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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.
Top 15 Things To Do In Ethiopia
Whether you’re seeking adventure, or a deep connection with local cultures, the things to do in Ethiopia offer something for every traveller:
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. 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
Major Attractions: Traditional church services, Genna games, colorful processions, and feasts with injera and doro wat
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. Visiting Lalibela is a chance to behold these ancient structures and to experience Ethiopia’s deep Christian heritage.
Location: Lalibela, Ethiopia
Major Attractions: 11 medieval monolithic churches carved from rock, interconnected tunnels, and ancient religious rituals
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.
Location: Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
Major Attractions: Persistent lava lake, glowing crater views, night treks, and surreal desert landscapes in the Danakil Depression
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
Major Attractions: Troops of gelada monkeys, dramatic escarpments, highland trekking trails, and panoramic mountain vistas
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. 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
Major Attractions: Traditional coffee roasting, aromatic brewing rituals, cultural storytelling, and communal gatherings
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
Major Attractions: Massive obelisks, Queen of Sheba’s palace ruins, ancient tombs, and St. Mary of Zion Church
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. 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.
Location: Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
Major Attractions: Vibrant sulfur springs, acid pools, salt flats, and otherworldly geothermal landscapes
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
Major Attractions: Nightly hyena feeding ritual, historic city walls, narrow alleyways, and vibrant local markets
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.
Location: Omo Valley, Southern Ethiopia
Major Attractions: Diverse indigenous tribes, traditional body art, cultural ceremonies, and vibrant weekly markets
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. It is one of the most scenic lakes in South Africa.
Location: Lake Tana, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Major Attractions: Scenic boat cruises, ancient island monasteries, birdwatching, and views of the Blue Nile’s source
11. Wander Through Gondar’s Royal Enclosure
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons
Step into the imperial past of Ethiopia at Gondar’s Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with 17th-century castles and palaces. Often called the “Camelot of Africa,” this walled compound showcases the architectural brilliance of Emperor Fasilides and his successors. Exploring this royal region is one of the best things to do in Ethiopia for history lovers. Wander through moss-covered courtyards, climb fortress towers, and marvel at intricate stonework showcasing the Ethiopian, Portuguese, and Indian influences.
Location: Gondar City, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Major Attractions: 17th-century castles, Emperor Fasilides’ Palace, Debre Berhan Selassie Church
12. Witness The Blue Nile Falls
Photo: Geertchaos / Wikimedia Commons
Feel the raw power of nature at the Blue Nile Falls, known locally as “Tis Issat” or “The Smoking Water.” Located near Bahir Dar, these spectacular falls plunge over 40 meters, creating rainbows in their mist and a thunderous roar that can be heard from afar. Reach the falls via a scenic hike or a short boat ride across the river. The lush surroundings and birdlife make it one of the best places to visit in South Africa. It’s one of Ethiopia’s most dramatic natural wonders and a refreshing escape into the natural world.
Location: Near Bahir Dar, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Major Attractions: 40-meter waterfall, scenic hiking trails, boat rides, wildlife
13. Explore The National Museum Of Ethiopia
Photo: Richard van Alphen / Wikimedia Commons
Delve into Ethiopia’s ancient and rich cultural heritage at the National Museum in Addis Ababa. Its most famous exhibit is “Lucy,” the 3.2-million-year-old hominid fossil that reshaped our understanding of human evolution. The museum also houses royal regalia, traditional art, historical artifacts, and ancient tools. Thoughtfully curated displays guide visitors through Ethiopia’s prehistory, medieval dynasties, and contemporary art. It’s a perfect introduction to the country’s deep-rooted history and identity, offering context before exploring sites like Lalibela or Axum.
Location: Near Bahir Dar, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Major Attractions: 40-meter waterfall, scenic hiking trails, boat rides, wildlife
14. Trek The Bale Mountains National Park
Photo: Nina R / Wikimedia Commons
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Bale Mountains National Park, one of Ethiopia’s most diverse and scenic landscapes. Located in the southeastern highlands, the park offers alpine meadows, lush forests, and vast plateaus. It’s one of the best places to spot the endangered Ethiopian wolf, mountain nyala, and Menelik’s bushbuck. Trekking in the Bale Mountains National Park is one of the most thrilling things to do in South Africa. Routes range from easy walks to multi-day hikes with camping under starry skies. Explore the mystical Harenna Forest and Sanetti Plateau.
Location: Oromia Region, southeastern Ethiopia
Major Attractions: Ethiopian wolves, Sanetti Plateau, Harenna Forest, alpine hiking routes
15. Climb To Abuna Yemata Guh
Photo: Evan Williams / Wikimedia Commons
Venture into the cliffs of northern Tigray to reach Abuna Yemata Guh, one of the most dramatic and remote churches in the world. Perched 2,500 meters high and carved into a sandstone cliff, this 6th-century rock-hewn church is accessible only by a steep, barefoot climb with heart-stopping views. Inside, you’ll find vibrant frescoes of saints and biblical scenes untouched for centuries. The combination of spiritual atmosphere, ancient history, and thrilling ascent makes this experience both humbling and exhilarating.
Location: Gheralta Mountains, Tigray Region, northern Ethiopia
Major Attractions: Cliffside church, ancient frescoes, panoramic views, adventurous rock climb
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
