Ethiopia Bucket List | Unique Things to Do in Ethiopia
Ethiopia is a land of incredible contrasts, offering everything from ancient, rock-hewn churches and medieval castles to active volcanic landscapes and vibrant, tribal cultures. Must-do experiences include marveling at the 11 monolithic churches of Lalibela, trekking the Simien Mountains, feeding wild hyenas in Harar, and exploring the highly diverse Omo Valley.
Ethiopia today is a complex tapestry of seemingly contradictory elements. It’s like a hybrid of Shangri-La for history buffs and the ideal vacation spot for packers.
The ancient Christian ceremonies have helped keep the place feeling mediaeval, and the display of Aksum’s obelisks and tombs has added to the atmosphere.
From a cultural perspective, this area boasts seven monuments that have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to see remnants of a more recent and stormy past, such as abandoned and burnt-out Russian tanks.
There are lakes, rivers, rocky mountains, grasslands, and lowlands spread out across this beautiful nation.
Incredible weather, fascinating native people, tasty cuisine, and exotic animals round out the experience.
However, you should not assume that this is just a vacation spot. An unforgettable experience awaits you in Ethiopia, one that will move and inspire you.
Come with me as I show you the top attractions in Ethiopia:
Unique Things to Do in Ethiopia
1. Denakil Depression (Dallol & Ertale)
The Danakil Depression is located on the border of Ethiopia and Eritrea. It is now officially one of the hottest and driest spots on the planet.
You can see why, considering how frequently the temperature reaches 50 degrees or higher. A lava lake, hot springs, salty basins, and active volcanoes make this patch of land look like something out of a lunar setting. It’s weird.
Located below sea level, it ranks as the second-lowest point in the globe, right after the Dead Sea, and the lowest point in Africa.
If you aren’t ready for the weather, you might want to do some research before you travel. Though you should be prepared, the allure and intrigue of this location more than compensate.
2. The Rock Churches of Lalibela
Every single person who goes to Lalibela is completely astounded. The current residents of this mediaeval town take great pride in the fact that it was originally intended to serve as a sort of second Jerusalem.
Sitting smack dab in the center of a massive rock-built church complex lies Lalibela.
King Lalibela began constructing the settlement’s eleven massive and ornate churches in the eleventh century.
Stunning in their architectural design, the cathedrals are practically carved out of the earth.
In terms of beauty and fame, St. George’s Cathedral is unparalleled. It was a breathtaking sight.
There are a number of beautiful monasteries in the surrounding region that you can visit if you’re interested.
3. Harar
The winding lanes of this ancient, sacred, and fortified city are hypnotic. It is the first Islamic city in Africa, having been constructed in the early 1600s.
Known for its remarkable walls and centuries-old architecture, this city, which was once a trading route between Africa and the Middle East, is now an intriguing, time-lost wonder.
About ninety-nine mosques can be found within the city limits. The nocturnal feeding ritual of the hyenas on the city fringes is a famous attraction.
If you’re feeling brave, you can join in on the tradition that has been going on for decades.
4. Babile Elephant Sanctuary
There are just around 1,000 elephants left in Ethiopia, with the biggest and most famous herd residing in the Babile Elephant Sanctuary.
Just a short drive from Harar is Babile, a wildlife sanctuary that is teeming with rare birds, gazelles, leopards, cheetahs, and lions.
The scenery changes from rocky outcrops to picturesque tree-dotted areas.
You will adore the daily walking safaris and the 400 or so elephants who call this place home.
5. The Rift Valley Regions
There are seven lakes in the Rift Valley, and they all have different vibes. There are many entertaining animals, beautiful lakes, and hot springs along the route.
You will adore the Rift Valley if you have travelled to Africa in search of animals. The medicinal effects and wonderful relaxation offered by the hot springs make them popular destinations for both locals and tourists.
Driving the length of the valley is a pleasant road trip.
6. Blue Nile Falls
The White Nile and the Blue Nile are two branches of the Nile River, which is the longest river in Africa.
Starting in Ethiopia, the Blue Nile winds its way down to the mighty Blue Nile Falls, a natural wonder on par with Niagara.
This area is around 90 minutes away from Bahar Dar, and it has breathtaking views. When it rains, the falls—which are locally called Tis Abbay, meaning “great smoke”—rise to a height of around 45 meters.
Located just below the falls is the earliest stone bridge in Ethiopia, which dates back to the 17th century.
7. The Omo Valley
Seeing the Ethiopian tribal people in this light is a very remarkable experience. Villages in the Lower Omo Valley have remained untouched by modernity, much like Kenya’s Maasai.
People here have very diverse cultural backgrounds than your own.
Be careful not to gawk at the Mursi’s astonishing lip-plates or watch the bull jumping ceremony with the Hammer when you visit Daasanach hamlet.
A beautiful open grassland gives way to hillside trees in this area. While you’re here, you might also want to consider going on an African safari.
8. Gonder
Emperor Fasiladas constructed his fanciful castles at Gondar, Ethiopia, in the 18th century.
A superb museum complex showcasing the last centuries of the country’s monarchs now occupies this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Camelot of Africa, situated in a hillbowl, is a breathtaking panorama.
Even in today’s metropolis, remnants of the opulence and riches of this old capital are plain to observe.
Gondar is small, but it’s very walkable; take a leisurely stroll around the city center’s tin-roofed stone buildings beginning at the Italian piazza.
This area offers excellent lodging options, dining establishments, and retail therapy. Nearby Gorgora is a Christian monastery that is both diminutive and remarkable.
9. Axum
There is a wealth of folklore in the Aksum region. This ancient city in Africa is said to have been the dwelling site of the Queen of Sheba and the location where the Ark of the Covenant was laid to rest.
See the ancient Aksumite obelisks at the Northern Stelea Field and peer over the walls of the St Mary of Zion Church Complex, where the Ark is said to be preserved.
Because of its diminutive size, Aksum is sometimes disregarded by visitors, despite the town’s remarkable past.
Go underground to see tombs from the Aksumite empire, explore the city’s antiquities, and see monasteries on top of mountains.
Make sure you stop by Mai Shum, a huge rock-hewn reservoir that the indigenous people of the area think the Queen of Sheba frequented for her bathing needs.
10. Addis Ababa
Cars still have to yield to shepherds leading their sheep across the road, even though Addis Abeba is a huge city with traffic and urban expansion.
Because it is home to the African Union (which represents all but one of Africa’s 57 member states), many refer to it as the continent’s capital.
The capital of Ethiopia, Addis Abeba, is home to the world’s oldest known humanoid, Lucy, as well as the continent’s biggest market, magnificent churches, mosques, and cathedrals.
While residents of the surrounding area describe the city as a “magical place” with “golden streets,” tourists see it as the ideal synthesis of old and new Ethiopia.
11. Simien Mountains
Aptly called “God’s playground,” the Simien Mountain range is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can get one of the country’s most breathtaking views on a walk along the escarpment.
It’s also likely that you’ll encounter some Gelada bleeding heart baboons.
The Simien National Park is home to a diverse array of animals, including the uniquely shaped Walia ibex goat.
12. Bahir Dar
Bahar Dar is the first stop on the historic circuit in Ethiopia and the third largest city in the country.
Nearby monasteries and a tranquil lake contribute to the laid-back atmosphere of the town.
A visit to Bahar Dar would be incomplete without some downtime by the lake.
Despite its delicate appearance, the tankwa canoe is completely unsinkable and will astound you. They are no match for men or oxen!
13.Rift Valley Regions
All the way from Mozambique to the Red Sea is the Rift Valley. It’s a fantastic plot of land, and the continent of Africa will be completely divided in half by the rifting process, which is still going on.
From orbit, it stands out as one of the few recognisable geographical characteristics! It’s a fantastic land route that goes southeast of Addis Ababa, past Mojo, Lake Ziway, Awahs National Park, and more.
Along the way, you’ll pass by five distinct lakes, each with its own character.
14. Lake Chamo ‘Crocodile Market’
You would be completely mistaken if you imagined a bustling market selling tourist-oriented crocodile goods.
Lake Chamo is teeming with crocodiles, yet nothing is for sale there. You may enjoy a close encounter with these enormous and stunning animals by taking a boat trip on the lake in the late afternoon or early evening.
Huge Nile crocodiles, some more than six meters long, cover entire banks along the lake, which is sure to startle you.
15. Arba Minch
Arba Minch gets its name from the Amharic term for “forty springs” since the area is filled with several little springs that emerge from the nearby ridge.
The springs are at the end of a beautiful three-kilometer hike through Nechisar National Park.
If you’re planning to visit southern Ethiopia, this area is a great place to stop.