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Ethiopia is a land of incredible history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. From ancient rock-hewn churches to vibrant festivals and rare wildlife, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Ethiopia. For the adventurers, the history enthusiasts, or those who just want to see a different kind of culture, Ethiopia is definitely one place to check out. The nation is situated in the Horn of Africa and has been a centre of commerce, religion, and discovery since ancient times, and it still fascinates travellers with its mysticism.
Top 10 Things To Do In Ethiopia
Whether you’re seeking history, adventure, or a deep connection with local cultures, this country offers something for everyone. Here is the list of the top things to do in Ethiopia.
1. Celebrate Christmas In January
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
Ethiopia is the land where Christmas is celebrated on January 7th. Christmas is a religious festival in Ethiopia known as Genna. The locals attend the church service wearing white robes. The most extraordinary celebrations happen in Lalibela, where pilgrims from all over the country trek to ancient rock-hewn churches. The atmosphere is electric, with prayers and even the unique custom of strewing grass on restaurant floors for decoration. If you visit in January, you’ll also experience Timkat, a celebration of Christ’s baptism, which includes colourful waterfront ceremonies that take place throughout the country.
Location: Lalibela, Ethiopia
Timings: January 7th (Christmas), Timkat (January 19th)
Suggested Read: Pilanesberg National Park
2. Explore The Rock-Hewn Churches Of Lalibela
Photo: Francesco Bandarin / Wikimedia Commonse
Lalibela is often referred to as the “New Jerusalem” due to its stunning collection of 12th-century rock-hewn churches. These architectural wonders are among Ethiopia’s most revered historical and religious sites. They are a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of the medieval Ethiopian kingdom. Among them, one of the most famous churches is Bete Giyorgis, which resembles a cross and is set deep into the earth. Legend has it that angels helped complete the work overnight. Visiting Lalibela is a chance to behold these ancient structures and to experience Ethiopia’s deep Christian heritage.
Location: Lalibela, Ethiopia
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
3. Hike To The Erta Ale Volcano
Photo: Marc Szeglat / Unsplash
For adventure lovers, a trek up to Erta Ale is just one of those things one can do once in a lifetime in Ethiopia; this volcano finds itself on Danakil Depression land, the first of a select few with active lava lakes in the world. The hike is not easy because of the intense regional heat. To stand on the rim of the volcano and look down at the bubbling lava, is an unforgettable experience. The stark, colourful landscapes of this region are a reminder of the power and beauty of the Earth.
Location: Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
Timings: Trekking is best done at night or early morning
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In South Africa
4. See Gelada Monkeys In The Simien Mountains
Photo: Ludger Heide / Wikimedia Commons
The Simien Mountains, known for their rugged beauty and rich biodiversity, is a UNESCO World Heritage. Hiking there is a dream come true for nature lovers, as the mountains are home to the rare Gelada monkeys, which are found only in Ethiopia. These fascinating creatures, often called “bleeding heart baboons,” are known for the distinctive red chest patches that make them look as though their hearts are exposed. In addition to the Gelada monkeys, the Simien Mountains are also home to Ethiopian wolves, Walia ibexes, and a variety of bird species.
Location: Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
Best Time To Visit: October to March
5. Indulge In Ethiopia’s Famous Coffee Ceremonies
Photo: ProtoplasmaKid / Wikimedia Commons
Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and there’s no better way to experience its importance to the local culture than by participating in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. This is a complex preparation that starts with raw coffee beans being roasted over an open fire and then ground and brewed in a “jebena” pot. It is a social ceremony, a family or friend gathering for stories and an aromatic cup of coffee. While in Addis Ababa or other major cities, you can find numerous cafes offering this experience, often accompanied by the opportunity to learn about the beans’ origins.
Location: Addis Ababa and other cities, Ethiopia
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Suggested Read: Addo Elephant National Park
6. Visit The Ancient Ruins Of Axum
Photo: Jim Williams / Wikimedia Commons
Axum, located in northern Ethiopia, is an ancient city. It was once the capital of the Aksumite Empire. Its obelisks and ruins, some of the largest in Africa, are at Axum. Some of the steles, which are more than 30 metres tall, are feats of engineering that are more than 1,500 years old. Besides the stelae, there are also palaces, churches, and tombs in Axum, which should not be missed by any historian. Some even think that the Ark of the Covenant lay in Axum, so it was all mysterious in the rubble.
Location: Axum, Tigray Region, Ethiopia
Best Time To Visit: October to March
7. Trek Through The Dallol Volcano And Danakil Depression
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
For a truly otherworldly experience, head to the Dallol Volcano in Ethiopia’s Danakil Depression. It is one of the hottest regions on Earth, and it regularly gets over 50°C (122°F). Despite the harsh conditions, Dallol’s vibrant hydrothermal pools and salt formations create a stunning and surreal landscape. The colours yellow, green, orange, and white are the result of sulphur and iron-rich emissions from the hot springs. While the extreme temperatures may make it a challenging destination, Dallol’s otherworldly beauty makes it worth the effort. Trekking here isn’t for the faint-hearted, but it is a place where you can experience some of the wildest places on the planet.
Location: Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Cape Town For An Unparalleled Experience
8. Visit Harar’s Hyena Man
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
Harar, located in eastern Ethiopia, is one of the oldest cities in Africa, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. The most unusual thing that can happen in Harar is meeting the Hyena Man – a man who walks into town and feeds wild hyenas every evening by hand. This freakish ritual has been handed down generations, and visitors are sometimes invited to join in the old custom. In addition to the feeding of hyenas, Harar is also home to many markets, old walls, and labyrinthine alleys, all of which make it a must-visit place.
Location: Harar, Ethiopia
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
9. Experience The Omo Valley’s Tribal Cultures
Photo: Rod Waddington/ Wikimedia Commons
The Omo Valley in southern Ethiopia is home to one of the most culturally diverse regions in the world. This area is inhabited by numerous indigenous tribes. Each has its own unique customs, language, and way of life. You can learn about the traditions of the Hamar, Mursi, and other tribes, often through interactions at local markets or during visits to traditional villages. It provides a rare opportunity to experience authentic tribal cultures that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Whether you’re trekking through the region or visiting one of the villages, you’ll gain insight into Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage.
Location: Omo Valley, Southern Ethiopia
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Top Popular Waterfalls In South Africa For An Exciting Adventure
10. Take A Boat Ride On Lake Tana
Photo: Radosław Botev / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia, is the source of the Blue Nile, one of the most important rivers in Africa. A boat trip on Lake Tana takes you to several historic monasteries and churches, some of which date back to the 14th century. The Ura Kidane Mihret Monastery, located on the Zege Peninsula, is particularly famous for its stunning frescoes and tranquil setting. To experience the religious history of Ethiopia and the country’s beauty in peace, visit Lake Tana. The lake’s quiet waters and the old buildings surrounding the lake are really an experience in themselves.
Location: Lake Tana, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Ethiopia is a land of contrasts—where ancient history meets modern-day culture, where vast landscapes are dotted with ancient ruins, and where vibrant festivals light up the streets. From the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the colourful landscapes of the Danakil Depression, there is no shortage of incredible things to do in Ethiopia. Let TripXL help you plan your perfect Ethiopian adventure.
Cover Photo: Erik Hathaway / Unsplash
