Boldly emerging on the tourism scene, Ethiopia (aka the "cradle of humanity") claims wonders like the purported site of the Ark of the Covenant; "Lucy," one of the earliest skeletons of mankind; and no fewer than nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The country’s delectable cuisine and coffee are rightly world-famous, while its deeply engrained culture is positively alluring. Add in majestic scenes of the soaring Simien Mountains and wild lakes laden with hidden monasteries for a tempting travel landscape where culture, nature, and history converge.
Ultimately, though, it’s the people that breathe life into this primal land, like the ancient nomadic jungle tribes that fiercely protect Southern territories—encountering them offers a peek of the last bastions of primeval African heritage. Despite some unsettled borders, the country is safe for visitors. Small escorted group tours are a good way to enjoy the full experience with a safety net of like-minded people. Ready for a journey of a lifetime? Here, we set out to demystify Ethiopia.