Tour Guide, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| 3 mins read
Ethiopia located in the horn of Africa is marked by rugged mountains, widespread Savannah grasslands and endlessly flowing lakes and rivers. Ethiopia's placement in the Rift valley showcases volcanic lakes and great escarpments. With traditions and a captivating culture that has existed well beyond 3000 years, Ethiopia is a tourist hot spot. The country has a well-preserved history that interests a number of people the world over. The Afar region of the country is attributed to the earliest known cradle of mankind; the Australopithecus skeletal structure having been found in the region.
Nature
Ethiopia's natural attractions include Africa's longest cave Sof Omar. At 15.1 kilometres, the Sof Omar cave is the second longest cave in the world. Ethiopia's Northern area, Dallol, experiences hot weather throughout the year. Dallol is also notably isolated with no roads and camels are the only mode of transportation. Dallol makes up one of Earth's hottest places and is inhabited. Tis Isat, the Blue Nile, as it is known provides a breathtaking waterfall view and is easily one of the country's best tourist attractions. The Omo valley though uninhabited holds more than 4 million years of historical background with hominid remains found in it. Ethiopia also has a number of national parks including Mago, Gambela and Omo.
Culture
The Ethiopian culture comprises 70 ethnic groups each speaking an independent language. The Ethiopian Orthodox church is an important part of the Ethiopian culture and it comprises of its own leader and customs.
The most ancient city in Ethiopia, Axum, has a long historical background dating back to 3000 years ago. The biblical Ark of the covenant is said to have been laid on the 16th century St. Mary of Zion Cathedral's sanctuary. Icons and historical crowns of past emperors adorn most of the monasteries and churches of Axum. The ancient holy city of Harar has the historical background of being a trading centre. The city hosts 99 mosques and is the fourth holiest city in the Islamic religion. The city produces intricate handicrafts including woven textiles, silverware and bound books.
A number of the country's tourists attractions are found along Addis Ababa's main roads. Hotels, restaurants, tour companies, gifts shops(which are duty-free) are also found within the capital. Hotels that cater for the entire tour's budget are highly favoured and live up to tourist's expectations. Ethiopia is served by a number of airlines including Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Egypt Air, Sudan Airways, British Airways, Yemen Airways, Lufthansa and Saudi.