Eastern Ethiopia Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Eastern Ethiopia with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore culturally significant museums and historical places, natural outdoor adventures, the best hiking/biking routes, local food and drink scenes, accommodations, and much more.


Introduction to Eastern Ethiopia

Located in East Africa, Eastern Ethiopia is a beautiful region known for its intriguing history, scenic landscapes, and unique culture. With hidden gems waiting to be explored, it’s a must-visit destination for any traveler. From its ancient ruins and museums to its breathtaking natural attractions, Eastern Ethiopia has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Ethiopia

Eastern Ethiopia is brimming with fascinating sites that offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. Here are some of the top cultural and natural attractions to see:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Harar Jugol: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a walled city with ancient mosques and traditional houses that date back to the 16th century.
  2. The National Museum of Ethiopia: Located in Addis Ababa, this museum features a collection of Ethiopian artifacts including historical and cultural relics from the country’s various regions.
  3. The Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum: This museum is a tribute to the victims of the Red Terror regime in Ethiopia that took place from 1977-1978.

Natural Attractions of Eastern Ethiopia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Bale Mountains National Park: This stunning park boasts an array of wildlife, including leopards, hyenas, and the Ethiopian wolf, one of the rarest canids in the world.
  2. Awash National Park: Located in the Great Rift Valley, this park is filled with savannas, waterfalls, and hot springs.
  3. Lake Langano: A popular spot for swimming and water sports, this scenic lake is located in the Ethiopian Rift Valley.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Ethiopia

Eastern Ethiopia is a hiker and biker’s paradise. Some popular routes to consider include:

  1. The Simien Mountains: This mountain range has various routes that feature scenic views, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
  2. Bale Mountains Trek: This trek takes you through the Bale Mountains National Park and showcases the endemic Ethiopian wolf and the Harenna Forest.
  3. Lalibela Hiking Trail: This trail passes through the stunning highlands of Ethiopia and the famous rock churches of Lalibela.

Best Things to Do in Eastern Ethiopia: Activities and Tours

From historic tours to outdoor adventures, Eastern Ethiopia has so much to offer. Some of the best things to do include:

  1. Visit the rock-hewn churches in Lalibela.
  2. Take a city tour of Harar.
  3. Go on a wildlife safari in the Bale Mountains or Awash National Park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Ethiopia

Day 1: Tour Addis Ababa and visit the National Museum of Ethiopia. Day 2-3: Hike the Simien Mountains and search for the Gelada Baboon. Day 4: Visit the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. Day 5-6: Explore the Harar Jugol, including the traditional houses and mosques within the walled city. Day 7: End the trip with a relaxing day at Lake Langano.

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Ethiopia

Ethiopian cuisine is famous for its spices and flavors. Here are some must-try dishes in Eastern Ethiopia:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Injera: A sourdough flatbread that’s eaten with most Ethiopian meals.
  2. Doro wat: A spicy Ethiopian chicken stew.
  3. Kitfo: A traditional Ethiopian dish made of minced raw beef seasoned with spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Coffee: Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and the country offers some of the best coffee you’ll ever taste.
  2. Tej: A traditional Ethiopian honey wine.

Where to Stay in Eastern Ethiopia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eastern Ethiopia offers a range of accommodation options to fit different budgets.

  1. Traveler’s Lodge - Addis Ababa: A backpacker’s favorite with a central location and comfortable rooms.
  2. Mountain View Hotel - Gondar: A luxury hotel with stunning views of the Simien Mountains.
  3. Yeha Hotel - Axum: A mid-range hotel with excellent amenities and stunning views of the ancient city of Axum.

What to Buy in Eastern Ethiopia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Eastern Ethiopia, some popular souvenirs to bring home include:

  1. Hand-woven baskets and rugs.
  2. Ethiopian coffee beans.
  3. Traditional Ethiopian clothing, such as dresses and scarves.

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Ethiopia

Ethiopians are known for their warm hospitality and generosity. It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home and to use your right hand when eating or passing things. In terms of dress, conservative and modest clothing is preferred.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Ethiopia

The best time to visit Eastern Ethiopia is from November to February when the weather is dry and cool. June to September is also a great time to visit, although it can be hot and humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Ethiopia

Do:

  1. Try the local food and drink.
  2. Learn some basic Amharic phrases.
  3. Respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  1. Take photos without asking for permission.
  2. Show public displays of affection.
  3. Disrespect the local religion or beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Ethiopia

Generally speaking, Eastern Ethiopia is considered safe for travelers. However, petty crime can occur in cities, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions such as avoiding carrying large sums of cash.

Health in Eastern Ethiopia

Travelers should consult with their doctors and get vaccinated for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A and B before traveling to Eastern Ethiopia. Malaria is also a risk in certain areas.

Getting to Eastern Ethiopia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eastern Ethiopia

  1. Bole International Airport - Addis Ababa.
  2. Dire Dawa International Airport - Dire Dawa.

Bus Stations Near Eastern Ethiopia

  1. Siyanco International Bus Station - Addis Ababa.
  2. Autobus Terra Bus Station - Addis Ababa.

Other Options

  1. Train: The Ethiopian Railways Corporation runs passenger trains between Addis Ababa and Djibouti.

How to Get Around in Eastern Ethiopia

Buses and minibusses are the most common forms of transport in Eastern Ethiopia. Taxis and car rentals are also available in major cities.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Ethiopia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Djibouti: Known for its beaches and natural beauty, Djibouti is a great destination to visit for a few days.
  2. Somaliland: This self-declared republic offers an intriguing mix of history, culture, and natural attractions.
  3. Eritrea: Known for its Italian colonial architecture and stunning Red Sea coastline, Eritrea is a must-visit destination in East Africa.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover or foodie, Eastern Ethiopia offers something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and discover the hidden gems of this beautiful region. A visit to Eastern Ethiopia is sure to be an unforgettable experience.



    Dire Dawa
    Jijiga