L’Ethiopie regorge d’endroits privilégiés pour l’observation des animaux. A ce jour, ce pays compte en effet 279 espèces de mammifères, 201 types de reptiles, 150 poissons, 63 amphibiens, et surtout plus de 860 espèces d’oiseaux : si le compte est bon, on en est à un peu plus que les 1001 animaux promis !

All the pictures published in this article were taken by Francis Terrassier ; the following links allow to access his superb photo albums of Ethiopian birds

Birds of Ethiopia - part 1

Birds of Ethiopia - part 2

During your trip to Ethiopia, discover the reserves and national parks spread throughout the country

Ethiopia's geographical characteristics are a determining factor in the isolation of its flora and fauna over millions of years, a phenomenon that has favoured the emergence of endemic species.

For more detailed information on these reserves and the animals found there, please refer to the table at the end of this article, which only mentions some of the 21 national parks and a dozen sanctuaries or protected areas in Ethiopia.

-At respectively 700 and 800 kms south east of Addis Ababa, Omo National Park and that of Mago There are large mammals such as buffalos, elands, giraffes, zebras... and 300 species of birds. Cheetahs, lions and leopards, although present as on other sites in Ethiopia, can only exceptionally be seen.

-Gambella National Park located 200 kms north of the first mentioned, is frequented by numerous antelopes and gazelles, and also by elephants and hippos.

-Moving closer to Addis (400 kms to the south-west), we find Kafa Biosphere ReserveThe area is home to 300 species of birds such as eagles, cranes and other inseparable and sentinel birds of Abyssinia, and as many species of mammals, such as buffaloes, cobas, hippos, primates and rats...the list is not exhaustive.

-NECHISAR National Park on the great rift, 470 kms south of Addis, with lakes Abaya and Chamo, is a paradise for 320 species of birds, including the fish eagle, the Abyssinian bushbuck and the kori bustard. You will not miss the numerous crocodiles (the largest in Africa) and hippos that frequent the banks of Lake Chamo.

- On the same axis as the Nechisar, south of the Lake Ziway where white pelicans, ibises and marabouts abound, one finds the sanctuary of SENKELLE created to protect the endemic Swayne's hartebeest, of which only a few hundred individuals remain.

-Only 220 kms south-east of the capital, 460 species of birds inhabit the Awash National ParkYou will also find common mammals such as the Sömmering gazelle, the greater and lesser kudu, and others that are very difficult to observe such as the caracal, cheetahs, leopards and other animals. You will also find common mammals such as the Sömmering gazelle, the greater and lesser kudu and others that are very difficult to observe such as the caracal, and other cheetahs, leopards and lions.

- The mountainous areas also have their animal treasures. You will have a good chance to see the endemic Abyssinian wolf in the high altitudes of the national park of the BALE Mountains (400kms south-east of Addis), where nyalas, guerezas and other spicy pigs and giant mole rats live.

- More than 800 kms north of Addis, in the national park of the SIMIEN MountsIn the SIMIEN, where several peaks reach more than 4000 m of altitude, you will see, as in BALE, the emblematic Abyssinian wolf and the astonishing raven. The SIMIEN is home to 16 endemic bird species. The massif is also known for the gelada (lion monkeys) which live in bands of up to 800 individuals. SIMIEN is the only place where you may have the chance to see the endemic Abyssinian Ibex.

In Ethiopia the endemic species are numerous

The species retained for a few lines of comments in this article are those for which I have photos taken in their environment.

Some endemic birds of Ethiopia

-the crow crow endemic to Ethiopia can also be found in neighbouring Eritrea. It is the largest of the crows (69 cm). It frequents the mountain ravines from 1200 meters of altitude but it can also be found in the big gardens of the cities. It is not shy. Causes damage to crops. Feeds on carrion, small rodents and human food remains.

-wattled ibis 65 to 75 cm long, it prefers grasslands and highland riverbeds from 1500 m. It can also be found in urban parks. It feeds on worms, larvae and sometimes frogs, mice...you can find it around lakes (Awasa) as well as in the BALE or on the lawns of Addis Ababa.

-blue-winged goose measures between 60 and 75 cm and frequents humid plateaus at altitude. Some comments say it is shy, others that it is easily approached. It grazes on grass but does not disdain insects, worms and small bugs.

-Redstart's rail It is a 30-cm long bird that feeds on aquatic insects, crustaceans, small snails and earthworms found in the grasses or mud of the highland marsh areas where it lives. The species, like others, is threatened by the intensive use of grassy areas by livestock, and the conversion of these areas to grain fields.

-the black-headed serin 9 to 25 cm long, is abundant in the highlands of Ethiopia where it feeds on plant seeds such as the amazing giant lobelia.

Some endemic mammals of Ethiopia

-the geladaThis 90 % herbivore lives on high plateaus not far from cliffs where it takes refuge at night and in case of danger. The males are easily distinguished from the females; they are much larger and heavier (20 kg on average against 13 kg for the females) and have a thick mane which has earned them the name of lion monkey. In addition, the torso of males is marked with a red triangle-shaped area. Geladas move around by "sliding" on their buttocks, which have calluses that act as cushions. Their social system is very developed.

-the Abyssinian wolf is the 3^th the rarest canid in the world. Classified as an endangered species, it lives in the highlands at over 3000 m. Its weight is 14 to 19 kg for males and 11 to 14 kg for females. These wolves gather at night in packs of about forty individuals but hunt alone during the day.

-the mountain nyala is a herbivorous bovid living in the highlands between 700 and 4200 m of altitude in herds of about ten individuals. Its weight varies from 150 to 300 kg, its height from 190 to 260 cm and its top speed is 50 km/h. It is relatively safe from its main predator, the leopard, which only moves very little in its environment. The mountain nyala is an endangered species due to habitat destruction and competition with domestic livestock.

Table of location of some animal species in Ethiopia

Neither rare nor endemic, for the pleasure of the eyes

Finally, to know more about the must-see sites to discover during your trip in Ethiopia, it is by here !

In a previous article entitled "The three essentials of a trip to Ethiopia"I have tried to describe 3 character traits of the Ethiopian people that make them endearing.

Now I would like to tell you a little more about some remarkable sites in Ethiopia. I have selected 11 of them in this presentation, even though this great country (twice the size of France) has many others, whether natural or resulting from the creativity of Ethiopians.

It is therefore not the purpose of this article to list all the beautiful places in Ethiopia, nor to give an exhaustive description of each of the 11 sites mentioned, but to give in a minimum of pages, quick reference points to those who plan to travel in Ethiopia.

Travelling in Northern Ethiopia

1. The Capital City Addis Ababa

Travelling to Ethiopia is not conceivable without an arrival or departure from Addis Ababa "new flower" in Amharic. In the Oromo region, Addis Ababa is the capital of Ethiopia. Situated in the centre of the country between 2300 and 2600 metres above sea level, it is a large metropolis of more than 7 million inhabitants, which has been home to the headquarters of the African Union since 1963.

Addis Ababa is a compendium of modern and traditional Ethiopia.
It is a modern metropolis with its motorway access roads, buildings and department stores, railway line and station, large renovated airport, international hotels, university... It is also a city proud of its history and which has preserved its traditions.

Palaces, museums and churches bear witness to Ethiopia's rich history; for example, the National Museum where Lucy's fossil is kept, St. George's Cathedral, the Museum of the Martyrs of the Red Terror, and many others.

Its markets are just like the country: colourful and full of life, like those of Shiro Meda where you can buy traditional clothes, and the huge Merkato, an open-air market.

On the Entoto hills overlooking the city, are to be discovered, the 1^er Palace of Emperor Menelik II, the Orthodox Church Mariam and the National Training Centre for Ethiopian Runners.

Numerous restaurants offer delicious cuisine and the cafés serve you a little black guy who lives up to his international reputation! Coffee tasting (Buna) is here the object of a real rite....

Honey and beer are also national products! For information on the festive and convivial character of the nightclubs in Addis, see the blog article entitled "The three essentials of a trip to Ethiopia"and for the recipe for the injera see the blog post titled " the injera: discovering the basic dish in Ethiopia ».

2. The Lake Tana region and the city of Bahir Dar (Northwest of Addis)

It is in Lake Tana, at an altitude of 1800 metres, that the Blue Nile has its source. With a diameter of 70 km, it is the largest lake in Ethiopia. You will go by pirogue to some of the many islands of the lake which shelter monasteries and sanctuaries on whose walls and ceilings sumptuous iconographic paintings tell the story of the Bible. You will be enchanted by the beauty and serenity of these places.

Among the best known islands are those of Nerga Sellassié, Debré Mariam, Kebran Gabriel, Dega Estefanos, as well as the Zeguié Peninsula.

You will meet fishermen on their papyrus pirogues and many monkeys and birds (pelicans, kingfishers, cranes, eagles). With a bit of luck, you will see the hippopotamus's emerged part.

Close to Lake Tana is the town of Bahir Dar where it is nice to stay and from which, in addition to walks on the lake, we organize the excursion to the grandiose Blue Nile Falls which can be reached on foot by crossing a superb suspension bridge.

3. Simien Mountains (Ahmara Region)

They constitute a high plateau in northern Ethiopia. The highest peak in the country, Ras Dashen, reaches an altitude of over 4500 meters. A national park of 22000 hectares has been created there. One of the most spectacular landscapes in the world according to UNESCO. It is true that the panorama of mountains and forests stretching as far as the eye can see is breathtaking. The canyons impress the walkers or the amateurs of treks of several days.

The Simien Mountains offer us a particularly rich fauna. Three endemic species have settled here: the Gelada baboon, the Abyssinian ibex and the Ethiopian wolf. If the last 2 cities are not easy to observe, you will easily meet the numerous Gelada that move in bands.

More than 180 species of birds will delight birdwatchers.

4. Aksum: the city steeped in history (Tigray province, 1100 km north of Addis Ababa)

This city is often presented as the oldest in Ethiopia and Africa. It has archaeological sites dating back to the 1^er in the 13th century BC: obelisks, royal tombs, palace ruins. In Aksum, history is mixed with legendary accounts of the relationship between the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon. What is certain is that the obelisks and stelae bear witness to the existence of an ancient civilization that has reached a remarkable level of development.

Several kings and emperors of Ethiopia were crowned at Aksum. Under these conditions, it is easy to understand why this two thousand year old city is one of the religious centres of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and why its sites are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5. The Danakil Desert and the Dallol: the northern part of the Afar Depression.

Although it is one of the most inhospitable places in the world with temperatures of up to 50° (to be avoided between May and September), it cannot disappoint its visitors. It is indeed extraordinary in more ways than one.

First of all, it's a palaeontological site of prime importance. Numerous hominid fossils have been found there, the most famous being that of Lucy...more than 3 million years old. It was discovered in 1974.

About 15 kilometres from the border with Eritrea, the surreal landscape of the Dallol volcano exceeds the imagination of the most extravagant painter with his palette of fluorescent colours combining yellow, ochre, orange, green, red. In the Afar language, Dallol means "disintegration" because of the presence of the burning acid sources that proliferate here with the geysers.

Close to the Dallol, you'll make a foray into the amazing Pink Salt Canyon, where erosion has created monumental salt pillars up to 40 metres high.

 70 kilometers south of Dallol, you will find the Erta Ale volcano in permanent eruptive activity (altitude 613 metres). Note that the spectacle of its lake of incandescent lava is not guaranteed because the activity of the volcano conditions the delivery of the obligatory administrative authorization, and the weather conditions do not always allow the necessary visibility. Thus, at the time of writing, the volcano's lava lake is invisible.

You have to go to the Lake Karoum (about 30 kms south of the Dallol), to know the millenary activity of the region: thesalt mining in rudimentary conditions that have hardly changed. Here the men saw and then cut out 10-kilogram slabs of salt, transported on camels to Mekelé, the city that is the obligatory starting point for any "expedition" in this region.

Once again, the courage of the Ethiopian people is being measured in this hostile country.

6. Churches of the Tigray in the Gueralta Massif

The small town ofHawzen perched at 2100 meters altitudeis the ideal starting point for visiting the troglodytic churches of Guerrero.

Emotions guaranteed, whether it is the beauty of the landscapes and the atmosphere of fervour and serenity of the place, or the efforts sometimes necessary to reach these places of prayer built close to heaven! These many churches high up in the mountains offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and canyons. They contain beautifully coloured iconographic paintings on their walls, ceilings or columns.

Their difficulty of access is variable: the ascent leading to the church of Abuna Yemata nestled at more than 2800 meters of altitude requires even on a short passage, the use of ropes and harnesses provided by the guide: let's reassure ourselves a little, we start from 2100 meters...

For other churches, the harness is not necessary but the ascent remains sporty and requires not to be prone to vertigo, this is the case of Maryam Korkor.

The walk to get to the church of Abuna Gebre Mikael, requires effort, largely rewarded by the beauty treasures offered on arrival!

Access can be much easier, with even a staircase, as to reach the Church of Abreha Atsbeha.

7. The monolithic churches of Lalibela

This is the most famous site in Ethiopia. The photo seen from above of theBete Giyorgis church in the shape of a Greek crossis present on most travel agency websites and the blog of those who have travelled to Ethiopia.

This 22-meter high church (I should say deep, see below) is the best preserved and probably the most beautiful of the site.

In fact, it is not one, but 11 churches, some of them connected by a network of trenches and galleries, which make up this "religious complex" unique in the world.

The main particularity of these churches, is to have been carved into the rock of pink volcanic tuff...below ground level, and all in one piece.

The churches of Lalibela were carved from the 12th century onwards.^th century on the order of King Gebre Mesquel Lalibela, who gave his name to the city previously named Roha. It was because of the expansion of Islam and the difficulties of Ethiopian Christian pilgrims to get to Jerusalem that this king had this "new Jerusalem" built. The stream that separates the churches was named "Yordannos", in reference to the Jordan River. The names given to two churches, evoking the holy places, also show the king's will to found a "replica" of Jerusalem (Bete Debre Sina church for the Mount of Sinai, and Bete Gologota-Selassie church for Golghota).

Unlike other churches in the country, there are no paintings on the deliberately purified walls of Lalibela's buildings. However, they do contain many paintings, hangings and sacred books.

In view of the degradation of the monuments, caused by natural erosion, some churches are protected since 2004 by sloping roofs supported by pillars designed by Italian architects.

At an altitude of 2600 metres, the city is a pilgrimage site and also research for the historians, who will excavate there in 2012.

Lalibela has not yet revealed all its secrets...the chronology of the work, its progress and the techniques used are the subject of unconfirmed hypotheses to date...

Travelling in Southern Ethiopia and the Dire Dawa region

8. The Dire Dawa and Harar region

The city of Say Dawa (altitude 1280 metres) was created in the early 1900s by the Franco-Djiboutian Railway CompanyIt is the first terminus of the railway line from Djibouti.

Saying Dawa doesn't sound like the 2^th the most populated city after the capital: it is particularly easy to get around by car.

 It is pleasant to stroll through Gezira's "European quarter" with its wide avenues and stone buildings, where the museum and palace are located. Here you can visit the old railway station and its workshops and even climb aboard one of the old locomotives...

You won't fail to visit the Magala district with its small houses and narrow streets where you will find the city's big market.

Rock carving sites can be visited in the area. About 50 kilometers from Dire-Dawa, you go up to Harar (altitude 1890 m).

On the way you cross Awaday which is the world capital of khatA plant with euphoric and psychotropic effects, mainly consumed in the countries of the Horn of Africa. Spread on the ground, on trucks, on the backs of donkeys, or carried away by passers-by, khat boots are everywhere! Their density is such that their smell, although fairly neutral, penetrates your car.

The modern city of Harar developed around the ancient walled city.

Harar is sometimes referred to as 4^th holy city of Islam. It is true that it is home to 82 mosques (including 3 of the 10^th century) and more than 300 shrines dedicated to Muslim saints.

The old town concentrates the main centres of interest. It is very pleasant to wander through its maze of narrow streets, lined with houses painted with lime in shades of green, blue, red ... here the cars are banned from circulation.

On the edge of one of these alleyways, you enter the " Arthur Rimbaud's house ». Although he did indeed live in Harar between 1880 and 1891, the French poet did not live in this house, which is in fact a kind of museum to his glory.

Famous attraction: perpetuation of a ceremony that dates back to "the dawn of time", the show of the hyena's meal is held at nightfalllit by the headlights of a car or a tuk-tuk...the spectator, as long as he doesn't think too much about the power of the animal's jaws, can also participate and give him a piece of meat at the end of a piece of wood held in his mouth.

9. The lakes of the Rift Valley 

These lakes are located on either side of one of the two roads leading south from Addis Ababa.

Lake Ziway:

Bordered by sycamores, it covers more than 420 km2, its maximum depth does not exceed 4 metres. This lake is full of fish and its shores are home to many species of birds: pelicans, marabouts, swans, geese, ibis, fishing eagles. Hippos can be seen near the meadows bordering the lake.

Lake Langano:

Located 200 km south of Addis Ababa, its surface area is 230 km² and it can reach a depth of 40 m. It is the only lake in the country where you can swim without fear of contracting bilharzia, it is bordered by some very comfortable hotel complexes. This place is therefore very popular with the inhabitants of the capital who have the financial means to escape from it on weekends.

The lakes of Abijatta-Shalla :

Located on the other side of the road opposite Langano, they are part of the national park of the same name. The depth of Shalla exceeds 260 meters in some places while that of Abijatta does not exceed 14 meters.

The hot springs north of Lake Abijatta, used by the local population, are the attraction of this reserve, which is also endowed with a varied fauna: warthogs, gazelles and jackals. You will observe many birds: pelicans, marabouts, herons, ibis. The flight of pink flamingos above the lake of Abijatta offers a sublime spectacle.

The hot springs of Wondo Genet village :

On the lakes road, near the town of Shashemene, you will not regret the stay in the green setting of Wondo Genet, where you will enjoy like the local population the baths and showers provided by the hot springs well known here.

Lake Awasa :

It gave its name to the eponymous city built along its banks, which is lively and very pleasant with its shops and tearooms...where excellent juices are served.

Tilapias, Nile perch and catfish, caught at night, are sold at the market in the morning. This fish market is an attraction not to be missed.

Lakes Chamo and Abaya :

These lakes are dominated by the town of Arba Minch ("40 springs" in Amahrique) which is considered the gateway to the Omo valley. Lake Abaya is distinguished by the copper-red hue of its waters : this colour is caused by ferruginous suspensions. The strip of land separating these 2 lakes is called "the bridge of Paradise". The panorama on the 2 lakes from Arba Minch is superb.

Crocodiles, hippos, and pelicans can be seen here.

10. The Monts Balés

East of Awassa, less than 400 kms south-east of Addis Ababa, the Bale Mountains National Park extends over nearly 2500 km². This area of very high plateaus is famous for its numerous trekking routes over one or several days, and the landscapes are grandiose. The presence in places of basaltic organs shows that the site was a volcano at a remote time in its history.

Many remarkable places are also accessible by car. The highest road in Africa takes you from Goba to the Sanetti plateau overhung by Mount Tullo Deemtu it peaks at 4377 meters above sea level, it is the 2^th Ethiopia summit.

Thanks to its numerous rivers, trout fishermen will find their happiness here.

Image hunters of animals, ornithologists and nature lovers in general, will be fulfilled. The isolation of this region associated with its geological specificities explain the important number of endemic species, both animal and vegetal, which populate the Bale Mountains.

The flora is also remarkable: the amazing lobeliaswith a shaft up to 9 metres high, only grow here.

The presence of very many rodents, attracts birds of prey that can be seen in broad daylight, such as the golden eagle or the great buzzard augurs.

The Bale Mountains are the territory among others, baboons, nyalas (endemic antelope) genets, and of course the emblematic Abyssinian wolf seriously threatened with extinction.

11. The tribes of southwestern Ethiopia

About 800 km southwest of Addis, you will meet the tribes of the Omo valley. Each has its own customs.

• In Dorzé and higher in Chencha (3000 meters above sea level), is the territory of theDorzé ethnicity near the west shore of Lake Abaya. Here the market takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The traditional dwellings in the shape of giant beehives evoke elephants. The gilded ones excel in weaving and pottery.

• In Jinkayou'll get to know theAri ethnicitywhich members are farmers, breeders and also beekeepers.

• The Surma and Mursi tribes live in Mago Park. not far from Jinka. These tribes are renowned for the clay lip plate worn by the women (up to 18 cm in diameter). The scarifications commonly practiced show the strength and courage of the men, and the beauty of the women.

• the tribe Hamer lives in Turmi in the southern part of the Omo Delta; it derives its resources from agriculture and trades its products on the markets. The women dressed in cowhide dresses decorated with cowrie shells, wear large shell necklaces, and wear red clay plaits. The men wear clay headdresses topped with ostrich feathers.

• In the same area at Murulle, the Karo cover their bodies with clay and drawings drawn with white chalk. The ritual body paintings combine white, green, black and red

• Even further south in Omorate, close to the border with Kenya, one finds the Dassanechthe women of this tribe have beautiful hair braided in a mixture of butter and clay...

• More than a hundred kms north east of Turmi, the people of the Konsos has developed the hills of its villages into fertile terraces where they grow cotton and millet. You will admire the cliffs of Gesergiyo carved by erosion that locals compare to the skyscrapers of New York.

The southern markets are an important part of the local economy and the most important social event of the week. The hamer market of Dimeka, on Tuesdays and Saturdays (30 kms north of Turmi) allows to buy sorghum, cotton, tobacco, jewellery, shoes, clothes. At the Key Afer market, on Thursdays, tools, livestock, fruit and vegetables are exchanged. In Weyto, on the road between Turmi and Konso, a market is held every Saturday where Tsemai, Ari and Benna trade.

I hope that this article allows you to see the diversity of things to see and do in Ethiopia! You will find some of the sites described here in the stays proposed on the Africorne websiteand of course, we are at your disposal to prepare a tailor-made trip to Ethiopia!

In order to give a more precise idea of the climate, I give in this article some figures on temperatures and monthly rainfall. These must be put into perspective because they are averages based on data collected over several years. So don't be too surprised if there are differences with the temperatures you will see during your stay.

For example, November 2019 saw very heavy rains that caused significant damage in the capital.

The heat is naturally greatly reduced in mountainous areas (Goda and Mabla mountains) where wearing warm clothing is a necessity before and after sunset. Think about it to prepare your suitcase, and above all, don't hesitate to ask about where you are staying before travelling to Djibouti!

The hot season in Djibouti: from May to September

For this season, minimum temperatures range from 29° (May) to 32° (July, August) and maximums from 33° (May) to 38° (July and August).

The seawater temperature ranges from 30° to 31°.

During this season, it hardly ever rains. In addition, it happens that a hot and dusty wind, the khamsin, causes a sudden rise in the already very hot temperature.

Finally, in places close to the sea, the high heat combined with high ambient humidity gives a feeling that can be unpleasant. This is why it is not advisable to travel to Djibouti during this period, especially if you are sensitive to heat!

The temperate season in Djibouti: from October to April

For this season, the minimum temperatures will be :

• of 23° (December and January)
• at 27° (October and April).

And the maximum temperatures are:

• of 27° (December, January and February)
• at 31° (October).

The seawater temperature ranges from 26° (January and February) to 30° (October).

In Djibouti, rain is rare. When it does fall, it is in the form of short, heavy showers, which make it impossible to cross the wadis and can cause flooding in some areas of Djibouti City.

During this season, the "rainiest" months are December and February (5 rainy days) and January (8 rainy days). The effects of these exceptional rains can be spectacular on the landscapes, which see the rebirth of vegetation that is all the more conspicuous for being rare! And despite the devastation it can cause, especially in urban areas, rain remains synonymous with "good weather" for Djiboutians.

In conclusion, it is of course much better to plan to travel to Djibouti during the temperate months...and to go to neighbouring Ethiopia during the warm months!

The effects of climate on Djibouti's landscapes

Despite, and because of the aridity and dryness of the climate in this region of the Horn of Africa, the Republic of Djibouti is endowed with an astonishing variety of landscapes.

Lakes

Lake Assal and Lake Abbé are naturally the country's must-see sites, which I discuss at greater length in the article on the geology of Djibouti.

Deserts

The dry climate creates desert or semi-desert landscapes of great beauty such as those of the Gagadé Desert and the expanse of the Grand Bara.

As for the rare showers, they produce marvellous greenery, and not only in the mountains.

Beaches and coastline

The coastal areas, in addition to their welcoming beaches and campsites, offer mangroves that are essential for the marine ecosystem.

Djibouti is well known by diving and sea bed lovers, and many species can be observed in snorkeling, such as the whale shark!

Mountains and forests

Less well known landscape and climate in Djibouti, the mountainous areas of the Goda and Mabla Mountains are spared the country's hot and arid climate. Both have pleasant, cool temperatures and lush green landscapes.

30 kms west of the Gulf of Tadjourah, the Day Forest culminates at 1500 m above sea level on a slope of Mount Goda.

It is accessed by a beautiful track of about 30 km. This forest, which is part of a protected national park, is one of the most beautiful in the world. the last primary forests on the African continent. It is indeed a glimpse of what the vegetation of the mountains of the Sahara and Arabia must have been like thousands of years ago. Thus one discovers wild olive trees, giant acacias and jujube trees.

The Goda Mountains are criss-crossed by very pleasant trails for hiking enthusiasts. Waterfalls, panoramic views, are the reward for your efforts...

To enjoy several days of the Goda Mountains and their climate, the campsites of Bankoualé, Day and Dittilou welcome you in green landscapes. Do not hesitate to read the article on the campsites to find out more about it!

For walkers, the stay "Hikers" allows you to reach the campsites of Dittilou, Day and Bankoualé on foot.

The Mabla Mountains, located 25 km west of Obock, also offer invigorating temperatures, lush green landscapes and breathtaking views!

Hiking enthusiasts will also be able to take advantage of campsites on site, such as the Medeho camp, in order to rest after a great day's hike!

To enjoy these regions, don't forget to put a good pair of shoes in your suitcase!

And more than words, I hope that the few photos that document this article will have helped to capture the natural beauty and diversity of Djibouti's landscapes.

This small country alone brings together impressive geological phenomena that have given rise to unique landscapes. Connoisseurs or simply curious travellers will be fascinated by so many discoveries!

1. The Great African Rift

The phenomenon of plate separation, which results in the creation of a valley called RIFT, generally occurs under the oceans. In Djibouti it is possible to walk on the Great Rift Valley Fault African! The rift deviates by an average of 2 cm per year!

In the world, the thickness of the earth's crust is generally several tens of kilometres. In several places in the Republic of Djibouti, it does not exceed 5 kilometres. That is why we can observe in the regions of Lake Assal and Lake Abbé the fumaroles and other hot springswhich are evidence of a constantly boiling subsoil.

2. Lake Assal

Covering an area of 54 km², Lake Assal is remarkable from several points of view:

• Located at - 153 meters below sea level, it is the point lowest of the African continent.
• This is one of the bodies of water saltiest in the worldwith a salt content of 348 grams per litre: higher than that of the Dead Sea. This salt, which has been traded by the Afar nomads since time immemorial, is today exploited industrially.
• Lake Assal at turquoise waterssurrounded by his salt iceThe city, itself surrounded by lava, is of incomparable beauty, praised by famous writers and adventurers such as Joseph Kessel.

3. Lake Abbe

Not far from the Ethiopian border, Lake Abbe also offers a unique panorama. Its limestone chimneys offer a lunar landscape, much appreciated by photographers from all over the world, especially at sunrise and sunset.

It was even chosen as one of the filming locations for the movie "Planet of the Apes", which is not established....

The sulphurous scents escaping from the numerous fumaroles gave the lake its name. Indeed, Abbot means "rotten"!

The unique landscapes of the chimneys that can reach a height of 50 metresThe presence of the lake, on which you can observe pink flamingos and many animal species, would almost make us forget the presence of the lake! To find out more about nature and animals in Djibouti, click here. nearby !

For several years now, unfortunately, the progressive drying up of the lake has led to its retreat, making it increasingly difficult to observe flamingos because of the quicksand along the shores of the lake.

Be careful though: travelling with a guide is recommended to avoid the risk of getting stuck.

4. The Ardoukoba volcano

The movement of the Earth's plates is also at the origin of spectacular volcanic phenomena. For example, the birth of a volcano in 1978, named Ardoukoba by the famous volcanologist Haroun Tazieff.

This volcano has only had one eruption so far, that of its birth in 1978: an eruption of lava that made it a "red" volcano, which then dumped 12 million cubic metres of basaltic lava.

Not far from there is the Goubet, a large body of water that forms the end of the Gulf of Tadjourah. Better known to the local population as the "Abyss of Demons": even today, few fishermen dare to enter it for fear of being dragged to the bottom by demons.

In the centre of this "lake" is "Devil's Island", which is none other than the crater formed by an underwater volcano: the whole body of water is surrounded by mountains, and the bottom of the lake is black with lava, which makes the atmosphere very impressive.

Research and diving by scientists - including Commander Cousteau - would prove that the underwater fauna would be particularly impressive and that very large predators would be present, thanks to the currents that favour the entry into the Goubet and make the exit very complicated...

You will appreciate the panorama and the atmosphere of these volcanic places, thanks to the picnic stops that Africorne offers you in its tours.

5. The Great Bara Desert

Djibouti also has its deserts, and among them, the Grand Bara.

We can only be surprised by the mirages and the swirls of sand of the Great BaraThe desert is a vast expanse of desert, 30 km by 10 km.

Wildlife lovers will enjoy meeting the gazelles ...

And sailing enthusiasts will appreciate an activity for young and old, which is ideal at Grand Bara: sand yachting!

Travelling to Djibouti

I hope I have conveyed to you some of my enthusiasm for the discovery of all these landscapes and phenomena. There is something for everyone, however, I advise you to focus on the period between October and April to avoid the (very) hot season in Djibouti! Moreover, you will find more information about the climate and the diversity of the landscapes of Djibouti in this article !

If you are planning a trip to Djibouti, you can also read the other blog posts to find out more, and don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Must-see 1: Religious fervour and spirituality

One of the causes of this fervour is undoubtedly the ancient roots of the Ethiopian Christian Church, which is the religion with the largest number of followers. Indeed, these go back to the beginning of the 4th century.

Places of worship are numerous. The faithful crowd into the churches and pray outside when there is no room left inside.

Believer or non-believer, the traveller is captivated and impressed by the moments of collective jubilation he can experience at the celebration of feasts such as MESKEL (end of September), LEDDET equivalent of CHRISTMAS (very early January) or TIMKAT equivalent of Epiphany (3^th week of January).

The participation of all is facilitated by the fact that songs, music and dances play an important role in the celebration of Ethiopian religious festivals.

The unavoidable monolithic churches of LALIBELA are one of the symbols of the spiritual dimension of the country.

Not forgetting the churches dug out of the rock of the Tigray cliffs... To reach them, you sometimes have to climb the rock faces and not be prone to vertigo!

But beyond this symbol, and even if in the cities the religious practice of young people seems to be declining, it is no less true that everywhere and for all generations, the spiritual dimension of existence remains a sincerely shared value in Ethiopia.

Must-see 2: joie de vivre

Music and dance are omnipresent in Ethiopia where 84 ethnic groups live, and therefore where at least 84 dances exist that have emotion and dynamism as a common characteristic.

The ESKESTA is the best known: dancers move their shoulders in a jerky movement from left to right, placing their hands on their hips. The famous Ethiopian dancer and choreographer MELAKU BELAY is one of the artists who has contributed the most to the knowledge of this dance in the world. He is now the owner of a traditional nightclub in Addis (Azemati bét) where people sing, dance and drink tej (alcohol made from honey). His establishment, the FENDIKA, is a mythical place of the Ethiopian nights. I have spent memorable evenings in this Addisian landmark, where skin color, age and gender are not an issue!

To find out more about its much broader vocation, you can consult numerous articles, including this one from Liberation.

If I have mentioned MELAKU BELAY in this article, it is not only because he is a world-famous Ethiopian artist and an "ambassador" of ESKESTA, it is also because, having started his life on the streets and without family, he is a known example of the courage shown by many anonymous Ethiopians, today as in the past.

Everywhere on the roads, in towns and villages, the inhabitants send us back their welcoming and benevolent smiles.

Must 3: Courage

Unquestionably Ethiopians are courageous, or resilient to use a buzzword.

They overcame past hurts and defeated those who sought to dominate them, whether they were external aggressors or internal enemies within the country.

Ethiopia is the only country on the African continent that has not been colonized, as the period of occupation by the Italians from 1935 to 1941 cannot be equated with colonization.

The Ethiopians managed to free themselves from the yoke of the bloody military dictatorship that the country experienced from 1975 to 1991.

Ethiopian peasants have literally shaped the landscape of many regions, particularly through the creation of terraced crops.

In the countryside or on the outskirts of cities, the constant movement of women and men along the roads, often on foot, and sometimes heavily laden, commands respect.

For the traveller who travels by car or on foot, the unmissable encounter with children and young people of all ages, who come or go to school in groups, on foot, with their notebooks under their arms, in their school clothes, is a testament to their thirst for learning.

It is no coincidence that the Ethiopians have many champions in the demanding disciplines of fundraising and marathon running. I have excellent memories of my meeting with champion Haile Gebreselassie, a model of kindness and simplicity, despite his incomparable sporting record and his exemplary success as an entrepreneur.

These 3 essential values of the Ethiopian population explain why Ethiopia is one of those countries where I always have so much pleasure during my numerous stays!

If you wish to come and meet the people of Ethiopia and discover by yourself their values and their friendliness during a trip, I invite you to contact me or to take a tour on the proposed tours in Ethiopia !