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Top things to do in Ethiopia

The Ultimate Travel Company brings you the top things to do in Ethiopia, including Lalibella, Gondar and Axum.

Little considered and under-visited, even by avid world travellers, Ethiopia is a rare treasure, waiting to be uncovered. Amongst its gems are a huge number of tribal people whose customs and rituals haven’t changed appreciably in centuries. And then there’s the stunning scenery and riotous birdlife of the Rift Valley. The Sanetti Plateau – home to the exquisite Ethiopian wolf. The churches and palaces that are unlike any other buildings in Africa. All waiting for you to discover them.

Our expert consultants can think of any number of reasons to visit Ethiopia. Here are their favourites.

Top things to do in Ethiopia

  • 1. Lalibella

    Prepare to be rendered speechless. The wonder of Lalibella’s rock hewn churches rivals even the spectacular scenery from the top of the Mount Yusef escarpment; the location of the mighty rock church of Asheten Mariam.

    The best time to visit? September to April. The rains in October cloak the country in green, before the dry season begins.

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  • 2. Gondar

    Gondar was the 17th century capital of Ethiopia, so it presents you with a fantastic array of mediaeval castles and fortresses. Not to mention ancient baths, ruins and royal palaces – the legacy of a whole range of emperors and their long-vanished dynasties.

    The best time to visit? The country becomes progressively drier after the rains in September and October.

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  • 3. Axum

    Here you’ll find what is believed to be sub-Saharan Africa’s oldest church. But the most amazing feature is the Stelae Field full of huge monoliths carved from single pieces of granite – to form weird and wonderful sculptures.

    The best time to visit? From September to April for the end of the rainy season and the drying of the countryside.

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  • 4. Lake Tana

    This immense lake – the largest in Ethiopia – is a fundamental outlet of the Blue Nile and provides as much as 85% of the main river’s flowing waters. It’s truly beautiful with wildlife and scenic islands, many with 14th century monasteries.

    The best time to visit? Shortly after the summer rains in October and November sees the lake at it fullest.

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  • 5. Simien Mountains

    The Simien Mountains have been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the view from Ras Dashen – at 4550 m Africa’s highest peak – is well worth the adventurous trek. The Simiens are also home to ‘lion monkeys’; gelada baboons.

    The best time to visit? November to March brings perfect climbing weather.

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  • 6. Bale Mountains

    If you like to view wildlife and then retire to luxury surroundings, the Bale Mountains are for you. They’re the natural habitat the endangered Ethiopian wolf – amongst other fascinating creatures and birds – and also the ultra-luxurious, new Bale Mountains Lodge.

    The best time to visit? December to February is the most temperate, weather-wise.

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  • 7. Lake Langano

    If you’re a nature lover there can be few better experiences than trekking through the idyllic East Langano Nature Reserve or riding a horse slowly along the banks of the majestic Lake Langano. This Rift Valley lake also offers a wonderful array of birds.

    The best time to visit? The wildlife is easier to spot in the dry season from October to March.

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  • 8. Gheralta and Mekele

    The whole of Ethiopia is under the radar of most holidaymakers, but the Gheralta and Mekele area is truly off the beaten track. That won’t stop you being totally fascinated by the awesome Tigray Churches and enjoying the luxury of Gheralta Lodge.

    The best time to visit? In the dry season between October and March.

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  • 9. The Omo Valley

    If you want to meet local people, visit their markets, witness their traditions and understand a lifestyle that hasn’t changed in centuries, you should visit the Omo Valley – home to over 200,000 truly unchanged tribal people.

    The best time to visit? From August to October is when many wonderful rituals and harvest celebrations take place. Then again from December to March.

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  • Gemma took on board all I asked for and arranged a fantastic itinerary. She was always prompt and professional both in planning the holiday and during the very circumstances of Covid. We would not hesitate to come back to The Ultimate Travel Company.

    -     TS, August 2020