Ethiopia travels/Ethiopia tours take you to the most scenic country on the African continent with a great cultural heritage. Ethiopian Vacations (Ethiopia trips) majestic country is situated in Africa’s horn bordering South Sudan, Eritrea, and Kenya.
Ethiopia trips are indeed captivating and you should include them on your bucket list as this country is blessed with rich cultures, unique wildlife, blue skies, and amazing landscapes which are littered with ancient treasures better than the southern nations.
Wildlife viewing during Ethiopia vacations hits differently as you can find endemic creatures in a unique remarkable setting. These vacation tours are unforgettable as you visit the tribal people in the Omo Valley and you can engage in their dance.
The journeys here are endless as you may find yourself praying with highlanders in the rock Hewn churches of Lalibela. Hike the striking escarpments along the Simien Mountains and reach Ras Dashen which is Ethiopia’s highest peak and here you can spot amazing wildlife like Gelada Baboons, Walia ibex, and Simien Foxes.
Explore the dynamic city of Addis Ababa and discover museums and colorful markets where you can buy perfect souvenirs. During your Ethiopia travel, marvel at the Ornate Island monasteries and the thundering Blue Nile Falls in Bahir Dar with a boat cruise on Lake Tana.
If you are a traveler of ancient history and culture, and you like marveling at stunning landscapes, then Ethiopia is the right destination for you.
There are several amazing things to see in this fascinating country as they are included in your vacation package tour. Most of the attractions lie in the historical circuit.
·Wildlife (animals and birds)
·Bahir Dar ( base for visiting the Blue Nile Falls and the island monasteries on Lake Tana)
·Gondar (having European-influenced castles and painted churches like Debre Berhan Selassie Church)
·The ancient city of Axum
·Lalibela (has rock hewn churches)
·Bale Mountains
·Simien Mountains
·Omo Valley
·National Museum in Addis Ababa with art scene beauty
·Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa
Where In Ethiopia Should I Go on Safari?
Ethiopia tours are amazing when you explore the top destinations in this fascinating country.
These include.
Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa is the capital city of Ethiopia, and this amazing city is among the top destinations to explore on your vacation tour. You can experience local history in Addis Ababa and the night life with no exception. You can buy perfect souvenirs here at the end of your trip or enjoy the area’s spas.
Below are some of the top things to explore in Addis Ababa;
·National Museum with art scene beauty
·Holy trinity cathedral
·Addis Merkato
·Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum
·Edna mall
·Bole Sub City
Simien Mountains National Park
Simien Mountains National Park is the country’s most popular destination, and it is accessed along the northern circuit. It offers amazing viewpoints and the best trekking routes to see its natural beauty on a tour.
Travelers can always explore Simien Mountains National Park and enjoy the beauty the park has to offer, and the endemic wildlife not witnessed in southern nations.
Bale Mountains National Park
This national park has the highest mountainous area in the southern part of Ethiopia and its north side is home to the Sanetti Plateau which is a high-altitude region of glacial lakes surrounded by high volcanic mountains.
A vacation package tour should include this park as it has endemic wildlife good to explore.
Awash National Park
Awash National Park has sticking wildlife that you can see on a day trip from Addis Ababa. It is located in the east of Addis Ababa and it lies on the road that goes to the UNESCO city of Harar.
The natural beauty of this park is amazing, and you can spot the Oryx, North African Ostriches, Dik-Diks, Kudus, Warthogs, Gazelles, etc.
Omo Valley
This is home to several tribal communities, and it is a culturally rich area as these communities have kept their cultural heritage for millennia. It is situated in the southern part of Ethiopia and while in the Omo Valley, you will reflect on what human life means.
Lalibela
This is the beating heart of Ethiopia and it is a place of beauty, spirituality, and mystery and it is indeed magical. You can always find pilgrims in white robes as they are in prayer and songs. Their voices are heard in the far corners of the town.
Bahir Dar
Any Ethiopia vacation package tour should include Bahir Dar. It is located on the outskirts of Lake Tana north of Addis Ababa and Bahir Dar is home to historic monasteries, lodges, fish markets, lakes, and Blue Nile Falls.
Gonder
This was the third capital city of Ethiopia, and it is known for its amazing collection of crumbling castles, fortifications, and 17th-century churches. This fortress city is known as Africa’s Camelot. While here, visit the Debre Berhan Selassie Church.
It is a gateway town to Simien Mountains National Park. Also, in Gonder is the Royal enclosure.
The Royal enclosure contains several medieval castles and churches surrounded by tall stone walls.
Axum
Axum is one of the culturally significant places in this country and in the world. It is best known for its Stelae field where giant obelisks rise dozens of meters into the sky. Availability subject structures have been UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1980.
Major Activities to Enjoy in Ethiopia | Things to Do in Ethiopia
Any Ethiopia vacation package should have the best things to do during Ethiopia tours and trips.
The best things to do when you visit Ethiopia for fueled journeys include;
·Viewing the mighty monoliths at Axum
·Spotting the Ethiopian Wolf in the Bale Mountains
·Take a Boat trip on Lake Tana and Lake Awasa
·Trek to the Erta Ale Volcano
·Visit the Danakil Depression
·See Harar’s Hyena Man in action
·Explore the fortress city of Gonder
·Discover the rock hewn churches of Tigray
·Trek the Simien Mountains National Park
·Explore the Omo Valley a culturally rich area in the southern part region
·Visiting Addis Ababa and the area’s spas
·Drive through the Rift Valley (with views of the Croc infested waters of Lake Chamo in the southern part of Ethiopia)
What Are the Best Months to Travel to Ethiopia? | What Is the Best Month to Visit Ethiopia?
Travelers can explore Ethiopia at any time of the year though mountain sceneries are epic from September to December. This is because most days are sunny. Wildlife viewing in the national parks is good all year round though birding is best from November to March.
The rainy season is usually July and August. This rainy season is short and it is not the best time to visit as the months are difficult to travel in. Travelers can hike in Simien Mountains National Park and the Bale Mountains at any time though they tend to be cold in the rainy season making it a bad time to visit.
Ethiopian Hotels | Accommodation in Ethiopia
Several Ethiopian hotels offer the best accommodation during your vacation. The availability subject are classified into luxury, midrange, and budget.
Luxury Accommodation
·Limalimo Lodge, Simien Mountains National Park
·Bale Mountain Lodge, Bale Mountains National Park
·Korkor Lodge, Tigray
·Kuriftu Resort & Spa, Bahir Dar
Midrange Accommodation
·Hotel Lobelia, Addis Ababa
·Kuriftu Resort & Spa, Bahir Dar
·Gondar Hills Resort, Gondar
·Hudad Lodge, Lalibela
·Lale’s Camp, Omo Valley
Budget Accommodation
·Paradise Lodge, Omo Valley
·Gheralta Lodge, Tigray
·Ben Abeba Hotel, Lalibela
What to Wear on Ethiopia Tours?
Travelers coming for trips to Ethiopia should choose the right clothing and this includes.
·Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (mostly neutral colors)
·Comfortable shoes
·A cap or hat
·Sunglasses
·Sweaters
·Poncho or rain jacket
What to Pack for Ethiopia Trips?
This is what to pack for Ethiopia trips;
·A camera with extra batteries
·Binoculars
·A day backpack
·Insect Repellents
·Sunscreen
·Personal first aid kit
·Personal medical prescription
Best Ethiopia Safari Packages/ Popular Ethiopia Tours
Any of the Ethiopia vacation package tour has main attractions and top things to do during your vacations to this country. The best vacation packages include;
5 days Ethiopian Tour –Wildlife, Culture, History
7 days Ethiopia Tour – Omo Valley, History, Tribes, Adventure
7 days fly in Tour to Ethiopia –Historical sites adventure
9-Day Omo Valley and Bale Mountains NP Ethiopia vacation package tour
11-Day North Ethiopia with Simien Mountain National Park
12-Day Harar, Bale Mountains NP, and Omo Valley Ethiopia vacation package tour
17-Day Best of North Ethiopia & Omo Valley Tribes
Ethiopia Tour Operators/Best Travel Safari Companies in Ethiopia
These tour operators/travel safari companies organize the best Ethiopia vacations for travelers.
Yes, this country is a safe holiday destination though some borders with Somalia, Eritrea, and South Sudan are considered unsafe. Travelers on organized tours can overcome this as the guide takes care of their safety.
Also, travelers should take precautions in some cities like Addis Ababa like walking alone at night and moving with valuables.
Is Ethiopia Good for Tourists?
Yes, Ethiopia is good for tourists as it is a safe destination for epic journeys. The people are welcoming and receive you with warm greetings. This nation has wonderful parks like Simien Mountains National Park and historic cities that you can visit and not forgetting Bahir Dar has the spectacular Blue Nile Falls.
It also offers the best things to do during vacations like showing Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa while on a tour and these are life changers.
What Is the Average Cost of Visiting Ethiopia?
The average cost of visiting Ethiopia is from $60 per day per person and this depends on the accommodation (hotel) class, Activities, transport modes, etc.
How Many Days Do You Need to See Ethiopia? | How Many Days Should I Spend in Ethiopia?
There is no limitation on the number of days that you want to spend in Ethiopia. Days can start from 3 days to more than 2 weeks.
Spend time to visit Addis Ababa and some unique destinations like Simien Mountains National Park, and Bahir Dar, and enjoy a boat trip tour on Lake Awasa and Lake Tana with views of the Blue Nile Falls and Lake Chamo.
Is It Safe to Travel to Ethiopia Currently?
Yes, it is safe to travel to Ethiopia currently, but you are advised not to go to the Tigray region and parts of the northern Amhara region and western Afar region.
Tigray region is politically unstable.
Is Ethiopian Part of Africa?
Yes, Ethiopia is an African nation, and it is Africa’s oldest independent country having Addis Ababa as its capital.
What Is Ethiopia Known For?
Ethiopia is known for its diverse landscapes, stunning scenery, great food, world-renowned coffee, fascinating history, culture, and showing holy trinity cathedral.
What Country Did Ethiopia Belong To?
Ethiopia has been an independent country for a long time until 1935 when Benito Mussolini invaded it but only for a brief stint. It was formerly known as Abyssinia.
How Is Ethiopia Different from The Rest of Africa?
Ethiopia is the only African nation that was never colonized, and it is the only nation on the continent that boasts centuries of Christian tradition. It is also rich in history.
Is It Safe to Travel to Ethiopia Now? | Is It Safe to Travel to Ethiopia Right Now?
Yes, it is safe to travel to Ethiopia now for vacations.
Is Ethiopia Tourist Friendly?
Yes, Ethiopia is tourist friendly as it is peaceful, and you can enjoy vacations with fun.
Are Americans Allowed to Visit Ethiopia?
Yes, Americans are allowed to come to Ethiopia for vacations as long as they pay for their visa.
What Do I Need to Know Before Traveling to Ethiopia?
If you are wishing to spend time on your vacation tour to Ethiopia, there are things you need to know before you come as they help you make the most of your trip.
·Ethiopia is a place of local history, diverse landscapes, scenery, and culture.
·You can save money on flights when you book with Ethiopian Airways
·If it’s your first trip, focus more on the northern or southern region as they are rewarding with Gondar, Bahir Dar, Lalibela, and Danakil Depression.
·Ethiopia is a religious nation as it has the amazing Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa.
·Pack the essentials for your vacations like hiking gear if you are to hike Simien Mountains or a volcano in Danakil Depression.
·Purchase travel insurance
·Ethiopians are lovely and welcoming people in all cities and other region areas.
·There is great food in this amazing nation accompanied by drinks.
·Avoid drinking tap water, drink bottled or carry a filtered water bottle.
·Vaccinate before you travel for your vacations.
What Is the Best Way to Travel Around Ethiopia?
The best way which can save money is when you use buses. They are all over Addis Ababa and other cities. Travelers can travel from Gondar to Bahir Dar at only ETB.
There is also Uber, tricycles, and motorcycles which you can use. Domestic flights from Addis Ababa to other parts of Ethiopia are also available.
How Expensive Is Traveling In Ethiopia?
Traveling in Ethiopia is not that expensive though a lot of factors influence the cost of the trip. A 2-week tour for 2 people may cost around $3000-$3500 per person but it may be lower or higher depending on how you travel.
Always consider the length of the tour.
How Much Money Do You Need for a Vacation in Ethiopia?
There are many Ethiopia vacation packages to look at. Any Ethiopia vacation package is tailored based on activities, destinations, accommodation (type of hotel), transport, the tour length, etc.
A 10-day midrange private tour of the historical circuit is at around $3500 per person. A 11-day tour having a visit to the Danakil Depression costs around $5000 per person.
A 10-day trip consisting of Simien Mountains National Park costs about $3000 per person.
There are other Ethiopia vacation packages, but all are influenced by the above factors.
Is Ethiopia Cheap or Expensive?
Ethiopia can be either cheap or expensive depending on the number of days you are spending in the nation, accommodation (type of hotel), activities you are engaging in, and the necessary transport modes.
There are lots of lodges ranging from luxury, midrange, and budget.
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Ethiopia?
Yes, most nationalities require a visa before being given entry. Some nationals flying into Addis Ababa can obtain a visa on arrival.
If you are using other borders other than Addis Ababa airport, then you are advised to obtain the visa in advance.
Is Tipping Customary in Ethiopia?
No, it is not though it is considered polite in restaurants and bars. The tipping customary depends on the service you receive as you can leave 1-2 birrs after a meal in a hotel restaurant.
What Is the Internet Access Like in Ethiopia?
Internet access is good in cities and large towns like Addis Ababa and Bole Sub City but less in rural and remote areas. There is usually Wi-Fi in your hotel.
Can I Use My Cell Phone While in Ethiopia?
Yes, you can use your cell phone during your vacations as the coverage is good in urban areas like Addis Ababa though less in rural and remote areas as the cell phone can lose service.
If you wish to use your cell phone, ensure that global roaming is activated before leaving home.
Can I Drink the Water in Ethiopia?
Avoid drinking tap water as it is not considered safe. Try drinking bottled water as it is safer or use a water filter bottle. Bottled water is ever available at your hotel or safari vehicle.
Do I Need to Purchase Travel Insurance Before Traveling?
Yes, you need to purchase travel insurance before coming to Ethiopia as it protects you in any case of emergency.
The travel insurance details can be recorded by your tour leader on arrival of your tour. Travel insurance is essential depending on the varying nature and the cost of health care around the world.
What Are the Toilets Like in Ethiopia?
Expect to find squat/pit toilets though western flushable toilets are also available in cities like Addis Ababa and modern buildings like Edna Mall and Hotel Lobelia. Make sure that you carry your own toilet paper and soap as it is rarely provided. Toilet paper is available in all shops.
What Is the ATM Access Like in Ethiopia?
There are a few ATMs that accept foreign cards in Ethiopia as they are mainly in Addis Ababa and other cities and towns also in Edna Mall. Always carry a supply of cash with you.
Are Credit Cards Accepted Widely in Ethiopia?
Credit cards are accepted in a few hotels in Addis Ababa like Hotel Lobelia and also in malls like Edna Mall. This is because cash is preferred as a form of payment.
In summary, Ethiopia travel trips offer you the best Ethiopia vacation package having spectacular destinations like Bahir Dar, Addis Ababa, Simien Mountains National Park, historic cities, Lake Awasa, and many activities.
On your Ethiopia tour, you can enjoy the culture of many tribal communities giving you unforgettable memories.
For The Best Ethiopia Travel Trips, Please Inquire
