Ethiopia Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Ethiopia

Filter by topic: Ethiopia Tours & Itineraries · Best of Addis Ababa · Ethiopia Travel Essentials

Best of Ethiopia - 8 Days

During this eight-day exploration of Ethiopia, you'll discover ancient history, endless landscapes, artistic riches, and delicious cuisine. Starting in Addis Ababa, you'll meet 'Lucy', one of the oldest human skeletons found on earth. Traveling further afield, explore the incredible churches at Lalibela and the remains of millennia-old kingdoms at Axum and Gondar. Visit Simien Mountains National Park, with some of the highest peaks in Africa. You'll soon understand why Ethiopia is nicknamed the 'Land of Origins'.

Short Trip to Ethiopia's North: 5-Day Itinerary

Whether you have an extended stopover or simply want to add some sightseeing to your business trip in Addis Ababa, this is the ideal tour if your time in Ethiopia is limited. This itinerary includes Bahir Dar and Lalibela, two of the main destinations on the country's classic northern route. On your day of driving and domestic flights between the historic cities, you'll be able to admire the dramatic landscape of Ethiopia's highlands.

Birdwatching in Ethiopia - 14 Days

In recent years, Ethiopia has become one of Africa’s leading birding destinations. Its bird life represents an interesting mixture of East and West African, migrant and some unusual endemic components.

Climb Ras Dashen, Ethiopia's Highest Peak - 12 Days

Explore the Simien Mountains and climb Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia. You'll also have the chance to visit the capital city of Addis Ababa and the historic palaces of Gondar, making for an itinerary that combines both the cultural and natural highlights of Ethiopia.

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ethiopia?

Most parts of Ethiopia experience two main climate seasons - a dry season (October - May) and a rainy season (June - August). However, differences in altitude tend to add a number of variations, both in terms of temperatures and rainfall. Lowland areas usually see hotter temperatures than the Highland regions, which cover a great portion of Ethiopia. Here, weather conditions are noticeably cooler and there are also generally higher levels of rainfall to be expected.

Short Trips In and Around Addis Ababa - 8 Days

Addis Ababa and its surroundings have more to offer than people think. This is the ideal short tour if you don’t want to drive too much and stay around the capital city Addis Ababa. You’ll have a glimpse of everything: churches, historical sites, gorgeous landscapes, nature, markets, wildlife and nice lodges. Staying all around Addis Ababa we can be really flexible to cut or add other days depending on your wishes or available time.

Ethiopia's Northern Historical Route - 10 Days

Drive through the Simien Mountains and visit four UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites, along with the other main highlights of the classic historical northern route, like Bahir Dar, Gondar, Axum, and Lalibela. At night, enjoy a stay in the highest hotel in Africa, the Simien Lodge.

Trekking in the Simien Mountains and around Lalibela - 9-Day Itinerary

Explore the most important places along the classic historical northern route, like Gondar and Lalibela. You'll trek through Ethiopia's Simien mountains, accompanied by a guide, park rangers, cook, assistants and several mules and muleteer. In the Lasta Mountains above Lalibela, you'll stay in a beautiful eco-lodge. Finally, don't miss the opportunity to pass local Amhara villages and get in touch with its people and local farmers.

Day Trips from Addis Ababa

Looking for a list of great day trips around Addis Ababa? While starting and ending in Addis Ababa each day, you're still able to get away to explore the natural beautiful and cultural heritage outside of the city. Activities range from multi-hour hikes to visiting holy lakes and ancient monasteries.

Ethiopian orthodox church with sun rays in Addis Ababa

Best Things To Do In Addis Ababa

Almost everyone starts and ends their trip to Ethiopia in Addis Ababa. No matter what your interests may be, there is a variety of cultural highlights and adventurous activities to explore. Below you'll find a list of some of the great things to do around Addis Ababa.

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