Ethiopia

Ethiopia stands apart as a cultural jewel, distinct from both its African neighbors and the rest of the world. Its Orthodox Christian heritage predates that of most European nations, with its own distinctive traditions and practices.

The ancient cultural and religious centres of northern Ethiopia, such as Gondar and Lalibela are acessible by plane. Each of these old cities has a different story to tell.

While Ethiopia’s past struggles with famine and recent political tensions have limited tourism, journeys there have been without mishap and extremely rewarding.

For those who enjoy trekking we can hike in either the Simien mountains, where we are likely to see the thick maned Gelada baboons, or walk in the greener Bale mountains, one of the last refuges of the Simien wolf. We could trek into the far south to visit the fascinating Surma people, one of two Ethiopian tribes where the women still adorn themselves with massive clay lip plugs.

These experiences represent just a fraction of the adventures possible in this extraordinary country, which continues to preserve its remarkable cultural heritage despite challenges.

Aside from the capital city, Addis Ababa, journeying in most of the rest of Ethiopia is far from luxurious. Facilities are basic and the travelling is adventurous.