Visit 2 Ethipoia 4

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EDITO Welcome to Visit 2 Ethiopia special edition for ITB Berlin 2011.

As usual, it is a great honor for us to guide you virtually in and around Ethiopia. Most people have dreamt and hoped for visiting Ethiopia one day in their life time for its historical, natural, cultural attractions and religious sites and festivals.

When some tourists think of the cultural route in Ethiopia, principally south Omo Valley indigenous ethnics group come first. However, for a country slightly less than twice the size of Texas, USA or Britain and France put together, with over 8o different ethnics group, one can image easily that how the country would be a mosaic of people and culture.

As we travel in all directions of the country, we will observe beautiful and distinctive people, cultures and languages.

and festival center of the country for many centuries. Beside the northern historic route, new tourist attraction phenomenon is just being organized.

Gondar is famous for its palaces and castles as well for one of the great annual festivals “Timiket”. Now, first ever for the country and for the continent in its kind, Gondar Carnival festival took place in the historic town of Gondar, makes it even much more attractive. The Carnival will last for four consecutive days, from the 17th to 20th of January every year, where authentic centuries old culture, folkloric and traditional music and dances, dresses and hair styles will be unveiled during this extraordinary street festivals with the colorful of Timket holiday in Gondar. Contact the recommended Tour Operators for the advance reservation.

In this edition, we have included the cultural attractions along the historic route of the Amhara regional states between the north Shoa and south Wollo, which is the Islamic traditional and cultural route. What makes Ethiopia special from the rest of Africa is, one of the first nations to accept Christianity and Islamic religions and for being mentioned in both holy books several times as a nation. In this part of the region, you will notice that how Muslims and Christians live together in harmony for centuries. That as well makes the classical historic route much richer in history and worth to be visited. One should not missed along this route is, the market day in Bati and Senbetie. These markets have very mythical and festive ambiance as they are the meeting points for four different ethnic groups, the Argoba, Amhara, Afar and Oromo. It is really cultural showcase rather than a market place.

Lasta Lalibela is well-known for its rocky-hewn churches and registered as the world heritage by UNESCO. How many of us knew that in Tigray regional state over 120 rocky-hewn churches exist? These churches in Tigray, in particular in and surrounding Geraltha, have very precious and valuable religious heritages, manuscripts and icons for thousands years and marvelous centuries old paintings, with spectacular and picturesque landscapes. All are worth to be discovered.

The other things that make Ethiopia different in Africa is not only having its own scripts, own languages, mosaic of culture and people, but also some ethnics possess own calendar and new year celebrations. The Sidama people are among these ethnics.

They have a lunar calendar system other than Ethiopian calendar. The New Year celebration as they called it “Fiche” is so colorful and has its own processions and ceremonies.

This year, it will fall in the last week of Aug. You are invited.

Who said that north is only for the historic route? It is as well the cultural

So, to summarize, in this special edition we have included; the Islamic

traditional and cultural routes in Amhara region, the second edition of Gondar Carnival festival, the rocky-hewn churches of Geraltha, and the Fiche Sidama’s New Year celebrations.

At last, as a picture speaks thousand words, we preferred to portray with pictures colors of Ethiopians on the third Nation and Nationalities Day festival, where we met little Ethiopia in one place, all together, which would be celebrated every year in the first week of December. It was a great showcase! Ask your tour operator for this year venue.

To discover the country better and cost effectively, local tour operators are ready to help you out. See our recommended tour operators list in the last pages of the magazine.

As always Ethiopian Airlines has been the ambassador of the Ethiopian tourism and supporter, we are very much honored for having Ethiopian Airlines as our Diamond Sponsor. Besides, ET has published special air fares discount for all tourists departing from Europe to Ethiopia in conjunction with international ticket for the domestic flights. Log on www.ethiopianairlines.com for more information.

Special thanks for the Min. of Culture and Tourism for unreserved assistance and support, ANRS for being Diamond sponsor, Gondar City Administration as well for being Diamond Sponsor too, Tigray Tourism Bureau and the Sidama Zone Administration for being Silver Sponsor on this edition.

With these all, we have tried to inspire you in making your next destination Ethiopia, a land of beyond all your imaginations.

Happy to see you in Ethiopia and once again be welcome!

Tewodros Merawi Direcor/Editor-in-chief

PLEASE NOTE: While reasonable precautions have been taken, to ensure the accuracy of advice and information provided; neither Visit 2 Ethiopia Magazine, nor its advertisers, nor printers can accept responsibility for any damages or inconvenience that may arise there from. The views expressed within the magazine are those of the author exclusively and not necessarily those of Visit 2 Ethiopia. Any material sent to us will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and will be subject to Visit 2 Ethiopia unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially.

Copyright © 2010 by V2E TMP & Advertising (Ethiopia)

CONTENTS 3.

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Editorial Table of Contents Twenty Best Things To Do And See When Visiting Ethiopia 12. Discover Amhara 22. The new spirit of Africa 25. Ethiopian in Brief 26. Colors of Ethiopia 30. Gondar 32. Timket in Gondor 36. Völker des Südens – Omo 38. Gheralta, The Hidden Treasure of Ethiopia 44. Reis aan Ethiopië 46. 18 dagen ronderis door Ethiopië 48. Fiche, Sidama’s New Year 50. Top Recommended Tour Operators

Publisher: V2E TMP Advertising Boulvard du Jubile 90 Bte 1 1080 Brussels, Belgium Tel: +32.485.583.631 Email: teddy@visit2ethiopia.com In Ethiopia: V2E TMP Advertising Kirko Kifle Ketema Kebele: 27 House No: 338 2nd Floor Bole Road Infront of Mega Building Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Tel: +251.921.77.95.93 +251.911.30.89.11 Director/Editor-in-chief: Tewodros MERAWI Deputy Editor-in-chief: Yves MATONGO Manager: Tiku Tesfasilassie Sales and Marketing: Tewodros MERAWI Traffic & IT-master: Yacin Abdillahi

Text Contributors: ANRS Tourism Bureau Tigray Tourism Bureau Sidama Zone Tourism Bureau Ethiopian Airlines

www.visit2ethiopia.com In Partnership with

Photos contributors: Hassen Abdulwase Tewodros Merawi Tigray Tourism Bureau ANRS Tourism Bureau Ethiopian Airlines Concept and directing: Tewodros Merawi

Treasury Manager: Tiku Tesfasilassie Email: info@visit2ethiopia.com Layout/Design: Alain EKENGE Distribution: Europe wide travel agencies / Tour operators / Tourism board / Cultural center/ Expo/ Travel trade shows / Consulars and Embassies / NGOs offices... etc.

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TWENTY BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE WHEN VISITING ETHIOPIA

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Ethiopia is a country in Africa that is considered to have played a very vital role in the history of man, having evidences of the earliest forms of humanity in the world. Ethiopia is a fascinating country, being the only country in Africa that was never colonized by the West, and also one of the oldest Christian civilizations.

If you are planning to visit Ethiopia and if it is your first time to do so, the twenty things that are a must-see for you to fully enjoy your stay in the magnificent, wildlife country of Africa, this article help a lot. When visiting, you are best advised to have a guide with you, especially if you do not know how to speak the local language, as you could get lost in the wilderness.

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. Addis Ababa – The main entry point and the capital city of Ethiopia is delightful place to explore. It is a city of surprise characterized by remarkable diversity and contrasts.

Places to visit include; The National Museum, where you find Lucy, the 3,2 million years old complete fossil and other archeological finding dating back to 5.8 million years old together with Royal artifacts and paintings is a worth to see, Mercato The grand open-air Africa’s market, The trinity cathedral, Entoto Mountain, and others to see around Addis Ababa are worth visiting for some one who have short time in Ethiopia.

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. Nightlife in Addis Ababa is also the main entertainment you should never miss. Night life starts at around 10:00 p.m. and continues throughout the night. The clubs and the bars of Addis Ababa vary from pretty much cultural to modern and exotic.

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. Bahir Dar and The Blue Nile Fall - the Blue Nile fall (also called Tis Abay), and its magnificent falls is postcard perfect and likewise breathtaking. You can go rafting or rapid shooting in some parts of the Blue Nile. If you are in Bahar Dar, the fall is just about approximately twenty or so miles from the city.

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. Sailing, windsurfing and waterskiing Ethiopia’s great lakes and rivers allow any tourist to enjoy water sports and recreation during their visit. Guides will be available to show you some of the greatest spots to go. You can indulge yourself in sailing or swimming in Lake Tana.

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. Gondar Fasilides Castle - is a stunning tourist destination in Ethiopia. It is an old castle built in 17th century for the Ethiopian emperor Fasilides Alam Sagad. The castle’s structure is purely made of stone. Definitely, Fasilides Castle is a representation of Ethiopia’s great history.

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. The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela - Churches located in Lalibela are outstanding work of architecture for early times.

The series of churches was built under the order of King Lalibela, who planned to transform the city of Lalibela into a New Jerusalem. A series of monolithic churches were built around 12th and 13th century and until now, the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela still stand firm to continually amaze tourists around the world. It was honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1978.

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. Axum - One of the earliest capitals of Ethiopia’s kingdom famous for its obelisks made out of granite is Axum (Aksum). The architecture alone is breathtaking. To actually wander through one of the world’s best archeological sites is something to look forward to see as well.

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. Debre Damo monastery – visiting this adventures place is the other thing you should never miss. It is only accessible by climbing up by a rope, which is made of “plaited leather”, lowered from the cliffs, which visitors tie around their waist and are then pulled up by a monk at the top of the cliffs. It is only accessible to men and male animals. Women and even fe-

male animals are forbidden to set a foot into the monastery, and must remain under the cliffs and pray from there.

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. Old city Harar - The old medieval walled city of Harar, a city of mosques, minarets, and markets, a center of Muslim learning, a city which once struck its own local currency, and still has its own unique language has long been regarded by the outside world as a city of mystery and romance. In this town you can easily see Hyena as domesticated animal. Don’t miss to see the man who makes his living by feeding Hyenas.

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Safari in Ethiopia - What is the point of going to Africa if you’re not there to see its magnificent wildlife and experience nature at its finest? Safaris in Ethiopia can be done by foot or riding a horse or mule. Most tourists though prefer going by 4WD or any SUV available to see the wonderful sights a safari trip offers.

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Nature trekking or hiking on the Semain mountain - If you want to rub elbows with Africa’s wildlife in a controlled environment where you might feel safer, you can always visit their national park, the Semain Mountains national park.

You can also ride ponies here for a more natural trekking experience. This is a wonderful experience for nature lovers.

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Chilada babun - watch endemic Chelada Babun, also known as Gelada Baboon, in the Semain

A land beyond all your imaginations

Mountains in Ethiopia. An armed guard and local park scout must accompany you into the National Park where the over 6,000 Geladas go about their business, digging up roots, and procreating more little baboons. Semain mountain trekkers and nature lovers enjoy this seen so much.

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Caves - Ethiopia also has some of the world’s greatest caving sites. Here, you can explore and discover the earliest signs of human existence in the country. Get to experience even briefly how its ancient people lived.

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The Danakil, or Afar, depression - which encompasses a good portion of the eastern part of the Tigray region, is one of the earth’s hottest and most inhospitable places, with many points more than 100 meters (328 feet) below sea level and noon-time temperatures soaring above 50 degree Celsius (122 degree Fahrenheit). It is the site of a dry salt lake from which Ethiopians obtained their bars of salt, used both for consumption and, long ago, as a primitive sort of ‘money’.

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Nature springs - This is visited for their therapeutic effects on the body. The country’s nature springs are a must when you’re visiting especially

after a long trek in the wildlife. Here, you can relax those aching bones and muscles.

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Bale Mountain climbing A spectacular view from the top of the mountain in Africa is something every visitor should experience. You can always try the Bale Plateau for that grand view. Visitors are advised to bring their own gear as no gear is available for rent or sale.

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Omo Valley - This is where about 50% of Ethiopia’s ethnic groups live: The Konso with their terraced agriculture and rituals; the Mursi with their clay lip plates and barbarian life style; the Hamer with their bull-jumping ceremony, which young men must experience in order to qualify for adulthood; and the Karo with their body painting and adornment. Here unusual traditions such as dance, music and rituals from birth to marriage and burial are still observed in their genuine and original forms.

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Origen of Coffee - The fertile hills of what was formerly known as Kaffa are probably where the coffee plant was first cultivated, and the area remains one of Ethiopia’s main coffee-growing centers.

The impressive palace built by King Abba Jiffar

during the early years of his rule in 1870s still stands on a low hill at the former royal compound of Jiren. This experience give you time to make a history by drinking coffee at its birth place.

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Birding - Ethiopia’s proximity to the equator and great habitat diversity means it has one of the richest avifauna in Africa. It is probably easier to amass a trip list of 400 species over a normal length holiday in Ethiopia than it is in any African country. This is a wonderful experience for bird lovers.

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Horse Riding - Ethiopia is one of the most perfect riding country in the world, similar to the plateaus of Mongolia in their depth, vastness and ever changing light. Great plain of grass, full of herds of cattle, will be the typical landscape to which you will set your horse hoof beat.

By Yared Abebe “Blue sky Ethiopia Tour and Travel - Delivering beyond expectation tour experience in Ethiopia.” www.blueskyethiopia.com

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Grand Holidays Ethiopia Tours

For many years we have fulfilled the dreams and aspirations of many travelers from around the world. Our dedicated team of friendly professionals creates a unique experiential vacations for independent travelers, families and groups of any size throughout this magical land, Ethiopia.

At Grand Holidays Ethiopia Tours our goal is to provide the most comfortable and hassle-free trip you will ever have whilst benefiting the local host community as much as possible. In recognition to our quality service, National Geographic Adventure Magazine has given Grand Holidays Ethiopia a 95/100 client satisfaction rating and a 89.5 in Quality of Service. The award energizes us to work even better and make sure that all our clients who chose

to come with us have a lot of fun memories to share when they get back home. As National Geographic Adventure editors commented, “For the second time in as many years, we’ve conducted an unprecedented survey of adventure travel companies, based on the idea that a traveler’s most important decision is not always where to go but who to go with.”

We have the widest choices of well designed tour packages for groups and individuals throughout Ethiopia from cultural tours to the Historic Route of Ethiopia to tribal tour and wildlife safari in the Omo Valley/Ethiopian Great Rift Valley. From Trekking in the Simien Mountains to desert expedition in the Dallol Depression, Ertale Lava Lake, and so much more.

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Discover Amhara It is a Mosaic of Culture, Astonishing Landscapes, a Port of Ancient Civilizations, Land of History, Religious Harmony and Festivals. Do come to discover our region.

The town is situated in the Great Rift Valley and is accompanying beautiful natural scenery. It is a meeting point for the Amhara, Argoba, Afar and Oromo nationalities during its market days of Tuesdays and Saturdays.

According to the elders local Muslim dwellers, the Mosques of Gozie and its surrounding villages had built during the 8th century by the first Islam religion expansionists in the eastern parts of the region.

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ISLAMIC TRADITIONS AND CULTURAL ROUTE

hough the Amhara region is famous for its Christianity heritage and historic routes, it is as well rich in Islamic tradition and history, as the region is a home of both Christianity and Islam Religions. Islam Religion was first introduced in the eastern parts of Amhara or North Eastern direction to the Historic Route of the country, during the 7th century. Around South Wallo and North Shewa along the historic route in the Amhara region, Prophet Mohammed chosen to safeguard his followers from his enemies by the time when he was trying hard to expand the Muslim faith in Saudi Arebia. Hence, he had sent some of his followers to Ethiopia in 615. The daughter of the prophet “Rukiya” and her husband, cousin and the prophet’s wife, were among those who came at first to this region, followed by total of 98 early Muslim people had migrated and settled in this part of the 12 VISIT 2 ETHIOPIA MAGAZINE

country and began to live with the Christians community in harmony and respectful relationships. Today, the descendants of the 7th century Muslims are living in different parts of the country.

So, we are pleased to invite you all to visit the historical Muslim mosques, villages, religious and cultural events in the north eastern wing of the historic route from Addis Ababa. It is unquestionable reality that this place can create an inspiring, contrasting and exciting feeling for visitors.

GOZIE MOSQUE Gozie Mosque is located 15 kilometers from the western direction of Shewa Robit.

Shewa Robit is a small district town which is far from the zonal town Debre-Brhan by 108kms and 238 kms from Addis Ababa.

The mosque is said to be one of the last of the 40 mosques which had been built on the vicinity of Gozie. It is still using as the main place for worship to both the Ethiopian including the surrounding Argobas’ community. In this mosque, a colourful celebration has been taking place during Arafa and Ramadan since its establishment date. During the occasions many pilgrims and visitors from abroad and local have been converging in this holy place.

According to some historical and archeological sources Gozie and its environs in particular and the eastern part of north Shewa in general had been the main seat of the Muslim Dynasty.

So it is a good opportunity for visitors to explore both the attractive land escape, the unique trapezoid architectural shape of the Gozie mosque and the special events of Ramadan & Arafa. Besides that the visitors may enjoy with the special event at the market day of Shewa Robit and the outlook of the Argoba Villages in its vicinity.

Shonke is a village where the Argoba people live and is found in Oromo nationality administration zone in Amhara Region. It is about 25 kilometers east of Kemise, the center of the zone.

The road which leads to Shonke is a picturesque landscape. The Shonky villages and mosques are situated on a rising hill, it created remarkably panoramic scene.

A land beyond all your imaginations

The architectural styles of the houses are similar one to another. The roof is closed with long woods logs plastered with mud and soil; and its roof are not distinguished from the bare land structure of the surroundings. So, it is difficult to distinguish easily whether it is a roof or a bare land. The residents use the roof to dry corns and to refresh themselves. All the walls and roofs of the houses were built by special designed stone except few olive woods that stand and support the stone roofed of the house.

The historical background of the village, according to the residents of the village, goes to back 900 years ago by the newly settled dwellers from abroad. In this village, there are three historical mosques which are giving religious services for the Muslim community.

During ‘Mewulid’ and ‘Arafa’, thousands of Muslim people who were coming from the different corner of Ethiopia and abroad have been celebrating for the commemoration of Prophet Mohammad since then.

The spectacular view of the village is very attractive and has an inspirational nature. It is a top and tilted in one side of the village. The other three sides of the surroundings like flying objects. Really, it is incredible land escape.

So, it makes some amusements and convenient for paragliding sports.

What makes the Argoba community still different from the other peoples of the region is the fact that they speak Argoba or ‘Argobigna’, Oromiffa, Amharic and partly Arabic languages.

TIRUSINA Tursina is one of the holy places of Islam in Oromia nationality ad ministration zone of Amhara region. It is considered as the ‘monastery ‘of Muslims and the destination of thousands of pilgrimages.

It is situated in the eastern direction of Kemisie Town, the center of Oromo nationality administration zone. The majestic Tirusina Mosque is found 7kms east of Shekila village, it is a turnoff which 11kms along the historical route from Kemisie to Chombolcha highway.

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v The mosque said to be built around 1968 on 625 square meters by merging the previous three small mosques. In the present time the site is surrounded by exhilarating natural beauty. In the mosque, Muslims devotedly lead a completely solitary life where both sexes live separately and devote their time in praying and fasting; studying the principles of the religion and producing ‘Kitabs’ which help to expand the religion.

What makes Tirusina mosque different is the fact that its roof is supported by 126 pillars. It is huge and traditionally built with wood.

Females and males live in separate corners permanently.

Moreover, in the compound of the mosque, there are separate houses which is used for storing different kitchens utilities and other furniture i.e. the materials used to preparing food and beverages, like pots, jar, plates, cups, knifes, and the likes during “Arafa and Meulid”. For example, the traditional coffee pots having the size of a big jar, a mortar that allows people to grind coffee while standing a coffee tray which can spread as many as more than 800 cups, the numbers of the plates are more than 500.

During the occasion of “Mewulid and Arafa”, starting to the eve of the day, thousands of converged people from different corner of the 14 VISIT 2 ETHIOPIA MAGAZINE

country and abroad have been performing a special religious ceremony in the holy places of Tursina.

JEMA NIGUS MOSQUE Jema Nigus Mosque is located 57 kilometers in the south western direction of Dessie, the center of south Wallo Administrative zone in Amhara Region. The nearest town which can be used as spring board for visitors is the center of Albuko Woreda, Lalimene town. It is 20kms south eastern direction.

The mosque, Jema Nigus is built in 1764 by the great Muslim scholarHaj Seid Mujahid, Scholar of the religion. Moreover, the place which built the mosque is located at a strategic plateau. It has a fascinating natural beauty and panoramic view that can create some pleasure for

visitors.

Mawulid was celebrated in this mosque for the first time in Ethiopia and where thousands of Muslims from different parts of Ethiopia and abroad converge every year to celebrate the holyday. It is colorfully celebrated by performing Muslim rituals for 3 consecutive days.

During the visits of Geta and Jema Nigus, the recommended town where to stay is Kombolcha and Desie, respectively.

A land beyond all your imaginations

BATI AND SENBETIE OPEN AIR MARKET Bati is a town located 415 kilometers from Addis Ababa and 40 kilometers East of Kombolcha on the main road to Assab, while Senbete is situated South of Kemise in Julie Timuga Woreda which is 206kms on the Addis Ababa to Dessie road. They are geographically located on the escarpments of the Rift Valley, beautiful topographic scenery in itself.

Both Bati’s and Senbete’s open air markets are convenient meeting points for the Oromo, Afar, Argoba and Amhara nationalities, they are fascinating and colorful market days. Weekly markets attended on Sunday (Senbetie) and Monday (Bati). They are geographically located on the escarpments of the Rift Valley, breathtaking landscape in itself. The markets are attended by mass of people who flock from its surrounding, the Amhara, Oromo, Afar and Argoba. On the eve of the market day people from four communities’ enter to the towns. In the market days, one can observe the wonderful mixture of cultural dresses and decorations, ways of hair cuttings and different styles of greetings that creates unforgettable pleasure for visitors. Furthermore, the sellers bring to the market their own distinct handicrafts products of jewelry and woven cloths each exhibiting their own cultural uniqueness in dressing, haring styles and other distinguishing cultures. Isn’t it a wonderful opportunity to meet four different ethnics in a one place?

Although the main market days for Bati and Senbete are on Mondays and Sundays respectively, observing the people entering and crowding the towns in the afternoons of the day before the market days is exceptionally impressive.

What makes Bati market different from that of Senbete is, there still remains an iron bar that was used to strangle criminals during the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie.

During the visits of Senbetie the recommended town where to stay is Kemisie the center of the zone or Shewa robit town; whereas, for Bati is Bati Town or the near towns of Kombolcha and Desie.

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www.south-expedition.com

Designed by Visit 2 Ethiopia

Well, you are in the right place

Designed by Visit 2 Ethiopia

South Expedition is budget tour operator

Designed by Visit 2 Ethiopia

Developing Ecological Tourism for us isn’t a trend but a move toward progress in the relations with Pastoral Communities, as we promote Community Based Tourism http://www.orda-ngo.org/ South Expedition will guide you all along through Exuberant Village’s, Indigenous Markets, Ceremonies, Cultural Events, Ecological Camp’s, National Park’s, Trekking, Bird watching, Boat Excursions & Ethnic Safaris. For tailor made itinerary & inquires please contact us for swift correspondence. southexpedition@yahoo.com http://www.south-expedition.com/

manager@beergardeninn.com

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AMHARA

Tana-See Der Ursprung des Blauen Nils liegt auf über 1800 Metern Seehöhe.

Mit 3600 Quadratkilometern gehört der Lake Tana zu den größten Seen der Erde, ihn mit dem Boot zu überqueren dauert einen ganzen Tag. Auf dem See befinden sich zahlreiche Inseln, hier leben Mönche in völliger Abgeschiedenheit. In den Kirchen der Klöster existieren gut erhaltene (teilweise auch restaurierte) Wandmalereien, ferner hat fast jedes Kloster eine kleine Schatzkammer, in der wertvolle Kronen, Gewänder und Kreuze untergebracht sind.

Der Besuch einiger Klöster sollte bei keiner Äthiopien - Reise fehlen. Von Bahir Dar erreicht man in einem Halbtagesausflug bereits mehrer Klöster, allerdings ist nicht 18 VISIT 2 ETHIOPIA MAGAZINE

überall der Zutritt für Frauen gestattet. Wer etwas mehr Zeit hat, sollte einen ganzen Tag unterwegs sein und auch einige weniger bekannte Inseln besuchen.

In den Klöstern findet man nicht nur alte Malereien, sondern auch wertvoll ausgestattete Schatzkammern und handgeschriebene alte Bibeln.

Tis Isat (Nilfälle) Von Bahir Dar aus bietet sich ein Halbtagesausflug zu den Nilfällen an. Vom Parkplatz muss man noch etwa 15 - 20 Minuten über einen Hügel steigen, dann eröffnet sich plötzlich der Blick auf dieses gewaltige Naturschauspiel, allerdings nicht mehr immer. Nach dem Bau eines Kraftwerks sind die Nilfälle heute meist außer Betrieb und nur mehr ein schwaches Rinnsal stürzt über die 45 Meter

A land beyond all your imaginations

hohe Felswand.

Besonders viel Wasser führt der Nil während oder kurz nach der Regenzeit, dann wirken die Nilfälle noch imposanter. Mit etwas Glück und abgeschaltetem Kraftwerk kann man bei schönem Wetter im Sprühnebel über den Nilfällen einen Regenbogen sehen.

Lalibela

Gondar

Sämen Nationalpark

Am Fuße der Simien - Mountains errichtete Kaiser Fasilidas im 17. Jahrhundert seine Residenzstadt, die auch von seinen Nachfolgern genutzt und weiter ausgebaut wurde.

Von gewaltigen Mauern umgeben sind noch heute zahlreiche dieser burgähnlichen Gebäude erhalten.

Sehenswert ist auch die Kirche Debre Berhan Selassie mit ihren wertvollen Malereien an den Wänden und an der Decke.

“...wahrscheinlich wird mir niemand glauben...” schrieb der Portugiese Francisco Alvarez, der als einer der ersten Europäer Lalibela besuchte.

Er ist vor allem der eindrucksvollen Berglandschaft wegen bekannt. Der Park umfasst Höhenlagen von 1.900 bis über 4.500 Meter ü.M. Mit 4533 m ü.M. ist der Ras Daschän der höchste Berg Äthiopiens und siebthöchste in Afrika. Der Park wurde unter anderem zum Schutz verschiedener gefährdeter Tierarten, wie dem Äthiopischen Steinbock, dem Äthiopischen Wolf und dem Dschelada (oder Blutbrustpavian), eingerichtet.

Im 12. Jahrhundert ließ König Lalibela zwölf monolithische Kirchen aus dem Stein schlagen, die noch heute verwendet werden.

Die meisten Kirchen sind untereinander durch Gänge verbunden, die Anlage gleicht einem Labyrinth. Besonders eindrucksvoll ist ein Besuch Lalibelas an einem der vielen äthiopischen Festtage.

Der 179 km² große Sämen-Nationalpark befindet sich im Norden von Äthiopien..

March 2011 | 19

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Ethiopian Airlines The New Spirit of Africa Ethiopian Airlines has been connecting Africa to the world more than any other airline in the continent. The airline has been optimizing the growth of many African cities in business and tourism.

In its wider network in Africa, ET flies from Dakar to Djibouti, from Cairo to Johannesburg and to many cities in between. Against all odds the airline has been growing with continuous and sustainable manner in the continent and beyond. Currently, the airline flies to 60 destinations in Africa, Europe, Asia, Middle East and America.

Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in Africa for efficiency and operational success, turning profits for almost all the years of its existence. Operating at the forefront of technology, it has also become one of Ethiopia’s major industries and a veritable institution in Africa.

Ethiopian has been working to promote African tourism from source markets like Europe and Asia. In line with this, Ethiopian established strong network from Europe and Asia to Africa via its strategic hub in Addis Ababa, one of the most suitable and best gateways to connect the continent with Europe, the Middle East, Gulf and Asia.

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How it started Ethiopian airlines, the national carrier of Ethiopia, was founded 1945 and made its maiden flight to Cairo, Egypt on April 08, 1946 in C-47 sky train. With such humble beginning, the airline further expanded its weekly regional services to Djibouti and Aden and domestic service to Jimma using five C-47 aircraft.

The airline has entered in to the Jet age in 1960’s and ordered Boeing 720Bs. Ethiopian Airline the first carrier in Africa to make a direct air link between east and west Africa by flying Addis Ababa to Monrovia, via Khartoum in 1961.

In the subsequent years the airline has been growing and expanding purchasing new aircraft including B727S, B757 and B767s.

The expansion and route network of Ethiopian airlines stretched from Europe to China and Thailand when the airline celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1996. In the late 1990’s Ethiopian launched its first destination to North America by commencing a twice- weekly service to Washington.

In the years between 2000 and 2004, the airline has become prosperous and embarked on a period of sustained growth.

More aircrafts including B737-700s and

B767-300s introduced into its system.

On May 05, 2006, Ethiopian Airlines proudly celebrated its sixty years safe and dependable air transport services. In the same year, a new maintenance hangar and cargo terminal has been constructed and officially inaugurated as part of the airline’s modernization and capacity building program.

Ethiopian Today Ethiopian Airlines, today is one of the largest and fastest growing airlines in Africa. With the latest addition of flight services to Maputo and Bangui, Ethiopian provides dependable services to 39 cities in Africa and a total of 60 international destinations spanning four continents.

Ethiopian has been adding new destination increasing the frequencies of existing flights with newer and younger generation aircraft. Ethiopian now flies daily to almost all of its eastern and southern African destinations. Through its hub at the Addis Ababa international Airport, Ethiopian has made traveling from Africa to the rest of the globe easier and more convenient for travelers around the world.

Likewise, leisure and business traffic from all over the world has been growing

steadily and substantially thanks to the expansive network of connecting flights to many cities in Africa.

Ethiopian Airlines is often identifies by its superb and unique customer service in the aviation industry. Within the package of its total customer care program, an inherent cultural heritage of hospitality prevails and it is this natural characteristic of our employees that makes Ethiopian to excel in the African aviation industry.

We are proud to serve you

www.ethiopianairlines.com

In addition to signing an agreement with ASKY of West Africa to make Lome the second hub, continues to enhance its network by means of code share and partnership agreements with several regional and international carriers including Lufthansa, Air China, Turkish Airlines and Brussels Airlines. Recently, Ethiopian accepted as a future member of Star Alliance. Ethiopian’s alliance with these and other carriers has created and provided a wider and better range of options for its customers to tap into efficient services and extended network worldwide.

Ethiopian recently took delivery of three 777-200 long range aircraft. Ethiopian is the first airline in Africa to acquire and operate the world’s most technologically advanced airplane with the longest range.

Ethiopian Airlines’ 777–200LR is currently operating non–stop from Washington to Addis Ababa. The aircraft features

the award-winning Boeing Signature Interior, and is the most spacious passenger cabin ever designed. The aircraft will be fitted with 34 luxurious sleeper seats in Ethiopian’s Cloud Nine business class, as well as 271 economy seats with over 70 entertainment channels.

Further expanding its services and destinations worldwide, Ethiopian also placed a firm order twelve A350-900s, 10 787s, and 10 737-800s. These investments enable Ethiopian to operate the youngest fleet in Africa with better comfort and seamless services to its customers.

Ethiopian Tomorrow Ethiopian recently dubbed “Vision 2025” a 15 years strategic plan to transform its self into an aviation group that provides world class services to its customers.

With the expanding network expansion, continuous service enhancement, and with brand new aircraft the airline sets to strengthen itself more than ever.

These and other similar milestones have given Ethiopian a reason to become one of the dominant carriers in Africa.

A land beyond all your imaginations Visitors may change back any excess Birr into foreign currency at the airport before departure but you must, in addition to the currency declaration form , bring with you all receipt for exchange transaction.

Driving Drivers require valid international Driving license, which can be obtained by exchanging your local license at the transport and communication office on Haile Gebre Selassie Road in Addis Ababa. Visitors can recover the original license a day or so prior to departure. Those with their own vehicles will require a permit from the Ministry of Transport and communication.

Driving is on the right side.

Ethiopia in Brief

Energy One of the few African countries never to loose independence, Ethiopia is as large as France and Spain combined and has one of the richest histories on the African continent.

Dewele, is on the Ethio - Djibouti border.

Arrivals undergo full customs and immigration checks.

Addis Ababa

Metema and Humeera-crossing from Sudan Dewele and Galafi -crossing from Djbouti Togucahle, Teferi ber, kebri Beyahe & Dolo Odo -crossing from Somalia Moyale and Omorate –crossing from Kenya

Entry Points by road

Ethiopia uses 220 volts and 50Hz. It is best to bring your own round two-prong adaptor and transformer if necessary.

Health requirements

The second largest town is Dire Dawa, with a population 232,854 Gondar is the third – largest town with a population of 206,987

NB These are only entry points and no Visa service is available.

Visa can be obtained from Ethiopian Embassies abroad.

All visitors (including infants) are required to posses a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Vaccination against cholera is also required for any person who has visited or been in transit through a choleras- infected area within six days prior to arrival in Ethiopia. Malaria is endemic in some parts of lowland areas. Visitors should begin taking a recommended chloroquine – base prophylactic two weeks after their departure. In addition, medication for chloroquine-resistent malaria is a wise precaution.

People

Calendar

Medical services:

The population of Ethiopia today is estimated to approximately 73,918,505– million approximately -- percent are under the age of 14 and almost half are under 34.

Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar, which consists of twelve months of thirty days each and thirteen months of five days (six days in a leap year). The calendar is seven years and eight months behind the western Gregorian calendar.

Medical facilities are improving and public and private medical centers are rapidly growing in number, though there are quite a number of public Hospitals and private medical institutions are recommended.

The capital was settled in 1886 and christened by Queen Taytu, consort of Menelik II. The population according to official the 3rd census held in 2007 is 2,738,505 Towns

Religion The major religions are Christianity and Islam Language Amharic is the official language, although English Italian French and Arabic are fairly spoken in areas outside of the large cities and towns, indigenous languages are likely to be spoken- of which there are eighty – three with some 200 dialects.

Climate Despite its proximity to the equator, Ethiopia’s high altitude ensures a temperate, moderate, even chilly climate –certainly not tropical. There are two rainy seasons the irregular short rains from late January to early March, and the long rains from June until mid-September.

Government Ethiopia is an independent republic operating under the constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. The president is the head of state, while the prime minister is head of government.

Entry points by air Bole International Airport Addis Ababa; whereas Bahirdar, Makele and Dire Dawa will soon start to serve as entry points.

Domestic airports: In addition there are 9 Airports for Domestic flights in Axum, Gondar, Lallibella, Assosa, Arbaminch, Jinka, Jimma and Gode.

Entry Points by rail

Daylight Being relatively close to the equator, there is an almost constant twelve hours of daylight. In Addis Ababa, the sunrise and sunset are at 06.30and 18.45 respectively.

Time Ethiopia is three hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. Time remains constant through out the year. The Ethiopia day is calculated in a manner similar to many equatorial countries, where days and nights are always the same length. Counting starts at western 6.00 a.m and 6.00pm. Western 7.00 a.m is therefore one o’clock, noon is six 6.00p.m is twelve o’clock midnight and so on.

Visa and Immigration requirements Visa application may be obtained at Ethiopian Diplomatic Mission overseas- nationals of 33 countries are now allowed to receive their tourist visas on arrival in Ethiopia at the regular charge , Including Argentina , Australia, , Belgium , Brazil Canada, Denmark, Finland , France , Germany, Greek, Ireland Israel Italy , Japan Republic Of Korea. Kuwait , Luxemburg , Mexico, Netherlands , Newzeland , Norway ,Poland Portugal ,Russian Federation, South Africa, Spain ,Sweden, Switzerland , Thailand citizens of United kingdom and united States.

For China including passports issued in Hong Kong.

National Parks

The local currency is Ethiopian Birr, made up of 100 cents. Notes are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50 and 100 Birr. There are five different coins 1,5,10 25, and 50 cents.

Abajata – Shala lakes national park Oromia region Awash National park –Oromiya and Afar region Bale Mountain National Park, oromiya region Gambella National park, Gambell region Mago National park, Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional State(S/N/ N/P) Regional State Nechisar National park (S/N/N/P) Regional state Siemen Mountains National Park,Amhara region Yangudi Rasa National Park, Afar Region

Currency regulations

Wildlife Sanctuary

There is no limit to the amount of foreign currency imported into Ethiopia but it must be declared on arrival using currency declaration form. Foreign currency may be changed only at authorized banks and hotels. The currency declaration form will be required by customs on departure.

Babile Elephant Sanctuary, Oromiya Region Jello- Muktar Mountain Nyala sanctuary, Oromiya Region Senkele Swayne’s hartabeest sanctuary, Oromiya region Yabello sanctuary, Oromiya region

Communication Out he Internet service dialup are available at every city in the internet cafes.

Broadband network will be available soon.

Currency

March 2011 | 25

COLORS OF ETHIOPIA

ABEBA TOURS ETHIOPIA Join us and discover the richness of Ethiopia’s tradition

Web: www.abebatoursethiopia.com Email: info@abebatoursethiopia.com Phone: +251.115.15.95.30/31

Designed by Visit 2 Ethiopia

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GONDAR

African Camelot

T

he graceful city of Gondar, embraced with incredibility, was founded by Emperor Fasilidas around 1635.

It is famous for its many medieval castles, (constructed in the European middle age architectural style), and the design and decoration of its churches.

An extensive compound, near Gondar’s center contains the massive ruins of a group of imposing castles like some African Camelot. The battlements and towers evoke images of gracious knights on horseback and of ceremonies laden with spectacle and honor.

The oldest and most impressive of Gondar’s many imperial structures is the palace of Emperor Fasilidas, said to have been built by an Indian architect. There are also numerous other fascinating historical buildings and relics to be seen in the area.

30 VISIT 2 ETHIOPIA MAGAZINE

Debre Berhan Selassie, in particular, represents a masterpiece of the Gondarene School of art. This finest Gondarene church was built during the reign of Emperor Iyasu (1682-1706), and was never destroyed.

It is said that when the Dervishes tried to burn it in 1881, they were attacked and dispersed by bees. The church is rectangular, similar to those of ancient Axumite architecture. The inside walls of the front room are covered with paintings on cloth, glued to the surface. The ceiling is built with thick beams and it decorated with winged angel heads looking down. The wall paintings depict scenes from the life of Christ, Mary, the Saints, the Trinity, and others.

The unique murals are awesome and have stood the test of time for centuries.

Flanked by twin mountain streams at an altitude of more than 2,300 meters, Gon-

dar commands spectacular views over farmlands to the gleaming waters of Lake Tana. The city retains an atmosphere of antique charm mingled with an impression of mystery and violence.

Gondar was once a vigorous and vital center of religious learning and art. For more than two hundred years skilled instruction in painting, music, dance, poetry and many other disciplines thrived. Fasilidas and his successors saw their elegant capital as a phoenix and so patronized the arts.

The treasures of Gondar include the stone bathhouse of Emperor Fasiladas and the ruined Palace of Kusquam.

The castles display richness in architecture that reveals the influence of Arabia as well as Axumite traditions, and are said to be the largest concentration of such structures in Africa.

2012

I

m 17. Jahrhundert war Gondar am Fuße der Simien Mountains einst Hauptstadt von Äthiopien. Die anmutige Stadt entwickelte sich schnell zum einem einflussreichen Handelszentrum, dass Waren sowohl mit den reichen Landesteilen südlich des Blauen Nils, als auch mit dem westlich gelegenen Sudan sowie dem am Roten Meer befindlichen Hafen Massawa tauschte. Seit der Antike von Axum war Gondar die erste dauerhafte Hauptstadt, gegründet von Kaiser Fasilidas. Die Legende besagt, dass König Fasilidas im äthiopischen Hochland von einem Büffel zu einem Wasserbecken geleitet worden war, aus dem ein alter Einsiedler zu ihm sprach, dass er an dieser Stelle eine Stadt gründen und ein Schloss errichten solle.

Hier sind heute der grandiose, sehr gut erhaltene Palastbezirk von 1632 und die prachtvollen Gärten im europäischen Stil

A land beyond all your imaginations

zu finden. Vom Dach des Palastes von Fasilidas eröffnet sich ein atemberaubender Blick über die gesamte Stadt. Im Januar wird die Fasilidas-Burg zur Pilgerstätte für viele äthiopisch-orthodoxe Christen, wenn das Timkat-Fest im sagenumwobenen Bad von Fasilidas und damit die Taufe von Jesu Christi mit Musik und Tanz gefeiert wird.

Gerade in Gondar hat das Epiphanienfest einen besonders hohen Stellenwert.

Liturgie und Prozessionen werden intensiv zelebriert: Heilige Tabot-Tafeln, die Kopien der Gesetzestafeln Moses‘ darstellen, werden aus den Kirchen an einen zentralen Festplatz gebracht, wo Zeremonien in prachtvollen Amtsroben, mit Gebeten, Gesang, Lesungen und Verkündungen sowie mit viel heiligem Weihwasser abgehalten werden.

Aus der mittelalterlichen Entstehungszeit stammen auch sagenumwobene Burgen

sowie Schlösser und Kirchen. In der Zeit zwischen 1632 und 1855 ließen die unzähligen regierenden Kaiser eine riesige Anzahl von Schlössern errichten, die eine einzigartige geschichtliche Zusammenstellung der Kaiserdynastien repräsentieren.

Anders als andere afrikanische Bauwerke zeigen diese Burgen ihren architektonischen Reichtum, der die Traditionen von Axum genauso wie arabische Einflüsse wiederspiegelt. Die Dreifaltigkeitskirche von Debre Berhane Selassie ist ein historisches Juwel. Kunstvoll gestaltete Köpfe an der Decke der Kapelle sollen geköpfte Frauen darstellen, die der Legende nach als Engel wieder auf die Erde zurück kehren sollen.

Nahe Gondar ist ein weiterer kleinerer, aber nicht weniger beeindruckender Schlosskomplex in Kusquam zu finden, der als Witwensitz von Kaiserin Mentwab erbaut worden ist.

March 2011 | 31

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TIMKET IN GONDAR

ETHIOPIAN EPIPHANY (BAPTISM OF CHRIST, 19 JANUARY)

T

imket is the greatest colorful festival of Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia, Falling on 19 January or 20 January (once in every four year when it is leap year). It celebrates the baptism of Christ in the river Jordan by John the Baptist. It is a three-day affair and all the ceremonies are conducted with great spectacle.

The eve of Timket 18 Jan is called Ketera.

This is when the Tabots of each churches being carried out in procession to a place near a river or the water of a pool where the next day’s celebration will take place. A special tent is set up where each Tabots rest, each hosting a proud manner depicting the church’s saint in front. The members of the church choirs chant the hymns. This is accompanied by special dance of priests with their pray sticks and sistera, the beating of the drum, ringing of bells and blowing of trumpets.

A Tabot symbolizes the arc of the covenant and the ten tablets of the low, which Moses received on Mount Sinai. It is the Tabot rather than the church building, which is consecrated, and it is accorded extreme relevance. When the Tabot is carried out, it is wrapped in brocade or velvet “like mantle of Christ” and carried on the head of a priest; and colorful ceremonial umbrellas shade it.

Processional crosses of varying size and elaboration, and a very Ethiopian art characteristic are also seen on the occasion. The priests pray through out the cold night and 32 VISIT 2 ETHIOPIA MAGAZINE

mass are performed about 2 A.M. The next day (19Jan) towards dawn concourse of people and ecclesiastics go to the water and attend the praying of the priests. After the pray, a senior priest dips a golden processional cross which is blessing the water and extinguishes a burning consecrated candle in the water. Then he sprinkles the water on the assembled congregation in commemoration of Christ’s baptism. Many of the more fervent leaps fully dressed into the water to renew their vows. Timkete Kerstos- baptism of Christ, ceremony is merely a commemoration, not an annual rebaptism.

After the baptism the Tabots of each church, except St. Michael’s church, start their way back to their respective churches. The priests, deacons continue up to the end of the day.

The elders marching solemnly, accompanied by singing, leaping of priests and young men, the beating of staffs and prayer sticks recalls the ancient rites of the Old Testament (11 Sam.Chap.6) The next day, 20 Jan, is feast of Michael the Archangel, Ethiopia’s most popular saint.

And it is only in this morning it is returned to his church, again on its way is accompanied by the feast, singing and dancing of priests and locals with their colorful dressing. Thus ends the three-day celebration, a unique ceremony of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, which evolved in relative isolation from the rest of the world. Timket, truly is the most spectacular of Ethiopia’s festival.

JAN 2012 January, what a wonderful period to be in Gondar!

Gondar Carnival 2012 17-20 of January, where Culture, History, Religion and Street Festivals are intersected.

Authentic centuries old traditional music and dances, dresses and hair styles will be revealed during four days long extraordinary street festivals with the colorful Timket holiday in Gondar.  Do not miss it, as you haven’t seen Gondar in such a way before.

A Gondarian hospitality is reserved for you.

You are the most welcome!

Gondar City Administration

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VÖLKER DES SÜDENS – OMO

v Tsemay

Am Omo - River leben, teilweise völlig abgeschnitten von der Außenwelt, zahlreiche Stämme in völlig unterschiedlichen Traditionen.

Ein Besuch dieser Region stellt sicherlich einen Höhepunkt einer Äthiopien Reise dar, allerdings ist Abenteuergeist gefragt. Südlich von Arba Minch gibt es keine befestigten Straßen mehr, gute Ausrüstung und Geländewagen sind nötig, um den Omo River oder den Mago Nationalpark zu erreichen.

Von Norden kommend durchquert man zunächst die Stammesgebiete der Tsemay. Hier wird bereits klar, dass es sich bei den im Süden lebenden Stämmen um eine völlig andere Kultur handelt. Nicht nur in ihrer Lebensweise, auch in ihrem Aussehen, Kleidung und Schmuck unterscheiden sich die Bewohner völlig von den im nördlichen Äthiopien lebenden Menschen.

Karo Die Fahrt in das Gebiet der Karo ist ebenfalls beschwerlich. In der Nähe von Murule erreicht man den Omo River, an dem es mehrere Siedlungen der Karo gibt. Auch dieser Stamm lebt in erster Linie von der Rinderzucht. Da man früher oft umherziehen musste, bestehen die Dörfer lediglich aus einfachen Strohhütten, die leicht an einer anderen Stelle

36 VISIT 2 ETHIOPIA MAGAZINE

wiederaufgebaut werden konnten.

Aus demselben Grund konzentriert sich das Kunstschaffen der Völker des Südens in erster Linie auf den eigenen Körper. Kunstgegenstände können nicht mitgeschleppt werden, wenn man mit den Herden unterwegs ist. Fast alle Stammesmitglieder schmücken sich mit Bemalungen. Viele Dinge, die irgendwann einmal hierher gekommen sind, können als Schmuck Verwendung finden, oft sogar Nägel, Uhrenarmbänder aus Metall, Stahlfedern usw.

Hamer Am River Keskey befindet sich das Stammesgebiet der Hamer. Diese sind nicht nur außerordentlich gastfreundlich, sie faszinieren auch durch ihre Körperverzierungen und ihre zahlreichen Bräuche. Regelmäßig finden Tänze und Feste statt, die man als Fremder ohne weiteres besuchen darf. Hier wird nicht nur gesungen, als Musikinstrumente finden die Bein- und Armreifen der Frauen Verwendung.

Auch die Hamer wohnen in einfachen, wenn auch etwas größeren Strohhütten. Hier wird geschlafen, gekocht, Mehl gemahlen und das spärliche Hab und Gut aufbewahrt.

Stolz tragen die Frauen schreckliche Narben auf dem Rücken. Während des großen Festes des Rindersprunges lassen sie sich auspeitschen. Sie zeigen dadurch Stärke und wollen beweisen, dass sie auch in schlechten Zeiten im-

mer an der Seite ihrer Familie stehen werden. Es ist auch ein Zeichen des Dankes, die einzige Möglichkeit für sie, da sie keinen Besitz haben und somit keine Geschenke machen können.

Die frischen Narben werden meist absichtlich verunreinigt, um sie auch nach vielen Jahren noch zeigen zu können.

Mursi In völliger Abgeschiedenheit und schwer zu erreichen leben die Mursi im Mago Nationalpark. Noch heute ziehen sie mit ihren Rinderherden umher und verändern häufig ihren Standort, so dass es nicht leicht ist, sie anzutreffen. Als wir unterwegs waren, hatte noch dazu die kleine Regenzeit zu früh eingesetzt, unsere Fahrt auf der Suche nach den Mursi entwickelte sich zu einem schwierigen Unterfangen. Als wir dann mit einem Fahrzeug fest in einem Schlammloch steckten, tauchten sie plötzlich auf. Die Verwunderung war auf beiden Seiten groß.

Bekannt sind die Frauen der Mursi wegen ihrer Lippenteller. Die Unterlippe wird aufgeschnitten und langsam gedehnt, indem immer größere Tonoder Holzteller eingesetzt werden, auf dieselbe Art werden häufig die Ohrläppchen verziert. Üblich sind auch sehr umfangreiche Körperverzierungen durch geometrisch angebrachte Narben, bei Männern findet man häufig weiße Bemalungen.

A land beyond all your imaginations

15 tägige Natur- und Kulturrundreise (ersetzt die Reise Omo-Expedition) Begleiten Sie uns auf eine Entdeckungsreise durch die Zeit und reisen Sie entlang des Großen Afrikanischen Grabenbruchs in den weitgehend noch unerschlossenen Süden Äthiopiens. Allradfahrzeuge bringen Sie vom Hochland der Hauptstadt hinab zu den Seen des Rift Valley. Am Chamo-See unternehmen Sie eine Bootsfahrt und sehen hunderte der riesigen Nilkrokodile, welche in eindrucksvoller Gemeinschaft mit Flusspferden und zahlreichen Wasservögeln leben. Am Omofluss angekommen, besuchen Sie die verschiedenen Volksgruppen, welche mit ihren herrlichen Haartrachten und farbenfrohem Körperschmuck zu beeindrucken wissen. Die Frauen der Hamer formen mit roter Lehmerde ausgefallene Frisuren, die Karo bestechen durch ihre sehr aufwendig bemalten Körper und die Mursi verzieren ihre Lippen mit Tontellern. Ein weiterer Höhepunkt der Reise ist der Besuch der farbenfrohen Wochenmärkte von Dimeka und Key Afer, wo die einzelnen Volksgruppen an einem Ort aufeinandertreffen. Erstmalig bieten wir diese Reise mit durchgehender Unterbringung in Hotels oder Lodges an. Im Anschluss der Tour besteht die Möglichkeit, zu einem mehrtägigen Trekking in die Bale-Berge aufzubrechen.

Pulsierende Metropole Addis Abeba Faszinierender Mix fremder Völker des Südens Krokodile und Nilpferde im Chamo-See Bienenkorbhäuser der Dorze Off-Road-Abenteuer zum Tellerlippenvolk der Mursi Begegnung mit Ethnien: Hamer, Konso und Karo Wochenmärkte in Key Afer und Dimeka Nationalparks Mago und Nechi Sar Erholung in der Gartenstadt Awasa Übernachtungen in Hotels oder Lodges Optional: Trekking im Bale-Mountains-NP Tourverlauf: 1.Tag Am späten Abend Flug von Frankfurt nach Addis Abeba.

2.Tag Ankunft am Morgen in Addis Abeba, Abholung vom Flughafen und Fahrt in südliche Richtung entlang des Großen Afrikanischen Grabenbruches (Rift Valley) bis zum Langano-See. Ornithologisch ist diese Region sehr interessant, entsprechend werden Sie einen Halt am ZiwaySee machen, bevor Sie am Nachmittag den Langano-See erreichen. Möglichkeit, im See zu baden. Übernachtung im Hotel 3*. (Fahrstrecke ca. 210 km, ca. 5-6h).

3.Tag Weiterfahrt nach Arba Minch über zum Teil schlechte Pisten. Die strohgedeckten Rundhütten der Einheimischen liegen malerisch in einer ursprünglichen, von großen Tälern durchzogenen Landschaft. In Arba Minch übernachten Sie in einem herrlich gelegenen Hotel an der Abbruchkante des Afrikanischen Grabenbruchs mit Ausblick über Chamo- und Abaya-See. Übernachtung in der Paradise Lodge 3*. (Fahrstrecke ca. 320 km, ca. 6-7h).

4.Tag Am Morgen Pirschfahrt durch den Nechi Sar Nationalpark mit weitem Blick über den Chamo- und Abaya-See. Auf den Grassavannen weiden Zebras, mit etwas Glück können Sie Swayne’s Kuhantilopen, Kudus, Gazellen und seltene Vogelarten entdecken. Am Nachmittag fahren Sie in die Chencha-Berge, um die Dorze zu besuchen, deren bienenkorbartige Häuser aus einer Art Schilfgeflecht hergestellt sind. Möglichkeit zum Besuch des Marktes.

(Fahrstrecke ca. 140 km, ca. 3-4h). Übernachtung wie am Vortag.

5.Tag Interessante Bootsfahrt auf dem Chamo-See, bei der Sie riesige Nilkrokodile, Nilpferde und eine Vielzahl von Wasservögeln, insbesondere Pelikane, beobachten können.

Danach Weiterfahrt entlang des südlichen Randes des Chamo-Sees vom Gebiet der Derasche bis in das Gebiet der Konso, die für ihre Generationspfähle, den Totenkult und zudem durch ihre Terrassenfelder bekannt sind. Als einer der ersten Stämme Afrikas legten sie solche Felder an den nahen Berghängen an. Besuch eines Konso-Dorfes. Übernachtung in der Kanta Lodge 3*. (Fahrstrecke ca. 100 km, ca. 2-3h).

6.Tag Westlich des Weyto-Flusses leben die halbnomadisierenden Ethnien der Tsemay und Bena. In der kleinen Bezirkshauptstadt der Bena, Key Afer, findet donnerstags ein Markt unter freiem Himmel statt, auf dem sich die

Tsemay, Bena, Hammer und Ari treffen. Weiterfahrt bis zur Stadt Jinka. Übernachtung im einfachen Hotel 1*.

(Fahrstrecke ca. 140 km, ca. 5h).

7.Tag Tagesausflug in das Gebiet des Omo-Flusses. Der Besuch bei den Mursi, bekannt durch die auffälligen Tellerlippen, ist sicherlich ein Höhepunkt Ihrer Reise in Äthiopiens Süden. Die Frauen verzieren ihre Lippen und Ohren mit runden Tonscheiben und die Männer fügen sich entsprechend ihres Jagderfolges diverse Schmucknarben zu. Rückfahrt nach Jinka, unterwegs können Sie mit etwas Glück Wildtiere beobachten. Übernachtung wie am Vortag. (Fahrstrecke ca. 200 km, ca. 6h).

8.Tag Am Vormittag besuchen Sie den Markt in Dimeka. Am Nachmittag kommen Sie in ein typisches Dorf der Hamer, um die Lebensgewohnheiten und die Kultur dieses Volkes eingehend kennen zu lernen. Die Frauen fallen mit ihren traditionellen Lederröcken auf, die mit Perlen und Metallringen geschmückt sind. Der Körper und die Haare werden mit einer Mixtur aus Butter, Kalk und Ockererde eingerieben, der Hals wird mit zusammengeschweißten metallenen Ringen und Perlen betont. Die Männer beherrschen die hohe Kunst komplizierter Haarfrisuren. Übernachtung in einer Lodge 3*. (Fahrstrecke ca. 140 km, ca. 4-5h).

9.Tag Sie unternehmen einen ganztägigen Ausflug zum Volk der Karo, die mit den Hamer nahe verwandt sind. Die Minorität der Karos lebt lediglich in drei Dörfern oberhalb des Omo-Flusses. Die Männer bemalen sich häufig mit Kreide, verwenden auffallende Leoparden-Muster, die sich über ihre Gesichter und Oberkörper verteilen. Die spezielle Frisur, eine “Lehmhaube”, bei Frauen als auch bei Männern populär, wird zusätzlich mit Federschmuck verziert. Übernachtung wie am Vortag. (Fahrstrecke ca. 120 km, ca. 5h).

10.Tag Auf der Rückfahrt nach Konso fahren Sie über Berhaile und queren den Weyto. Unterwegs besuchen Sie die Arbore, eine kleine Ethnie mit nur noch 2500 Menschen. Übernachtung in der Kanta Lodge 3*. (Fahrstrecke ca. 200 km, ca. 6h).

11.Tag Vom gebirgigen Gebiet der Konso kommend, passieren Sie die von weiten Tälern und Termitenhügeln geprägte Heimat der viehzüchtenden Borana und fahren in die Region der Gedeo und Sidamo, einer grünen Oase mit Kaffeeplantagen. Inmitten dieser üppigen Vegetation befinden sich die phallusförmigen Grabstelen von Tuto-Fella, die Sie in der Nähe der Stadt Dilla besichtigen. Übernachtung in einer Eco-Lodge in Yirga Alem. (Fahrstrecke ca. 320 km, ca. 6-7h).

12.Tag Am Vormittag unternehmen Sie eine Wanderung durch die fruchtbaren Kaffeewälder in der Nähe der Lodge. Bei dieser Gelegenheit besuchen Sie eine Sidamo-Familie, die Ihnen die Verarbeitung der Enset-Banane (falsche Banane) demonstrieret. Nach dem Mittagessen Fahrt nach Awasa und ornithologisch interessanter Spaziergang entlang der Seepromenade. Übernachtung im Hotel. (Fahrstrecke ca.

60 km, ca. 1-2h).

13.Tag Kurzer Ausflug zum farbenfrohen Fischmarkt von Awasa, danach Rückfahrt auf guter Asphaltstraße entlang der vielen Seen des Rift Valley bis nach Addis Abeba. Ankunft am späten Nachmittag. Übernachtung im Hotel 3*.

(Fahrstrecke ca. 275km, ca. 5h).

14.Tag Bei einer Stadtrundfahrt lernen Sie die äthiopische Hauptstadt kennen. Vom Entoto-Berg hat man eine wundervolle Aussicht über die Silhouette der Drei-MillionenMetropole. Danach besuchen Sie u.a. das Ethnologische Museum im Institut für Äthiopische Studien, die MaryamKirche und den Merkato, den größten Freiluftmarkt Afrikas. Der Abend geht bei einem traditionellen Essen mit schöner Tanzvorführung zu Ende. Übernachtung wie am Vortag.

15.Tag Transfer zum Flughafen und Flug nach Frankfurt.

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Gheralta, The Hidden Treasure of Ethiopia Tigrai, Ethiopia’s extreme northern region has more than 120 rock-hewn churches. It was in 1966 that Abba Josief Tewelde Medhin astonished many Ethiopians by reading out the list of the churches. Before then, however, only two or three churches were known to scholars.

The rock churches are found in Gheralta, Tsaeda Imba, Atsbidera, Haramat, Ganta Afeshum, and in many other places scattered unevenly over an area of 180 x 140kms. Ivy Pearce, one of the noted academic authorities in the field, writes, “The Tigre rockhewn churches are more interesting to visit on account of the fact that one can see antiquity in people, things, places and ceremonies unchanged for over a thousand years.”

She also ranked them as “the greatest of the historical- cultural heritages of the Ethipian people.”

Gheralta, northwest of Mekelle, the capital of Tigrai, is the home of a quarter of the rock churches, some famous for their stone workmanship, ancient paintings and old manuscripts, and others known for their magnificent view and difficult ascent. Such great churches as Abune Yemata (Guh), Mariam Korkor, Debretsion (Abune Abraham), Yohannes Maequddi, Abune Gebre Mikael and Selassie Degum are in the very heart of Gheralta, making it the home of rock churches of Tigrai.

The scenery of Gheralta is spectacular. The view of the graceful Mount Gheralta and the far-reaching Hawzien plain is a rare combination of extraordinary beauty.

Georg Gerster, the Swiss photographer, in 38 VISIT 2 ETHIOPIA MAGAZINE

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his book churches in Rock writes, “Gheralta with its ‘western film’ scenery of mountains seems to be a kind of Ethiopian Arizona, an Arizona, however, without motels or desperadoes. But nevertheless an Eldorado with the choice intellectual pleasure of constantly stimulation and satisfying the passion for discovers”

Gheralta can now be approached either from the town of Wukro, 47 kms north of Mekelle along the highway or from Senkata, 83kms along the same road. The important points in the area (Abraha Atsbaha, Degum, Megab and Hawzien) are now all connected by a new road and inaccessibility seems a fast forgotten thing of the past.

Debretsion (Abune Abraham) The church of Debretsion is not far from Degum, the village considered by many as the most appropriate camping place to explore the rock- hewn churches of Gheralta. Degum is 29kms west of Wukro or 18kms southeast of Hawzien. Debretsion can be approached from the southwest of the escarpment on top of which the church is situated. It is about 40 minutes walk from the foot of the escarpment or about an hour from Degum, situated at the top edge of the escarpment overlooks Degum and the entire Hawzien plain.

Often referred to as Abune Abraham after the monk who founded it, Debretsion is a church entirely hewn from a living rock. It is rectangular in shape, 12.9m deep 7.7 wide and high.

Its ceiling is supported by six cruciform pillars and its sides are surrounded by a clois-

ter.

The back walls of the holy of holies, the domes and the wall panels are abundantly decorated with fine paintings of saints and apostles. Especially the dome is beautifully adorned with patterns. Ruth Plant, the author of The Architecture of the Tigre described the paintings as “enjoyable”.

“When we did enter we were astonished at the beauty of this church and its many murals,” reports Ivy Pearce. Because of the simplicity of the lines and colors the paintings are estimated to be of the 15th Cen-

tury although according to some other writers the church itself is thought to be constructed in the 14th Century. Even though it is amazing to learn that the paintings have survived to this day with out receiving due care and protection, their color is now fading away at an alarming rate due to water seepage.

A 15th Century unique circular ceremonial fan (one meter in diameter) with wooden framework makes the visit to this church special. Each of its 34 panels is finely painted with figures of apostles.

March 2011 | 39

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v Another painting on the western wall shows the Virgin Marry with a circle around her abdomen. This circle, according to Ivy Pearce, indicates the development of Christ in utero. She further went on to state that such a theme was a common one in 17th Century by Byzantine art. Ruth Plant corroborates that the paintings of this church are reminiscent of Byzantine art. Moreover, Plant observed variations in the styles of the paintings in the church and was led to believe that “at least three painters have been at work.” The church also has a wide collection of parchment manuscripts and crosses.

Daniel Korkor is a smaller church with only two rooms. The ceiling of the domed anteroom is decorated with primitive paintings. From the passage that takes to Daniel Korkor one enjoys the magnificent view of the mountains of Gheralta as well as that of the Hawzien plain.

Yohannes Maequddi The rock-hewn church of Yohannes Maequddi can be reached after about 4O minutes’ climb. It is situated on a plateau, east of Debretsion. “This church of St. John,” reports David Buxton, “is the most interesting I have seen and is memorable, too, for its means of access which is narrow clef between bulging walls of bare, glaring sandstone.”

There is also a small domed room considered to have served as Abune Abraham’s prayer room. Its walls are decorated with many geometrical designs and carvings in relief depicting angels and saints. It is indeed a manifestation of the great stone workmanship that was prevalent in the whole of Tigrai both at that time and before. According to Ruth Plant, it is “one of the great churches of Tigre, both from the architectural and devotional aspect.”

The annual festival takes place on the 21st of Hidar (30th of November in most years)

Mariam Korkor Debre Mariam Korkor, described by David Buxton, the author of ‘ The Rock-Hewn and Other Medieval Churches of Tigre Province, Ethiopia’, as “one of the many important shrines in Gheralta”, is a rock church situated on one of the high mountains of Gheralta just overlooking the village of Megab, 8kms south of Hawzien. An hour’s climb from the village brings you to the church. Daniel 42 VISIT 2 ETHIOPIA MAGAZINE

Korkor, a smaller rock church, is a minutes’ walk apart. While climbing up to the church a visitor enjoys the panoramic view of Hawzien plain to the north and the east and the far off Imbasneity to the west.

The church of Mariam Korkor faces west and it has a white washed façade of a built structure. It is one of the biggest and most complex rock- hewn churches of Tigrai. The interior of the church is 9.4m wide, 17m deep series of beautifully decorated arches.

The arches and ceiling of the church are decorated with bas reliefs, some of them similar to those at Abraha Atsebeha.

Mariam Korkor is also rich in terms of ancient murals. The walls and columns of the church are decorated with paintings with stories from both the Old and the New Testament. On one of the columns a magnificent painting depicting Archangel Raphael can be inspected. This particular painting is reported by Gerster to be “similar to the painting in the Cathedral Church of Faras”.

There are two entrance doors both in Axumite-style of construction. The main entrance, which lies to the right of the main entrance, is for women. The sanctuary is so bright because of the abundant light that comes in through the window above the main entrance.

The church has a rectangular shape and it’s inside space measures about 13m deep and l0m wide. The height of the walls is about six meters. There are four freestanding pillars supporting the ceiling. According to Ruth Plant, the general layout of the church is different from that of the other rock churches.

If I thought that the other churches had a reverent and holy atmosphere, this one more so”, writes Ivy Pearce. She adds, “So sacred did this church seem to be that while we were inside taking many flash pictures of the screws of murals on the walls, we were talking to one another very quietly” Yohannes Maequddi is best known for its ancient and well- preserved paintings. Ruth Plant referred to them as “strangely pleasing primitive paintings”. Ivy Pearce on her part writes, “The church of Yohannes Maequddi in the Gheralta region of Tigre has crude and quite primitive paintings, quaint and

A land beyond all your imaginations

attractive, different from any other church in Tigre”.

They are in a very old manuscripts condition apparently because of the non-porous nature of the rock upon which they are painted.

handgrips in the rock face. Just before the entrance to the church there is a narrow ledge carved in the cliff from which one can view a sheer drop of approximately 800 to l000ft. That particular place is the most terrifying part of the ascent.

Among the many subjects these old magnificent paintings depict are Adam, Eve and a serpent, Apostle John, elderly men, Madonna and Child. Dale Otto, one of the members of the Pearce’s pilgrimage to the rock-hewn of Tigre, remarks, “Their flatness, simplicity, boldness of line, lack of shading and richness of collar are unique among the churches we visited. Even their occasional geometrically patterned borders are wide, have flat colors

Ruth Plant on her part described the church as “. . . the most unusual church in the most unusual place, that -place being majestic and awesome” The effort of ascending, however, is lavishly rewarded by the well preserved paintings attributed to the 15th century.

The interior of the church has four free standing and six freestanding columns. It is 7.8m wide, 9.4m deep and 4m high.

and lack of intricacy of similar designs in other churches and manuscripts.”

She is of the belief that the primary influences of the paintings are Byzantine and Painting Nubian.

In fact, the church is not only known for its difficult ascent but also for its truly remarkable murals. It is colorfully decorated wall to wall by exciting murals of Old and New Testament stories. Nine of the twelve apostles are depicted in a round frame on the ceiling. Abune Yemata on his horse’s back is shown on one of the walls. Plant described the paintings as Painting “the most sophisticated paintings found 7 so far in Tigre.”

Abune Yemata (Guh) Abune Yemata is one of Gheralta’s rockhewn churches. It can be reached from the historic town of Hawzien, turning off at the village of Megab, keeping the escarpment to one’s left. A 4kms drive from Megab and a further 30 minutes’ walk will bring you to the foot of the perpendicular rock mountains of Guh (name of the area) which appear as though they are pillars to the sky.

The scenery is breathtaking. Megab is only 10kms from Degum or 8kms south of Hawzien.

The church is carved on the cliff face of one of the mountains of Guh and there are no ropes, like at Debre Damo, for use in the ascent. You can find only footholds and

It is indeed surprising to learn that such great works of art existed for centuries in such “unusual place” which seems rather closer to the moon than to earth. And it stands to reason that the so-called “enemies of the church” failed to reach it or never knew its very existence. It is interesting to witness people from all walks of life climb the church “like spiders” on the annual festival which Stakes place on the 8th of November in most years.

Abune Gebre Michael The church of Abune Gebre Mikael is located a short distance south of Abune Yemata Guh, about 16 kms far. It is set upon the western side of Koraro, a long stretch of forest devoid red façade sandstone escarpment.

Abune Gebre Michael is one of the best and finest churches in Gheralta. The church, cruciform in design, is cut beautifully into a domelike rock. Its ceiling well decorated with cupolas is supported by carefully hewn eight columns acl arches. Four of its pillars are incised with crosses.

The most little visited church has two woodfitted doors and four windows through which the sanctuary receives enough light.

Local tradition states that the reverent relic dates back to the 4th century A.D. The way to the sanctuary is itself memorable.

The path, a steep climb passes through a split that forces a traveler some times to jump a slab of rock and crawl up below another one.

The interior part of the church is abundantly decorated with marvelous paintings and murals. Irrespective of its difficult ascent, the church amid awful environment and its wealth of murals is worth visiting.

So, we invite you all to come and discover the undiscovered one! Do contact the tour operators for your next trip plan in our region.

Source: Tigray Tourism Telephone: 00251-34-440 9360, 00251-34440 1032, P.o.Box: 124, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia E-Mail: tigrai.tourism@ethionet.et March 2011 | 43

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Reis aan

Ethiopië Ethiopie is een land dat in Oost-Afrika ligt. Het grenst aan de landen Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalië, Kenia en Soedan.

De Officiële taal van Ethiopie is het Amharic, maar er zijn veel stammen die hun eigen taal spreken. In totaal worden er dan ook in Ethiopie bijna 300 talen gesproken, die bijna allemaal behoren tot de zogenaamde Afro-Aziatische talen.

E

thiopie is een land dat in OostAfrika ligt. Het grenst aan de landen Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalië, Kenia en Soedan. De Officiële taal van Ethiopie is het Amharic, maar er zijn veel stammen die hun eigen taal spreken.

In totaal worden er dan ook in Ethiopie bijna 300 talen gesproken, die bijna allemaal behoren tot de zogenaamde Afro-Aziatische talen.

Ethiopie bestaat uit een hooggelegen plateau. Het plateau heeft een centraal gelegen bergketen die gesplitst wordt door de Grote Riftvallei (ook wel de grote slenk genoemd). Het land kent veel massieve rotspartijen met enorme tafelbergen, steile massieven, diepe canyons, vulkaanskegels, savennen en golvende vlakten, de mineraalrijke Danakilwoestijn die 120 meter onder de zeespiegel ligt en de besneeuwde top van de Ras Dashen, die 4620 meter hoog is.

Ethiopie heeft veel verschillen als het gaat om hoogtes in het landschap. Je kan het landschap in vieren delen; het noordelijk centraal massief (Abessinië), de hoogvlakte van Choa, het zuidwesten en de laaglanden in het westen en het noordwesten.

De natuur in Ethiopië is erg belangrijk voor hen, ze gebruiken de natuur namelijk voor geneeskrachtige dranken, brandstof, bouwmaterialen en voedselbronnen. De plantengroei is erg verschillend. In de droge gebieden vind je alleen planten die weinig tot geen water nodig hebben. In de hoogvlaktes vind je juist hele andere soorten planten, omdat er daar meer regen valt en het ook veel koeler is. De plantengroei heeft dus alles te maken met de klimaatverschillen, die voornamelijk komen door de verschillende hoogtes van het land. Het is wel 44 VISIT 2 ETHIOPIA MAGAZINE

zo, dat als je hoger de bergen intrekt, minder planten tegenkomt. Alleen bergplantjes kunnen het overleven op het hoge bergen van Ethiopië. De planten die er staan, zijn erg mooi en zeldzaam, maar dieren zijn er ook erg bijzonder. Voor dierenliefhebbers is dan ook Ethiopië een paradijs. De kans is groot dat je hier onbekende diersoorten tegenkomt. Ethiopië kent vele inheemse soorten zoals de waliasteenbok, de Simenvos, de bergnyala, de gelada, de wilde Somalische ezel en de Ethiopische nyala. Ook onder de vogels bestaan veel verschillende soorten.

Vooral in de bergen en de laaglanden van Ethiopië vind je prachtige rijkdommen.

Ethiopië ligt ten zuiden van de kreeftskeerkring (tussen 3 en 14 graden noorderbreedte). Toch hebben alleen de laaglanden in het westen een echt tropisch klimaat. De hoge ligging en de natte moesson van de Indische Oceaan zijn van invloed op het weer in Ethiopië. Er zijn wel veel lokale verschillen in temperatuur in het land, wat vooral te maken heeft met de hoogteverschillen in het land zelf. De gemiddelde jaartemperatuur in de tropische lager gelegen gebieden is 30 graden Celsius. In de bergstreken kan het daarentegen 5 graden worden. De regenperiode is van Juni t/m Augustus.

Veel toerisme is er in Ethiopië niet te vinden. Het land heeft wel een prachtige natuur, een oude historie en een interessante cultuur. Het is eigenlijk een must om indrukwekkende watervallen te bekijken in het land en de kerken die uitgehakt zijn uit rotsen (Lalibela) zijn ook zeer indrukwekkend. Deze liggen in het noorden van het land. Verder zijn er prachtige bergen te vinden met rijstterassen en tefplantages. De diersoorten zijn vooral aan de oevers van de

Nijl te vinden.

In Ethiopie is het in onze zomer 1 uur later dan in Nederland, in de winter is het zelfs 2 uur later dan in Nederland.

Ethiopie is een prachtig land om naartoe te gaan in vorm van een groepsrondreis. Er valt veel te bezoeken. Het heeft een interessante natuur, er leven veel dieren die in Nederland niet voorkomen. Ook de mensen zijn interessant, het is natuurlijk een hele andere cultuur dan in Nederland. Het land is niet enorm rijk en dat is ook goed te zien.

A land beyond all your imaginations

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18 dagen rondreis door Ethiopië Dag 1 Brussel - Addis Abeba

Check-in op Brussel voor uw vlucht, met overstap, naar de hooggelegen hoofdstad Addis Abeba, waar u de volgende ochtend aankomt.

Dag 2 Addis Abeba Na het inchecken in ons hotel maken we een kleine stadstour. We bezoeken het interessante Etnologisch museum en rijden naar het hooggelegen Entoto. Onderweg zien we vele meisjes enorme houtbundels dragen en heeft u een prachtig uitzicht over Addis. De middag ter vrije besteding, waarbij u bijvoorbeeld de kleurrijke wijk Merkato kunt bezoeken, ook wel de grootste openluchtmarkt van Afrika genoemd. ‘s Avonds gaan we genieten van een cultureel diner met wervelende dansen van de vele etnische groeperingen in Ethiopië.

Dag 3 Addis Abeba - Bahir Dar Een lange maar indrukwekkende reis per touringcar via de met eucalyptus begroeide berghellingen nabij Addis. De golvend groene heuvels van het Amhara gebied en de prachtige canyon van de Blauwe Nijl met een 1000 meter lange afdaling via scherpe haarspeldbochten zorgen voor adembenemende vergezichten. In de avond aankomst in Bahir Dar gelegen

46 VISIT 2 ETHIOPIA MAGAZINE

aan het indrukwekkende Tana Meer waar we twee nachten verblijven.

Dag 4 Bahir Dar In de ochtend een bijzondere boottocht op het Tana meer met bezoek aan twee van de twintig eeuwenoude op eilanden gelegen kerken. De kleurrijke muurschilderingen en kunstschatten worden graag door de priesters getoond. De monniken op de weelderige begroeide eilanden leven nog altijd een teruggetrokken bestaan. Op het meer ziet u ook vele vissers met hun papyrus bootjes vissen, die identiek zijn aan die van Egypte. ‘s Middags kunt u heerlijk uitrusten aan het meer of een prachtige excursie maken naar de op twee na grootste waterval van Afrika, de Blauwe Nijl Waterval, op circa één uur rijden van Bahir Dar (optioneel).

Dag 5 Bahir Dar – Gondar Vandaag is ons reisdoel Gondar, de oude koningsstad met haar ruïnes van paleizen en kastelen die in de 17e eeuw door koning Fasiladas en zijn zonen zijn gebouwd in een mix van Axumite-, Arabische en Indiase stijl.

Daar alles makkelijk te voet te bezichtigen is heeft u de middag ter vrije besteding om rond te wandelen. Bijzonder is het om een bezoek te brengen aan Fasilada’s bad, wat ook nu nog gebruikt wordt voor de Timkat ceremonie waarbij de doop van Jezus in de Jordaan wordt herdacht.

Dag 6 Gondar - Debark Een vroege rit brengt ons aan de voet van de Semien Mountains ‘het dak van Afrika’ met de op vier na hoogste top van Afrika: Mount Ras Dashen. In dit magnifieke nationaal park geniet u tijdens een drie uur durende wandeling van de schitterende vergezichten op de grillig gevormde pieken die lijken op reusachtige schaakstukken, in een ver verleden achtergelaten door de

goden. De picknick lunch is inclusief en we overnachten in een zeer eenvoudig gues-

thouse.

Dag 7 Debark - Axum Onze reis gaat verder en we rijden door een onvergetelijk woest en grillig berglandschap en typische Tigray dorpjes.

We picknicken onderweg. Mogelijkheid om een bezoek te brengen aan het kindertehuis ‘Grace Village’ in het plaatsje Shire Endaselassie. Indien gewenst kunt u kinderkleding of speeltjes hier een goede bestemming geven. Ten slotte komen we aan in het eeuwenoude Axum waar we twee nachten verblijven. In een plaatselijk koffiehuis kunt u genieten van een traditionele koffieceremonie.

Dag 8 Axum Na het ontbijt beginnen we met een stadstour. Axum was aan het begin van de jaartelling 700 jaar lang de hoofdstad van het koninkrijk van Axum, één van de machtigste koninkrijken uit de antieke wereld met een unieke Afrikaanse hoogstaande beschaving. Beroemd zijn de 2000 jaar oude obelisken uit één stuk gehouwen, waar-

van de grootste 33 meter hoog is. Welke technieken gebruikt zijn om deze enorme tonnen wegende pilaren rechtop te zetten is één van de mysteriën van Ethiopië.

Naar verluid liggen ook de originele bijbelse ‘Ark van Verbond’

A land beyond all your imaginations

met de tien geboden in Axum. ’s Middags kunt u het bad van de koningin van Sheba, het archeologisch museum of de markt bezoeken.

Vroeg uit de veren om te vertrekken naar het zuiden.

Via Melka Konture, waar duizenden gereedschappen en fossielen uit het stenen

en het vee loopt regelmatig voor de auto.

Onderweg bezoeken we het interessante Dorze volk die hoog in de bergen leven en bekend staan om hun unieke, soms twaalf meter, hoge bijenkorf vormige hutten.

Vervolgens bezoeken we, als de tijd het toelaat, de zeer kleurige markt van Chencha. Hier verkopen vrouwen hun verfijnde katoenweefkunst. Dan rijden we door naar Arba Minch gelegen aan de mooiste meren van de Rift Valley: het Abya- en Chamo Meer. Vanaf het terras in het hotel kunt u onder het genot van een koud drankje genieten van het fantastische uitzicht op de meren.

tijdperk zijn opgegraven en de bijzondere circa 800 jaar oude Tiya stellae rijden we door een golvend heuvel landschap naar onze sfeervolle lodge aan het mooie Langano Meer. We stoppen onderweg voor onze picknick lunch.

Dag 15 Arba Minch In de ochtend maken we een prachtige boottocht op het Chamo Meer, waar de grootste krokodillen van Afrika, grote groepen nijlpaarden en veel verschillende vogels leven.

U kunt ook kiezen voor een langere boot-

Dag 9 Axum - Lalibela Transfer naar de luchthaven voor uw vlucht naar Lalibela.

Het groene bergachtige landschap rondom Lalibela is fabelachtig mooi, maar een bezoek aan het mythische hoog gelegen Lalibela is een absoluut hoogtepunt!

In de 13e eeuw na Christus wilde koning Lalibela een tweede Jeruzalem stichten

en bouwde elf onbeschrijfelijk mooie rotskerken. Onderaardse gangen verbinden de kerken met elkaar. In de holten van de rotsen zitten monniken te mediteren en weerklinken hun gezangen door de naar wierook geurende gangen. Terecht wordt deze mystieke plek ook wel het ‘achtste wereldwonder’ genoemd. In de middag bezoeken we twee groepen rotskerken.

Dag 10 Lalibela In de ochtend bezoeken we de derde groep rotskerken.

De middag is vrij te besteden en kunt u verschillende excursies maken zoals: een vrij steile wandeling voor de geoefende wandelaar in de Lasta bergen rondom Lalibela met eventueel bezoek aan een nabij gelegen rotskerk of per landcruiser naar de prachtige Yemrehane Kristos rotskerk op circa 45 kilometer van Lalibela (optioneel).

Dag 11 Lalibela - Addis Abeba We vliegen terug naar Addis Abeba waar we aan het begin van de middag aankomen. De namiddag is vrij om bijvoorbeeld uit te rusten in het hotel of de stad te bezoeken, vervoer met minibussen is beschikbaar Dag 12 Addis Abeba - Langano Meer

Dag 13 Langano Meer - Yirgalem We rijden verder naar het zuiden naar het berggebied Wondo Genet wat “groen paradijs” betekent. De bergen zijn weelderig begroeid en het klimaat is ideaal voor het verbouwen van suikerriet, koffie en allerlei soorten fruit zoals bananen, papaya’s en mango’s. Onderweg is er de gelegenheid om een korte maar stevige wandeling van ongeveer een uur te maken naar een Sidama familie of om een sidama dorp te bezoeken dichter bij de weg gelegen.

In Awassa kunt u een mooie wandeling maken langs het Awassa meer waar veel watervogels te zien zijn. Ook een bezoek aan de kleurrijke streekmarkt is een aanrader! De hoofdstraat van de stad wordt gedomineerd door de orthodoxe Gabriel kerk met haar goudkleurige koepels en de tientallen wit- met blauwe “badjadj” (driewielige gemotoriseerde minitaxi’s) die af en aan rijden. Er zijn veel kleine winkeltjes, kraampjes met fruit of plastic schoenen en schoenpoetsers. Het weer is vaak heerlijk en daarom zijn de vele terrasjes altijd goed bezet. Kortom: een levendig straatbeeld! Overnachting in Awassa of in een in Sidama stijl gebouwde lodge een stukje buiten Yergalem.

Dag 14 Awassa - Arba Minch Het landschap is vruchtbaar en prachtig groen, we rijden door vele kleine dorpjes

tocht met een aansluitende pittige wande-

ling van twee uur door één van de mooiste natuurgebieden van Ethiopië: Nech Sar

National Park, waar onder andere zebra’s, kudu’s, gazellen en vele vogelsoorten te spotten zijn (optioneel).

Dag 16 Arba Minch - Langano Meer We rijden weer terug naar het noorden.

Overal langs de weg worden zakken mango’s, avocado’s en bananen verkocht. In de middag arriveren we bij een sfeervolle lodge aan het Langano Meer, waar we ook overnachten.

Dag 17 Langano Meer - Addis Abeba Vandaag vertrekken we rond 10.00 uur voor de laatste etappe terug naar de hoofdstad via de Rift Vallei. Dit is een scheur in de aardkorst die zich uitstrekt van de Rode Zee tot Mozambique. Onderweg maken we een stop bij het Ziway meer, waar u prachtige vogels kunt spotten.

In Addis kunt u nog eventueel uw laatste souvenirs kopen. Tot slot staat er nog een afscheidsdiner op het programma.

Dag 18 Addis Abeba - Brussel Aan het einde van de dag transfer naar de luchthaven voor de vlucht naar huis. Einde van een schitterende rondreis door een nog onontdekt Ethiopië!

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FICHE,

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THE SIDAMA’S PEOPLE NEW YEAR The Sidama zone is rich in natural, historical and cultural tourist attraction. It is a land that has the superb scenery and hot spring water here and there and rivers that run all seasons. Two of the major Great Rift Valley lakes also found in the zone; Lake Hawassa and Lake Abaya. In and around these lakes, the bird life and the aquatic resources are really amusing and breathtaking for the tourists.

The SNNPRS is known for mosaic of people, diverse culture and remarkable landscape, of which the Sidama zone is a part of it. The zone has it own public holidays and festivals as New Year celebration called “Fiche”. Sidama is also known for its hospitality.

The New Year celebration “Fiche” will be celebrated every year for two consecutive weeks colorfully. The Fiche day will be clearly known through the Ayantos (by the traditional astrologists). The Ayantos will identify the day in advance through observing the stars and notify to the clan leaders.

On a market day in every area, the day will be communicated to the public through announcement. Elders in every area will start fasting for fifteen days, and on their fasting break day, Safote Qetela (blessing and tradition dance) shall be performed. The celebration process starts from the elder’s blessing and cultural dance.

Next to the Safote Qetela, adults and youths carryout traditional dance known Adiha Qetela (True Qetela) on all market days until the Fiche day arrives.

On the Fiche day evening, each family head makes Hulluqa (arch) from fresh woods in front of his house, pass through it, made his family and cattle pass-through it as well to mark the transition to the New Year process. During the evening, every area starts the Fiche day, in having meals together at the elderly peoples’ houses in advance. During the night, the process of having meals communally from house to house takes place. On that day,

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the meal that shall be eaten communally is called Buurisame, which is Qocho socked with butter and its complement being milk. On the Fiche day meat never shall be eaten, even if there is meat in the house. The main reason for this is that the day is believed to be a transition from year to year and good wish for the cattle too.

The next day of Fiche is called Chambala. On this day the family head shall wear his traditional custom and shall feed his cattle in Kallo (pasture area) by sprinkling ‘Bolee’ (salty soil) and pass the day fully feeding and looking after them. As the day is their pleasure day, children never operate on cattle herding. Children come together, go to each house saying, “Ayde Chambala” express their Happy New Year wishes and the female head family fed them Bursame; put butter on their heads.

Next to the Chambala day, the holiday shall be communally celebrated at every Gudumales (cultural squares). This holiday is known by the

name of ‘Fichi Fulo’ likewise by the name of ‘shashiga’ or ‘Gilbete Qetela.’ The Gudumale is a large area to be used for the purpose of celebrating this holiday.

On the Fichi Fulo day girls dance a dance known Hore at the Gudumale. Unmarried males and girls join chin to chin, stamp out by legs and play beating up their neck. Horse riding is one of the colorful shows to be observed at the site. On the day brides shall be decorated and come out to the Gudumale to give special color to the day’s celebration and the site.

The Fiche festival will be celebrated this year in August. The Sidama Zone Administration is pleased to invite you in celebrating New Year festival to the land that is blessed with culture and natural scenery.

A land beyond all your imaginations

Natural Attraction in Sidama

T h e ma g nificent natural scenery & hot spring water in the Sidama zone include: Wondo Genet, Burqito Gidabo, etc. Like wise the zone is blessed with spectacular water falls; Logita Fall at a distance 120km of Hawassa with torrential sound and Bonora Fall located at 135km from Hawassa.

Garamba Mountain is the highest point in the zone. It is located at a distance of 363 km from Addis Ababa, 84 km distance from Hawassa, and also only 14 km away from Yaye (District main town).

The height of the mountain is between 2800m and 3360m. The mountain is surrounded by bamboo forest; and it is convenient for tourists who have mountain trekking hobby. The mountain is home for various wildlife and bird species.

There is an attractive topography round the foot of the mountain. One can watch Bale Mountains from here.

Loka-abaya Reserved Area: This is a tropical place and with an area of 500 km2. The land is bordered with Lake Abbaya in the South, with Bilate River in the east, and with Boricha district (Woreda) and Loka Abbaya district in the north and east, respectively. It is

located at distances of 338 km, 65 km and 10k m from Addis Ababa, Hawassa and Hantate the District town, respectively. There are many wildlife and bird species in the area. The hospitality of the community living around there is very pleasing.

Its natural scenery is breathtaking and gives tranquility for soul. The zone is an ideal place for ecotourism development. In the zone, there are some exemplary works on this regards. Like Aregash Lodge with its natural scenery and a convergence of modern accommodation with typical Sidaman tukul, art and design; Logita Fall Lodge designed and constructed in traditional Sidama hut and Wondo Genet is a beautiful flowering, forested district, filled with lush vegetation and varied wildlife. Natural hot springs are the central attraction. A small resort has been built with naturally filled pools for adults and children in a good hotel. Wondo Genet is one of the old resort s in the region with swimming pool and hot spring water.

Lake Hawassa Hawassa is an active town in Ethiopia at the heart of the rift valley. It is the head quarter of the Sidama zone Administration as well the capital of the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional State. Over 50 various nation nationalities made their home with their own traditions, languages, dress, dance, and culture. It serves as

an excellent base for exploring the region. The town has been named after the lake that stands next to it.

The main street of Hawassa sweeps down from the beautiful St Gabriel Church to the shore of Lake Hawassa. The birdlife here is one of the best in Ethiopia, and is also home to a large community of hippos. The lake side park of Amora Gedel has very pretty views across the lake to the mountains beyond, and is close to the early morning market where you can pick up a tasty fish for lunch. Boats can be hired to visit the hippos, organized by a local co-operative; it is a relaxing way to spend the afternoon after the heat of the midday sun.

A range of high standard hotels are available in the city; Lewi Resort, Tadesse Enjory, Wabi Shebelle 2 and Pina are some of the recommended ones.

Hawassa is an exciting and fast growing city.

Beautiful, friendly and vibrant - we’re sure you’ll never forget your time here. Be sure for the warm hospitality awaits you at Hawassa. Get packed and take the route!

Welcome to Sidama Zone, a Land of Sensation!

The Sidama Zone Administration

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