People go to Ethiopia to admire the virgin and amazing nature of the African continent. Here is the picturesque Lake Tana, the bizarre reliefs of the Ethiopian Highlands, national parks with rare endangered species of animals and endless savannah. Many tribes living on the territory of the country live exactly the same as hundreds of years ago. Tourists are given the opportunity to observe the mysterious rituals of local shamans, visit bright holidays and touch almost primitive culture.
Tourist Attractions in Ethiopia
The most interesting and beautiful tourist attractions in Ethiopia. Photos and a brief description.
Top Tourist Attractions in Ethiopia
Aksum City
It is located in the north of the country almost on the border with Eritrea. It is the most visited city by tourists and the main attraction. According to legend, the founder ruled here Of the Kingdom of Axum, Menelik I is the son of King Solomon. In the archaeological zone there are about 200 huge obelisks erected by cyclops people (according to local legend).
Fasil Gebbi Fortress
A complex of temples, palaces and castles of the XVII-XVIII centuries, listed in the UNESCO list. The fortress combines several architectural styles: Baroque, Arabic, Nubian and Indian. Several centuries ago, the building served as the residence of local rulers, now the complex is open to tourists.
St. George's Church in Lalibela
It was erected in the XII century . by the will of the king, who decided to found a new Jerusalem in the country. The temple is dedicated to the patron saint and defender of Ethiopia, St. George. The building was cut out of the rock in the form of a Greek cross going into the ground. The church is, as it were, immersed in a stone well 25 meters deep.
Fasilidas Baths
Royal baths built under the Ethiopian ruler Fasilidas in the XVII century. Nowadays they are used during the Timkat festival, which is organized by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church once a year. The pools are filled with water, and after the completion of the official ceremony, residents arrange bathing.
Erta Ale Volcano
It is the most restless volcano in Ethiopia. There is a red-hot lava lake in its crater. The volcano has been continuously active since 1967. This is an ever–growing volcano - with each lava outburst and eruption, the mountain rises higher and higher above the ground. Now its height is 613 meters.
Dallol Volcano
It is considered one of the most unusual places on Earth. According to some researchers, the landscapes of the surroundings resemble the landscapes of one of Jupiter's moons. After a strong explosion in 1926, a large yellow-purple lake was formed here, which is located 48 meters below sea level.
Simen National Park
A unique natural monument with a total area of 22.5 thousand hectares. Ras Dashen peak is located here, reaching a height of 4620 meters. On the territory of the park there is an opportunity to see different natural zones of Africa: mountain deserts, savannas, highlands. It is also home to a large number of unique and interesting animals.
Lake Tana
One of the main waterways of Ethiopia. The Blue Nile originates here. The reservoir is not only a vital source of water and food. Hydroelectric power station using water Tana, provides energy to the whole of Ethiopia. There are 37 islands on the lake, 20 Christian monasteries and churches have been built on them.
Lake Abbe
A salty pond located among completely unearthly landscapes. In these places you can find limestone pillars and towers, formations of the most unusual shapes and colors. Clouds of steam are constantly escaping from the ground, reminding of the powerful volcanic activity of the surrounding area.
Sof Omar Cave
A large cave on the territory of the Bale National Park. Formed thanks to the river A woman who has been making her way through the mountain for thousands of years. For a long time it played the role of a religious center, was a sacred place for Muslims and for representatives of local pagan religions.
Avash River
A large, full-flowing river, along which fertile plains stretch. Sugar cane and cotton have been grown here for a long time. There is a national park along the banks of the river, where large populations of antelopes and gazelles live. During a flood, the water level rises by almost 20 meters.
Tis-Ysat Waterfall
One of the waterfalls of the Blue Nile. A very picturesque natural attraction of Ethiopia, demonstrating the power and strength of the river. It is located near the popular tourist center — the city of Bahr Dar. Many tourists and locals come to admire the waterfall.