A beginner’s guide to Ethiopia

A mountainous, landlocked nation in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia is a truly captivating destination for travelers who love stepping outside their comfort zone. With a rich historical tapestry, stretching back to ancient times and spanning eras of African kings and queens, it’s one of the few countries on the continent relatively untouched by Western influence (except for a brief Italian occupation during WWII). This makes its archaeological sites especially significant, offering unique insights not only into Africa’s origins but the roots of civilization itself. While it’s definitely an adventurous vacation choice, Ethiopia’s tourism infrastructure has improved greatly in recent years. With diverse, welcoming people and stunning natural landscapes, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable trip. For everything you need to know, check out our Ethiopia travel guide and explore the countless reasons to visit Ethiopia as a first-timer, from spotting gelada baboons to savoring a delicious plate of injera with doro wat.

A guide to Ethiopia: an undisturbed African history

Ethiopia’s recorded history spans thousands of years and even includes paleontological artifacts dating back to ancient humans. As a nation never colonized by European powers, Ethiopia’s spirit of independence runs deep, resulting in a diverse population with around 90 spoken languages and 80 different ethnic groups, including many indigenous communities that have thrived here for centuries. Even Ethiopia’s adoption of Christianity predates colonization, introduced through trade and missionary efforts under King Ezana around the 4th century C.E.

With this rich heritage, unique UNESCO World Heritage Sites are abundant throughout the country. One of the best-preserved is the ancient city of Aksum, famous for its towering obelisks, connections to the legendary Queen of Sheba, and early Christian history. Gondar, Ethiopia’s former capital, is a medieval city filled with well-preserved palaces and castles dating from the 17th to 19th centuries.

Another highlight is the renowned rock-hewn Churches of Lalibela, an architectural masterpiece envisioned by King Lalibela to replicate Jerusalem itself. Located high at an altitude of about 2,480 meters, the eleven carved churches (seven of which are hewn directly into the mountainside) date back to the late 12th century and took 24 years to complete. These churches remain a vital pilgrimage site, holding deep spiritual significance for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians and anyone interested in Africa’s religious history.

The home of the first coffee

Hundreds of years ago, a humble goat herder named Kaldi noticed that his flock became unusually energetic after eating the seeds from a certain shrub. Thanks to those curious goats and their observant herder, the world discovered coffee for the very first time. That moment marked the beginning of Ethiopia’s deep-rooted coffee culture, and what would eventually become a global obsession with the beloved caffeinated drink.

To fully appreciate the birthplace of coffee, head to Kaffa, one of the original regions where coffee was grown. This lush area offers rolling green hills, scenic hiking trails, and traditional coffee farms that still use age-old cultivation methods. Coffee also thrives in regions like Sidamo, Yirgacheffe, and Jimma, where you can explore plantations, take guided tours, and savor the complex flavors of freshly brewed local beans.

No Ethiopia travel guide would be complete without mentioning the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. This cherished ritual is far more than just making a cup of coffee, it’s a spiritual and social experience. From roasting and grinding the beans to brewing and sharing with guests, the ceremony reflects the deep cultural importance of coffee in Ethiopian life. After taking part, your daily coffee back home might never taste the same.

Wild and extreme landscapes

Ethiopia is an incredibly beautiful country, full of contrasts, from sweeping deserts and shimmering lakes to grassy savannas and dramatic mountain peaks. What often surprises visitors is just how mountainous Ethiopia truly is. With its steep, rugged terrain shaped by the Great Rift Valley and the towering cliffs of the Highlands, it’s no wonder Ethiopia is often referred to as the “Roof of Africa.” While getting around can sometimes be tough, the scenery makes every mile worth it, much of it still untouched by mass tourism.

One of the best places to experience this jaw-dropping landscape is the Simien Mountains. Trekkers can follow winding trails along dramatic ridges, taking in expansive alpine meadows and sheer cliffs. It’s also one of the only places on Earth where you’ll see gelada baboons, wild, shaggy-coated primates grazing in groups, and the endangered Walia ibex, both native to the region. And for those seeking something truly extreme, there’s the Danakil Depression. Featured in every well-rounded Ethiopia travel guide, this surreal environment lies 380 feet below sea level and is one of the hottest places on the planet. With bubbling lava lakes, neon-colored sulfur springs, and vast volcanic fields, it feels more like another planet than anywhere else on Earth.

Read more: A guide to hiking in Ethiopia

Underrated, delicious cuisine

What’s an Ethiopia travel guide without diving into the country’s unforgettable cuisine? Ethiopian food isn’t widely available in the West (though it’s gaining popularity in cities across the U.S.), and once you taste it, you’ll wonder why it took so long to catch on. The flavors are bold, savory, and often fiery, thanks to the signature spice blend berbere, a punchy mix of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and other aromatics.

Ethiopia’s national dish, injera with doro wat, is a must-try. Injera is a spongy, slightly sour flatbread made from teff, a naturally gluten-free grain. It’s typically served with doro wat, a rich, spicy chicken stew that’s bursting with flavor. You’ll scoop it up with pieces of injera, often alongside colorful sides like lentils, sautéed greens, and vegetable stews. Other staples include kitfo, minced raw or lightly cooked beef seasoned with spiced butter and herbs, and vegetarian favorites like shiro (a creamy chickpea stew) and atakilt wat (a comforting cabbage, potato, and carrot dish).

Addis Ababa, the capital, is the ideal place to dive into the local food scene. With bustling markets and restaurants that focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, you’ll get an authentic taste of Ethiopia’s culinary heart. While you’re there, make time to visit the city’s standout museums. The National Museum of Ethiopia is especially worth your attention, it houses the famed fossil of “Lucy,” a three-million-year-old hominid, as well as artifacts, religious art, and traditional clothing that add essential context to everything you’ll experience on your trip.

Make it happen

Feeling inspired by this Ethiopia travel guide? Our local travel experts are based right in the heart of the country, ready to help you plan a fully personalized adventure that matches your interests, pace, and travel style. Whether you’re drawn to ancient history, dramatic landscapes, or unforgettable food, they’ll craft an itinerary that brings it all together. Reach out today to start planning your unforgettable journey to Ethiopia!