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First time visitors to Ethiopia are generally amazed by the stunning natural beauty of a country that is also incredibly rich in culture and history. The striking diversity of landscapes, ancient traditions and people leaves a lasting impression to challenge the frequent portrayal of a land stricken by years of drought and famine, AIDS and foreign aid.
Brimming with contrasts and extremes, Ethiopia beckons visitors to explore from the tops of its highlands, where mountains soar to around 14,108ft (4,300m), to the depths of the Danakil Depression situated below sea level; to discover Abyssinian
culture and traditions that date back over 3,000 years; to experience ancient Islamic folklore, as well as the fascinating rituals and sacred ceremonies of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Ethiopia is also described as the Cradle of Humanity, home to the oldest human remains in the world, while at the same time its capital Addis Ababa, meaning 'New Flower' in Amharic, is home to the more modern problems of urban migration, where homeless people roam the streets in search of food, money and a better life.
Northern Ethiopia holds the greatest attraction for visitors as one of the country's richest regions for culture, history and natural splendor. The Historic Route takes in the medieval city of Gondar, with more castles, palaces and churches than any other city in Africa; and the ancient capital of the Queen of Sheba and Ethiopia's holiest city, Axum, where the original Ark of the Covenant containing the Ten Commandments is said to rest. Ethiopia's top attraction, the 13th century rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, are among the most incredible man-made creations in the world, revered and renowned among Ethiopians and foreigners alike and the venue for some of the most famous religious festivals in Ethiopia. Taking 24 years to complete, the astounding rock churches are believed to have been created with the help of angels.
The north also boasts the breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park, encompassing the fourth highest peak on the continent, and providing fantastic hiking opportunities and a variety of wildlife. Bahar Dar, situated on Lake Tana, is popular as a base from which to explore the intriguing monasteries built on the many islands scattered about the lake, as well as the Blue Nile Falls, or 'Smoke of Fire', which are the most impressive falls in northern Africa.
Ethiopia is set among a contrasting environment of natural beauty and the signs of poverty, where lakes, mountains and wildlife reserves compete for attention with the poor and hungry. Ethiopia is used to being overlooked as a tourist destination, but the country's unique attractions are slowly taking pride of place in North East Africa, and today the oldest independent nation on the continent welcomes visitors to experience her mosaic of ethnicity, a long and proud history, and an abundance of stunning scenery.
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