Ethiopia is a traveler’s paradise, especially for those interested in history, tribal cultures, authentic North African food, scenic beauty and commercial/industrial exploration. The richness of Ethiopian culture is perhaps the most magnetic part that does not allow tourists to stick to just one city. A typical vacation in the country would entail a considerable amount of traveling between places of big travel interest in Ethiopia. Some of the biggest attractions are Rift Valley, Blue Nile Falls, Axum, Lalibela, Gonder, Deber Damo, Bahr Dar and Harar.
Most of the interesting locations include historic cities and towns with kingdoms dating back to the 10th century. Harar is one of the cities which attract many visitors for its holy status, handicrafts, textiles and a vast assortment of architecture amongst its 99 mosques. The city is also famous for having been home to the famous French poet Rimbaud, and also for the evening games where local men show their infallible skills by calling and feeding wild hyenas. Similar historic cities include Lalibela, which is known for its surrounding complex of rock churches and medieval settlements at the center.
Axum is one of the most important historic cities with its stories of having been a capital of the erstwhile Axumite State. Axumite Palace, home to Queen Sheba is one of the biggest attractions in the city. The place is also famous for modern stories about the obelisks. Being an important commercial center, ancient and traditional materials from India, Sri Lanka, Persia and the Middle East are part of the attractions for which tourists visit Axum.
If you are interested in fishing and lake towns, you can visit Bahr Dar on the southern side of the country. Smoking Water from the Blue Nile, ancient monasteries and Lake Tana are amongst the biggest attractions in Bahr Dar. For more beautiful lakes and hot springs, you may also be interested in visiting the Rift Valley which is marked by a trail of seven lakes.
