Ethiopia Travel Guide | Trip to Ethiopia | Ethiopia Tourism Information

Ethiopia, also known as the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, is one of the oldest nations in the world and is the second most populous nation in Africa. Since traces of the earliest human civilizations have been found here, it makes for an important study for archaeologists. Ethiopia is also reputed to the second country to have accepted Christianity in 4 AD, although today, Islam too exists on the side. Addis Ababa is the capital, and Amharic is the official language spoken.

Ethiopia did not get colonized at the same time as other African countries, but it did some under Italian rule for around six years from 1935. The earlier name of this country was Abyssinia, and its recorded history itself under that name , in both culture and traditions date back more than 3000 years ago. Archaeologists have traced the remnants of ancient civilizations found here to more than 5 and a half million years back.

Today, the country exports coffee bean is also supposed to be the tenth largest producer of livestock in the world. Ethiopia is made up of many tribes of which Oromo, Amhara and Tigray are three tribes that are found in abundance among the 80 other ethnic groups. The music that is played here has strong influences from Christian music and other folk music.

Ethiopia is often called the fourth Holy City, especially since the influences of religion were felt centuries back. Religious places like churches and mosques themselves are major attractions. The capital of Addis Ababa, is located at the foothills of the Entoto Mountains, which makes it a place of scenic beauty. The St Georges Cathedral is located here, and the Ethnology museum is also worth a visit. Shopping here is also a joy. Ethiopia has many monuments and places of historical interest. Aksum was the ancient capital and is famed for the carved granite obelisks there. At Lalibela, one can find churches, which have been carved out of rocks, and are much appreciated for their architectural beauty. At Gondar which was the capital of Ethiopia in the 17th century, one can find many castles, belonging to ancient times.

There are 19 national parks here too, among them being the Awash National Park, the Simien Mountain National Park and the Gambella National Park to name a few. Altogether it is estimated that around 450 species of birds live in these parks, besides the other animals. Safari rides are worth trying out here. Tissisat, which is otherwise known as the Blue Nile Falls, is one among the most well known waterfalls in Africa. Travellers who enjoy trekking should definitely try it in mountains ranges such as the Simien Mountains National Park and the moorlands of the Bale Plateau. In some places horse riding and cycling too can be done. The lakes in the Rift Valley, allow one to try out swimming, wind surfing and water skiing.

Ethiopia is a country with so much to offer the world. While its place in history is undeniable, the other places of interest too, are a must see.

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