Ethiopia, in the Horn of Africa, is a rugged, landlocked country divided by the Great Rift Valley. The central plateau is a verdant area which has supported civilisations for thousands of years. In addition to this rich cultural heritage, the country also has varied and stunning scenery, and unique wildlife.

With archaeological finds dating back more than 3 million years, Ethiopia is a place of ancient culture. Among its important sites are Lalibela with its rock-cut Christian churches from the 12th–13th centuries. Aksum is the ruins of an ancient city with obelisks, tombs, castles and Our Lady Mary of Zion church and Gondar features elaborate, medieval castle. 

The capital, Addis Ababa, has a near perfect climate all year round (21-24 degrees C) due to its elevation of 2m335 metres. See the remains of Lucy – our 3.2 million-year-old ancestor – in the National Museum, then walk through the old Italian neighbourhood of Piassa, to have a coffee in the Taitu Hotel, the city’s oldest, founded by the Empress Taitu Betul in the early 1900s. 

Ethiopia’s stunning natural landscapes are the real tourist drawcard. From the lush Simien Mountains to the sulphur vents of the Danakil Depression, the country’s outstanding natural environment is unforgettable. Bahir Dar, located on Lake Tana, is famous as a base from which to explore the fascinating monasteries situated on the numerous islands dotted around the lake, as well as the Blue Nile Falls, which are arguably the most spectacular falls in North Africa. Search for the endemic Ethiopian wolf and gelada baboon.