum. Though historical evidence remains debated, it remains a significant part of Ethiopian tradition.

Erta Ale is a continuously active shield volcano located in the Afar Region of northeastern Ethiopia. It is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is part of the East African Rift system. Erta Ale is known for its persistent lava lake, which has been active for decades, making it a popular destination for adventurers and volcanologists. The volcano’s remote location in the Afar Desert and its constant volcanic activity give it a unique and rugged beauty.

Erta Ale is often referred to as “the gateway to hell” due to its remote, barren, and otherworldly landscape combined with the glowing, ever-active lava lake. The constant effusion of lava and occasional overflows can be dangerous, and while the volcano is rarely explosive, it can produce hazardous fumes and lava flows. There have been periodic eruptions, with notable activity in 2005, 2007, and 2017.

Despite the challenging conditions, Erta Ale has become a destination for adventure tourists and geologists. Visitors typically camp near the base of the volcano and trek to the summit to witness the molten lava. The local Afar nomadic people live around the volcano. Their livelihood traditionally depends on salt mining from the nearby salt flats, which they then transport by camel caravan to regional markets.

Erta Ale is a focal point for volcanologists and geologists because of its rare lava lake and its location at a tectonic boundary. Studying the volcano helps scientists understand how tectonic plates interact, as well as volcanic processes that are otherwise difficult to observe in more explosive volcanoes.

The medieval complex of 11 rock-hewn churches and 2 chapels at Lalibela, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” unquestionably ranks as the most spectacular historical monument in sub-Saharan Africa.Lalibela is best known for its 11 medieval churches, all carved from solid rock. These monolithic churches were designed to resemble a “new Jerusalem” after Muslim conquests made Christian pilgrimages to the Holy Land difficult.This intricate network of religious shrines, meticulously carved by hand into the isolated mountains of Ethiopia’s interior, is the pinnacle of a long-standing church-excavating custom that began when Christianity first arrived in Ethiopia in the fourth century.The complex at Lalibela, which curved towards the end of the 12th century, was built by the same-named king, who saw it as a king of “new Jerusalem.”

Lalibela was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 due to its historical and cultural importance. It stands as a monument not only to Ethiopian Christianity but also to the extraordinary achievements of its medieval civilization.

The rock-hewn churches are considered one of the most impressive feats of medieval engineering. Carved from living rock, the churches were shaped both inside and out by hand. Each church is unique, with its own intricate designs and symbolic meaning. The builders likely used simple tools such as chisels and hammers to create the churches directly out of the volcanic rock.

Lalibela remains a popular tourist destination and a center of religious life. Despite its remote location, it draws visitors from around the world who come to witness its architectural wonders and participate in religious traditions. The town has managed to maintain its spiritual atmosphere, and tourists are often able to experience the daily life and ceremonies of the local Orthodox Christian community.

Lalibela is a deeply spiritual and historical site that reflects Ethiopia’s long Christian heritage and architectural innovation. Its rock-hewn churches continue to inspire awe and remain vital to Ethiopia’s religious and cultural identity.

The Bale Mountains, located in southeastern Ethiopia, are an incredible natural wonder offering diverse landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich biodiversity. The area is especially known for its vast plateaus, alpine meadows, and cloud forests, making it one of the most ecologically significant regions in Africa. The Bale Mountains are known for their high-altitude plateaus and towering peaks, with the highest point being Tullu Demtu, which rises to 4,377 meters (14,360 feet), the second-highest peak in Ethiopia after Ras Dashen.

The Bale Mountains are a biodiversity hotspot, home to many endemic species found nowhere else in the world:

• Ethiopian Wolf: The world’s rarest and most endangered canid, with the largest population found in the Bale Mountains. They are specialized hunters of rodents.
• Mountain Nyala: A large antelope species endemic to Ethiopia, commonly seen in the park.
• Giant Mole-Rat: Found only in the Sanetti Plateau, it plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, particularly as a food source for the Ethiopian wolf.
• Menelik’s Bushbuck: A shy and elusive antelope species found in the forested regions of the park.
• Birdlife: Bale is home to over 280 bird species, including many endemic species like the blue-winged goose, Abyssinian catbird, and the wattled crane.

  The Bale Mountains offer one of the most diverse ecosystems in Africa:

  • Sanetti Plateau: One of the largest areas of Afro-alpine moorland in Africa, the Sanetti Plateau is known for its stark, treeless landscape covered with unique flora, such as giant lobelias and everlasting flowers.
  • Harena Forest: A lush, tropical cloud forest that contrasts sharply with the alpine plateau. It is rich in biodiversity and is one of the last remaining natural forests in Ethiopia.
  • Sof Omar Caves: Located on the eastern side of the park, these caves are some of the most extensive limestone cave systems in Africa and are considered sacred by the local Muslim community.
  • Tulu Demtu: A towering peak offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding areas, often considered the “roof” of the Bale Mountains.

The Danakil Depression, located in northeastern Ethiopia, is one of the most unique and extreme landscapes on Earth. Known for its intense heat, active volcanism, and surreal geological features, this area is often referred to as the “hottest place on Earth” and one of the most inhospitable environments for human life. Despite its harsh conditions, the Danakil Depression is an incredibly fascinating region with rich geological and scientific significance. The Danakil Depression experiences some of the highest temperatures ever recorded, with daily averages often reaching above 40°C (104°F) and occasionally exceeding 50°C (122°F). The region is considered the hottest inhabited place on Earth.

The Danakil Depression is known for its otherworldly landscapes, shaped by volcanic activity, tectonic movements, and extreme heat:

• Dallol Hydrothermal Field: One of the most surreal and colorful features of the region, the Dallol area is characterized by hydrothermal springs and salt formations. The vibrant colors—yellows, greens, and reds—are the result of the interaction between sulfur, salt, and minerals, creating one of the most alien-looking landscapes on Earth.
• Erta Ale Volcano: An active shield volcano located within the depression, Erta Ale is known for its persistent lava lake, one of only a few in the world. The lava lake has been continuously active for over a century, attracting volcanologists and adventure travelers.
• Salt Flats and Salt Pans: Vast salt flats cover much of the depression, including the Lake Assal and Lake Karum salt pans, where salt has been mined for centuries. The salt trade is still an important activity for local Afar people, who extract and transport salt blocks using camels.
• Sulfur Springs and Acid Pools: The region is also home to numerous sulfur springs, fumaroles, and acidic pools. The high concentration of minerals and extreme conditions give rise to acidic lakes with vivid colors, often filled with bubbling gases.
• Lava Fields: Extensive areas of basaltic lava fields, a result of previous volcanic eruptions, add to the region’s dramatic and rugged landscape.

Harar is a historic city located in the eastern part of Ethiopia, known for its rich cultural heritage, Islamic history, and unique architecture. It’s one of the oldest cities in Ethiopia and holds significant religious importance as the fourth holiest city in Islam. Harar is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its ancient walled city (Harar Jugol) and its distinct blend of African, Islamic, and Christian influences. The walled city, with its narrow alleyways and unique houses, is one of Harar’s most iconic features. The wall, built in the 16th century, has five gates and encloses a city filled with mosques, shrines, and bustling markets. It is home to over 80 mosques and 100 shrines.

Harar is known for its deep Islamic roots. It has been a center for Islamic scholarship and culture in Ethiopia since the 7th century. The city has a long tradition of trade and scholarship, linking it to the wider Muslim world. The Harari people are the indigenous inhabitants of the city. They have their own distinct language, Harari, which is part of the Afroasiatic language family. The Harari culture is also famous for its traditional clothing, handicrafts, and unique cuisine.

One of Harar’s most unusual attractions is the tradition of feeding wild hyenas. This has been practiced for centuries as a way to coexist with the animals. Every night, the “Hyena Men” of Harar feed the hyenas by hand, a spectacle that draws both tourists and locals.

The French poet Arthur Rimbaud spent some time in Harar in the 19th century, working as a trader after he quit writing. His house, which has been preserved as a museum, is a popular attraction in the city and a reminder of Harar’s international connections.

Harar’s markets are vibrant and full of life, offering visitors a chance to buy traditional Harari textiles, baskets, and other crafts. The city is also known for its coffee, which is said to be some of the best in Ethiopia.

Awash National Park is one of Ethiopia’s oldest and most scenic national parks, established in 1966. It is located in the Great Rift Valley, about 225 km east of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. The park covers an area of about 827 square kilometers and is named after the Awash River, which forms its southern boundary and provides vital water sources for the wildlife in the area. The park’s landscape is marked by a range of geographical features including volcanic calderas, rocky cliffs, savannas, and the Awash Gorge.

Awash National Park is home to a variety of wildlife including the Beisa oryx, Soemmerring’s gazelle, kudu, warthogs, baboons, and lesser kudu. Predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas also inhabit the park. The park is a haven for bird watchers with over 450 recorded species of birds, including the Abyssinian roller, hornbills, bustards, and the ostrich. The endemic Hamadryas baboon, along with other species such as vervet monkeys, can be spotted in the park.

The Awash River runs through the park and creates stunning waterfalls at some points, such as the Awash Falls, which are a popular attraction. The river’s deep gorge adds to the dramatic scenery.

The park is situated near Afar tribal lands, and the local Afar people have lived in harmony with the park’s ecosystem for centuries. Visitors can sometimes learn about the culture and lifestyle of the Afar people.

Tourism and Activities

• Wildlife Safaris: Game drives are popular, allowing visitors to see the diverse animals and bird species.
• Hiking: Hiking around Mount Fantale or exploring the gorge is a favorite activity for adventurous visitors.
• Hot Springs Visit: Many tourists relax in the Filwoha hot springs amidst a scenic environment.
• Bird Watching: With its rich birdlife, the park is a premier destination for bird enthusiasts.

Tigray, a region in northern Ethiopia, is home to some of the most fascinating and ancient rock-hewn churches in the world. These churches, many of which date back over a thousand years, are carved directly into the cliffs and mountainsides, showcasing remarkable architectural skills and spiritual devotion.

Key Churches in Tigray:

Abuna Yemata Guh: Perhaps the most famous rock-hewn church in Tigray, perched on a sheer cliff with an awe-inspiring view. Reaching the church involves a challenging climb, making it a pilgrimage for many devout followers. Inside, the walls are adorned with stunning ancient frescoes.

Debre Damo Monastery: Accessible only by climbing up a rope, this monastery is one of the oldest in Ethiopia, believed to have been founded in the 6th century. It is a male-only monastery, and its isolation has helped preserve many of its ancient traditions.

Medhane Alem Adi Kasho: Known for its large interior spaces and impressive architecture, Medhane Alem Adi Kasho is among the more accessible of the rock-hewn churches in Tigray. The church also has beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings.

Wukro Chirkos: Located near the town of Wukro, this church is easier to access compared to some of the more remote ones. Wukro Chirkos is believed to be one of the oldest churches in Ethiopia, with a rich history and well-preserved architecture.

Maryam Korkor: Another challenging church to reach, Maryam Korkor offers breathtaking views over the surrounding landscape. The church is known for its large interior spaces and beautiful ancient murals.