Off the Grid: Ethiopia
ABEBA TRAVEL
Committed to providing the ultimate travel experience, Abeba Travel offers unique and customized travel itineraries comprehensive journeys to its most authentic places that provide you with a vast variety of adventures, activities, and volunteer project opportunities.
Abeba Travel is a member of Ethiopia Travelers Philanthropy Fund initiative introduced by USAID funded by Ethiopian Sustainable Tourism Alliance. By connecting travelers to projects that improve the environment, contribute to economic growth through educational support and job creation, tourism aims to boost local incomes and economic participation, preserve cultural heritage and landmarks to enhance Ethiopia as a destination for future visitors.
Tania O’Connor, a truly inspiring woman who is originally from Chicago and a consummate world traveler. After falling in love with the country of Ethiopia, she is now settled and married to an Ethiopian. Together they own Abeba, which promotes strong sustainable tourism, cultural tourism and community building as an integral part of responsible travel.
The historical route from the capital in Addis Ababa was where the journey began. Abeba Travel then arranged a visit to the ancient Ethiopian monasteries on the islands in Lake Tana on boat. The experience was magical as we viewed ancient manuscripts and village instruments. The capital of the Amhara region and home of the Amharic language spoken in Ethiopia, and this region serves as the gateway to the famous falls of the Blue Nile River.
Next Abeba Travel arranged for a beautiful journey to Axum, the home of the church believed to hold the Ark of the Covenant. Axum is one of Africa’s longest inhabited regions near the site of Louis Leakey’s most recognized discovery of Lucy, the earliest hominid find.
Exploring the city of Lalabrla, was next on our majestic Ethopian adventure. The 12th Century UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond imagination, this spiritual home of the ancient Coptic or Ethiopian Orthodox Church, reveals 11 unique monolithic rockchurches carved by hand from the top of the hill of volcanic tuff rock, several stories down, and then they hollowed out the interior chambers creating these houses of worship. These sacred Ethiopian Orthodox Churches have been in continuous use for over 900 years. They remain a holy pilgrimage site, believed to be equal to Jerusalem, for 100,000 of the faithful each year. A breathtaking experience that is truly unforgettable.Tunnels, passageways and drainage ditches connect the churches, and secret entrances lead to sacred chambers, the Holy of Holies, mysteries of medieval Christianity are revealed.
A country of mythical proportions, Ethiopia enchants with natural beauty, friendly people and an intoxicating, unique mix of cultural influences. Abeba Travel is the ultimate in personalized luxury guided tours for you to discover the very best of this captivating destination, its historic architecture, incredible natural scenery and iconic sights.
WHERE TO STAY:
ALWAQ HOTEL – Bahir Dar
www.alwaqhotel.com
The Alwaq Hotel is located in Bahir Dar, about 6 km from the airport, close to the beautiful Lake Tana and Blue Nile Fall. The hotel offers 30 comfortable en-suite guest rooms and a warm and welcoming service. A perfect spot for travelers to experience the beauty of the town.
KURIFTU RESORT & SPA
“Ethiopia’s little gem”, is a five star resort owned and operated by Ethiopians. The property’s attentive personal service and ageless beauty is extended in an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility. This beacon of sophisticated unites its timeless, caring, personalized attention with the dynamism of Ethiopia. An unparalleled spa, lush pool oasis, and delicious choices for dining, makes it a beautiful hotel stay.
TAYE BELAY HOTEL – Gondar
With lovely balconies overlooking the town of Gondar, this hotel is conveniently located near the glorious castles and historical sights, and the Debre Birhan Selassie Church. Complete with a dining room, bar and lounge, the Taye Belay Hotel offers its guest comfort and a peaceful stop along their journey. The traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony is a must-experience here.
SABEAN INTERNATIONAL HOTEL – Axum
This beautiful lodge strives to bring modern convenience to this ancient capital, is an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. The Sabean International Hotel offers a palatial blend of traditional Ethiopian architecture with contemporary comfort and modern amenities. The hotel prides itself on its elegance, style and warmth of service.
BRANA HOTEL – Axum
This luxury hotel in Axum is a haven of exquisite taste with a unique aura. This hotel brings out the true “art-de-vivre” of Ethiopia – its hospitality, the warmth of its people, as well as the beauty and variety of its landscapes. The Brana Hotel is perfect for those seeking a luxury hotel in Ethiopia that is an escape into a tranquil retreat.
AGORO LODGE – Axum
www.agorolodge.com
This beautiful hillside location overlooks the valley of Adigrat in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. The extraordinary central lodge is designed of stone and glass has exceptional individual freestanding stone cottages. Each beautiful room is skillfully decorated by local artisans.
Built with local contractors as part of commitment to sustainable social enterprise, the Agoro Lodge reinvests profits in local small and micro loan projects, hospitality career training programs, and uses locally hand crafted furniture and lampshades and linens (gabi) made by women cooperatives and cooperatives of blind and disabled. With the fundamental belief that tourism is the source of community success, the Agoro Lodge is a must-visit destination along your Ethiopian journey.
AXUM HOTEL – Mekelle
Located in the town of Mekelle in one of the most intriguing settings, the Axum Hotel lets you experience the timeless and exotic beauty of Ethiopia. Discover ancient history at your doorstep in any of the hotels rooms and suites or enjoy the vast leisure facilities the hotel offers.
MOUNTAIN VIEW HOTEL – Lalabela
Mountain View Hotel Lalibela is nestled at the edge of the Lasta Lalibela mountain chain. With unparalleled panoramic mountain vistas from expansive terraces, the Mountain View Hotel welcomes visitors with a majestic inspiration and natural wonder. An idyllic spot to capture one of Ethiopia’s golden sunsets.
The architecture of the hotel designed with similarity to rock-hewn churches.
Tantalize your tastebuds with fresh Ethiopian cuisine which includes the traditional dish, injera. Don’t miss the many stews and spicy meat and vegetable dishes on the menu.
Written by Lynne Chizzick
