The north of Ethiopia holds some of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Learn more about the historical and natural attractions of this country below.
Bahir Dar & Lake Tana
Bahir Dar literally translates to “sea shore” in the local language of Amharic, which is a fitting title for this relaxed town that opens up to the sacred waters of Bahir Dar. Locals traverse the lake in papyrus tankwa boats, constructed in the same manner as in ancient times. However, it is the monasteries hidden on the shores and many islands of Lake Tana that tell the true history of Ethiopia’s largest body of water.Tankwa boats on Lake Tana
GONDAR
With its empowering 17th-century castles, Gondar has rightfully earned the name of "Africa's Camelot." Gondar was established as the capital of Ethiopia in 1636 by Emperor Fasilidas, and it thrived as capital until the late 19th century. Its collection of castles, erected by various emperors throughout the ages is a testament to Gondar's prosperity.
Axum
The many ancient tombs, castles, stelae and other historical artifacts found in Axum give proof to the fact that this humble city was once home to a great civilization. In fact, the Axumite Empire was one of the most technologically advanced civilizations of its time, from the 1st century BC to the 7th century AD. Guests wandering amongst their history will marvel at the remains of their greatness.
Lalibela
Lalibela has been a place of pilgrimage since it was built nearly 1000 years ago. Still today, this holy city brings thousands of faithful Ethiopians and tourists from all over the world to wonder at the unimaginable feat of King Lalibela and his people, who carved these 11 churches from the bedrock using only crude hand tools.
Simien Mountains
The Simien Mountains are the only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site found in Ethiopia. The dramatic mountainousSimien Mountains landscapes and jagged peaks are home to many of the rare species that are endemic to Ethiopia. The Gelada baboon, known as the “bleeding heart” baboon due to the red patch of skin on its breast, is found in large numbers and a sighting is virtually guaranteed.
Bahir Dar & Lake Tana
Bahir Dar literally translates to “sea shore” in the local language of Amharic, which is a fitting title for this relaxed town that opens up to the sacred waters of Bahir Dar. Locals traverse the lake in papyrus tankwa boats, constructed in the same manner as in ancient times. However, it is the monasteries hidden on the shores and many islands of Lake Tana that tell the true history of Ethiopia’s largest body of water.Tankwa boats on Lake Tana
GONDAR
With its empowering 17th-century castles, Gondar has rightfully earned the name of "Africa's Camelot." Gondar was established as the capital of Ethiopia in 1636 by Emperor Fasilidas, and it thrived as capital until the late 19th century. Its collection of castles, erected by various emperors throughout the ages is a testament to Gondar's prosperity.
Axum
The many ancient tombs, castles, stelae and other historical artifacts found in Axum give proof to the fact that this humble city was once home to a great civilization. In fact, the Axumite Empire was one of the most technologically advanced civilizations of its time, from the 1st century BC to the 7th century AD. Guests wandering amongst their history will marvel at the remains of their greatness.
Lalibela
Lalibela has been a place of pilgrimage since it was built nearly 1000 years ago. Still today, this holy city brings thousands of faithful Ethiopians and tourists from all over the world to wonder at the unimaginable feat of King Lalibela and his people, who carved these 11 churches from the bedrock using only crude hand tools.
Simien Mountains
The Simien Mountains are the only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site found in Ethiopia. The dramatic mountainousSimien Mountains landscapes and jagged peaks are home to many of the rare species that are endemic to Ethiopia. The Gelada baboon, known as the “bleeding heart” baboon due to the red patch of skin on its breast, is found in large numbers and a sighting is virtually guaranteed.
