CHAPTER THREE

TOURISM RESOURCES OF ETHIOPIA

Introduction

3.1 Attractions in Northern Ethiopia

Most people come to Africa for safari or to see primitive tribes. But, in the north of Ethiopia you
will discover a completely different Africa with monuments that speak of an ancient civilization
which can be compared with the Greek and Roman civilizations, 17th century castles where
kings lived in excessive luxury, playing their political games and also innumerable rock hewn
churches, hidden jewels in the rough landscape of Tigray.
Many treasures are still hidden under the earth, waiting to be excavated. Many mysteries still
have to be unraveled. Who has made the design for the 12 Rock Hewn Churches in Lalibela and
what techniques were used to cut out a perfectly shaped church from one single piece of
rock?.......How were the huge Axumite Obelisks erected? Was it really by the power of the ark of
the Covenant, as the priests in Axum will tell you? Who has built the temple of the moon in
Yeha, more than 2500 years ago and who were their ancestors?

Besides that, while traveling through north Ethiopia, the landscape and nature will never be
boring. Planes with vivid green Teff, rough and capricious shaped mountains, breathtaking
descents and views, rivers in deep gorges and moon-like landscapes pass your eyes.

Colorful markets can be visited in different places. In the small coffee houses, you can taste the
real Ethiopian coffee and atmosphere or you can visit a restaurant or bar to enjoy traditional
music and dance. The hospitable people of Amhara or Tigray will joyfully receive you in their
houses as a honored guest to taste something of daily life and culture in an Ethiopian family.

Main tourist destinations of North Ethiopia

 Axum and its surroundings

 Lalibela and its surroundings

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  Gondar and its surroundings
 Bahir Dar and its surroundings
 North Shewa tourist attractions

3.1.1 Attractions in and Around Aksum

Aksum is the 1st major historically known capital city in Ethiopia and it had been the capital of
the Aksumite kingdom probably from the middle of the 2 nd century B.C to the 7th c A.D. Some of
the attractions found in and around Aksum are;

The Stelae Park: Aksum is widely identified and very popular with its famous monolithic steles.
Aksumite steles are the largest examples of monolithic stone cuttings known from ancient world.
The giant stele are however, found in the stelae park.

Northern Stelae Park- it is the biggest and the most important stelae field and contains over 120
stelae. The length of the stelae ranges from 1m to over 33m in height. These are undoubtly
connected with practice of human burial. Most of the stelae are made from simple slab of stone
and some dressed blocks of rectangular shape, usually flat sides and a rounded or conical apex.
The most famous stelae in this park are the following:

The Great Stele: measuring 33mand weighs about 500 tones and still it is under debate whether
it was erected or not. By Further investigations in 1998, scholars now believe that the monolithic
never did stand. But some others argue as it was erected and suggested that the collapse of this
massive stele has contributed to people’s conversion to Christianity. It is also considered as the
sign of permanent defeat of paganism by Christianity.

Ezana’s Stele: though it is certainly earlier than Ezana, it is called as Ezana’s stele 24m high
and described as the most admirable of its kind. Henry salt, the British traveler and first foreigner
to describe it in 1805, proclaimed it ‘the most admirable and perfect in its kind’.

Rome stele: it is the 2nd largest steel, at 25m high & was shipped to Italy in 1937. It is also one
of the most beautiful steles in the northern park. But because of the current government‘s
diplomatic endeavor, the stele has been returned to its original place, Axum in April 2005.

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Gudit Stelae Field: though less important than those found in the town, Gudit stelae field
located in southern side of the queen of Sheba’s palace are worthwhile to visit. The Gudit field is
named after the queen, who destroyed Axum around 10thcentury. The area covers around 500m,
by 200m and contains several hundred stelae. Most are small, undressed and lie on the ground.
Excavations were carried out in 1973 and 1974, and 1994and 1996, but little is known about the
stelae field.

Tombs: Aksumite tombs were first dug out from under ground, then lined with very large, often
beautifully worked, blocks of granite. Tombs of the False Door (known as tomb of king Remhai
in the western extremity of northern stelae field,Bazen tomb and the so- called megalithic
Tombs of Nefas Mewcha (tombs of Kaleb and G/meskel) are few among the discovered and
famous. In their undiscovered parts it is thought that may be fascinating finds, treasures and
secrets lie waiting to be discovered.

St. Marry of Zion Church: It is the first church on the African soil. It is the church where the
son of Queen of Sheba, Menelik I housed the Ark of Covenant but the first beautiful church had
been built by king Ezana or Kaleb who expanded Christianity as the national religion in Ethiopia
for the first time. This church was destroyed by Queen Yodit Gudit. The existing rectangular old
church was built by Emperor Fasiladas the founder of Gondar in 1636. The podium on which it
sits, it may well belong to the original church erected in 4 th c or 6th c after the adoption of
Christianity.The huge new church of Zion was built by Emperor Haile Selasie in 1960’s. Besides
it, a disproportionally tall bell tower shaped to resemble the biggest stele of all.

Including the Ark of Covenant, the church has many fascinating religious items paintings like
depicting the nine saints of 6th c. A carefully guarded chapel in the church compound contains
the famous Ark of Covenant; only one specially chosen guardian priest has access to the ark of
covenant. The little museum in the same building contains an unsurpassed collection of crowns
belonging to the former Ethiopian rulers. Neither the chapel nor the museum is open to women
but the treasures from the museum can be brought out to disclose for visitors.

Archaeological Museum: it is having fine and well preserved Sabean and Ge’ez inscriptions.
Interesting variety of objects which were found in the tombs, cups, lamps, incense burners,
sophisticated glass wares, perfume bottles. Collections of coins dating from 4 th c to 6th c,

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beautiful potteries are also shown in the museum. These coins provide vital and fascinating
sources of information on the ancient Aksumite kingdom. Much of the pottery was produced in
Ancient Axum and the tradition continues today.

Posted in each room are a series of interesting information panels prepared by an Italian
archaeological team. Within the museum, archaeological discovery is being carried out as it is
part of important spots for further investigation.

Ezana’s Garden: lying in the park in the center of the town is the famous stone of 4 th c.

Mai-Shum reservoir: it is the large open air water and is also called the Queen of Sheba’s
Bath. It forms the focal point of the annual ceremony of Timket (Ethiopian Epiphany).

The Trilingual text inscription of king Ezana: it was erected in the 4th c to record the victories
of king Ezana andis written in Sabean,Ge’ez and Greek scripts.

Important towns and attractions around Aksum

Adwa: the town contains huge significance for all Ethiopians because in this historic place for
the first time heroic black Africans defeated white Europeans, which inspired other Africans to
strengthen their struggle against colonialism. Adwa is also base to visit Yeha and the Monastery
of Debre Damo.

Adigrat: is the base to discover the rock hewn churches of Tigrai.

Monastery of Debre Damo: the founder of the monastery is one of the Nine Saints, known as
Abune Aregawi and the church was built during the reign of King Gebre Meskel. It shows the
most exact architectural feature of Aksumite civilization. Currently it is inhabited by over 150
monks but the number of nuns at the foot of the church’s cliff has decreased almost to none. It is
allowed only to men to climb the top of the hill but for women, it is hard to get accommodation
even at the foot of the monastery.

Yeha: it is little visited but evocative to visit. It is considered as the birth place of Ethiopia’s
early civilization. The ruins of buildings show its relation with Yemen. It is believed to be
established by colonists from, southern Arabia. The immense, windowless sandstone walls of the
ruins are the most enigmatic. The walls of the famous temple has been built only from slab

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stones but are well preserved. There is also a small museum containing both archaeological and
ethnographical treasures.

Al-Negashi: on a small hill around 10km north of Wukro is the tiny town of Negashi. It is the
oldest and holiest place for Muslims. The mosque was stood in the 7 thc. Negashi is the first site
of Muslim settlement in Ethiopia, by Mohammed’s fellows fleeing persecution in South Arabia.
Every year an important festival takes place at Negashi, attracting pilgrims.

Rock- hewn Churches of Tigrai: The chronology, art and technology possibly show a crucial
link between Axum and Lalibela. Some of the churches may even predate those at Lalibela.
Their architectural styles are less perfect than at Lalibela where the rock hewing tradition
reached its zenith. Many are pretty inaccessible; it is thought that security was major concern. In
other words, visiting some churches involves quite steep climb, visiting others involves a
scramble up almost sheer rock faces using just footholds in the rock. Right up until the mid-
1960s, the churches were almost unknown outside Tigrai, even to Ethiopians. Even today very
little is known about their origins, history or architects who designed them.

Though not perfect the number of the churches is estimated to be greater than 120. Many of the
churches are located in groups, referred to as “cluster”. The most famous clusters are: Gheralta-
contains the largest number of churches; Takatisfi (Tsaeda Imba) - the most accessible,
Tembien and Atsbi clusters. Mekelle makes the best base from which to explore the churches.

3.1.2 Attractions in and Around Lalibela

Lalibela was originally a monastic settlement. It latter become the permanent capital of Ethiopian
central government next to Aksum.

Lalibela is also known as ‘Petra of Africa’. Lalibela and its rock hewn churches are unarguably
the top attractions of Ethiopia. It ranks among the greatest religio-historical sites, not only on the
African continent but also in the Christian world. The churches are thought to date from the 12 th
or 13th c. When King Lalibela constructed the rock hewn churches, his purpose was to build the
second Jerusalem on the African continent and to minimize the sufferings of Christian society in
their journey to Jerusalem. Remarkably, Lalibela is the holiest place for Orthodox Christian

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society. It is not exaggeration to call Ethiopia as a country of rock-hewn churches. There are an
immense number of rock hewn and cave churches.

King Lalibela was exiled in fear of persecution from his half brother- fled to Jerusalem. There,
he wondered at the buildings he found, and he vowed build a new holy city when he returned to
his kingdom. He claims as it was heavenly vision he saw. In fact the buildings are different from
each other in style, craftsmanship and state of preservation that they may well span a much
longer period than Lalibela’s reign.

Who built the churches? Some scholars estimate as the construction would have taken 40,000
work force where as locals and faithful believe the work was speed up the help of celestial one.
However, Lalibela almost certainly represents the pinnacle of a very longstanding Ethiopian
building tradition.

The two international names used for Lalibela are;1) The New Jerusalem 2) The Eighth wonder
of the world

King Lalibela built the 11 rock hewn churches within 23 years. Based on their representation,
the churches are divided in to three groups.

 The first group symbolizes earthly Jerusalem

 The second group symbolizes heavenly Jerusalem
 The third group implies the Noh’s ship or ARK.

The types of the churches’ architecture are monolithic, semi monolithic and caves. There are
three reasons for the churches to make them outstanding and unique:

1. Many are not carved in to the rock, but freed entirely from it.
2. The buildings are refined.
3. These are so many within such a small area.

Alvares, the Portuguese writer described them as ‘edifices the like of which- and so many can’t
be found anywhere else in the world.’

The churches in Lalibela are divided in to three groups based on their location divided by a
seasonal river called Jordan.

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Northwest group of churches (earthly Jerusalem): life on earth

o Bête Medhanealem (house of the savior of the world): it is the biggest rock hewn
church in the world. Measuring 33.5m by 23.5m,it is supported by 74 pillars/columns- 34
large columns on the outside and 38 are inside which support the gabled roof. The
interior of the church contains a barrel valued nave and four aisles. The tourists are also
allowed to see the famous 7 kg golden cross of Lalibela. The panels that fill the windows
are decorated by different crosses.
o BêteMaryam (House of St.Mary): it is Lalibela’s first building and one of the most
entirely decorated in high standard. The ceiling and upper walls are painted by very early
frescoes, and the columns, capital and arches are covered by beautifully carved details.
The church is dedicated to Virgin Mary, who is highly venerated particularly in Ethiopia.
At the eastern end of the nave, is a column that is kept permanently wrapped in cloth.
Under the cloth are said to be inscribed the words ‘past and future of the world’.
o BêteMeskel (house of the cross): four pillars divide the gallery in to two aisles and
spanned by arcades. Some of the large caves in the chapel are still inhabited by hermits.
o Bêtedenagel (house of the Virgins): it is the least impressive, roughest and with out
windows from Lalibela churches.
o Bête Golgotha, Bête Michael and Selasie chapel: the twin churches of bête Golgotha
and Bête Michael are also known as Bête Debre Sina. Bête Golgotha is the only church
where females are not permitted to enter. Bête Golgotha is known for containing some of
the best early examples of Christian art in Ethiopia. It also contains Tomb of Christ,
Tomb of Adam and movable slab of stone, said to cover the most secrete place in the
holy city (i.e. the tomb of king Lalibela). The two churches (bête Golgotha and Bête
Michael) also boast among the most important religious treasures in Lalibela such as fine
processional crosses.

South East Group of Churches (heavenly Jerusalem): life after death

o BêteAmanuel (house of Emanuel): the free standing, monolithic church of bête

Amanuel is considered as one of the most finely carved churches in Lalibela. In style it is
Aksumite, more than any other churches in Lalibela.
o BêteMerkorios (house of st.Merkorios): it is decorated with beautiful frescoes.

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 o Bête AbaLibanos (house of father Libanos):it is unique among the town base churches
in that the only roof of the church remains attached to the overhead rock. This church is
said to be constructed in a single night by Lalibela’s wife, Meskel Kebra, with the help
from the Angles. It also reflects Aksumite architectural style.
o BêteGebriel- Rufael: this complex is made up of three halls and two courtyards. Its
monumental façade is its most interesting feature. King Lalibela is said to have addressed
his speech from the top of the church.

The Third Group of Churches (Noah’s ship)

Bête Giorgis (house of st.George); this is an isolated one lying slightly apart from the main
northern cluster- toward south of the town. King Lalibela has built this church at last. It is the
most famous and photographed of all Lalibela‘s churches and represents the apogee of the rock
hewn tradition of the time. Within the church there is an olive-wooden box carved by Lalibela
himself and used for storing his famous tools. There are also different religious manuscripts and
paintings providing more Information.

Churches outside the town

o Yemrehana Christos: it is the most beautiful of the churches outside the town. It has
been built at the top of the cave containing water and marble & olive wood panels. On the
back side of the church there are so many countless human remains of people who had an
interest to be buried here after receiving Holy Communion blessed by St. Yemrehana
Christos.
o Asheta Maryam: founded at the top of the mountain, the construction was started by
Lalibela completed by his son, Na’akuto la’ab. From the hill there are stunning views in
all directions. It i9s believed that king Na’akuto la’ab was buried.
o Na’akuto la’ab: it is simple but attractive church built under the natural cave. Some very
old stone receptacles collect the precious holy water (faithful use to recover from
different diseases) which drips from the roof church in the second section of the church,
Kidist. The church boasts various treasures including crosses crowns, gold painted drum
an illuminated Bible.

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Around the town of Lalibela, there are also other different churches with beautiful setting and
valuable treasures. Aerbatu Ensisa, Bilbla Giyorgis, Bilbla Kirkos, Abune Yosef are among the
outstanding churches worthwhile for visit.

Gishen Mariam

Set at elevation of 3,019 meter above sea level in Ambasel woreda, some 80 kilo meters
northwest of Dessie, Wollo and 480 km north of Addis Ababa lays a cross-shaped mountain. It is
one of the ancient, most sacred monasteries in Ethiopia, popularly known as the second
Jerusalem, “Debre Gishen”

Gishen is home to four churches: Gishen Maryam, Saint Gabriel, Saint Michael and God, the
Holy Father (Egziabher Ab). This holy place is where the sanctioning of a piece of the “True
Cross” took place in 325 E.C. Holy Church celebrates this festivity annually on October 1 st.

According to manuscripts of Ethiopian Orthodox Incarnation Church, it is the date whereby

Emperor Zar’a Ya’eqob (1434–1468) brought a piece of the “True Cross” on which Lord Jesus
Christ was crucified to “Gishen Amba” and buried it under the church of God, the Holy Father,
(Egziabher Ab) where it remains to this day and it is also the monthly commemoration date of
Saint Mary. The Ethiopian Orthodox Incarnation Church celebrates recurrently the discovery of
the True Cross on September 27th and the lodging of the piece of the True Cross at Gishen Debre
Kerbe on October 1. Holy Church solemnizes the festival of the Holy Cross commemorating its
historical background and holds it as her power and seal of salvation.

History has in scripted after our Country Ethiopia became amongst those powerful countries
received and kept the portion of the Holy Cross, Emperor Zar’a Ya’eqob explored and after
experiencing spiritual revelation, in search of a cross shaped topography in Ethiopia where he
was led by a light to Gishen.

The Cross is known in Amharic as “Gimade Meskel” which was then placed in Gishen. The
Holy Church of Egziabhier Ab (translates to God the father) stood, for over many hundreds of
years now, where the cross is kept; Church of Saint Virgin Mary standing adjacent to it.

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The findings of the ‘True Cross’ is the symbolization of Hope for all Christians in the name of
Lord Jesus Christ. Hence, laities gather around from different part of the country for the
pilgrimage to “Gishen” in commemorating the festivity of the Sanctioning of the ‘True Cross.’

Haik Estifanos

Hayik Estifanos Monastery is believed to be first founded as a church during the reign
of Emperor Dil Naod (916-926) by the Egyptian Aba Selama, who was the archbishop of the
Ethiopian Orthodox Church and later elevated to a monastery in the 13th century. It is one of the
most historically iconic and paramount monasteries in Ethiopia.

The monastery houses different priceless antiquities donated by different Emperors, holy articles,
and several parchment manuscripts, different stones and wooden carved tablets that are displayed
in the museum. Taking a look at the lake stretched surrounding the monastery, the attractive
natural landscape, birds flying down to the lake in search of their food and to the trees and
flocking over the lake and fishers’ stylish rowing over the water together make visitors feel an
exceptionally splendid pleasure.

Recently the number of domestic and foreign tourists coming to the site is increasing. Hence,
there are currently two standardized recreational resorts giving services by the shore of the lake.
The monastery lies on the peninsula and can be reached on foot from Hayik town. Women are
not permitted to enter the monastery but may visit the adjacent nunnery of Margebeta Giorgis,
which was reputedly founded about 800 years ago.

3.1.3 Attractions in and Around Gondar

Gondar was the 3rd capital city in Ethiopia next to Aksum and Lalibela respectively. It was
founded by emperor Fasiledes in 1636 and become capital city for about 200years.

Gondar has been called as ‘Africa’s Camelot’. Churches and castles are the main attractions of
the town.Some of the main attractions of Gondar include:

Royal Enclosure: Gondar’s Royal enclosure covers an area of 75,000 Sq. Km. The enclosure is
surrounded by the high stone walls and connected by a series of tunnels and raised walkways. It

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is not still certain who built the castles. However, it is supposed as there is influence of Indian,
Portuguese and Moorish. There are six graceful castles in the palace compound built by the
successive Gondarine kings of the 17th and 18th c.

1. Fasiladas castle: is the oldest, largest and the most impressive of the castles. It stands two-
storey high and it is topped by four small domed towers. The palace is made up of roughly
hewn brown basalt, and it shows unusual synthesis of Indian, Portuguese, Moorish as well as
Aksumite influences. It has a dining room and reception area, prayer room with four
windows which give the view of one of the many churches (1 st floor), and bedroom (2nd
floor).
2. Palace of Yohannes I: which was once decorated with ivory and was built by the son and
successor of Fasiledes; Yohannes. It is commonly known as the “Library of Yohannes”.
3. Palace of Iyasu I (Iyasu the Great): it was built by Iyasu I and looks like a saddle shaped
castle. In the former times, it was well decorated. Visitors described it as ‘it is more beautiful
than the others. But later on, it was damaged by the earthquake of 1704 and British bombing
of 1940s.
4. Castle of emperor Dawit III: used for religious, plentiful entertainments and lion house-
Abyssinian lions. It is locally known as the “house of song”.
5. Castle of emperor Bekaffa: it is a long V-shaped storied castle, located at the extreme north
of the compound to the left side.It has two long towers; one of them was served as a
banqueting and receptionist hall.
6. Mentewab castle- two- storied structure now used as the house of souvenir products and
public library. Empress Mentewab (wife of emperor Bekaffa and mother of Iyasu II) built it.

There are also different attractions outside the royal enclosure.

Fasiladas Bath: Around 2km northwest of the city center, the bath is attributed to Emperor
Fasiladas and Iyasu. It is large, shady, beautiful and rectangular sunken pool that is overlooked
by two storied tower surrounded by stone wall. It is known as bathing palace and constructed for
important religious celebrations, like Timket ceremony. Once a year, Fasiladas bath is filled
with water for important Timket ceremony. After being blessed by a priest, the pool becomes
the riot of spraying water, shouts and laugher as the crowd jump in. The celebration replicates
the baptism of CHRIST in the Jordan River.

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Kuskuam Complex: Lying in the hills about 3.5km northwest of the town centre andit was built
by Empress Mentewab. This royal compound is less preserved than Fasiladas royal enclosure; it
is made up of series of buildings including a long two-storied castellatedpalace used for state
reception and for housing the royal garrison. The church of Kuskuam contains paintings that
show many religious subjects of Orthodox Church. The first floor of the church also contains
mummified bodies of Mentewab herself and her son Iyasu II grandson, Iyoas.Within the church
there is a room that contains many royal treasures.

DebrebrhanSelasie: Lying around 2km to the north east of the royal enclosure and it is one of
the country’s most famous churches and one of highlights of Gondar and Ethiopia. The founder
of the church is Iyasu I andDebrebrhanSelasie, means ‘Trinity at the mount of light’. It shows
about 80 Ethiopian cherubs; the TRINITY, angels and other’s paintings. The paintings on the
wall depict different saints and the life of Christ from his conception to resurrection or
ascension. All those impressive paintings were by artist Haile Meskel. Full of the colour, life,
wit and humanity of Ethiopian art at its best they provide practically a compendium of Ethiopian
saints, martyrs and wisdom. The building by itself is rectangular in shape. It is the only
Gondarine church that survived the attack of the Mahdists in 1880s. According to the local
tradition, the church was saved from the sacking of the dervishes by swarm of bees.

Falasha Village (Wolleka): around 6km north of Gonder is the village of Wolleka, which was
the home of population of Falasha or Ethiopian Jews or Bête Israelis. Judaism was the dominant
religion in the northern Ethiopia before introduction of Christianity. But after introduction of
Christianity, Judaism became nominal in the country. Falasha’s are famous craftsmen and good
in pottery. Crafts, synagogue (their church) and their homes are worthwhile to visit. Currently
the number of Falasha’s’ is decreased due to war, persecution and emigration. Many of them
have been air lifted to Israel from 1985 to 1991.

Semien Mountain National Park

The Simien Mountains National Park’s (SMNP) name is traditionally linked to the Amharic
word “Semien” which means north. It is one of the best of national parks in terms of scenic
potential & variety. High rising volcanic plugs that are a result of a vast series of volcanic
activities in the past are the main and major attractions of the park.

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The SMNP, after being recommended by the UNESCO mission in 1965, was formally
established by 1966 and gazetted in 1966. Due to its unique landscape and the rich biodiversity
resources, the park was listed on the list of World Natural Heritage by UNESCO in 1978.

It is part of the area of wonderful topographical features known as “the roof of Africa”. It
includes opportunities for viewing a variety of wildlife, birdlife, and flora. The unchanging
traditional life of the local people, trekking, mountain hiking and ecological studies gives SMNP
its excellent potential as the first important place of interest to visit in the Ethiopian tourist circle.

Species recorded: 21 mammals and 180 birds

Charismatic species: Walia Ibex

Location: The Simien Mountains National Park is found North West of the country, in the
Amhara Regional State, about 850km from Addis Ababa and about 102km from Gondar. It has
an area of about 232.5km2 and is adjacent to Mt. Ras Dashen, which is the tenth highest peak in
Africa. It lies within the center of a triangle that forms part of the important historical sites of
Ethiopia which are regularly visited by a number of foreign tourists namely. This triangle includs
Axum, Gondar and Lalibela.

Rainy Season: The rainy season in the area occurs between June and mid- September. Average
annual rainfall is about 1550mm.

Temperature: The area usually experiences a cool climate, which ranges from -2.5 to 18
degrees. During the dry season early mornings are the coldest time of the day.

Gorgora

the little town of Gorgora, 67km south of Gonder on the northern shore of Lake Tana, makes a
pleasant excursion from Gonder for those with time, particularly for travelers interested in birds.
The most attractive relic of Gorgora’s former days as a capital is the attractive round church of
Debre Sina built in 1608 by emperor Susenyos; it is decorated with fine paintings like Murals of
Saint Mary. Other places to visit are Susenyos’ old palace, church of Birgida Maryam, and
monastery of Mendaba Medhanealem.

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 Another good time to visit Gondar is during the major festivals of Ethiopia like Timket and
Ledet.

3.1.4 Attractions in and around Bahir Dar

Bahirdar is one of the most attractive towns in Ethiopia with its plan, palm trees and its
locationnear by to Lake Tana. It is also the base to visit the Lake Tana monasteries & Blue Nile
Falls.

Lake Tana: Lake Tana covers over 3500km.sq which is the largest lake in Ethiopia. It is located
on the north central plateau of Amhara in the Ethiopian highlands, near Gondar. It had been
known to outsiders by different names. Egyptians call it choloepulas, Greeks call it pseboe.

Today Lake Tana is a home for large number of monasteries established on some of 20 of its 37
islands. Many of monasteries dated from 16th c. to 17th c. Even some have been sites of earlier
pre-Christian shrines. Currently, there are more than one thousand monasteries in various parts
of Ethiopia.

Lake Tana monasteries (16th c to 17th c): Using boat excursion in group & planning a
minimum of 2 days can be the best possible trip to visit all the monasteries. Amongst the most
famous monasteries:

I. Ura Kidane-mihret: It is the most famous of the Zegie peninsula monasteries& very
beautiful. It is also the most visited that holds collections of old crosses &crowns of 16 thto
17th c.it was founded by AbuneBetre Mariam.
II. Nagra Selasie: It was built in the mid of-18th c having Gondarine castle style but little
visited. Effigies (images) of Mentewab and James Bruce are engraved on the exterior of the
church. It is well known for its very impressive wall paintings.
III. Kebran Gebriel: it is the closest monastery to Bahirdar and was founded by
AbuneYohannes. It was founded in 17th c and is one of the most beautiful & atmospheric
monasteries. It is open only for men to visit.It is furnished with good paintings on the inner
sanctuary. It belongs to the monasteries of Zegie peninsula.
IV. Tana Kirkos: It is the most mysterious and important historically, since it is said that the Ark
of Covenant has been hidden for 800 years in this monastery and St.Yared stayed there for

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 few years and wrote different books which are still preserved there.It has also remnants
which show relation with Jewish. It is open only for men.
V. Daga Estefanos: The founder of the monastery is known as Abune HirutAmlak, who used to
cross Lake Tana by boat like stone, the stone that the monk used for transportation is seen in
the monastery today.It is one of the most sacred monasteries. It is open only for men.
Remains of ancient kings like emperor Fasiledes,YekunoAmlak,Dawit, and Susenyos e.t.c. is
found there.

Blue Nile Falls ( Tis-Isat Falls )

Known locally as Tis- Isat Falls - 'Smoke of Fire' - the Blue Nile Falls is the most dramatic
spectacle on either the White or the Blue Nile rivers. 400 meters (1,312 feet) wide when in flood,
and dropping over a sheer chasm more than 45 meters (150 feet) deep, the falls throw up a
continuous spray of water, which drenches on lookers up to a kilometer away. This misty deluge
produces rainbows, shimmering across the gorge, and a small perennial rainforest of lush green
vegetation, to the delight of the many monkeys and multicolored birds that inhabit the area.

To reach the falls, which is about 35 kilometers (22 miles) away from Bahir Dar, drive south
from Bahir Dar for about half an hour, and stop at Tis-Isat village. Here travelers will quickly
find themselves surrounded by a retinue of sometimes overzealous youthful guides who, for a
small fee, will show the way and point out several places of historic interest in route.

After leaving the village the footpath meanders first beside open and fertile fields, then drops
into a deep rift that is spanned by an ancient, fortified bridge built in the seventeenth century by
Portuguese adventurers and still in use. After a thirty-minute walk, a stiff climb up a grassy
hillside is rewarded magnificent view of the falls, breaking the smooth edge of the rolling
thundering cataract of foaming water. A rewarding but longer trek is to walk along the east bank
all the way to the back of the falls; crossing the river by tankwa. The site overlooking the
waterfall has had many notable visitors including Queen Elizabeth II of Britiain.

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Bezawit Mariam Hill

Two-and-a-half kilometres south of Bezawit Mariam church, northeast of Bahir Dar town, are
Bezawit Hill. Its summit holds a former palace of Haile Selassie, which is not open to visitors
and cannot be photographed. Viewpoints both in front and behind offer panoramic views over
Lake Tana, Nile River and Bahir Dar town. They are great at sunset. No public transport comes
near here.

Gish Abay (Source of the Blue Nile)

Gish Abay is a town in west-central Ethiopia. Located in the Mirab (West) Gojjam Zone of the
Amhara Region, it is the administrative center of Sekela woreda. The town is named after the
nearby Mount Gish and the Abay River (Blue Nile) whose source is in the foothills of the
mountain. It is the administrative center of Sekela woreda.

Gish Abay is best known as the source of the Abay, or Blue Nile, also known as Felege Ghion in
Ge'ez, the liturgical language of Ethiopia. Felege Ghion consists of three small springs found
within a diameter of about 20 meters. These waters are believed to have a healing power and
considered holy by the Ethiopian Church. The first European recorded as having visited the
source of Blue Nile at Gish Abay is Pedro Páez, a Spanish missionary, who arrived at these
springs 21 April 1618. In the 18th century, the culture and religion of the local people of Gish
Abay was chronicled in detail by the 18th century explorer, James Bruce. The British Consul
Robert Cheesman was one of the later discoverers who published a geographical description of
the area. A more recent expedition is made by a group of American navigators who navigate the
river from its source at Gish to the Mediterranean Sea, led by geologist Pasquale Scaturro, whose
adventure was related in the film Mystery of the Nile.

About 100 meters north of the source of Abay is the church of Gish Abay Felege Ghion Abune
Zerabruk Monastery, which has been one of the most respected centers for church education over
the past centuries. Although local inhabitants believe the monastery was founded in the 17th
century by a local saint called Abune Zerabruk, whose memory is honored with a celebration at
the church each year on Tir 13 (January 20), Cheesman speculated that the name of the saint is a

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corruption of the explorer James Bruce. There is also another church in the town, dedicated to
Saint Mary, with considerable spiritual significance. Together with other sites in Sekela woreda,
like Fasildes Castle and Lake Gudera, Gish Abay is now identified as a notable tourist
destination in Gojjam.

Choke Mountain tourism village

The Choke Mountains are a large block of highland found in central Gojjam, from Aba Felassie
forest (near Debre work) in the east and close to Tillili town in the west. The mountain range is
located on a plateau that rises from a block of meadows and valleys at 2800m asl. rising to the
highest point of the range, mount choke, at 4184m asl, located north of Debre Markos.

The mountain which is known by its bio-diversity rich hotspot, is a water tower of the upper
Blue Nile Basin and a source of over 60 rivers and 270 springs. Choke watershed extend from
tropical alpine environments at over 4000m elevation to the hot and dry Blue Nile gorge that
includes areas below 1000m elevation, and contain a diversity of slope forms and soil types. The
watershed has six different agro-ecology zones with various bio-diversity and the source of many
tributaries to the Nile. Majority part of it is coverage by mountain and gorges, which are source
of river waters that are mostly tributary to the Blue Nile. Choke Mountain by itself contributes
more than 10% of the Nile water, so the ecosystem is not invaluable for just Ethiopia the
downstream countries.

In addition to the approximately 3386 km2 wetland area, the mountain is endowed with
resources for recreation. The watershed covers most parts of the Upper Blue Nile Gorge,
historical places and heritages, and partly fertile arable lands. The area has physical diversity and
accompanying socioeconomic contrasts.

The United Nation World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has recognized Choke Mountains
Ecovillage as one of the Best World Tourism Village (BTV) of 2022. The village, which found
in the third highest mountain in Ethiopia Choke Mountain, is located about 300km northwest of
Addis Ababa in West Gojam Zone at Dega Damot Woreda. It is a place where a unique tourism
experience that combines environmental protection, community wide tourism and unique
tourism experience is held. UNWTO gave recognition to the village which considers rural

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development as driving force to preserve, promote and develop natural and cultural heritages,
community values and folklore, tourism products and life styles for economic, social
environmental benefits. Choke Mountains Ecovillage is build based on the ideology of Mulu Eco
lodge.

Mertule Mariam Monastry

Mertule Mariam is an ancient historical place located in Amhara Regional State, in East
Gojjam Zone in Enebese Sarmider Woreda. Mertule Mariam is one of the eighteen
districts of East Gojjam Zone with the center at Debre Markos . Mertule Mariam
monastery is found at about 364 kilometers from the capital Addis Abeba.Its distance
from the regional capital Bahr Dar, is about 180 kilometers .It is also located 190
killometers north east of Debre Markos and also situated 28 kilometers south east of
Gundawoyen,a town with denes forest on the Addis Abeba –Bahr Dar road through
Debre worq.The town of Mertule Mariam , particularly the eastern edge where the
monastery are now located is found at a flat topped hill over 2600 meters above sea level.
This top hill has had an important site in the historical evolution of the town serving as a
place where church and the monastery were constructed.

Topographically, Mertule Mariam is found in the climate condition of Wayna Dega, an

the intermediate zone between Dega and Qolla temperature Zone. In general Enebse sar
mider woreda is bounded by Wollo provience and Abbay river in the east, Enarji enawuga
woreda in the west, Southern Gonder Zone, and Goncha sisso enesa woreda in the north
and the desert of Somma in the South. Mertule Mariam is approximately located between 10°42‘
and 10°45‘N and 37°51‘E in Gojjam province of northwest Ethiopia, situated at an altitude of
2500 m above sea level. and close to the Choke Mountain Geographically, it occurs on the
western fringes of the Choke Mountain range, the closest point being Motta, about 40 km away
from Mertule Mariam town. It is generally a mountainous area, with the terrain consisting of
cliffs gorges, undulating slopes, patches of woodland, and lowland plateau. Many small streams
originate in the mountains.

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3.1.5 Attractions around North Shewa

Ankober Palace

Located on the eastern fringes of the Ethiopian highlands, around 170km (or a 3½ hour drive)
from Addis Ababa, sits the tiny town of Ankober. Bearing in mind its historical significance,
Ankober is a deceptively small settlement. Once the epicentre of the Kingdom of Shoa, it only
diminished in status in 1886, when Emperor Menelik moved the capital to the current location in
Addis.

Founded by Merid Azmatch Amha Iyesus, a powerful leader descended from the Solomonic
dynasty, Iyesus’ descendants would rule from Ankober’s for around a century. A number of
Shoan rulers are buried in churches in the surrounding area.

Indeed, Ankober serves as a good base for discovering the many fascinating and famous
religious buildings in the area, including Mantiq, a nearby monastery with Judeo-Christian
traditions, the 19th century Catholic missionary Aba Massayas (making this one of the most
important historical centres of Catholicism in Ethiopia) and the Ankober Medhane Alem Church,
where Menelik married his bride Itegue Taytu, and where the golden wedding cloak is still kept.

On a nearby hilltop, the crumbling ruins of Menelik II’s old palace are found. Meanwhile
evidence of the diplomatic missions – that Britain, France and Italy established here during that
Menelik’s reign – can also be distinguished in the town itself. South of Ankober, lies Aliyo
Amba, once an important trade centre connecting the highlands with the Red Sea port of Zeila.
The cobblestones of the famous coffee caravan route which joined the two still remain.

The highlands surrounding Ankober, which sit at an elevation of some 2,500m, are great for
hiking and even more rewarding for birdwatchers. The very rare endemic Ankober serin can be
found here, while two breeds of seedeater, the white throat and the yellow throat may also be
spotted.

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Wof Washa Forest

Wof Washa Natural Forest is located in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia approximately 130 km
north of Addis Ababa. It is Ethiopia’s oldest proclaimed state forest and is rich in biodiversity. It
is home to a number of plant and animal species that are unique and some that are endemic to
Ethiopia and East Africa. Plants such as Tossign (Thymus serrulatus), Megfra (Lobellia
rhynchopet), and Guassa (Festica spp.), birds including the Ankober soren and Rupelles chat,
and animals such as Menilik dukula, Gelada baboon and Gureza (colobus monkey) are a few of
the species that have been identified. The forest area is in the highlands of the region where
intensive crop cultivation has been carried out for many centuries. Land is a scarce commodity.

It is one of the few remaining forest areas and the only major natural forest in the Amhara region
and is considered to be the most threatened forest ecosystem in the region. The North Shewa
Zone of the Amarha Regional State is one of the most intensively cultivated areas due to long
time settlement and very high population pressure. In the recent past the demand for agricultural
land by an increasing population has removed important vegetation cover to the extent of
deforesting areas not suitable for cultivation. A baseline survey carried out by SUNARMA in
June 2002 indicated that the natural forest remnants and woodlands of Wof Washa Forest were
being reduced at an alarming rate. The 2002 survey indicated that the natural forest cover was
about 8,290 ha, a reduction of nearly 1000 ha from the 9,260 ha that was identified in 1994 forest
inventory carried out by North Shewa Zone Agricultural Office.

Guassa Community Conservation Area

The Guassa Community Conservation Area (GCCA) is a protected area in central Ethiopia. It
is one of the oldest known common property resource management in Sub-Saharan Africa. It has
been the focus of an indigenous natural resource management institution, known as “Qero,”
system for over 400 years. It is located 80 km off the main highway, and is home to numerous
endemic birds and wildlife species, including the iconic Ethiopian wolf and the Ethiopian gelada.
The high altitude Afro-alpine grassland or Guassa” grass gives the area its name.

GCCA lies at a latitude of 10° 15′ – 10° 27′ N and longitude of 39° 45′ – 39° 49′ E. The area is
part of the Menz-Gera Administrative District in the North Shoa Administrative Zone of the

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regional state of Amhara Region. The district capital is the town of Mehal Meda located 20 km
from the Guassa Area. The Guassa Area ranges in altitude from 3,200 to 3,700 meters above sea
level. The rugged mountain plateau is crosscut by gorges and river valleys running westwards.
The area forms the watershed between the Nile and Awash River systems and thus performs an
important hydrological function and catchment area. The eastern edge of the Guassa Area falls
away abruptly as cliffs drop into the Great Rift Valley. Just 100 km away, the land melts into the
Awash plain forming the floor of the Great Rift Valley.

The population of the Menz Gera Administrative District is about 111,000. The population is
predominantly Amhara, one of the largest cultural ethnic groups in the country. Their language is
Amharic, the official language of Ethiopia, which is a Semitic language descended from Ge’ez,
the ancient liturgical language of Ethiopia now only used in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church to
which most people belong.

Flora

Guassa supports important and endemic plant species including Guassa grass, giant lobelia,
Erica moorlands, Helichrysum and Alchemilla species. The Afro-montane vegetation of the
Guassa Area varies with altitude and is a key attraction of the area. Other common plant species
found in the area include Carex monostachya, Carex fischeri and Kniphofia foliosa of the family
Asphodelaceae. Climbing in altitude, Euryops-Alchemilla shrubland occurs over 3,200 meters on
flat, gentle slopes and well-drained areas. The shrubby vegetation of Euryops pinifolius
(Compositae family is extensively used as firewood by the communities living adjacent to the
Guassa Area. Above 3,200 meters, Euryops-Festuca grassland is usually interspersed with
scattered structures similar to Mima mounds that can reach a height of 1.5 meters and a diameter
of 5 to 10 meters. These mounds consist of highly organic and deep soil. They are made by
rodents, the most important of which is the common mole rat. As the altitude increases, the
vegetation changes abruptly to Helichrysum-Festuca type of grassland followed by Erica
moorland. The torch lily or red-hot poker (Kniphofia spp.) covers entire hillsides with its flame-
colored flowers between June and November. The palm-like giant lobelia (Lobelia
rhynchopetalum) is most spectacular and reaches up to 12 meters in height.

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Fauna

Mammals

The Guassa area harbors nine (23%) of the endemic mammals of Ethiopia, including the
Ethiopian wolf, the Gelada and the Ethiopian highland hare. The Ethiopian wolf is legally
protected and with a total world population of less than 450 is the most endangered canid in the
world. With six packs of wolves, the Guassa area is a key population of the species. [2] The gelada
is the only living member of the once widespread genus Theropithecus and is only found in the
highlands of northern Ethiopia. They live in large groups reaching up to 400 individuals where
the spectacular male guard harems of females. Other mammals of the area include klipspringers,
jackals, leopards, spotted hyenas, civets and servals.

Avifauna
114 bird species have been recorded in the Guassa Area: 12% of the 862 species of birds in
Ethiopia. The area is also home to a multitude of birds of prey and serves as a wintering ground
for 38 species of Palearctic and intra-African migratory birds. Endemic birds include: Ankober
serin (Serinus ankoberensis), Abyssinian catbird (Parophasma galinieri), Abyssinian longclaw
(Macronyx flavicollis), blue-winged goose (Cyanochen cyanoptera), Ethiopian/black-headed
siskin (Serinus nigriceps), black-winged lovebird (Agapornis taranta), Rouget's rail (Rougetius
rougetii), spot-breasted plover (Vanellus melanocephalus), thick-billed raven (Corvus
crassirostris), wattled ibis (Bostrychia carunculata), white-collared pigeon (Columba
albitorques) and white-winged cliff chat (Myrmecocichla semirufa).

Debre Libanos

Founded in 1284 by Abuna Tekle Haymanot, Debre Libanos Monastery served as the centre of
the Ethiopian Church for almost 500 years. The monastery’s chief abbot, called the Ichege, was
second only to the head of the whole Ethiopian Church.

Tekle Haymanot was an influential religious and political figure who was instrumental both in
spreading Christianity through the region and in reinstating the rule of the Solomonic dynasty
after several centuries of Zegwe reign. He is usually depicted with six wings and one leg.

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Tradition has it that after spending seven years (or 29 years, depending who you ask) standing on
one leg, praying, his other leg fell off.

The monastery complex sits on a terrace between a cliff and the gorge of one of the tributaries
of the Blue Nile. Although today, the site has a calm, tranquil feel, situated amongst pleasant
woodland and streams, in 1937 this was the site of one of the worst atrocities of the Italian
occupation. Fascist troops attacked and destroyed the monastery, killing 297 monks, more than
100 deacons and at least 400 lay people.

None of the original buildings of Debre Libanos survive. Although two new churches have been
built: the church over Tekle Haymanot’s tomb, which Emperor Haile Selassie ordered to be
constructed in 1961, and a slightly older Church of the Cross, where a fragment of the True
Cross is said to be preserved; it never regained the same status it previously held as a centre of
religious learning, despite being home to five religious schools. It does, however, remain an
important pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians, who come to pay homage to the bones of the
massacred monks.

Along the side of the church, if you cross the river and continue uphill for about 15 minutes, this
is spot where Saint Tekle Haimanot is believed to have prayed. Sick people queue to receive
holy water here as it is believed to be blessed the saint’s prayers.

Portuguese Bridge and Blue Nile Gorge

There is controversy about the origins of the so-called Portuguese Bridge. According to some, it
was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese, but others say that it was built by Ras Darge
(Emperor Menelik II’s uncle) in the 19th century. After crossing the bridge, walk a short way
along the side of the river until and you'll reach on a large rock from where you can see a
magnificent 600m waterfall. The waterfall is at its most impressive during the rainy season
(July-September). You may also see endemic Galada Baboons here.

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3.2 Attractions in Southern Ethiopia

Tiya

Remarkably little is known about the origin of Tiya or of the meanings of the symbols that are
carved up on them. Listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, the stele field at Tiya today
comprises some 45 stones of up to 2m in height. The largest stele on the field originally stood
5m high, but only the base remains in situ-the top part has been removed to the university in
Addis Ababa. The major carved designs of the Tiya monuments are the swords, kind of plants or
carvings of leaves below the sword, carved circles, a carving like the letter ‘M’ on its side and
the carving like the letter ‘X’ with slightly curved lines.
Different scholars give different meanings for the carved designs of Tiya monuments.
carved basic features Suggestions of representations
designs
The  They are carved differently on the o Number of enemies or big
swords monuments. wild animals killed by the
 Some of them point upwards and warriors.
others down wards; even on the same o Monuments of battles
stone. o Celebration of victories.
Carvings  They are a kind of plants or carvings of  Images of the Enset or false
of leaves leaves below the sword. banana.
 Images of the ancient
Ethiopian wooden pillow.
Carved - They are found mainly below the Images of the sun and the
circles handles of sword, or along side with moon.
them. Graves of women or wives
- Sometimes circles are situated in of warriors.
pairs.
Table: carved designs and representations of Tiya monuments

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Culture of the peoples’ in South Omo Valley Villages

It seems facile to label south omo as a living museum. Yet in many senses, that exactly what it
is. Southomo is often portrayed as some sort of cultural garden. This notion is unduly romantic.
Romanticize or condemn it, south omo is there, it is fascinating and it is utterly unique. It is a
region where age-old African cultures are still –practiced. Around the omo, clothing style for
men are simple in the extreme; ranging from nothing at all among the Bume, the Karo and the
Galebi; to plain wrap–around clothes and togas amongst the Amer and Bena.
Multipleearnings,elaborated hair style shapes are also their characteristics. Markets in omo
valley are colorful.

This area is almost unique in the world being home to so many people in such a small area.
Quite different ethnic groups like Cushitic, Nilotic, Omotic, and Semiticmet from all directions.
The people are known in their body decorations, lip plate hair style, and different traditional
cultures such as:

 Hamer & Banna periodic ceremonies (jumping of bulls or Maz);held from July to
September and the 1st half of December. It is performed in areas of Turmi and Dimeka. It
marks the imitation of the young men in to the adulthood. It is in this ceremony that the fate
of a young Hamer man is determined. Besides the ceremony of Maz,greater attention has
been given to hair styling and decoration of the Hamer people.Hamer night dancing is known
as Evangadi.
 The Karo people: besides the Hamer,’bull jumping’ is also an important feature of the Karo
people. They call it Pilla. More than other peoples of the omo valley,body painting and
scarification characterize the Karo people.TheKaro are also famous in their traditional dance.
They are considered as endangered groups.
 Mursi and Surma people: women lip plates and the ‘Donga’ (stick fighting) are the major
features of both the Surma and Mursi people of the omo valley. Atpresent, the practical use
of the lip plate is as a sign of beauty. Body painting is also an important part of these people
to make them more attractive to the opposite sex.TheMursi are more subject to recent
television documentaries and are theymost known from the omo valley peoples.
 Dorze: Belonging to one of the many branches of Omotic peoples of the southwest, Dorze
are famous for huge beehive huts (standing up to 12m high).The huts look fragile but made

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 up of hard wood poles and can last up to 60 years; they can be easily transported to the new
location. TheDorze people are also known for their woven cloth locally called’Shema’. The
Dorze are more over known for theircolorful celebration of ‘Meskel’.
 Chencha: The famous weavers are known by their best woven cotton and it is a place where
fine cotton Shema (cotton Togas), Gabi (thicker Shema) can be bought. So that, there is a
colorful market that displays woven products of Chencha.
 Konso: Konso refers to both the land and the people. The town of Konso is the gate way to
Omo valley & beyond. Most of them are pagan societies. The Konso people have a long
tradition of commemorating dead heroes with carved wooden figures known as’Waka’which
literally means something of the grandfather. Konso are most famous in agricultural
economy & boast of rich culture. Surrounding the villages and fields are sturdy stone walls,
which serve as a defense against straying cattle and flash flooding, as well as against
intruders. Visitors must enter a Konso house on hands & knees, via wooden tunnels. A
popular excursion from Konso is to the village of Gesergio (pronounced as gas-ag-ee-yo)
popularly known as ‘New York’.Local tradition- when a sacred drum is stolen the God
himself retrieves it with his hands.
 Jinka: located 138km north from Konso, is the nearest town to the Omo and Mago NPs. At
1490m ASL, it feels like a breath of fresh air after travelling in muggy and muddy lowlands.
After a raid in to omo, Jinka can seem like Paris for its standard in addition to services and
facilities.
 Ari:they are known for keeping large livestock and produce large amount of honey, often
used for trade. Women wear skirts made from the Enset tree.
 Banna:most of them practice agriculture,though their diet is supplemented by hunting. If
they manage to kill buffalo, they decorate them selves with clay and put on a special
celebration and feast for the whole village.
 Bumi:they are agro-pastoralists. They are known as war mongers and are at war with almost
every one, particularly 5the Karo,Hamer and the Surma. TheBumi use scarification for
cosmetic purposes, tribal identification and as indication of prowess in battle.
 Dizi:they are sedentary agriculturalists. They also practice terracing on the mountain slopes.
 Koygu:they are also known as Muguji. They are known for fishing and for hunting of the
hippo,which they eat. They use both guns and traps for hunting

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3.3 Eastern Ethiopia

Harar

The spiritual heart of Ethiopia’s larger Islamic community, Harar is considered as the 4th holiest
city in the world after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem.

For centuries as a cross road for every conceivable commerce, the town boomed, great dynasties
of rich and powerful merchants grew up & the arts flourished. Then it used as the center of art
for long period of time. Harar becoming a kind of commercial meeting point for Africa, India
and Middle East. Right up until 1850, it was the most important market in the Horn. Still now it
holds special significance for Ethiopian Muslims. Perhaps it is Ethiopia’s most under estimated
attraction regardless of its remarkable intuition.

In the 17th and 18th c, Harar became known as an important center of Islamic scholarship.
Handicrafts flourished, book binding, weaving and basketry practiced. Since 1875, Harar was
controlled by Egyptians for a decade and finally defeated by Menelik II in 1887. Undeniably for
years Harar was closed to Christians. In 1854, Richard Burton was the first non- Muslim person
to enter the city. But latter on the town attracted many foreign merchants from India, Armenia,
England and France. The famous French poet, Arthur Rimbaud spent some of his last time in this
town.

With the new government and new federal constitution of 1995, Harar won a victory to be an
independent city- state among the nine regions and the two metropolitan administrations
comprising the FDRE. There are more than 90 mosques in Harar which is the largest
concentration of mosques in the world.

Harar Wall

In 1520, the local emir Abu Baker shifted his capital from one of the early capital of Adal to
Harar. But the emir was overthrown by the legendary Ahmed Ibn Ibrahim Al Ghazi (Gragn
Ahmed). Fourteen years of war against the Christian empire of the west, during which time the
rich resources of the city were depleted. By the time Great leader of the time himself was killed.
The town had fallen up on hard times. A new threat then arose; the north wards expansion of

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Oromo. In response, Nur Ibn Al wazir Mujahid erected thick, 5m- high walls around the town,
which stands to this day.

In side the Wall: the walled city of Harar covers an area about 1km.sq. An exploration of the
walled town locally known as Jegol begins at the maim gate (durke’s gate). There are about
seven gates in total (Harar gate,showa gate,Buda gate,sanga gate,erer gate,fallana gate and
Duke’s gate). The most important land mark with in the walls,at least for orientation purpose,is
the central square known as “Feresmegala;literally”horse market”.Someof the main attractions
of the walled old town of Hararinclude;

 Bête Medhanealem cathedral

 Arthur Rimbaud’s house; currently used as Museum containing series of panels illustrate
about the life history of Rimbaud, old photographs, traditional Adare arts and crafts.
 Ras Tafari’s house – the house bears his pre-coronation name.
 Jamia Mosque: Harar’sgreatest mosque built in 16th c.
 GidirMegala; previously known as Muslim Market.
 Traditional Adare houses (Gegar).
 Shrines and tombs of religious leaders and rulers.

Outside the wall; the main attractions include;

 Asma’ addin Bari market or new market (also known as Christian market).
 The center of Ras Mekonon square; the equestrian statue of the Ras, cast in bronzy by
well known artist Afework Tekle.
 Hyena feeding: Hyena feeding is possibly becomingHarar’s greatest attraction &
certainly most famous. Recently it has been documented in CNN- clips of ‘world culture’.
Hyena feeding is performed outside of the wall. As night falls, the last remaining hyena
men set themselves just outside the city wall. It is a memorable spectacle. The hyena men
know the animals as individuals and call them by the names they have given them, such as
krincaiyo (Grinder), cha’ala (Big Girl), defkinater (no fussy) etc.

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 Diredawa

 It boasts with unusual distinction of town planning. It is the second populous city in the
country. The town features straight, tree lined streets, neat squares and some interesting
colonial architectural influence of Italy, France, and Arab. Indeed, Diredawa is
commercial centre and includes markets such as kafira market: has some Moorish style of
architectural feature, Dire Dawa marketis also known as Taiwan with cheap electronic
goods, and Ashawa market

Sheikh Hussein

It is located north of Sof Omar cave and is one of the most important sites for Muslim
pilgrimages. The complex consists of an attractive little mosques, tombs and caves. It is said that
Sheik Hussein himself used the cave to seek some peace and quiet for prayers. At least 500 years
old, it is dedicated to the 13th c holy man, responsible for the conversion of many Bale and Arsi
Oromo to Islam. Moreover, it is considered to be the first in Africa and among the most known
in the world. This peaceful and atmospheric place attracts pilgrimages mainly during May and
October and minor festivals during February and September. The place is open for all faiths.
The journey to the site lets to travel through some very beautiful scenery, where bird life is
abundant.

Danakil Depression

 “Feel cool “at the hottest place on planet earth

 Bonanza of geological fascination camping near active volcano
 Breathtaking sulphur caked flowers and hot springs
 Thousands of Camels on caravan loaded with salt bars
 Villages of Afar Tribe where the first humans lived

The Danakil is an area of singular geological fascination: a strange lunar landscape studded
with active volcanoes, malodorous sulfur-caked hot springs, solidified black lava flows, and vast
salt-encrusted basins.
It is some measure of the Danakil's geological activity that more than 30 active or dormant

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volcanoes-roughly one-quarter of the African total are listed by the Smithsonian Institute Global
Volcanism Program. These volcanoes are all geological infants, having formed over the past
million years, and a great many took their present shape within the last 10,000. The most
regularly visited volcanic range in the Danakil is Erta Ale, which consists of seven active peaks
extending over an area of 2,350 km square between Ertale Ale (287m, on the West Shore of
Lake Asale ) to Haile Gubbi (521 m, about 20km North of Lake Afrera ). Erta Ale is listed as the
most active volcano in Africa for over 120 years and the most active until now is over 38 years. .
Extracted from a number of salt pans scattered around the Afar Depression, the salt-bars still
form a major item of trade for the Afar people, who transport them on camelback to Tigray along
the ancient caravan routes with more than three thousand camels lined up.

It is one of active volcanic areas in the world where a lake of malted rock can be seen in a
dramatic colorful appearance. It is hard to give a good explanation of the natural phenomenon .

Active volcano Danakil and Erta' Ale!!!Nowhere else but in Ethiopia!!!

Bale Mountains National Park

With its majestic boundaries, the Bale Mountain is the only natural conservation site left in
Africa preserving its unique flora and fauna with relatively undisturbed examples of five
vegetation zones and the longest afro alpine moor land in Africa. Here one can experience a
beautiful highland drive above three thousand meters for over 100kms. It is a place where one
can relax while driving among the memorable scenic mountain chains and incredible wildlife
such as the old basalt mountains that are a breeding ground for the gigantic bearded vultures
known as Lammergeyers. If you have time, it is also very rewarding to experience the park via
some of the best trekking in Africa.

In Bale, you can stay in an altitude of 2,200m above sea level and yet to see the second highest
mount Tullo Demtu, 4377m rising above you. The spectacular alpine scenery, particularly on
the 4000m high Senetti Plateau, provides you with more than 400 species of Birds including 12
of Ethiopia’s endemics; endemic vegetation species such as the Giant Lobelia rising up to 5
meters and the beautiful Red Hot Poker, Harana forest (the only cloud canopy forest left in the

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country); and wild animals such as the rare and endemic Ethiopian wolf (a visit to Bale gives you
the best chance of seeing these critically endangered animals) , together with the Giant Mole
Rats, Mountain Nyala, Menelik’s Bushbuck, Warthogs, Cerval Cat, Hyenas, and many
Gazelles. You also have the chance to see the alpine lakes harboring rare fish species on a day
excursion in the area.

It is certainly breathtaking to stay in the afro alpine moorland scenic area and it is sure to be an
unforgettable experience!!!

Awash National Park

Leave early to drive 225 kms southeast of Addis to Awash National Park, home to large
mammals which include beisa oryx, greater and lesser kudu, defassa waterbuck, hamadryas and
anubis baboon and 5 endemic birds. The mighty Awash River creates a southern boundary to the
Park and forms powerful waterfalls in a stunning canyon adjacent to the Headquarters. Drive to
visit the pools of hot springs that make an especially enjoyable stop for bird watching.

3.4 Attractions in Western Ethiopia

Western Ethiopia is the least-travelled part of the country. Administratively, it contains the
regions of Gambela, with its eponymous capital and national park, Benishangul-Gumaz, and the
western zones of Oromia. Historically, this region encompassed the provinces of Welega,
Illubabor and Kaffa.

Still unknown by the tourism industry, this part of Ethiopia is very rich in natural beauty such as
green rolling hills with dense forests teeming with wild animals and birds, the Omo river
Canyon, waterfalls, coffee and tea plantations and fertile soil where fruits, crops and vegetables
abundantly grow. In the far west the climate and landscape changes abruptly when you go down
to the swampy lowlands with their hot, humid atmosphere near the Sudanese border.

The word "coffee" comes from the name of the former region "Kaffa"where coffee first was
discovered by a herds boy as a stimulant and later was used as the black liquid which is so well
known now all over the world. For ages the secret of coffee remained in Ethiopia. In the 16th
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century coffee was brought to Arabia by traders and cultivated there and in the 17th century it
was introduced in Europe. The biggest coffee plantations of Ethiopia are still in the Kaffa region
and coffee is still the biggest export product of Ethiopia. West Ethiopia is inhabited by the
Oromo, Nuer and Anuak people and different smaller tribes. In Jimma and in Nekemte are
interesting museums where you can learn more about the culture of these tribes.

Jimma

This is the biggest and most modern town of the west with a green and friendly atmosphere. It
was the capital of the kingdom of Jimma (founded in the 14th century) which became powerful
by the trade of coffee and reached the summit of its wealth in the 19th century. The last king of
Jimma was the powerful King Abba Jiffar (1878-1932) who built a palace in Jiren, 8 km. from
Jimma. This palace is recently restored and can be visited daily.
The museum has an interesting collection of traditional arts and crafts, fine woodwork and
musical instruments.

Jimma Museum

Jimma museum displays most of historical materials of King Abba Jifar, his kingdom and
cultural objects of local Oromo People as well as neighboring regions people cultural objects,
clothes and dressing. The major things found in the museum are the personal household furniture
of the king that includes beds of Abba Jifar, armchairs, utensils, religious manuscripts and others.
One thing that makes this museum unique and amazing are rewarded materials, dressings and
other expensive and historical objects from local king as well as from foreign kings.

Palace of Abba Jiffar

King Jiffar (1852–1933), who was one of the most important Kafa kingdom rulers, held power at
the end of the 19th century. The palace contains a private family mosque (still in use) and rooms
that served as library, throne room, reception chamber, king’s guard room, sentry tower,
courthouse and guesthouse. Almost 1.6km back down the hill lies the king's tomb.

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Gambella

Gambella at the shore of the Baro River is the last city before the Sudanese border and it tastes
Sudanese as well as Ethiopian. It has a subtropical hot and humid climate. Its inhabitants, the
Anuak and Nuer are very friendly people. The Anuak are fisherman and mixed agriculturists,
very tall and dark skinned, and they speak a language related to that of the Luo in Kenya. The
Nuer came from Sudan and are smaller than the Anuak but also dark-skinned. It is interesting to
visit the markets of the Nuer and Anuak in the town or to visit their villages outside and taste
their culture and way of living. Or you can meet them near the Baro River where they come
together for a bath, a walk or a gossip which is a colorful picture. It is a pleasant walk going
along the riverside to see the old pier and steamship, silent witnesses of the industrious past of
Gambella.

Gambela National Park

Gambela National Park is Ethiopia's greatest wildlife show-in-waiting, and being difficult to get
to doesn't change that. It has vast herds of migrating antelope species and what are thought to be
sizeable populations of predators, so if current predictions are borne out in ongoing surveys, this
park – along with Boma National Park across the border in South Sudan – could have wildlife
numbers to rival the famous reserves of Kenya and Tanzania. It's also rather beautiful, with
savannah, flood plains and riverside forests.

Anuak Market

In Gambela's north is the Anuak market. Vendors sit in the shade of the trees selling cereals,
firewood, large Nile perch and tobacco. To pass the time, many indulge in akowyo (water-pipe)
smoking. You can taste the borde (traditional sorghum ‘beer’), served to thirsty marketgoers
from metal buckets.

New Land (Nuer Villages)

The Nuer villages on the outskirts of Gambela, known collectively as New Land, are the easiest
to get to, and can give a wonderful insight into the lives of the local people. Cattle have

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historically been of the highest symbolic, religious and economic value to the Nuer. Sharon
Hutchinson writes that "among Nuer people the difference between people and cattle was
continually underplayed.” Cattle are particularly important in their role as bride wealth, where
they are given by a husband's lineage to his wife's lineage.

Kafa Coffee Museum

Many believed that Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee (not South America, which some believe).
The indigenous coffee trees (which some experts say, are the only native coffee trees in the
world) first grew in ancient "Abyssinia," which is now present day Ethiopia. These trees
blossomed in an area called "Kaffa" and the trees were called "Kafa," which may as well be the
root word for coffee. In the tenth century, coffee was considered as a food for the local residents.
These people gathered the coffee beans from the trees that grew in the region, ground them up
and mixed them with animal fat, forming small balls that they carried as rations on trips.

By the 13th century, coffee's restorative powers were well known in the Islamic world. Coffee
was considered a potent medicine, as well as a religious potion that helped keep people wake
during prayers. Pilgrims of Islam spread the coffee throughout the Middle East and by the end of
the 15th century; coffeehouses had replaced mosques as favored meeting places. With the spread
of Ethiopian from Africa, to the Middle East, India, Europe, and the Americas, make it one of the
most popular bends of coffee in the world.

Ethiopia's first coffee museum sits in the heart of coffee country, and is part of the Kafa
Biosphere Reserve. It provides an overview of the history of coffee with a focus on Ethiopian
production, as well as some archaeological finds from the area. It's a terrific place to access
Ethiopia's coffee industry.

Gibe Sheleko National Park

The Gibe Sheleko National Park covers 360 sq km of upland plateau, parts of the Gibe River
gorge area and patches of endemic forest. The diverse, but rather elusive, wildlife includes 17
mammal species, such as greater kudu and a few hippos in the river valley. The bird watching is
also good, with over 200 species recorded.

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Kumsa Moreda Palace

Dejazmach Kumsa Moroda was the last King of this independent kingdom until 1892. After
submitting to the central Ethiopian Empire in 1892 he managed to retain his status as the king of
his kingdom. This historic palace was constructed in Nekemte during the reign of this king by
using large proportion of local material and labor. The beauty of craftsmanship had seen on the
building of the palace and its long life illustrates the knowledge and skill of local people
developed at that time.

Wolega Museum

Welega is an area in western Ethiopia, with its capital city at Nekemte. It is bordered on the west
by Sudan, on the north by the Abbay River which separated it from Gojjam, on the east by
Shewa, on the southeast by Kaffa, and on the south by Illubabor.

The Wolega museum hosts remains of an Italian military plane shot down by the Black Lion
Patriots in 1935 proudly sit in front of the Wolega Museum. Inside, displays give a good insight
into the Wolega Oromo life and culture with traditional musical instruments, as well as displays
of the local spinning, carving and basket-weaving industries.

Natural Beauty

Near the village Matu the Sor Waterfall is a great attraction. The last kilometer to this waterfall
you climb a track that leads you through a dense jungle with butterflies, birds and monkeys.
Finally the track descends to a viewpoint near the top of a gorge to have a splendid view on the
waterfall, plunging down 100 meter into the gorge, surrounded by dense forest. At the base of
the waterfall it is possible to swim in the cold water.

The Guder falls near Ambo can best be visited on Sunday because there is a dam upstream which
will be opened only on sunday's. Several routes lead you through a beautiful hilly landscape with
dense forests where streams and rivers flow and waterfalls are plunging down. In this forests
bird- and wildlife is abundant. Even along the roadside you can see many colobus monkeys.
Take for example the road from Jimma to Gambella via Mizan Teferi or the road between Matu
and Bedele. Also in the surrounding of Bonga is a huge potential for hiking. An area of natural

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beauty with hot springs, caves, natural bridges, waterfalls, forests with an abundant wild- and
birdlife. There are also unexcavated historical sites and age old churches. From Bonga trekking
tours with a guide can be organized.

Not far from Addis Abeba, on the road to Ambo. Large natural Menagesha National forest, the
first known subject of an official conservation policy in Africa. Since the 16th century this forest
is protected by the government. It is a beautiful forest with tall juniper and wanza/African
cordina trees. Some trees are over 400 years old. In the past around 40% of Ethiopia was covered
with this kind of forests. Also this forest is a paradise for birds, and different endemic species.
Wildlife is abundant - gureza monkey, the endemic menelik's bushbuck, baboon, common
duiker, leopard and serval.

The Wenchi crater lake of mount Wenchi (3220 m.) is beautiful surrounded by forests on the
steep crater slopes. In a village on the edge of the crater you can rent horses and a guide to
accompany you down to the lake. The lake shore is a fine place for a pick nick in nature, while
enjoying the many water birds, monkeys and baboons. By the lake canoes are for rent to bring
you to the island church of Cherkos and to the hot springs.

Coffee plantations can be visited around Tepi and Mizan Teferi. It is a delight to walk on these
plantations which are in fact forests where the coffee grows under tall, old trees teeming with
birds, to protect the coffee from too intense sunlight. There are also interesting spice and fruit
plantations and you can see the pulping and processing stations. The plantations have their own
guesthouses. A tea plantation can be visited near Wushwush. It also has its own guesthouse.

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