Ethiopia - Land of Origins
Ethiopia is the cradle of mankind and the oldest independent country in the Horn of Africa. The earliest evidence of Ethiopia’s history dates back to around 1000 BC, when the Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon. Unique among African countries, Ethiopia is one of the world’s most fascinating destinations, offering everything in one.
The country has a very rich history, with amazing people and deep cultural traditions, towering mountains, breathtaking scenery, endemic mammals and birds, and unique natural sites. Ethiopia is located in the northeastern part of Africa, extending from 3° to 15° north of the equator and 33° to 48° east.
Ethiopia lies east of the Greenwich Meridian and enjoys a unique location between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Its population is estimated at around 115.4 million, making it the second most populous country in Africa. The nation is composed of about 83 ethnic groups, which, based on their linguistic families, are divided into Semitic, Cushitic, Omotic, and Nilotic.
Ethiopia uses the Julian calendar, which divides the year into 12 months, with the remaining five days (six in a leap year) forming a short 13th month, known locally as Pagumē. The Ethiopian calendar is seven years behind the Western Gregorian calendar.
Facts about Ethiopia: throughout the country there are two main seasons — the dry and the wet. The dry season runs from October to May, while the wet season runs from June to September. However, the climate of Ethiopia is not uniform due to the altitude of the large central plateau. Winds blowing in from the Indian Ocean create great diversity in the country’s climatic zones.
Our Tours & Vacation Packages in Ethiopia
Our collection of trips is a fine selection of tours to the best places to visit in Ethiopia and to its hidden gems. They are ready to be booked as they are or to inspire you to create your customized trip to Ethiopia. Bale Trek Ethiopia Tours offers everything from tailor-made trips to small group tours with fixed departure dates, from historical and cultural tours to nature and wildlife safaris, and active tours with trekking or mountain adventures.
Best Time to Go to Ethiopia?
Much of Ethiopia sits over 1,500m high, so the days can be mild and the nights chilly – especially in the fog-shrouded highlands, which soar well above 3,000m.
The best time to visit Ethiopia is from September to April, particularly at either end of the rainy season – in April, when the land is dry and barren, or as it flourishes again between September and October. This green season is also best for highland wildlife.
The rains replenish the Omo Valley even sooner, so the best time to travel there is from November to March or June to September. Generally, though, the rains cause little disruption; you’ll just find lusher landscapes and fewer tourists.
