Ethiopia, a country often overlooked when the topic of Africa comes up, but this country is a testimony to Africa, with so many life-changing discoveries originating here! Eritrea is a landlocked country situated in the northeastern part of Africa. Its neighbouring countries are Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan and South Sudan. The capital is Addis Ababa whilst the local currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB).
Fun Fact! The calendar used in Ethiopia has 13 months in the year meaning now (in 2022) it is 2014 in Ethiopia.
If you’d like to know more interesting facts about this African country, click here.
So, let’s break this country up into PARTS.
People
The country is made up of more than 80 different ethnic groups with the most populous groups being the: Oromo, Amhara, Somali and Tigray. Though over 200 dialects are spoken within the country, the official languages is Amharic. Other languages such as Oromo and Somali are also spoken in certain regions.
Attractions
There is so much to do in Ethiopia, with 9 UNESECO World heritage site, from nature to culture the country provides tourists a great opportunity to really get to know the country.
In the capital, Addis Ababa there is so much to see and do. Why not start off by visiting the National Museum of Ethiopia where you can learn of the country’s vast history. Close by is Mt Entoto, why not hike up here and enjoy the views overlooking the city.
Outside the capital, why not visit the following:
Tour Awasha National park is a marvellous national park with hot springs and a plethora of wildlife. Here you’ll be able to see gazelles, hyenas and much more.
Explore Askum; this world heritage site has everything from underground tombs to palace ruins explaining
Trek up Erta Ale; an active volcano in the north eastern region of the country.
Swim in Lake Tana; The largest lake in Ethiopia, and a breathtakingly tranquil place with a lot of Ethiopian history.
Visit Fasil Ghebii is a UNESECO World heritage site, why not explore the ruins of this 16th century city.
Rituals and Culture
Most Ethiopians practice orthodox Christianity with Islam being the second most practiced religion in the country. Festivals are a prominent part of Ethiopian culture, with the ingest festival being Timket. This festival is to honour the baptism of Jesus. Other beliefs such as Rastafarianism was birthed in Ethiopia.
The form of Christianity which most Ethiopians follow prevent the consumption of animal products on Wednesdays and Fridays resulting in a lot of the country’s meals not containing meat. Some traditional Ethiopian cuisines include: Injera (sourdough flatbread can be eaten with lentils meat or vegetables), Beyainatu (a plate of a variety of foods. Some common foods on the platter are Vegetables, curries, lentil stew) and coffee, which was discovered in Africa and is now a very popular drink in Ethiopia.
Tips
Keep your wits about you. Petty crime is unfortunately common in the big cities. Always make sure you are aware of your belongings and surroundings.
Stories
For more travel advice check out; FCO: Travel Advice
Outside of the UK: Please check your government’s travel advice carefully.