The word that best sums up the feelings of those who visit Ethiopia for the first time is: surprising.

The first element of surprise lies in the geography of the country. Although located near the equator, most of the country is made up of highlands with stunning mountainous landscape. The capital Addis Ababa is at a little over 2,350 meters above sea level, giving it the status of the highest African capital.

Ethiopia has many summits including Mount Tullu Deemtu in the Bale Mountains National Park and Mount Ras Dashen, the country's highest peak at 4550m above sea level in the Simien Mountains National Park. These are two must-visit places for nature lovers because they offer hiking opportunities of all levels. The geographical diversity also includes the Danakil Depression located 120 meters below sea level (making it the lowest and warmest point on the planet), the active volcano Erta Ale (whose lava flows are easily accessible at only 650 meters above sea level) and the Rift Valley (meeting point of three tectonic plates).

The second very surprising element of the country lies in its population: being a country that has never been colonized, Ethiopians retain immense pride and are extremely hospitable people. The social model, preserved from European influences, is based on solidarity and active participation in community life. The predominantly Orthodox Christian population is very much involved in their religion and the many religious festivals that punctuate the life of Ethiopians are all opportunities to take full advantage of this Christian fervor. Finally, in the South, the tribes of the Omo valley remain one of the last African populations actually living in an original tribal mode.

Another element of surprise when visiting Ethiopia is the richness of its cultural heritage. Many churches are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Lalibela ("the Black Jerusalem"), monasteries around Lake Tana, and the famous Tigray churches can be mentioned here. Axum, on the other hand, contains an important archaeological heritage linked to the early days of civilization and Christianity, including the legend of the Queen of Sheba. Ethiopia is considered as the cradle of humanity: in 1974, Lucie was discovered and in 2003 the oldest specimen of Homo sapiens.

Ethiopia is a destination that promises rich cultural and ethnic discoveries, offers many possibilities for hiking for both amateurs and trained people, and conceals an incredible nature that can particularly interest nature and bird-lovers.