Ethiopia at a Glance

Contrary to Western myth, the elevated central plateau which covers half of Ethiopia`s area is quite possibly the most extensive area of fertile land in eastern Africa. The medieval capital of Lalibela boasts a cluster of monolithic rock-hewn churches which is regarded by many as the unofficial eighth wonder of the world. There is also Gonder, the site of five 17th-century castles built by King Fasil and his successors. And all around the country are little-visited monasteries and churches, many of them over 1,000 years old and still in active use. Historic sites are the focal points of tourism in Ethiopia, but they threaten to be swamped by the breathtaking scenery which fills your peripheral vision, and whose different habitats host a range of species.