The Roof of Africa is fertile and well watered, with awe inspiring scenery dominated by highlands situated two thousand meters above sea level. Most people visit Ethiopia for its historical route, along which fascinating castles, stelae and rock-hewn churches can be seen. The Solomonic dynasty is said to have been founded after the Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon in the 10th century B.C. and returned to Ethiopia where their child, Menelik I was born. The dynasty's last ruler, Haile Selassie was deposed in 1974. The 55 million people are divided into 80+ ethnic groups. Amharic is the first language but English is widely spoken. Traditional cuisine is as unique as anything else Ethiopian: the main dish is a fermented pancake, injera, served with delicious spicy stews or 'wot'. As the country was very briefly occupied by Italy (1936-1941), Italian influence is apparent. Ethiopia is a marvellous wildlife destination, with a number of endemic mammals being found in its rugged reserves. These include the world's rarest canid, the Simien wolf, easily seen in Bale National Park. Birders come to seek out the 30-odd endemics, star attractions of which are the Prince Ruspoli's Turaco and Yellow-fronted Parrot. Adventure trips to the Lower Omo Valley, to visit one of the remotest places on Earth, where traditions and practices have remained unchanged for millennia, have become increasingly popular.

• Lalibela: 11 awesome, rock-hewn churches apparently carved after divine instruction to the legendary King Lalibela. Usually, a short (and really entertaining!) mule trip is included as part of the excursions.
• Axum: Dusty town with much to see: remarkable, pre-Christian stelae / obelisks (up to 23 meters tall) stand in the 'obelisk park'. Don't miss the local museum for fascinating artifacts. There are also the ruins of the Queen of Sheba's Palace outside the town, as well the Queen of Sheba's Bath. 55-km away, at isolated Yeha, is the 'Temple of the Moon;', another place well worth seeing.
• Gondar: In the royal compound, the enchanting 17th century Fasalidas' Castles are the highlight. You'll quickly understand why Gondar is referred to as the 'Camelot of Africa'. Gondar is also the access town to the Simien Mountains.
• Bale National Park: Fabulous afro-alpine scenery and juniper forests feature here. Exceptionally rewarding for endemic birds (Ethiopia has 30 endemics) and mammals, like the world's rarest canine, the Simien fox. There is basic accommodation in the park. Getting there entails a drive through the Rift Valley.
• Blue Nile Falls: They were Africa's second largest waterfalls, near Lake Tana. Also on offer are reed-boat (tankwa) trips to the island monasteries on the lake.
  

A special note:

An unfortunate consequences of a recent hydroelectric development are the virtual disappearance of the Blue Nile Falls. As well as destroying the beauty of the falls the project is likely to have severe long-term effects on both the plant and bird life of the region. While at this stage the bird and plant life is still spectacular, visitors need to be aware that the falls are not what they once were and will probably only get worse. At this stage, when electrical demand is low, the diversion through the hydroelectric plant is switch off for several hours at the time allowing the falls to resume some of their former glory.

• Simien Mountains: Mule trekking is the way to explore these vast mountains - one of our continent's largest ranges - which boast some of Africa's highest peaks. A wonderful adventure expertly organised by our Ethiopian ground operators.
• Omo Valley: Visit the last remaining Ethiopian tribes (Mursi and Karo) in the lower Omo Valley.

• When to go: All year around. The rainy season (June-August) is best for birding.
• Health: Malaria is present in the low-lying areas. Yellow fever vaccination certificate is essential. Hepatitis A and B injections recommended. Drink only bottled water or take water purification tablets. Travel insurance is essential
• Getting there: Ethiopian Airlines operate daily flights from Johannesburg to Addis Ababa.
• Visas: All visitors require visas.
• Currency: The monetary unit of Ethiopia is the birr, also referred to as the dux or the dollar. Take US dollars in cash or traveller's cheques, which can be exchanged at most hotels at close to the bank rate
• What to pack: The climate in the higher lying areas is mild with sunny days and cool to cold evenings. Pack warm clothing, good hiking boots, protective wear, gear for the tropical sun and rain, personal medication, toiletries, money belt, and insect repellent. Dress modestly in consideration of the significant Muslim population. Women should never expose their knees and shoulders in public, so shorts and sleeveless tops are out. It is also not entirely acceptable for women to wear trousers and men to wear shorts in eastern Muslim areas.
  Be wary of pickpockets in Addis Ababa. Wear a money belt and leave valuables with hotel reception or in your room safe.
• Time zone: GMT + 3 hours
• Power supply: 220 V; European two-prong plugs.
• Language: Ethiopia has 80 languages, but Amharic, Oromigna and the Semitic Tigrigna are the major languages used by two-thirds of the population. Amharic is the official language, while English, which is widely spoken, is the language of business. Arabic, French and Italian are also spoken.
• Customs allowance: 500 cigarettes and 1 litre of alcohol.
• Luggage allowance: 20 kg & 1 item of hand luggage.
• Departure tax: A tax of US$20 per person must paid separately by each participant on departure.
• Recommended reading: Guide to Ethiopia, Philip Briggs Bradt Publications