Ethiopia: Culture, Coffee and Critters in the Horn of Africa

In east Africa, just north of Kenya, one of the world’s most remarkable countries rises high above sea level. The largest landlocked population on Earth and one of Africa’s most culturally rich, Ethiopia is fast becoming the place to visit for any adventurous soul.

Landscapes

Ethiopia is a land of stark contrasts. On the west fertile forests and rivers cover the landscape allowing the cultivation of coffee. In fact Kefa is where coffee originates from and is still the source of the world’s top beans. To the north lies the world’s hottest settlement Dallol, which lies in the Afar Depression some 130 metres below sea level. Much of the east of the country is part of the Ethiopian Highlands which is Africa’s largest continuous mountain range. A trip across Ethiopia will have you marveling at the sheer diversity of climates in this ancient country.

History

Throughout the 19^th century most of Africa was colonized by Europeans, but Ethiopia resisted and has retained its sovereignty (particularly by resisting an Italian incursion in 1935). This resistance has helped Ethiopia maintain its culture and preserve its history better than any other African country. One of the world’s oldest Christian countries, Ethiopia has a multitude of churches and holy buildings. Chief among these are the Churches of Lalibela (churches dug into the rocky hills of the Lalibela region) and the obelisks in the city of Axum (a city which the Ethiopian Orthodox Church believes houses the Ark of the Covenant). Historically there are few places on Earth that can claim to have such a multitude of Christian artefacts and landmarks as Ethiopia.

Animals

Although not as abundant in game as Kenya or Tanzania to the South, this stunning land contains many animals not found anywhere else on earth. From the fleet footed Nubian ibex to the extremely rare Ethiopian wolf, many a nature photographer has made Ethiopia one of their must-visit destinations in search of that perfect shot.

A trip to Ethiopia is one you will never forget and the landscapes and people will have you yearning to return to this interesting and beautiful land. Email reservations@wildfrontiers.com to see how we can organize your ultimate Ethiopian holiday today!