Ethiopia is not the most favorable country for tourism, but there is also something to see here. Its rich historical heritage attracts people from all over the world. The natural sights of Ethiopia are displayed on many photos, both in popular science magazines and in travel blogs. If you are wondering how and how the oldest state on the African continent lives, then do not hesitate: arm yourself with a list of the most significant places and start your journey.
Ethiopia is not the most favorable country for tourism, but there is also something to see here. Its rich historical heritage attracts people from all over the world. The natural sights of Ethiopia are displayed on many photos, both in popular science magazines and in travel blogs. If you are wondering how and how the oldest state on the African continent lives, then do not hesitate: arm yourself with a list of the most significant places and start your journey.
Top 10 popular attractions in Ethiopia
So, among the rating of the most interesting and frequently visited places of Ethiopia, it is worth to point out the following:
- Capital. In Addis Ababa , several interesting attractions of Ethiopia are concentrated, which will exactly interest those who want to explore this country. In particular, this is the area of Menelik II, the former ruler of the country. Here is the church of St. George, and just a few blocks you can visit the former residence of the ruler - the royal palace of 1894 built, which is prescribed the title of the most beautiful architectural structure of the capital. It is worth taking time to visit the archaeological and National Museum , an extensive collection of exhibits which will acquaint you with the rich history of Ethiopia. In addition, the guests of Addis Ababa are strongly encouraged to climb the best viewing platform of the city - Mount Entoto, which offers an amazing panorama of the city. Here you will find a nice and well-kept park, as well as an opportunity to visit the old Mariinsky church and the historical museum.
- The city of Axum . Once it was the cradle of the Axumite kingdom. Several religious attractions of Ethiopia are concentrated here. In particular, this is the church of Mary of Zion. On its territory are three buildings that were erected at different times. In addition, here is kept the greatest shrine of Christianity - the carved casket with the tablets, the Ark of the Covenant. An interesting feature of Axum is also the stelae - giant basalt columns, the appointment of which is not known for certain, but there is a theory that they marked burial places.
- Lake Tana. This reservoir is the largest on the entire African continent. Here comes the Blue Nile . In the vicinity of the lake there is a great variety of flora and fauna. Among the local inhabitants are even hippos. What is characteristic, life here is represented, among other things, by parasites - the waters of Tana are literally teeming with these creatures.
- Waterfalls of the Blue Nile . The river, originating from Lake Tana, irrigates the lands of Ethiopia for 800 km. And only 30 km from this place you can see a unique spectacle - cascading waterfalls. After Victoria, they are the largest in Africa. Waterfalls have the names of the nearest villages - Tis-Isat. The height, from which the water collapses, reaches 45 m, and the width of the waterfall - up to 400 m.
- The volcano of Herta-Ale . The locals call it "road to hell", and the name is treated as a "smoking mountain". This volcano is one of the few on the planet that is in constant activity. This is due to the fact that it is located in the heart of the Afar triangle. Constant eruptions and several lakes of red-hot lava in the district are a common thing for this area. The temperature here never falls below +50 ° C, but the spirit of adventurism drives travelers from all over the globe just to stand over the volcano's mouth and grab a piece of volcanic rock as a souvenir.
- Temples in Lalibela . For a long time this place was the center of pilgrimage and the object of religious worship. This is not surprising, because there are 13 ancient temples , which are carved right in the rocks. Their construction dates back to the 12th-13th centuries, during the reign of King Lalibela, who sought to make them similar to Jerusalem.
- Mount Ras-Dashen . This is the highest point of Ethiopia with a height of 4533 m. First of all, those who do not think their life without mountaineering and tracking are striving here. The road to the trail, which climbs to the top, runs through the National Park of Symen , thereby allowing not only to enjoy colorful views, but also to get acquainted with the Ethiopian flora and fauna.
- The Big African rift. This unique natural phenomenon is known as one of the most mysterious places in Africa. The rift is continuously growing, as a result of which scientists suggest a split of the continent in the distant future. Today, its open spaces and gorges delight the lovers of outdoor activities with their landscapes.
- The Mursi tribe . It is quite famous not only in the field of ethnographers and culturologists. A special feature of the tribe is the tradition of wearing clay plates of impressive sizes in the ears and a cut above the lower lip. This is considered a local measure of beauty.
- Fasil-Gebi fortress . In the XVII-XVIII centuries, this architectural structure served as the home of the rulers of Ethiopia. Fasil-Gebi is a whole complex of buildings, which included castles, temples and palaces for the nobility. Most of them have survived to this day, causing genuine interest among tourists.