Tourism in Ethiopia

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Africa / Eastern Africa

Tourist attractions

Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

Region: Lalibela, Amhara Region

Cultural Heritage

11 underground churches carved from rock in the 12th-13th centuries.

Simien National Park

Region: Amhara Region

Nature

Habitat for Gelada baboons and Walia ibex with cliffs exceeding 4,500m elevation.

Aksum Obelisks

Region: Aksum, Tigray Region

Cultural Heritage

Sacred site known for ancient Kingdom of Aksum stelae and Ark of the Covenant legend.

Danakil Depression and Erta Ale Volcano

Region: Afar Region

Nature

Extreme wilderness formed by crustal movement with salt lakes and lava lakes.

Fasil Ghebbi Fortress Ruins in Gondar

Region: Gondar, Amhara Region

Cultural Heritage

Imperial castle built in the 17th century, called "Africa's Cambridge."

Bahir Dar and Blue Nile Falls

Region: Lake Tana area

Nature

Ethiopia's premier waterfall Tis Issat and island monastery tours are popular.

Omo Valley

Region: Southern Ethiopia Region

Culture and Nature

UNESCO World Heritage area where indigenous traditional culture and human fossil sites coexist.

Addis Ababa National Museum

Region: Addis Ababa

Modern Architecture

Exhibits prehistoric and art collections including the Lucy fossil.

Historic Walled City of Harar Jugol

Region: Harari Region

Cultural Heritage

Ancient Islamic city surrounded by walls with charming labyrinthine old town.

Lake Tana Monasteries

Region: Lake Tana shores

Culture

Monasteries from 15th-17th centuries scattered on islands and peninsulas, famous for murals.

Suggested itineraries

Complete Northern Historic Route

Duration (days): 8

Highlights: Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, Gondar, Simien Mountains, Lalibela, Aksum

Classic circuit tour combining overland and domestic flights to cover ancient ruins and highland scenery.

Danakil Depression and Salt Caravan Expedition

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Erta Ale Volcano, Dallol Crater, Lake Assal, Camel Caravan Observation

4WD traverse of extreme heat zone at -100m elevation to experience active volcanoes and salt mining culture.

Omo Valley Ethnic Experience Tour

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Tsemay Tribe Village, Hamar Bull Jumping Ceremony, Coffee Birthplace Kaffa, Jinka Museum

Guided southern exploration visiting diverse ethnic groups to learn lifestyles and market culture.

Travel tips

  • Addis Ababa exceeds 2,400m elevation; altitude sickness measures needed
  • Anti-mosquito measures and medication recommended in malaria-prevalent areas even during dry season
  • Ethiopian Airlines' circuit pass is convenient and affordable for domestic travel
  • Long-distance buses depart early morning, operate full capacity; advance booking advised
  • Many restaurants do not serve meat dishes on fasting days
  • Tap water not potable; keep bottled water on hand
  • Pickpocketing common at markets and bus stops; carry valuables separately
  • Always obtain permission from photo subjects and confirm tipping rates
  • Card use limited to luxury hotels and some banks; prepare cash Birr
  • Frequent traffic police checkpoints; carry passport original or copy
  • Mornings and evenings can be cold even in dry season; layering is practical
  • Wi-Fi unstable outside hotels; SIM card purchase is realistic option
  • Remove hats and maintain silence during worship or inside churches
  • Female travelers should wear clothing covering shoulders and knees for safety
  • As of 2024, some border areas have travel restrictions; check latest security information

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