2 Weeks in Ethiopia

What You Should Know Before Going On A Ethiopia Tour

Who Will Enjoy an Ethiopia Tour?

You may hear Ethiopia and intially think safaris. While Ethiopia does offer some wildlife experiences, this destination isn't well known for this kind of experience. This country is rich with culture and history. From archaeological discoveries to ancient sites and ruins, Ethiopia is a great destination for travelers who value culture and history. For these travelers it's all about the immersion into the local communities and seeing what truly makes them tick. 

That being said, Ethiopia is also a great destination for wildlife and nature lovers. This country has many national parks and many great destinations to witness animals and explore natural landscapes. One popular activity here is hiking. With so much to offer, Ethiopia is a great for a complex range of travelers, not just wildlife enthusiasts.

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Ethiopian Guided Tours

If you're considering a trip to Africa, perhaps plan a visit to Ethiopia. Along with Morocco, Ethiopia has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Africa with nine in total. When planning a trip to Ethiopia, there are some things you should take into consideration. Most, to all, of these concerns can be resolved by booking a tour to Ethiopia rather than venturing out alone. Ethiopian guided tours are recommended for a number of reasons.

Each Ethiopia tour comes with a knowledgeable guide that knows the terrain, history and significance of the country. They are also very aware of current or possible issues that may arise on the trip. And if any hiccup should occur, the guide knows how to handle the issue in an efficient manner.

This travel style also provides a well-researched, thought out itinerary. Most of Ethiopia lacks a strong infrastructure, most of the roads are unpaved and difficult to travel on. Tour companies make sure to take this into account when creating its trip and how travelers with commute from one place to the next.

In order to capture the country’s diverse terrain, some days are strictly reserved for traveling from one destination to another. Each itinerary balances the time spent on a bus with the time spent at the destination, so that it is not overwhelming or tiresome. This is particularly important for short trips to Ethiopia.

Ethiopian guides also use their knowledge and insight of the country to capture its essence. Ethiopia has three components that each tour makes sure to include. The first is its cultural significance. Most tours visit local villages and towns where you can experience Ethiopian foods, music and art. One of the best ways to soak this up is to go on a tour with a homestay component.

Ethiopia is also known for its wildlife. The best way to experience Ethiopia’s fauna and flora is by visiting its national parks. The third main component is capturing its historical influences. Most of Ethiopia's historical sites are of ancient ruins in the form of fortified towns. Ethiopia also has many historical religious sites like the Church of Saint George, Lalibela.

There are a few different guided tour options. First is small group guided tours. These trips mean that you will be exploring Ethiopia with a group of others, often like minded individuals. You will all be led by the same tour guide who will be devoted to the group as a whole. This is a great option for travelers who want to meet new people and experience the world with others.

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Another guided tour options is private guided tours. This option is great for luxury travelers. Private guided tours mean you will have a guide dedicated specifically to you and all accommodations and transportation will also be private. Each tour will be private and independent of others. Private guided tours allow for greater immersion and richer experiences.

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Ethiopia Weather

Weather in Ethiopia varies greatly and often depends on elevation. When visiting, you'll want to pack many layers  as you could go from one destination that is hot to another which is cold in only a matter of hours. Be sure to look at your itinerary to know the specific weather for each destination so you aren't left without the proper clothes after commuting.

Near Ethiopian's borders, the temperatures are the highest. On average, the temperature will exceed 85 degrees Farenheit or 30 degrees Celsius. Other locations like Ethiopia's capital rarely get over 77 degrees Farenheit. Whether you're looking for a warm or cool adventure, there are locations throughout Ethiopia that can accommodate you.

Safety Tips When Visiting Ethiopia

1. Beware of scams: Common in the capital, Addis Ababa, locals will try to invite you to a "free gathering". They will lead you to the location and claim they gave you a tour and demand payment.
2. Keep track of your belongings: Pickpocketing is a problem in Ethiopia so make sure to have all your important items tucked away and close at hand. 
3. Be prepared for hiking: Hiking and trekking are common activities in Ethiopia but the terrain isn't always friendly. Be sure to pack appropriately so you are ready to take on the elements.
4. Watch what you wear: To be both safe and respectful to culture, it is recommended that you dress conservatively. This often looks like long dresses, skirts and loose pants for women.