Ethiopia

Description of Ethiopia

Ethiopia is located on Africa’s horn and is quite a fascinating country. It has the 2^nd highest population of the continent falling behind only Nigeria. It shares a border with Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Kenya, Djibouti, and Eritrea.

Ethiopia is Africa’s oldest independent country and it is the 2^nd oldest official Christian nation. The country is also the place where the first Hijra occurred in 615 AD. This is when the Christian King accepted Muslim refugees coming from Mecca who were sent by Mohamed.

History

Ethiopia is one of the oldest countries of the world and has a long and disturbed history. It has been an intersection between civilizations of the Middle East, North Africa, and the Sub-Sahara. Ethiopia is unique among the African countries as it was never colonized. It maintained its independence even during the so called “scramble for Africa.” There were only 5 years where it was under military occupation from Italy. During this time the Italians only occupied a few of the major routes and key cities.

Ethiopia has been a member of many international organizations for a long time. It was a member of the League of Nations, founder of the United Nations headquarters of Africa and was one of the original members of the United Nations as well. The monarchist government was disposed of in the year 1974 and it was replaced with a military junta which lasted for 17 years.

Historically, Ethiopia was called Abyssinia. In some countries it is still referred to as Abyssinia. Ethiopia is the English name and is thought to come from the Greek word Ethiopia, which comes from the meaning of burnt visage. This entomology is often disputed because the Book of Aksum was composed in the 15^th century stating that the name comes from Ityopp’is, which is a son of Cush who was not mentioned in the bible.

Climate

The main climate of the country is tropical monsoon. The country has a climate that is somewhat cooler than that of the other nations because it is a highland country. Many of the major cities of the country are located at elevations between 2000 to 2500 meters. This includes the historic capital cities such as Axum and Gondar.

Addis Ababa is the modern capital and it is located at about 2400 meters in the Mount Entoto foothills. The climate of the city is pleasant and healthy almost all year. The temperatures throughout the year are fairly uniform and the seasons are defined by rainfall. The dry season lasts from October through February. Light rain occurs from March through May and the heavy rain season lasts from June through September.

Things to See and Do

There are many things to see and do throughout the country. You should definitely make sure to tour the historic routes, visit the churches and the mosques Gonder, Harar, and Lalibella. Another popular thing to do is to take a tribal region safari through the lower Ormo Valley.

There are several national parks located throughout Ethiopia that are worth visiting as well. Volcanic Lake, Rift Valley lakes, and the towns of Hawassa and Bahir Dar are places you should see during your visit as well.

You will want to make sure to hike the Simen Mountains and the Bale Mountains located in national parks. You may be lucky enough to see a red fox on your hike, but even if you do not you will be met with beautiful vistas, spectacular landscapes, and gorgeous vistas as well as the thrill of being able to hike at 4000 meters. The rift valley lakes are perfect for bird watching and you can take a fun white water raft trip down the Ormo River. In Bahir Dar you will be able to watch the traditional dance called Azmari-bet. In Dessie and several other cities you can attend a traditional coffee ceremony.

Venturing through Southern Ethiopia you will be able to experience the life of local nature and ancient tribes. You can take a boat ride on Lake Chamo in Arba Minch to see the hippos, pelicans, and crocodiles as well as the 40 natural springs that are located there. Walk across what is called the Bridge of God to enjoy the savannah and view the zebras that graze here. Dorze and Chencha are mountain villages that are located nearby where you will be able to visit the more traditional markets.

Some facts about Ethiopia

Gallery of Ethiopia

Ethiopia video guide

More information about Ethiopia

Top cities of Ethiopia