Ethiopia

Traditional Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a multi-ethnic nation, with a melting pot of diversity. Ancient traditions still play a part in many villagers lives today. Ethiopia is an African country that deserves your fascination because of its uniqueness. Rolling hills, desert plains and stories to tell. Ethiopia should be your next travel destination.

https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g293791-d1477419-i163507766-Yod_Abyssinia_Traditional_Food-Addis_Ababa.html – Image 01 (Yod Abyssinia)

Ethiopian cuisine is spicier than most of its neighbours. Discovering the tastes of Ethiopia is recommended on your journey through this nomadic land. With so many religious influences, shellfish and pork are not served in many restaurants in Ethiopia. Yod Abyssinia is designed for tourists. A spectacular show takes place every night, as you watch you’re served Ethiopian delicacies such as injera (flat bread) and various spicy stews. You can find many vegan dishes on offer, as the nation tends to eat more vegetables than meat. Sip on some Tej (honey wine) as you listen to the soulful music. Coffee culture in Ethiopia is huge, so do try the famous roasted coffee from street baristas scattered on the streets of Addis Ababa.

http://www.magnetstreet.com/wedding-blog/ethiopian-engagement – Image 02 (Ethiopian couple in traditional dress)

Ethiopian women have incorporated the habesha (long white/grey dress) into their everyday wear. Women also wear netela, shawls that are used to cover their shoulders and hair. While in urbanised areas, western wear is becoming more popular – women do still wear traditional dress for their day-to-day wear. Ethiopian women also adorn themselves in jewellery. In more rural villages of tribes, different wear can be seen to distinguish the many ethnicities of Ethiopia. Men wear trousers and long tunics also in muted tones for the heat.

https://notesfromcamelidcountry.net/2013/10/27/debre-damo-monastery-rock-climbing-into-1400-years-of-ethiopian-history/ – Image 03 (Debre Damo)

In Northern Ethiopia, is a significant landmark for the country – Debre Damo. Dating back to the sixth century, this monastery is still in existence.     Thrill-seekers will love the entrance, as you must scale up an almost forty-metre rock face. Halfway up your scale, you will be pulled up by someone in the entrance. Although women aren’t allowed to enter the monastery, the view at the base is still impeccable. The region is covered in mountain ranges and rolling hills. Hire a bus and get a local to tag along from Aksum, because this is rural Ethiopia and there is no public transport to the monastery.

http://www.ethiopia.travel/attractions/simien-mountains-national-park (Walia ibex joust – Simien National Park)

With park gates opening at 6 am, be sure to be the first into Simien Mountains National Park. Sixteen hours away from the capital, Addis Ababa, it is recommended that you make it a two-day trip to the park and back to the city. You can find accommodation in Dangala and Gondor on your journey, or if that’s not to your liking – camp under the African sky. The park seems to go on forever, river streams flow and vegetation ever growing. The park is a natural marvel on its own. Do try and spot troupes of Gelada monkeys and keep your camera on hand for the ever elusive walia ibex joust.

Remarkable scenery, rich history and unique wildlife – Ethiopia is a land of stories. A traditional infusion of multi-ethnic culture that lives on even to today, nature that will have you in awe and beautiful people…Take the journey of a lifetime and visit Ethiopia.