Africa 2019-21 Brochure

www.somak.co.uk 97 • Addis Ababa • Axum • Dallol Gondar • Lake Tana • • Lalibela • Awassa • Lake Langano • Arba Minch Semien Mountains Bale Mountains Omo • Mago NP Blue Nile Ethiopia is the hidden gem of Africa. It is a land of rich culture treasures and dramatic landscapes that are home to some incredibly captivating people and wildlife. Addis Ababa Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, boasts many attractions including the National Museum, the Holy Trinity Cathedral and Mount Entoto. Its throbbing streets and diverse population bring the Ethiopian capital alive. A visit to the merkato, the largest open-air market in Africa, makes for an enchanting visit. Northern regions of Ethiopia Bahir Dar, Lake Tana and Blue Nile Bahir Dar a modern city located on the shores of Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia and the source of the Blue Nile, the world’s longest river. Lalibela Considered to be a wonder of the World, Lalibela is referred to as the “African Jerusalem” for its rock hewn churches that were built in the 12th century. Axum The ancient royal capital of the earliest Ethiopian Kingdom is renowned for its ancient multi-storeyed carved granite obelisks and remains. Gondar Gondar was the first capital of the Abyssinian Empire, founded by Emperor Fasilidas in the 17th century and is famous for its medieval castles and churches. The Simien Mountains The Simien Mountains are Ethiopia’s most popular hiking place, graced by exceptional botanical phenomena. The mountains are famous for being home to endemic mammals: the Walia ibex, the Gelada baboon and the Ethiopian wolf. Southern regions of Ethiopia Arba Minch Arba Minch is at the foothills of the Rift Valley Escarpment overlooking Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo. Omo Valley Famed for its cultural traditions and tribal diversity this remote corner of Ethiopia is home to some of the many cultural communities. These fascinating tribes decorate themselves lavishly and the colourful dress and beautification customs highlight their uniqueness. The Bale Mountains The Bale Mountains National Park is known for its wildlife. Explore the deep gorges, alpine lakes and waterfalls, and here you can find the endemic Mountain nyala, the Menelik bushbuck and the Ethiopian wolf. Ethiopia Lalibela Bale Mountains Hamar Tribe, Omo Valley