Ethiopia Tours and Vacations - Exciting Africa Safari Destinations Awaiting To be Explored
December 18, 2008 07:29:48 Ethiopia is the oldest independent country in the Sub Saharan Africa. Located in east-central Africa, the landlocked country is bordered on the west by Sudan, the east by Somalia and Djibouti, the south by Kenya, and the northeast by Eritrea.
The country occupies over a million square kilometers (about five times the size of the United Kingdom) and has a magnificent landscape that ranges from deserted to forested areas.
Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia, is the main entry point of international arrivals as it hosts Bole International Airport – the fifth busiest airport in Africa and the main hub for Ethiopian Airlines.
Ethiopia hosts some of the most stunning sceneries in the African continent, including Simien Mountains and Danakil Depression among other places. The Jaggedly curved Simien Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the Danakil Depression at 120 meters below sea level is one of the lowest dry land points on earth. Indeed, these and other popular Ethiopia tours and vacations destinations have for many years received worldwide acclaim as flagship tours and vacation destinations in Africa.
Ethiopia has more than twenty mountains towering more than 4,000 m high, led by Mount Ras Deshen that rises 4,620 m high. Ras Deshen is the fourth tallest mountain in Africa. Ethiopia is often referred to as the “water tower” of eastern Africa because of the many rivers that pour off its high tableland. Some of the major rivers of Ethiopia include the Blue Nile, Omo River, Baro River and Awash River,
Blue Nile, comprising about 80 per cent by volume of the Great Nile River, originates from Lake Tana. Blue Nile and White Nile, originating from Lake Victoria, merge into the Great Nile River at Khartoum, the Sudan capital to form the longest river of the world draining to the Mediterranean Sea. The Blue Nile Falls is one of the most popular tourist destination along the historic route. The Blue Nile Falls is situated near Tis-Abay town, 30 km to the east of Bahir Dar, which is 20-30 minutes walk from the town of Tiss Abey.
Located about 560 km from Addis Ababa, Lake Tana is the largest lake in Ethiopia. The lake has 37 islands some of which harbor churches and monasteries. These buildings carry beautiful murals and paintings, remains of emperors, church crosses, icons, manuscripts, crowns and other articles of historical and cultural significance.
There are plenty opportunities to enjoy the attractions of Ethiopia, while participating in a favorite pastime, making a holiday in Ethiopia even more fun. The Ethiopian highlands,for instance, offer superb trekking opportunities.
The most popular well-established areas for trekking are the Simien and Bale Mountains National Parks. The west highlands region, east and west of the Omo valley, is also becoming popular among trekkers. Perfect climbs are also provided at the Simien Mountains and the Bale Plateau.
Ethiopia is a haven for birding enthusiasts as it hosts over 800 bird species, out of which 16 are endemic. A broader range of bird species can be spotted in many of the national parks as they are less affected by human activities. Bale National Park alone has recorded 161 bird species. The best season for bird-watching is from the beginning of September up to February. Between November and February, migrant birds raise the bird population and widen species diversity as well.
Abyssinia, as Ethiopia was formerly called, has a long history with a culture and traditions dating back over 3,000 years. The country has over 80 different ethnic groups with their own languages, culture and traditions. The strong religious setting, celebrations and festivals play an important part in Ethiopian culture.
There are plenty of international hotels in Ethiopia offering excellent accommodation for visitors, among them the Sheraton, Hilton, Dagim Millennium Hotel, Adot-Tina Hotel and others. Entry to Ethiopia requires a one-month visa going for US$20 at airport.
Prior to entry, visitors should be in possession of a valid health certificate for yellow fever. Vaccination against cholera is also required for any person who has visited or transited a cholera-infected area within six days prior to arrival in Ethiopia.
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