Ethiopia

Known as the “Ethiopian Riviera”, situated on the outskirts of the famous Lake Tana, 600km north of Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar is the third largest city in Ethiopia. Described as one of the most beautiful cities in the country, it's easy to see why it's a tourist hotspot. Attractions include 37 ancient monasteries, the famous Blue Nile Falls, the UNESCO biosphere reserve Lake Tana with its spectacular birdlife, the majestic Palace of Emperor Halie Selassie with its a mile-long frontage of jacarandas, and the Bahir Dar Market.

A Natural World Heritage Site, The Simien Mountains National Park was described by UNESCO as “one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, with jagged mountain peaks deep valleys and sharp precipices dropping some 1,500m.” The Afromontane meadows and moorlands of the upper Simiens form the most spectacular biodiverse hotspots with a range of plant, bird and animal species, best explored on foot or mule back.

An essential stop on a trip to Ethiopia, Lalibela is one of the most iconic destinations in Africa. Set high in the mountain of Lasta in the foothills Abuna Yosef, known for its distinctive rock-cut churches dating from the 12th and 13th centuries many of which include tunnels and trenches with carved bas-reliefs and coloured frescos. Lalibela is a truly magical attraction steeped in history, discover spectacular highland treks and sweeping views.

South Omo and Lower Omo Valley are excellent historical and cultural attractions. The region supports 16 different ethnic groups and is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site that protects important paleontological sites. The Omo National Park is one of the best locations for spotting the Big Five with its rivers and hot springs that draw in an array of wildlife and birdlife. Attractions include walking and game drive safaris, and the best time to visit is during January / February.

Referred to as the 'Camelot of Africa', Gondar was established in 1636 by Emperor Fasilides as a medieval capital of the Ethiopian Empire. Popular attractions include the Royal Enclosure, Fasil Ghebbi, a stone-walled Royal Compound of World Heritage status with fairy-tale castles including the original built by the Emperor and the Church of Debre Berhan Selassie, with its beautifully painted interior and the Gondar Fasilides Bath. Gondar is also a safari gateway to Simien.

In the Afar Triangle in north-eastern Ethiopia, The Danakil Depression is called the “hottest place on the planet” and features volcanoes, colourful acidic springs, salt and lava lakes. Ideal for fans of adventure travel, attractions include Dallol, acidic hot springs within a volcanic crater. Erta Ale, one of the world’s lowest lying volcanos and one of six of the active lava lakes in the world. And the extraordinary salt lakes of Lake Asale and Lake Afrera for an unforgettable natural spa experience.