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TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE

Overseas Adventure Travel®

The Leader in Small Groups on the Road Less Traveled

Ethiopia: Cultural Discoveries in an Ancient Land2021

Small Groups: 8-16 travelers—guaranteed!(average of 14)

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Dear Traveler,

We’ve always felt that real travel is about meeting new people and discovering unfamiliar cultures—elements that are at the heart of every O.A.T. adventure.

That’s why when you join us on our Ethiopia: Cultural Discoveries in an Ancient Land Small Group Adventure, we’ll go beyond the iconic sites and into the true heart of Ethiopia thanks to our small groups of just 8-16 travelers (with an average of 14). Plus, an Ethiopian Trip Experience Leader will reveal their country’s hidden wonders and help us discover its essence like only a local can.

And throughout our explorations, we’ll meet local people where they live, work, and shop to get an intimate glimpse into the real Ethiopia, not just a surface view. During a visit to Gondar, we’ll visit the home of four Ethiopian sisters who will teach us how to make tej, a traditional honey wine. We’ll also spend time at a crafts center that teaches single Ethiopian mothers and women with HIV how to create crafts to provide for their families.

We understand that no two travelers are the same. That’s why we give you the freedom to personalize your experience—extend your adventure in Kenya: Mount Kenya National Park, Sweetwaters Game Reserve; spend more time in Addis Ababa before or after your adventure; consider staying overnight in Paris, a common connecting city on this adventure; and more.

We hope you find this Travel Planning Guide helpful. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact one of our Adventure Specialists at 1-800-955-1925. Thank you again for your interest, and we look forward to welcoming you soon on a life-changing adventure.

Warm regards,

Alan E. Lewis Harriet R. Lewis Chairman Vice Chairman Overseas Adventure Travel

P.S. Visit us online to find videos and films about Ethiopia—from independent films featuring the destinations you’ll visit, to itinerary highlights.

Overseas Adventure Travel®

347 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210

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TRIP SUMMARY

It’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Departure Dates and Prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Freedom to Personalize Your Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . .

DETAILED DAY -TO-DAY ITINERARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Travel Documents & Entry Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Money Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Preparing for Your Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Packing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Climate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

About Your Destinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Demographics & History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

WHAT’S INSIDE

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Ethiopia: Cultural Discoveries in an Ancient Land

It’s Included

Women at a local market, Ethiopia

• International airfare, airport transfers, government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges unless you choose to make your own air arrangements

• Accommodations for 15 nights (plus 1 night in Washington D.C. for some travelers)

• 41 meals—15 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 14 dinners

• 18 small group activities

• Explore in a small group of 8-16 travelers (average group size of 14)

• Services of a local O.A.T. Trip Experience Leader

• Gratuities for local guides, drivers, lodge and camp staff, and luggage porters

• 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your next O.A.T. trip—an average of $406

Small groups: 8-16 travelers—guaranteed! (average of 14)

To get a richer view of the Included Features on this adventure, watch our Trip Itinerary video at www.oattravel.com/eth2021

New! Ethiopia: Cultural Discoveries in an Ancient Land Small Group Adventure

Ethiopia: Addis Ababa, Aksum, Lalibela, Simien Mountains National Park, Gondar, Bahir Dar

Countries: 1 | Cities: 5 | 2 Nights In A Lodge in Simien Mountains National Park

Maximize Your Discoveries & Value

Optional extension :Kenya: Mount Kenya National Park, Sweetwaters Game Reserve7 nights pre-trip from $2895Travel from only $414 per night

17 days fromIncludes international airfare

16 days fromWithout international airfare

FREE Single Supplement

6295$

Travel from only $371 a day

4995$

Lower prices than last year—a value of $600 per couple

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Information & Reservations 1-800-955-1925 www.oattravel.com/eth2021

Publication Date 3/4/20

FREEDOM TO PERSONALIZE YOUR EXPERIENCE

From spending more time abroad or adding extensions, to

choosing your air preferences, our Adventure Specialists are

here to discuss your personalization options at 1-800-955-1925.

Visit www.oattravel.com/personalize-eth2021 for details.

A visa is required for entry into Ethiopia and for Kenya on the pre-trip extension. . You will receive application information after you reserve.

We offer Free Single Supplements on all of our adventures and pre- and post-trip extensions. Prices are per person. Airfare prices include government taxes, fees,

and airline fuel surcharges. All prices and availability are effective as of the date of this publication, and are subject to change without notice. Standard Terms

& Conditions apply, please visit our website: www.oattravel.com/tc. Every effort has been made to produce this information accurately. We reserve the right to

correct errors.

Ethiopia: Cultural Discoveries in an Ancient Land

2021 Dates & Prices

For specific departure dates, current availability, and detailed pricing, visit www.oattravel.com/eth2021pricing

DEPART FROM JAN 4, 5

JAN 25, 26; FEBRUARY;

MARCH; APR 1 APR 7-28

MAY; JUN 1 JUN 4, 5

Washington, DC $6695 $6595 $6495 $6295 $6395

Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Miami,

Minneapolis, New York, Newark, Orlando,

Tampa

$7095 $6995 $6895 $6695 $6795

Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Phoenix,

Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle$7195 $7095 $6995 $6795 $6895

Additional departure cities are available. Upgrade to Business Class may be available for the international portion of your flight. Call for details.

JANUARY- MARCH;

APR 1 APR 7-28MAY;

JUN 1 JUN 4, 5

Without international airfare $5395 $5295 $4995 $5095

ETH2021

SHARE YOUR LOVE OF TRAVEL

New travelers you refer will instantly save $100, and you’ll earn increasing rewards— up to a FREE trip!

For details, visit www.oattravel.com/va

NEW: SAVE UP TO 10%

WITH OUR GOOD BUY PLAN

The earlier you reserve your departure and

pay in full, the more you’ll save—up to 10%—

plus, you’ll lock in your price.

For details, visit www.oattravel.com/gbd

BEST PRICE GUARANTEE

We promise you won’t find a lower price

on a comparable adventure—if you do,

we’ll match it.

For details, visit www.oattravel.com/bpg

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Freedom to Personalize Your ExperienceYour Choice, Your Adventure, Your Way

arrive early, stay later & moreExtending your time in a destination can improve your overall travel experience—and allow you to seek out even more eye-opening cultural interactions. Your local Trip Experience Leader will help to ensure you’re getting the personalized experiences you’re looking for. With their unmatched understanding of Ethiopian culture, it’s no surprise that 94% of our travelers rate their Trip Experience Leader excellent.

From extending your travels—whether with us or on your own—to building in time to ensure a smooth beginning and end to your Small Group Adventure, the choice is yours. Here are some of your options:

Maximize Your Time & Value: 55% of travelers take an extension

Trip extensions give you more time, allowing you to get refreshed and acclimated before your adventure begins or before your return to the U.S. We offer one extension on this adventure, Kenya: Mount Kenya National Park, Sweetwaters Game Reserve.

“Break Away” Options: 30% of travelers spend more time abroad

Before or after your main adventure or trip extension, “break away” anywhere you’d like to go to do more exploring entirely on your own. Extend your time abroad with the following options:

• Spend more time before or after your adventure in Addis Ababa

• Stay overnight (or for a few days) in Paris, a common connecting city on this adventure, or in a destination of your choice

Please note: Our Adventure Specialists can help you plan your airfare if you’d like to “break away,” however since this option is completely on your own, you will need to plan your own accommodations, meals, tours, and transfers.

Back-to-Back Adventures: 90% of travelers who combined two trips anywhere in the world rated it excellent

One of the most common adventures travelers combine with this one is Egypt & the Eternal Nile by Private, Classic River-Yacht. If you’re already overseas, why not see more of the world and avoid another international flight? Plus, you’ll save $250-$350 per person when you reserve two trips right after one another.

Reserve an exclusive departure with your friends and family. It’s simple: You choose the people you travel with, the departure date, and the size of your group. O.A.T. does the rest.

• Choose your departure city and airline

• Depart from one city and return to another

• Upgrade your seat or choose a specific meal option

We recommend you spend extra time in a destination to truly make your adventure everything you’ve ever dreamed about—in fact, 85% of our travelers are personalizing their experience in more than 85 countries. Call us at 1-800-955-1925 to discuss personalizing your adventure today or visit us online at www.oattravel.com/personalize-eth2021.

Zebras, Kenya, Africa

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Since 1978

OverseasAdventure TravelSM

Ethiopia:Cultural Discoveries in an Ancient Land

202117-Day Small Group Adventure

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

PRE-TRIP

Kenya: Mount Kenya National Park, Sweetwaters Game Reserve

Your Day-to-Day Itinerary

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Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925

OVERSEAS ADVENTURE TRAVEL

Overseas Adventure Travel, founded in 1978, is America’s leading adventure travel company. The New York Times, Condé Nast Traveler, The Los Angeles Times, Travel + Leisure, The Wall Street Journal, US News & World Report, and others have recommended O.A.T. trips. But our most impressive reviews come from our customers: Thousands of travelers have joined our trips, and 95% of them say they’d gladly travel with us again, and recommend us to their friends.

A WORD ABOUT ADVENTURE TRAVEL

Our Ethiopia: Cultural Discoveries in an Ancient Land trip and the extensions to Kenya and Cairo, Egypt are designed for people who want a different kind of travel experience. We seek out unusual experiences in out-of-the-way places. Ethiopia, Kenya, and Egypt are developing countries, and the

element of adventurous travel is that plans may change. We respond to changing circumstances on the spot, and we may not follow this itinerary exactly. In Ethiopia, the economy and the pace of life are quite different from what we are accustomed to in North America. Things do not always go as expected here—but this is part of the adventure. We often change our plans in response to animal migration patterns or other factors. It will help a great deal for you to bring to the trip an open mind, a sense of

you will have a remarkable experience!

INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE

» International airfare, airport transfers, government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges unless you choose to make your own air arrangements

» Accommodations for 15 nights (plus 1 night in Washington D.C. for some travelers)

» 41 meals—15 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 14 dinners

» 18 small group activities

» Explore in a small group of 8-16 travelers (average group size of 14)

»Experience Leader

» Gratuities for local guides, drivers, lodge and camp staff, and luggage porters

» 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your next O.A.T. trip—an average of $406

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WHAT THIS TRIP IS LIKE

PACING

» 6 locations in 15 days

»

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

» Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids

» You must be able to walk 3 miles unassisted and participate in 3-6 hours of physical activities each day at very high altitudes

» Day 8 includes walking at an altitude of 8,500 feet; Day 10 includes an elective 45-minute hike up steep terrain at an altitude of 13,000 feet; and Day 12 includes a short hike to Jinbar Falls at an altitude of approximately of 13,000 feet in similar terrain

» Not appropriate for travelers in need of CPAP machines

» We reserve the right for Trip Experience Leaders to restrict participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home, if their limitations impact the group’s experience

ALTITUDE

» All days are at altitudes between 6,000-12,000 feet

CLIMATE

» The weather varies greatly in Ethiopia and is dependent on elevation. When traveling from one area to another, temperatures can shift from 60°F to 95°F in a matter of hours. Due to its high altitude, temperatures in Addis Ababa and other northern Ethiopian cities are cool throughout the year, even during the hottest months (March-May) when daytime temperatures rarely exceed

the mid 70s°F. Temperatures drop quickly once the sun goes down and morning frost is common.

TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION

» Travel over very bumpy, dusty terrain during overland transfers

» Travel by 18-passenger coach, donkey, bajaj (similar to tuk-tuks), and boat

ACCOMMODATIONS & FACILITIES

» We spend 15 nights in hotels and lodges, all of which feature private baths

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Ethiopia: Cultural Discoveries in an Ancient Land 2021Journey to the Horn of Africa and discover the enchanting landscapes and timeless ruins of Ethiopia—home to early Christianity and a powerful kingdom that once rivaled ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire. Meet “Lucy,” mankind’s earliest ancestor, in Addis Ababa, the sprawling Ethiopian capital perched high up on the Abyssinian plateau. Discover the massive stone obelisks of Aksum, a center of early Ethiopian civilization and legendary home of the Queen of Sheba. Witness the living history of Lalibela, where white-robed pilgrims still come to worship in sunken churches carved from solid rock centuries ago. Explore the ancient stone castles of Gondar, Ethiopia’s former royal capital; and visit mystical monasteries dotting the islands of Lake Tana—source of the Blue Nile. And you’ll marvel at the breathtaking landscapes and jagged peaks of the Simien Mountains, home to cliff-climbing goats, Ethiopian wolves, and enormous troops of shaggy gelada monkeys—the world’s highest dwelling primates.

Because our small group is limited to just 16 travelers, you’ll also get to know the people of this ancient land in schools, farms, village markets, and private homes—where you’ll learn the secrets of making honey-wine and injerato an ancient land that is truly one of Africa’s most unforgettable destinations.

And whenever you’d like, you have the freedom to explore more of Ethiopia on your own: Break off from the group for independent discoveries—such as visiting the “Red Terror” Martyrs’ Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa—during free time.

EXTEND YOUR TRIP


7 NIGHTS PRE-TRIP

Begin your Ethiopian adventure in the dense rainforests at the foothills of Mount Kenya. Walk through the lush, verdant green canopies to spot some of Africa’s more unique species. Then travel to the sprawling plains of Ol Pejeta Conservancy to discover the legendary wildlife on exclusive game-viewing drives—perhaps even spotting the famed “Big Five.” Our unique lodgings will offer up-close, one-of-kind viewings of the African wilderness without the crowds.

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DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 Fly to Washington D.C.

• Accommodations: Hilton Washington Dulles Airport Hotel or similar

Activity Note: Travelers reserving their airfare

Washington D.C. for an overnight hotel stay

Travelers reserving their airfare with O.A.T. whose home city is Washington D.C. will not require this overnight hotel stay; instead they

a $150 credit. Travelers reserving their own airfare will meet the group in Addis Ababa on Day 3 and will also receive a $150 credit.

Fly to Washington D.C. today (unless Washington D.C. is already your gateway city) and spend the night at a hotel near the airport.

Day 2 Fly to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Day 3 Arrive in Addis Ababa

• Destination: Addis Ababa• Included Meals: Dinner• Accommodations: Radisson Blu Hotel

or similar

Activity Note: Addis Ababa is located at 7,700 feet above sea level, and our stay here provides an important opportunity to acclimatize before we ascend substantially higher in altitude over the course of our adventure.

Morning:morning, an O.A.T. representative will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel in Addis Ababa, about a 20-minute ride. Depending on where we stay, our hotel should

be located in the heart of the Ethiopian capital, convenient to many of the major sites. Hotel amenities will likely feature a restaurant, bar,

air-conditioning, safe, satellite TV, minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and private

before regrouping later this afternoon.

Lunch: On your own—if you don’t wish to catch up on some sleep, you can dine in the hotel or ask your Trip Experience Leader to recommend a nearby restaurant.

Afternoon: At about 3pm, we’ll gather in the hotel with our Trip Experience Leader, who will set the stage for our discoveries in Ethiopia

us the chance to introduce ourselves and get to know the other members of our small group—including travelers who joined our optional Kenya: Mount Kenya National Park, Sweetwaters Game Reserve pre-trip extension. We will also review our itinerary in more detail (including any changes that may need to occur). Our Trip Experience Leader will also discuss logistics, safety and emergency procedures, and answer any questions we may have. At about 4pm, we’ll depart our hotel for an orientation walk to gain familiarity with our surroundings. If anyone’s still feeling sluggish, a cup of Ethiopian coffee at our next stop should do the trick. Many shops in Ethiopia—like the one we’ll visit—still brew coffee in a traditional clay pot (known as a jebena) and roast and grind the beans in small batches throughout the day. Then, we’ll head out to a local restaurant for

Dinner: At about 6pm, we’ll enjoy a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. Typical Ethiopian food is centered on injera, a spongy sourdough

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wat, a thick stew or curry of spicy meats, lentils, and vegetables. And don’t be afraid to use your hands. Just use pieces of injera as a “spoon” to scoop up bites of the tasty food (but try to remember that in traditional Ethiopian culture, you should only use the right hand).

Evening: We’ll return to our hotel by about 8pm, and you are free to retire to your room, relax in the hotel’s common areas, or gather at the bar for a cocktail to get to know your fellow travelers.

Freedom To Explore: During your three nights in Addis Ababa, you have the freedom to explore the city on your own during your free time. Below are recommended options for independent exploration:

• Journey southeast of the city to Washa Mikael Church: Washa Mikael, or “Cave of Michael,” is a rock-hewn church that historians have dated to the fourth century. While the roof has caved due to Italian bombardment during World War II, what remains offers stunning insights into Ethiopia’s early Christianity.

• How to get there: A 20- to 25-minute taxi

• Hours: Daily, 4pm-6pm.• Cost:

• Get a sobering glimpse into Ethiopia’s dark past at the “Red Terror” Martyr’s Memorial Museum: The museum was established in 2010 to honor the victims of Mengistu Haile Mariam’s Derg Regime (1974-1991), when some 500,000 people were tortured and killed.

• How to get there: A 15- to 20-minute taxi

• Hours: Daily, 2pm-6pm.• Cost:

Day 4 Explore Addis Ababa • Visit Signum

Vitae rehabilitation center

• Destination: Addis Ababa• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner• Accommodations: Radisson Blu Hotel

or similar

Breakfast:beginning at 7am, with a variety of fresh breads, pastries, and hot and cold selections. You may wish to try kinche, a popular Ethiopian breakfast item similar to oatmeal that is made

spiced butter.

Morning: At around 9am, we’ll set off by bus to explore Addis Ababa, whose name translates to “New Flower” in the Amharic language. While Ethiopia is the cradle of mankind, Addis Ababa is quite modern. Founded by Ethiopian Emperor Menelik in 1892, it quickly grew into

serving as the bustling capital of a country whose culture, history, and linguistic identity is quite distinct from the rest of Africa. Because Addis Ababa (usually shortened to Addis by the locals) is perched on the Abyssinian plateau at an elevation of almost 8,000 feet, the climate of the world’s third highest capital city is usually pleasantly cool.

To get a better idea of the sprawl of the city, our bus tour begins with a brief stop at Mount Entoto, the highest peak of a range that encircles the northern reaches of Addis. After we take in the panoramic views, we’ll

Ethiopian people. At around 11am, we’ll visit

rehabilitation center for disabled persons in Addis Ababa. We’ll see how learning skills such as woodworking and grinding eyeglass lenses has transformed the lives of people of varying physical disabilities.

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Lunch: Around 1pm at a local restaurant, featuring traditional Ethiopian dishes.

Afternoon: At about 2:30pm, we’ll spend a

all of Africa. The Ethnological Museum covers the full sweep of Ethiopia’s cultural and social history. Intricately arranged exhibits narrate the story of the country and its peoples, all

rooms are preserved near to their original state and may also be visited. We’ll depart the museum at around 4pm and have a couple of hours of free time before regrouping for dinner.

Dinner: At about 6pm at our hotel’s restaurant, featuring traditional Ethiopian fare and Western options.

Evening: Free to explore the Ethiopian capital

is considered quite safe at night. You might wish to visit one of the many lively azmari baits (traditional music houses), where singers and musicians perform using traditional Ethiopian instruments.

Day 5 Visit Mercato and National

Archaeological Museum • Addis Mercato

coffee shop tour

• Destination: Addis Ababa• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner• Accommodations: Radisson Blu Hotel

or similar

Activity Note: While major crime is rare in Addis, care should be taken in crowded locations such as the Mercato, where pick-pocketing sometimes occurs.

Breakfast:beginning at 7am, featuring Ethiopian and international selections.

Morning: At around 9am, we’ll get a real feel for everyday life here during a visit to Addis Mercato, an open-air sprawl of vendors that goes on for miles. This is the largest market area on the African continent, so you should have no trouble bargaining for Ethiopian crafts—or anything else you can possibly imagine. Just watch out for all the donkeys or porters scurrying to and fro with unimaginably heavy loads on their heads. Livestock plays an important role in Ethiopian culture and herds are often seen roaming freely along the streets of Addis. Along with a drive through several areas of the sprawling market, we’ll take a walk through a fascinating section where the recycling of massive amounts of waste-related items takes place.

and take a short drive over to the National Museum. Along with fascinating items such

a wealth of Ethiopia’s historical and artistic treasures, the museum houses the remains of early hominids, including “Lucy,” the 3.25-million-year-old hominid skeleton discovered in northwestern Ethiopia in 1974. Lucy—who changed our understanding of humanity forever—acquired her name from the Beatles’ song Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, which was played loudly and repeatedly in

of work on the recovery site. At about noon, we’ll depart the museum and walk to a nearby restaurant.

Lunch: At a garden restaurant near the museum shortly after noon, featuring local cuisine.

Afternoon: At about 1:15pm, we’ll visit another of the coffee shops of Addis—this one more modern. While coffee obsessed Ethiopia proudly clings to its traditions, it’s

it’s from traditional clay pots or modern

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macchiato machines (introduced after the Italian occupation), Ethiopia is considered to have some of the world’s best coffee—which should come as no surprise since this is coffee’s ancestral homeland. Coffee plants grew wild here before cultivation started more than 1,000 years ago. Coffee was also once an integral part of spiritual worship, complete with elaborate rituals—so much so, that a ceremonial method of making coffee in Ethiopian homes continues to this day. During our tour of this coffee shop, perhaps we’ll learn about the legend of the ninth-century Ethiopian goat herder who observed his energized goats nibbling on the beans. We’ll return to our hotel by about 3:30pm, followed by a few hours of free time to relax before dinner.

Dinner: At about 6pm at our hotel, featuring traditional Ethiopian fare and Western options.

Evening: Free to enjoy the hotel amenities or explore Addis on your own—you can ask your Trip Experience Leader for suggestions. You may wish to retire early for tomorrow’s early morning wake-up call.

Day 6 Fly to Aksum • St. Mary of

Zion Church

• Destination: Aksum• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner•

Hotel or similar

Activity Note: You will have a 4:45am wake-up

Breakfast: Coffee, tea, and snacks will be provided in the hotel beginning at 5:15am.

Morning: We’ll depart our hotel at around 5:45am and drive to the Addis airport for our

that will depart shortly before 8am. At around 10:15am, we’ll check in to our hotel. Aksum (or Axum) is rather small, so depending on where

we stay, our hotel will be located in heart of this one-time capital of an ancient empire. Amenities should include a restaurant and bar, and typical rooms include private bath. We’ll have some time to relax before gathering together for lunch.

Lunch: At our hotel at around 12:15pm, featuring local cuisine.

Afternoon:discoveries of Aksum, the former capital of an

swath of northeast Africa and southern Arabia. Almost on par with ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt, the Aksumite Empire began around

the fourth and seventh centuries. Today’s

home to many vivid reminders of its glory days, including giant obelisks, ancient castles, and hidden tombs of kings.

of Zion Church, a religious complex whose roots go back to Ethiopia’s earliest days of Christianity. A blend of the ancient and modern, the original church was built in 1665. It is thought to rest atop the foundations of a temple built between the fourth and sixth centuries, making this the oldest Christian site in Africa. Most Ethiopians believe that a small chapel located here contains the Ark of the Covenant, a box of acacia wood that Moses is said to have placed the stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments. Guarded by a single monk, nobody is allowed to enter the room and only after his death will the monk leave the grounds. We’ll depart the grounds shortly after 3pm, however, and enjoy some free time to relax at our hotel and absorb our discoveries before dinner.

Dinner: At about 7pm at our hotel, featuring traditional Ethiopian fare.

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Evening: Free to retire to your room, explore Aksum on your own, or gather with your fellow travelers at the hotel bar for a nightcap.

Day 7 Visit Yeha • Explore Aksum

• Destination: Aksum• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner•

Hotel or similar

Breakfast:beginning at 7am.

Morning:hotel to visit Yeha, an archaeological site about

of teff (the grain used to make injera) along the way, perhaps we’ll stop to chat with one of the farmers and learn more about life in rural Ethiopia. At around 10am, we’ll arrive at Yeha. Considered to be the birthplace of Ethiopia’s earliest known civilization, Yeha is home to a series of ruins dating from the eighth to sixth century BC, including the famous Great Temple (also called the Temple of the Moon), Ethiopia’s oldest standing structure. About 46 feet high, the Great Temple was constructed of

mortar—which surely contributed to the structure’s preservation for 2,600 years. During our time here, we’ll also visit a small museum which houses some of the stone-carved inscriptions and pottery recovered from the site. At about 11:30am, we’ll leave the site and return to Aksum.

Lunch: At a local restaurant in Aksum at around 12:30pm, featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

Afternoon:the most impressive ruins of the ancient Aksumite civilization—the colossal obelisks. During pre-Christian times, intricately-carved stelae (monolithic obelisks) were erected to

mark the tombs of kings, nobles, and important leaders. More than 120 of these massive pillars are scattered throughout the region. One of them, at more than 100 feet tall and about 550 tons, fell and shattered as it was being erected in the fourth century. Another 80-foot-high, 160-ton monolith was taken by Mussolini in 1937 and brought to Rome, where it stood for

place in Aksum in 2005. During our time here,

huge water reservoir that is carved into solid rock; and a pair of tombs attributed to the sixth-century King Kaleb and his son.

Many mysterious abound in Aksum. Who built the ancient stelae—and why? Was this really

secret treasure remains hidden in sealed tombs? Aksum still has many secrets to reveal, but what has already been uncovered represents some of the most stunning monuments of the ancient world. We’ll depart the site and return to our hotel by about 4:30pm, and you’ll have some free time to ponder the mysteries of Aksum before we regroup for dinner.

Dinner: At about 6pm at our hotel, featuring traditional Ethiopian fare and Western options.

Evening: Free to retire early to prepare for

with your fellow travelers.

Day 8 Fly to Lalibela

• Destination: Lalibela• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner• Accommodations: Hotel Maribela or similar

Activity Note: Lalibela is at an altitude of approximately 8,500 feet, and travelers should exercise caution while walking and hiking.


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Morning: At about 9:30am, we’ll depart our hotel and drive to the airport for our

a mountain town situated about 200 miles

to our hotel, and check in to our rooms at around 2pm. Depending on where we stay, our hotel should be located in the heart of the Lalibela Mountains, overlooking the Ethiopian highlands. Amenities may include a restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace. Typical rooms include a balcony, and private bath with hair dryer.

Lunch: At about 2:15pm at our hotel, featuring traditional Ethiopian dishes and Western options.

Afternoon:

most important religious sites in the Christian

Ethiopian Orthodox churches carved from the top down out of a single volcanic rock some 900 years ago. Legend has it that the churches came to the twelfth-century King Lalibela in a dream that urged him to create a new Jerusalem out of the solid rock where the town sat. Intertwined and connected by a warren of tunnels, some churches were chiseled into the face of the rock; others stand as isolated blocks, including the

saint), which resembles a monolithic walk-in Greek cross.

The complex is divided into two groups of churches—with each cluster representing the earthly and heavenly forms of Jerusalem.

grouping. While we explore, we may feel as if we are transported far back in time, as Lalibela is a place of pilgrimage and devotion to this

white-robed followers gather at these medieval rock-hewn churches to chant prayers in

after 5pm, we’ll depart the churches and head to dinner.

Dinner: At about 5:30pm at Ben Abeba, a local restaurant featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine sourced from local farmers. At this hilltop restaurant overlooking Lalibela, we’ll enjoy drinks and dinner while witnessing an Ethiopian sunset at this very special destination.

Evening: After returning to our hotel shortly after 7pm, we’re free to enjoy the hotel amenities or explore Lalibela on your own—you can ask your Trip Experience Leader for suggestions.

Day 9 Explore Lalibela • Visit

Yemrehanna Kristos

• Destination: Lalibela• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner• Accommodations: Hotel Maribela or similar

Activity Note: Reaching the entrance to Yemrehanna Kristos requires a brief hike of approximately 15 minutes up steep terrain at an altitude of 13,000 feet.


Morning:hotel for a drive of approximately 1.5 hours outside Lalibela to visit Yemrehanna Kristos, an ancient cave church that is one of the lesser known treasures of the region. Along the way, we’ll observe many pastoral scenes of rural

to 15-minute hike up a steep hill to reach the entrance of the cave and church. The beautifully preserved Yemrehanna Kristos, built of stone and wood, predates the rock-hewn churches of

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Lalibela by almost a century. As we explore the church, you may notice the large pile of bones at the back of the cavern—they are the remains of some 10,000 pilgrims who came here to die over the centuries. We’ll hike back down to our vehicle and then drive back to Lalibela in time for lunch.

Lunch: At about 1:15pm at our hotel, featuring traditional Ethiopian dishes and Western options.

Afternoon: After some free time to relax, we’ll gather together at about 3pm to explore the second group of churches in Lalibela. While located very near the others, the rock-hewn churches in this second grouping differ greatly in architecture and style—and feature more intricate exteriors along with interconnecting

monuments such as Petra, what really sets these 900-year-old churches apart is that they are still active and fully functioning places of worship. We’ll depart the site shortly after 5pm and return to our nearby hotel.

Dinner: Around 6:30pm at our hotel, featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine and Western options.

Evening: Free to enjoy on your own. You may wish to gather with fellow travelers and talk about the discoveries in this remote mountain town that was conceived as a paradise on Earth.

Day 10 Mule trek to Asheton Maryam •

Visit Saint George’s Church • Cooking

demonstration

• Destination: Lalibela• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner• Accommodations: Hotel Maribela or similar

Activity Note: To reach Asheton Maryam, there is an elective hike of approximately 45 minutes up steep terrain at an altitude of 13,000 feet.

Travelers who choose not to participate in the hike may wait at the mule drop-off point on Mount Abuna Yosef.


Morning: About 7:30am, we’ll depart our hotel

a small rock-hewn church set on a mountain overlooking Lalibela. To reach the church, we’ll make part of the trek aboard sturdy mules, which we’ll ride for about 45 minutes. Then, we’ll begin an elective hike of another 45 minutes to reach the summit of Mount Abuna Yosef, arriving shortly before 10am. Our hike will be rewarded with spectacular vistas of the town and surrounding scenery—and the possibility of spotting Ethiopian wolves or troops of gelada baboons. At an elevation of about 13,000 feet, Asheton Maryam is one of the highest monastery/churches in Ethiopia. After we explore this small church dedicated to the Virgin Mary carved into the vertical cliff face, we’ll hike down the mountain to meet our vehicle and return to the hotel by about noon.

Lunch: On your own. You can ask your Trip Experience Leader for suggestions on local dining options.

Afternoon: After some free time to relax, we’ll meet up again at about 3pm for a visit to Bete

George’s is instantly recognizable due to its perfect cross shape. In fact, this stand-alone church (not connected to the other ten in the area) looks like a monolithic walk-in Greek cross. Of all the churches at Lalibela, Beta Giyorgis is the best preserved—perhaps due to the protection of its 6.5-foot-thick rock ceiling. Dated to the late 12th or early 13th century, it is also one of the latest churches at the site. We’ll conclude our visit to this iconic church dedicated to Ethiopia’s patron saint shortly

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before 5pm and head to a local restaurant where we’ll learn the secrets of making Ethiopian injera during a hands-on cooking demonstration before sitting down to dine on the fruits of our labor.

Dinner: At a local restaurant immediately following our cooking demonstration.

Evening:may wish to retire to your room early to prepare

Day 11 Local interaction • Conversation

with an ex-military officer • Fly to

Simien Mountains

• • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner•


Morning: About 9:30am, we’ll depart Lalibela

On the way to the airport, we’ll stop in the

in the Ethiopian military. We’ll hear her story of how she fought against communists during the Ethiopian Civil War, learn about her life, and ask her what it’s like for women who serve in Ethiopia’s military. Then, we’ll arrive at the airport by about 11am.

Lunch: At the airport at around noon we’ll enjoy a boxed lunch that was prepared earlier and brought with us.

Afternoon:

Mountains. Depending on where we stay,

National Park, with a restaurant, bar, and terrace. Typical rooms will be simply furnished, and should include private bath.

Dinner: Around 6pm at our lodge featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine and Western options.

Evening: Free to enjoy on your own. During these twilight hours, you may wish to gather with fellow travelers on the terrace and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 12 Explore Simien Mountains

National Park • Jinbar Falls nature &

wildlife hike


Breakfast:beginning at 6:30am.

Morning:our lodge by bus to witness some of the most breathtaking scenery in Africa. Known as

rare wildlife. Massive erosion over millions of years on the Ethiopian plateau has left behind a beautiful landscape dotted by deep ravines, sharp precipices, and jagged peaks rising up to 15,000 feet. And wildlife enthusiasts will

fox and the Walia ibex, a goat found nowhere

troops of geladas, a gregarious species of Old World monkey found only in the Ethiopian Highlands. They are adorned with exaggerated hairstyles and colorful noses, chests, and … yes, rumps. We’ll also depart our vehicle and set off on a short nature and wildlife hike to witness Jinbar Falls, one of Africa’s highest waterfalls. While taking in the vistas of this narrow ribbon of water dropping some 1,600 feet through

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a vertical canyon wall, perhaps we’ll be entertained by a troop of local geladas before we depart the falls to begin our drive back to the lodge at about 11:30am.

Lunch: At about 1:30pm at our lodge, featuring traditional Ethiopian dishes.

Afternoon: Your afternoon is free to explore

to enjoy the beauty of the dramatic mountain scenery that surrounds us.

Dinner: Around 7pm at our lodge, featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine and Western options.

Evening: Free to relax at the lodge, enjoy a cocktail in the lounge with members of your group, or retire to your room.

Day 13 Visit local school &

Women’s Crafts Training Center •

Overland to Gondar

• Destination: Gondar• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner• Accommodations: Gondar Hills Resort

or similar


Morning: At about 9am, we’ll visit a local

National Park. Here, we’ll visit a local home and then meet and interact with some of the students of a primary school (when in session). We’ll return to our lodge by about 11:30am and have some time to pack and freshen up before lunch.

Lunch: At about 12:30pm at our lodge, featuring traditional Ethiopian dishes and Western options.

Afternoon:the park and travel overland to Gondar, about a two-hour drive. Along the way, we stop by a Women’s Crafts Training Center, an organization that teaches single mothers and women with HIV how to create crafts that they can sell for income. We’ll tour the facilities and engage with some of the instructors and women of this worthy project before continuing our drive to Gondar. We’ll arrive at our lodge in Gondar shortly before 5pm and check in to our rooms. Depending on where we stay, our lodge may be situated overlooking the town, and include a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool. Typical rooms include private bath.

Dinner: Around 7pm at our lodge, featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine and Western options.

Evening: Free to explore on your own, enjoy the lodge amenities, or retire to your room.

Day 14 Explore Gondar • Home visit with

honey wine making

• Destination: Gondar• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner• Accommodations: Gondar Hills Resort

or similar


Morning: At about 8:30am, we’ll begin exploring Gondar, royal capital of the Ethiopian Empire from the 17th to the middle of the 19th century and famous for its 17th-century stone castles and fortresses that evoke the feel of an African Camelot. In 1632, King Fasilidas proclaimed that this previously obscure village would become the site of the Empire’s new capital, and over the next 250 years a succession of Ethiopian kings built a series of stone castles and fortresses that still occupy the heart of modern day Gondar. Known

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collectively as the Royal Enclosure or “Fasil

visits to King Fasiladas Bath, a serene pool surrounded by a stone wall with six turrets; Gondar Castle, the main structure in the Royal Enclosure which was inspired by the castles of medieval Europe; and Debre Berhan

churches in Ethiopia, with walls and ceilings covered in murals. We’ll return to our lodge by about 12:30pm.

Lunch: At about 12:45pm at our lodge, featuring traditional Ethiopian dishes and Western options.

Afternoon: Enjoy a free afternoon to stroll through Gondar on your own or relax at the

together to visit the home of four Ethiopian sisters who have opened a local restaurant. They’ll show our small group how to make tej,

much like hops that is often made in Ethiopian homes. Just don’t mistake the pleasant hue for orange juice—it packs a punch. After thanking our hosts, we’ll enjoy dinner at their restaurant.

Dinner:restaurant, featuring a buffet of traditional Ethiopian cuisine and accompanied by Ethiopian music and dancing.

Evening: Free to explore on your own, enjoy the lodge amenities, or retire to your room.

Day 15 Overland to Bahir Dar • Visit

Bahir Dar market

• Destination: Bahir Dar• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner•

or similar


Morning:hotel and travel overland to Bahir Dar, about a 3-hour drive. We’ll arrive at our hotel at about noon and check in to our rooms. Depending on where we stay, our hotel will likely be situated along the shores of Lake Tana, with amenities that include a restaurant, bar, and spa facilities. Typical rooms include air-conditioning, minibar, and private bath.

Bahir Dar (which means “by the sea” in Amharic) is a tropical town set along Lake Tana, source of the Blue Nile. Tana was well known to the ancient Egyptians and Greeks—and even now, the papyrus boats sailing along Ethiopia’s largest lake evoke images of ancient Egypt. And at roughly 6,000 feet above sea level, Bahir Dar is low-lying in Ethiopian terms and we’ll all be able to breathe easier during strolls along its palm-lined streets.

Lunch: At about 12:30pm at a local restaurant, featuring traditional Ethiopian dishes.

Afternoon: Enjoy a couple of hours of free time to relax at the resort before meeting

Dar discoveries. First, we’ll see another side of this prosperous Ethiopian lakeside town during a visit to a neighborhood slum. Here, we’ll meet one of the local residents who will show us how Ethiopians make traditional araki, a type of moonshine made from gesho leaves that is quite potent. Then, at around 4:30pm, we’ll set off on bajajs (three-wheeled vehicles similar to tuk-tuks) to mingle with the

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everything imaginable at this lively open-air market—from grains, spices, and prayer blankets to live chickens and goats. We’ll return to our resort shortly before 6pm.

Dinner: About 6pm at a local restaurant, featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

Evening: Free to explore Bahir Dar on your own, enjoy evening views of the lake, or retire to your room.

Day 16 Boat ride on Lake Tana • Explore

island monasteries

• Destination: Bahir Dar• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner•

or similar

Activity Note: During our boat ride to visit two of the islands of Lake Tana, getting from monastery to monastery will require several hikes of up to a half-hour each, sometimes over steep terrain. This will be an active day.


Morning: At about 8:30am, we’ll board a boat from the dock at our resort and head out onto Lake Tana. The peninsulas and islands of Lake Tana are dotted with ancient monastic churches that were hidden for centuries. Most date from the 16th and 17th centuries and have changed little since their founding. We’ll visit two of the 20 or so of Tana’s islands that shelter these small monasteries decorated with beautiful

believe that the Ark of the Covenant was kept at one of these remote monasteries before being transferred to Aksum where it’s kept under guard near the Church of our Lady Mary of Zion. At about 12:30pm, our boat will take us back to our resort.

Lunch: At about 1:30pm at the resort, featuring traditional Ethiopian dishes and Western options.

Afternoon: The afternoon is free to pursue independent discoveries in Bahir Dar, perhaps to walk along the lake and enjoy the views

Dinner: About 6pm at a local restaurant, we’ll celebrate our Ethiopian discoveries during a festive Farewell Dinner, featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

Evening: Free to explore Bahir Dar on your own, relax with a cocktail in the lounge, or

Day 17 Return flights to U.S. via

Addis Ababa

• Included Meals: Breakfast


Morning:

we’ll enjoy the services of a day room at a hotel in Addis.

Lunch: On your own—ask your Trip Experience Leader for dining suggestions.

Afternoon: Enjoy some free time to do some last minute shopping in Addis or to rest in your

Evening: Depart to the airport at around 7pm

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PRE-TRIP


INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE

» Accommodations: 1 night in Nairobi, 2 nights in Mount Kenya National Park, 2

night in Addis Ababa

» 15 meals—6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners

» 7 small group activities, including up to 4 game-viewing drives

»Leader and driver-guides

» Gratuities for local guides, drivers, and luggage porters

» All transfers

PRE-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY

Begin your Ethiopian adventure in the dense rainforests at the foothills of Mount Kenya. Walk through the lush, verdant green canopies to spot some of Africa’s more unique species. Then travel to the sprawling plains of Ol Pejeta Conservancy to discover the legendary wildlife on exclusive game-viewing drives—perhaps even spotting the famed “Big Five.” Our unique lodgings will offer up-close, one-of-kind viewings of the African wilderness without the crowds.

Day 1 Fly to Washington D.C.

• Accommodations: Hilton Washington Dulles Airport Hotel or similar

to Washington D.C. later today. If Washington D.C. is already your gateway city, you will likely depart directly from there early in the morning on Day 2.

Day 2 Fly to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Day 3 Arrive in Addis Ababa and fly to

Nairobi, Kenya

• Destination: Nairobi• Accommodations: Tamarind Tree Hotel

or similar

Morning: After an early morning arrival into

Nairobi, Kenya.

Afternoon: You will be greeted at the airport by an O.A.T. representative and then make the 30-minute transfer from the airport to the Nairobi hotel. Depending on where we stay, hotel amenities will most likely include a restaurant, bar, and coffee shop. Room amenities will likely feature wireless Internet,

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bath. After checking in, you will have some free time to get acquainted with our new hotel, or perhaps you’ll start to make some local discoveries on your own.

Dinner: On your own—dine at the hotel restaurant or ask your Trip Experience Leader about suggested local fare.

Evening: Free for your own discoveries. Your Trip Experience Leader will be happy to share their recommendations.

Day 4 Fly via Nairobi to Mount Kenya

• Destination: Mount Kenya National Park• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner•

or similar

Breakfast:starting at 6:30am with regional and American options available.

Morning: Around 7:30am, we’ll depart for the

to Nanyuki. We’ll arrive into Nanyuki—the gateway to Mount Kenya’s wilderness—around 10:30am and shortly thereafter we will make a 1-hour transfer to our lodging. The lodge will feel like a traditional Kikuyu (Bantu-speaking indigenous people located near Mount Kenya) home with hand-woven wall hangings, soft lighting, and cozy furnishings. Each cabin-inspired room may include wireless Internet, a private balcony, a private bath, and hot shower.

Lunch:featuring a wide range of international choices.

Afternoon:some down time on the porch to watch animals, such as waterbucks or elephants, graze and drink from the watering hole just outside our lodge’s doors. You may choose to lounge here, or return to your room to rest up before we

journey off the beaten path for a walk to a local village around 4pm. Our small group will allow us authentic, intimate glimpses into the local customs. At 6pm, we will return to the lodge for dinner.

Dinner: Around 7pm, dinner will be served featuring traditional Kenyan food sourced from the communities that surround the mountain.

Evening: You’re free to relax and get settled into your cabin or share your insights with other travelers in the common area.

Day 5 Explore Mount Kenya

National Park

• Destination: Mount Kenya National Park• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner•

or similar

Breakfast:and American options.

Morning: Around 9am, we will depart the lodge for a 2-hour guided nature walk through the Mount Kenya forest. We may spot a variety of bird species, varying members of the antelope family, and some unique animals like the black and white colobus monkey, sykes monkey, olive baboon, genet cat, and many more. All the while, our local guide will walk us through the story of Kenya’s independence. As the walk draws to a close, enjoy the curative properties of a traditional Dawa treat—meaning medicine

Lunch: Around 1:30pm, lunch will be served at the lodge featuring international and local dishes.

Afternoon: You are free to spend some time on your own this afternoon. Perhaps you’ll take the opportunity to retire to your room or sit on the terrace and take in the sight of wildlife roaming the waterhole. Around 4pm,

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there will be another chance to discover your surroundings during an elective nature walk

choose to enjoy a “sundowner,” or evening cocktail, as the sun sets over the Mount Kenya rainforest.

Dinner: At the lodge featuring traditional Kenyan cuisine and international options around 7pm.

Evening: On your own—you are free to return to your room or relax with fellow travelers and share your African discoveries.

Day 6 Transfer to Sweetwaters

Game Reserve


Tented Camp or similar

Breakfast:lodge at 8am.

Morning: Around 9am, we will depart for our new lodging and arrive around 11am. This tented camp will be amidst the breathtaking beauty of Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy—a rhino sanctuary. Lodge amenities include restaurant, bar, and swimming pool. Each thatched tent features electricity and an en suite bathroom.

Lunch: Around noon, we’ll enjoy international cuisine at the lodge.

Afternoon: After lunch enjoy some downtime

drive around 3pm. During our drive, we may spot elephants, zebras, antelopes, buffalo, and many other species. Your game drives will be led by driver guides with an expertise in spotting the best locations to see wildlife. We will return to the lodge around 6pm.

Dinner: The lodge will have a variety of international dishes served at 7pm.

Evening: This evening will be on your own to provide a chance for you to relax or talk with your fellow travelers about your African experience so far.

Day 7 Morning game-viewing drive • Tour

Goodall Chimpanzee Sanctuary • Night

game-viewing drive


Tented Camp or similar

Breakfast: Breakfast will be served at the camp at 6:30am with local and international choices.

Morning: We’ll depart the lodge around 7:30am on a morning game-viewing drive. This game viewing will allow you to see different species that were not stirring during our afternoon drive. We will return to the lodge around 12:30pm.

Lunch: Enjoy international dishes from the lodge around 12:30pm.

Afternoon: You will have some free time following lunch to rest up or enjoy a drink in the camp lounge. Then, around 4pm, we will receive an exclusive opportunity to learn more about the day-to-day life of chimpanzees

Learn the intimate beginnings of the sanctuary and discover the daring risks Jane Goodall took to get close to the little-known world of chimpanzees. Jane, a solo traveler, ventured from England to Tanzania in the 1960s to immerse herself in the lives of these species. We will listen, learn, and get an intimate glimpse into the lives of these primates. We will then return to the camp around 5:30pm.

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Dinner: Featuring local and international dishes at the camp around 6pm.

Evening: Around 7pm, we will depart the lodge for a unique night game-viewing drive. An expert guide will lead you on an after-hours exploration of the wilderness where you may spot some elusive animals scurrying through the bush.

Day 8 Morning game-viewing drive • Fly

to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, via Nairobi

• Destination: Addis Ababa• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch• Accommodations: Radisson Blu Hotel

or similar

Early Morning: We will depart around 6am for a morning game-viewing drive. We will have coffee, tea, and light snacks before we set out to discover more species. We will return to the camp around 9am.

Breakfast:with local and international dishes.

Morning: Around 10:30am, we will head to

to Nairobi.

Lunch: Will be served buffet-style at a local Nairobi hotel around 1:30pm featuring international dishes.

Afternoon: Around 2:30pm, we will depart for

Ethiopia. You will be met at the airport by your Trip Experience Leader, and you will transfer to the hotel arriving around 9pm. Depending on where we stay, the hotel will likely feature a

amenities typically include air-conditioning, satellite TV, minibar, and private bath.

Dinner: On your own—you may choose to eat at the hotel restaurant or ask your Trip Experience Leader for a suggested local spot. Given our late arrival into Addis Ababa, dinner will be after 9pm this evening.

Evening: You have the freedom to explore on your own this evening. Ask your Trip Experience Leader for some recommendations.

Day 9 Join main trip

• Destination: Addis Ababa• Included Meals: Breakfast

Breakfast:around 8:30am featuring international options.

Morning: You will meet with the rest of your fellow travelers who are joining you on your Ethiopia: Cultural Discoveries in an Ancient Land adventure.

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With the planning of any adventure comes the need to research and ask -

for this adventure, on subjects ranging from passports to weather, and currency to recommended reading.

reserve your departure of this trip, which outlines everything you’ll need to know before and during your adventure. What’s more, our Adventure Specialists will be ready and eager to address any additional questions you may have.

With all of our resources available to you, enjoy peace of mind … and look forward to the incredible discoveries that await.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP:

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TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . .

HEALTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MONEY MATTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Top Tips

Local Currency

Tipping Guidelines

PREPARING FOR TRIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PACKING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CLIMATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Culture & Points to Know

Shopping

DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

RESOURCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CONTENTS

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30

34

37

40

48

51

56

62

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TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Your Passport • Must be in good condition

• Must be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S.

• Must have the required number of blank pages (details below)

• The blank pages must be labeled “Visas” at the top. Pages labeled “Amendments and Endorsements” are not acceptable

Need to Renew Your Passport?

Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-487-2778, or visit their website at www.travel.state.gov for information on obtaining a new passport or renewing your existing passport. You may also contact our recommended visa service company, PVS International, at 1-800-556-9990 for help with your passport

Recommended Blank Pages

• Main trip only: If you are taking the main trip only, you will need 3 blank passport pages.

• Pre-trip extension to Kenya: 2 additional pages needed, for a total of 5.

Please note: You might not use all of these pages on your adventure (when you return, some may still be

Visas Required We’ll be sending you a detailed Visa Packet with instructions, application forms, and fees about 100 days prior to your departure. In the meantime, we’re providing the information below as a guideline on what to expect. This info is for U.S. citizens only. All visas and fees are subject to change.

• Ethiopia (main trip): Visa required. U.S. citizens will require a visa for Ethiopia; detailed instructions will be included in your Visa Packet, as noted above.

• Kenya (optional extension): Visa required. It is important that you get this visa in advance.

Traveling Without a U.S. Passport?

If you are not a U.S. citizen, or if your passport is from any country other than the U.S., it is your responsibility to check with your local consulate, embassy, or a visa services company about visa requirements. We recommend the services of PVS International, a national visa service located in Washington D.C.; they can be reached at 1-800-556-9990 or www.pvsinternational.org.

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Traveling With a Minor?

Some governments may require certain documentation for minors to enter and depart the country or to obtain a visa (if applicable). For further detail on the required documentation, please contact your local embassy or consulate.

Emergency Photocopies of Key Documents We recommend you carry color photocopies of key documents including the photo page of your passport plus any applicable visas, air itinerary, credit cards (front and back), and an alternative form of ID. Add emergency phone numbers like your credit card company and the number for your travel protection plan. Store copies separate from the originals.

If you plan to email this information to yourself, please keep in mind that email is not always secure; consider using password protection or encryption. Also email is not always available

can do double-duty as a place to backup photos during your trip.

Overseas Taxes & Fees This tour may have taxes and fees that cannot be included in your airline ticket price because you are required to pay them in person onsite. All taxes are subject to change without notice and can be paid in cash (either U.S. or local currency). If applicable, you will receive a list of these fees with your Final Documents.

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HEALTH

Is This Adventure Right for You? Please review the information below prior to departing on this adventure. We reserve the right for our Trip Experience Leaders to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home, if their condition would adversely affect the health, safety, or enjoyment of themselves or of other travelers.

PACING • 6 locations in 15 days

•

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS • Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids

• You must be able to walk 3 miles unassisted and participate in 3-6 hours of physical activities each day at very high altitudes

• Day 8 includes walking at an altitude of 8,500 feet; Day 10 includes an elective 45-minute hike up steep terrain at an altitude of 13,000 feet; and Day 12 includes a short hike to Jinbar Falls at an altitude of approximately of 13,000 feet in similar terrain

• Not appropriate for travelers in need of CPAP machines

• We reserve the right for Trip Experience Leaders to restrict participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home, if their limitations impact the group’s experience

ALTITUDE • All days are at altitudes between 6,000-12,000 feet

CLIMATE • The weather varies greatly in Ethiopia and is dependent on elevation. When traveling from

one area to another, temperatures can shift from 60°F to 95°F in a matter of hours. Due to its high altitude, temperatures in Addis Ababa and other northern Ethiopian cities are cool throughout the year, even during the hottest months (March-May) when daytime temperatures rarely exceed the mid 70s°F. Temperatures drop quickly once the sun goes down and morning frost is common.

TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION • Travel over very bumpy, dusty terrain during overland transfers

• Travel by 18-passenger coach, donkey, bajaj (similar to tuk-tuks), and boat

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ACCOMMODATIONS & FACILITIES • We spend 15 nights in hotels and lodges, all of which feature private baths

Steps to Take Before Your Trip Before you leave on this adventure, we recommend the following:

• Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you’ll be visiting. You can contact them online at http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or by phone at 1-800-232-4636.

• Have a medical checkup with your doctor at least 6 weeks before your trip.

• Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.

• Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less urgent)

Yellow Fever—Documentation Required

vaccination waiver in order to meet entry requirements. This also applies to Kenya if you are joining the optional extension.

While the CDC offers a wide range of vaccination and medication suggestions, there is one in particular that we’d like to draw your attention to—the yellow fever vaccine. For some countries, the yellow fever vaccination is a legal entry requirement, like a passport. For other countries, it is a health recommendation to protect you from getting sick. On this adventure, this vaccination is a legal entry requirement for Ethiopia (as well as Kenya if you are joining the optional extension)—but fortunately, authorities will accept a doctor’s waiver in place of getting the actual shot.

requirement for this trip.

You should discuss the vaccine with your doctor to see if he or she recommends it and if your health allows for it. (He or she can offer a suggestion tailored to your personal medical history.) If you and your doctor decide the vaccination is right for you, then he or she will issue you a

vaccination; you should bring it with you on the trip.

If you and your doctor decide the vaccination isn’t right for you, then have your doctor issue an

• It must be on business letterhead paper.

• It must be signed by a doctor.

• It must be stamped using the same stamp that the doctor uses on a Yellow Fever Card.

• It must give the medical reason why you cannot get the vaccine, say how high the risk is, and cite an authority. (For example: Mr. Smith cannot receive the yellow fever vaccine due to a high risk of side effects as outlined in the Center for Disease Control’s guidelines for people over the age of 65.)

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asked, you must be able to produce your Yellow Fever Card OR your waiver.

Medication Suggestions

• An antibiotic medication for gastrointestinal illness

• Prescription pain medication in the unlikely event of an injury in a remote location

• Motion sickness medicine, if you are susceptible (the roads are very bumpy).

• Anti-malaria medication for Ethiopia (and Kenya if you are taking the optional extension).

side effects.

Traveling with Medications

• Pack medications in your carry-on bag to avoid loss and to have them handy.

• Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers for a quicker security screen at the airport and a better experience if you get stopped by customs while overseas.

• Bring copies of your prescriptions, written using the generic drug name rather than a brand name to be prepared for any unforeseen loss of your medications.

We recommend checking with the State Department for medication restrictions by country: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html. (Pick the country and then follow the links to “Local Laws &

presume major U.S. brands should be OK).

Staying Healthy on Your Trip

Jet Lag Tips

• Start your trip well-rested.

• Begin a gradual transition to your new time zone before you leave or switch to your destination time zone when you get on the plane.

• Attempt to sleep and eat according to the new schedule.

• Avoid heavy eating and drinking caffeine or alcoholic beverages right before–and during–

•

• Stretch your legs, neck, and back periodically while seated on the plane.

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• After arrival, avoid the temptation to nap.

•

•

Allergies

If you have any serious allergies or dietary restrictions, we advise you to notify us at least 30 days prior to your departure. Please call our Traveler Support team at 1-800-221-0814, and we will

Water

• Tap water is not safe to drink. We recommend you use only bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth throughout this trip.

• Bottled drinks and juices, and hot drinks that have been boiled, are safe to drink. Avoid drinks with ice in them.

• Before you buy a bottle, inspect it to make sure the cap is sealed properly. Carry a handkerchief to dry the tops of bottled drinks before and after opening.

Food

• The food served at our lodges is safe, including salads and fruits.

• Exercise caution when eating at small local restaurants or buying food from street vendors. Eat only food that is well done and is still hot.

• Since the tap water is not safe to drink, you should be mindful about eating salads or fruits—they may have been washed in tap water. (Fruit that you peel yourself should be OK.)

food that you do not feel comfortable with, no one will feel offended if you politely decline; this is OK

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MONEY MATTERS

Top Three Tips • Bring enough cash to cover your needs for 80% of the trip and only expect to be able to

use plastic (credit, debit, or ATM card) 20% of the time. When budgeting, keep in mind that your biggest expenses will be tips, meals, and souvenirs. As a guideline, an average meal in this region costs between $15 and $20 per person including a tip.

• A mix of small bills ($1s-$20s), in good condition, and printed after 2006. You’ll be able to pay in U.S. dollars in most places on this trip.

• Traveler’s checks are not recommended.commission fee for cashing them is quite high. It’s more practical to view them as a last resort in the event of a special situation.

Local Currency For current exchange rates, please refer to an online converter tool like www.xe.com/currencyconverter

Ethiopia

santims. Banknotes and coins come in the following denominations:

• Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 birr

• Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 santims; 1 birr

Kenya

shilling is written Shs.1/-. Banknote and coin denominations are as follows:

• Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 shillings (written Shs.1000/-)

• Coins: 50 cents and 1, 5, 10, 20 and 40 shillings

In Kenya, U.S. dollars are accepted for payment in most situations. Newer bills (2006 or newer) in very good condition are strongly preferred. However, when paying in dollars, the exchange rate is not in your favor. You’ll get a better rate by exchanging dollars for shillings and then paying in shillings.

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How to Exchange Money

On this adventure, you won’t need to exchange money because you can pay in U.S. dollars. But you will want a mix of small bills ($1, 5, 10, and 20s), in good condition, printed after 2006. Large bills ($50s and $100s) will be hard to break, and bills in bad condition (dirty, worn, or torn) or printed before 2006 might be rejected, even by banks.

During the trip, if you choose to get local currency, the easiest way is to use a local ATM (your bank at home will convert and charge you in U.S. dollars). You can also exchange cash at some

in good condition (not worn, torn, or dirty). Never exchange money on the street. All exchange methods involve fees, which may be built into the conversion rate; ask beforehand.

ATMs When using the ATM, keep in mind that it may only accept cards from local banks, and may not allow cash advances on credit cards; you might need to try more than one ATM or more than one card.

Many banks charge a fee of $1-$5 each time you use a foreign ATM. Others may charge you a percentage of the amount you withdraw. We recommend that you check with your bank before you depart.

Lastly, don’t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card’s PIN number (many keypads at foreign ATMs do not include letters on their keys—they only display numbers.)

Ethiopia:rural areas.

Kenya: International ATM networks are typically available in the larger cities like Nairobi, however when you are on safari in the bush, you will not have access to ATMs. Local ATMs may only accept cards from local banks and usually will not allow cash advances on credit cards; therefore it is best to bring a cash reserve large enough to pay for most expenses.

Credit & Debit Cards Even if you don’t plan on using a credit card during your trip, we still suggest that you bring one or two as a backup, especially if you are planning a large purchase (artwork, jewelry). We also suggest that you bring more than one brand of card (i.e. Visa, MasterCard, American Express) if possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the Discover card is accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other brands will work at a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc.

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Ethiopia: Credit cards are rarely accepted in Ethiopia, even in large cities such as Addis Abada. We strongly recommend that you bring enough cash to exchange or withdraw local funds from an ATM.

Kenya: Credit cards are becoming more common in Kenya, but are not as widely accepted as they are in the U.S. Many camps, lodges, and shops will be cash only. Businesses that do accept cards tend to use a slow approval process that may involve calling your credit card company to get authorization.

Notify Card Providers of Upcoming Travel

Many credit card companies and banks have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card if they see suspicious charges—such as charges or withdrawals from another country. To avoid an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company and/or bank you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number a week or two before your departure. Some banks or credit card companies will also let you do this online.

You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a card while you are abroad. Don’t assume you can use the 1-800 number printed on the back of your card—most 1 800 numbers don’t work outside of the U.S.!

Tipping GuidelinesOf course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. But for those of you who have asked for tipping suggestions, we offer these guidelines.

• O.A.T. Trip Experience Leader: It is customary to express a personal “thank you” to your Trip Experience Leader at the end of your trip. As a guideline, many travelers give $7-$10 USD (or equivalent in local currency) per person for each day their Trip Experience Leader is with them.

• Housekeeping staff: $1-2 per room, per night. Tipping for housekeepers at tented camps and

• Waiters: When dining on your own, you would tip from 5%-10% of the bill in Ethiopia or Kenya—but only if a service charge isn’t already on the bill.

• Taxis: In East Africa tipping isn’t necessary, but if you want to give something you can round up the bill and let the driver keep the change.

• Your Trip Price Includes: Gratuities are included for local guides, drivers, lodge and camp staff, driver-guides, and luggage porters on your main trip, extensions, and all optional tours.

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PREPARING FOR YOUR TRIP

Land Only Travelers & Personalized Air

• Land Only:not included.

• Air-Inclusive: You booked international air with us. Airport transfers are included as long as you didn’t customize your trip’s dates (see next bullet).

• Personalized Air: You booked international air with us, and have customized it in some way. If you have customized your trip’s dates to arrive early, stay longer, or stop on your own in a connecting city, airport transfers will NOT be included. You must also arrange your own accommodations for any additional nights. For your convenience, a preliminary list of your included hotels is available on your My Account at www.oattravel.com/myaccount under “My Reservations”.

Airport Transfers Can Be Purchased

• included airfare.

•

Airport transfers can be purchased up to 45 days prior to your departure; they are not available for purchase onsite. To learn more, or purchase airport transfers, please call our Traveler Support team at 1-800-221-0814.

suggest the Rome to Rio website as a handy resource: www.rome2rio.com

Optional Tours Optional tours are additional add-on tours that allow you to personalize your adventure by tailoring it to your tastes and needs. And if you decide not to join an optional tour? Then you’ll have free time to relax or explore on your own—it’s about options, not obligations.

What You Need to Know

• All optional tours are subject to change and availability.

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• Optional tours that are reserved with your Trip Experience Leader can be paid for using credit/debit cards only. We accept MasterCard, Visa, and Discover credit cards; we can also take MasterCard or Visa debit cards as long as the card allows you to sign for purchases. (You won’t be able to enter a PIN.)

• To ensure that you are charged in U.S. dollars, your payment will be processed by our U.S. headquarters in Boston. This process can take up to three months, so we ask that you only use a card that will still be valid three months after your trip is over. The charge may appear on your credit card statement as being from Boston, MA or may be labeled as “OPT Boston”.

• Your Trip Experience Leader will give you details on the optional tours while you’re on the trip. But if you’d like to look over descriptions of them earlier, you can do so at any time by referring to your Day-to-Day Itinerary (available online by signing into My Account at www.oattravel.com/myaccount).

Communications

Cell Phones

If you want to use your cell phone on the trip, check with your phone provider to see if your phone and service will work outside of the U.S. It may turn out to be cheaper to rent an international phone or buy a SIM card onsite. If you want to use a local SIM, just make certain your phone is “unlocked”, meaning it can accept a local SIM card. If your cell is unlocked, then you will be able to purchase a local SIM for it and then buy minutes with “Pay as You Go” cards, so that you have a local contact number for your friends and family.

Calling Apps

Another option is to use a smartphone app like Skype or FaceTime. These services are usually less expensive than making a traditional call, but you’ll need a Wi-Fi connection and the calls may count towards your phone plan’s data allowance. Many smartphones—and some tablets or laptops—come with one of these apps pre-installed or you can download them for free from the appropriate apps store.

Calling Cards & 1-800 Numbers

When calling the U.S. from a foreign country, a prepaid calling card can be useful because it circumvents unexpected charges from the hotel. Calling cards purchased locally are typically the best (less expensive, more likely to work with the local phones, etc.). One reminder: Do not call U.S. 1-800 numbers outside the continental United States. This can result in costly long distance fees, since 1-800 numbers do not work outside the country.

Internet

Internet access on this adventure will be mostly limited to cities and towns. In many cases, it will not be WiFi, but rather public computers in the hotel lobby or business center. The hotels and lodges that do offer WiFi will usually charge for the service.

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Receiving Calls from Home

To ensure you are available during your trip to friends and relatives at home, you will receive two copies of your hotel list, including phone numbers, with your Final Documents. One copy is for you to bring, and one is to leave behind with friends or relatives in case they need to contact you during the trip.

How to Call Overseas

When calling overseas from the U.S., dial 011 for international exchange, then the country code (indicated by a plus sign: +), and then the number. Note that foreign phone numbers may not have the same number of digits as U.S. numbers; even within a country the number of digits can vary depending on the city and if the phone is a land line or cell phone.

Ethiopia: +251 Kenya: +254

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PACKING

Luggage Limits

MAIN TRIP LIMITS

Pieces per person One checked bag and one carry-on per person.

Weight restrictions Varies by international airline. The current

industry standard is 50 lbs for checked luggage

and 15 lbs for carry-ons.

Size Restrictions Main trip: Standard airline size: Checked luggage

should not exceed 62 linear inches (length+ width

+ depth) and carry-on should not exceed 45 linear

inches

Luggage Type Main trip: A duffel bag or sturdy suitcase with

wheels and lockable zippers.

If you are joining the Kenya pre-trip

extension: Must use a duffel bag as your checked

luggage throughout your adventure.

TRIP EXTENSION(S) LIMITS

Kenya pre-trip extension: Luggage is limited to a combined weight of 33 lbs TOTAL (see note below).

Use of a duffel bag as your checked luggage is required on this extension. Your duffel bag must be no

larger than 24”x18”x13” and your carry-on luggage is limited to 21”x12”x9” in dimension.

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REMARKS/SUGGESTIONS

EXCESS BAGGAGE CANNOT BE TAKEN.

Important Notes for Kenya pre-trip extension:

• Use of a duffel bag is a requirement on the Kenya extension. Your duffel bag must be no larger

than 24”x18”x13” and your carry-on luggage is limited to 21”x12”x9” in dimension with a combined

weight limit of 33 lbs.

• Luggage storage: Your luggage will be limited to a combined weight of 33 lbs total on the Kenya

pre-trip extension due to internal flight restrictions, so you can choose to limit your luggage to

33 lbs throughout the entire trip OR you have the option to store excess luggage at the hotel in

Nairobi (you’ll spend 1 night in Nairobi at the start of your pre-trip extension, fly to the Mount

Kenya area, then return to Nairobi for the beginning of the main trip). If you choose to store excess

luggage, please bring a small, additional bag (with a lock) to leave at the hotel in Nairobi.

Luggage rules: Luggage rules and limits are set by governmental and airline policy. Enforcement of the rules may include spot checks or may be inconsistent. However one thing is the same across the board: If you are found to have oversized or overweight luggage, you will be subject to additional fees, to be assessed by—and paid to—the airline in question.

Don’t Forget:

• These luggage limits may change. If the airline(s) notify us of any changes, we will include an update in your Final Documents booklet.

• so prior to departure. For your convenience, we maintain a list of the toll-free numbers for the most common airlines on our website in the FAQ section.

• Baggage fees are not included in your trip price; they are payable directly to the airlines.

•

need to pack according to the lower restrictions.

Your Luggage

Checked Luggage

For travelers who are not joining the Kenya pre-trip extension, please bring one duffel bag or suitcase. Look for one with heavy nylon fabric, wrap-around handles, and a heavy duty lockable zipper. Please do not bring a rigid (plastic shell) suitcase.

• Use of a duffel bag is a requirement on this extension.

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• Your duffel bag must be no larger than 24”x18”x13” and your carry-on luggage is limited to

our safari vehicles.

Important Note:

Carry-on Bag

You are allowed one carry-on bag per person. We suggest a tote or small backpack that can be

camera, etc—during your daily activities.

Locks

luggage unlocked. Outside of the U.S. we strongly recommend locking your luggage as a theft-prevention measure.

Luggage Handling on Arrival

Airport porters are not allowed in the customs hall area. When you land, you must take your luggage off the baggage carousel and then clear customs. When you exit the airport building, your driver will load your luggage into the coach.

Clothing Suggestions

Functional Tips

• Most of your clothing should be for warm, dry climatesmade of 100% cotton. But you’ll still want to bring a warmer layer due to temperatures dropping at night (and you may want it during the day on the air-conditioned bus).

• Footwear: You’ll be on your feet a lot during the trip and walking over some rough, slippery, and sometimes sandy/muddy surfaces. We recommend you wear sturdy walking shoes or similar supportive sports shoes.

• You can buy clothing designed especially for travel. Look for clothes that offer adequate sun protection. If you like to hand-wash your clothes, bring socks and underwear made of material that will dry out overnight.

• When traveling with a companionof your clothing in your companion’s luggage and vice-versa, in case one bag is delayed.

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• Dress on our trip is functional and casual. There’s no need for formal or dressy clothing. In local communities, and to some extent in the lodges, your dress should be modest and conservative.

Fashion Dos and Don’ts

• Do dress modestly: Ethiopia is a traditional country, and locals tend to dress more modestly, although this is changing in big cities like Addis Ababa. In this context, “modestly dressed” usually means covered from shoulders to below the knees—no shorts, no sleeveless shirts, and no low or revealing necklines; and skirts or dresses below the knee. These rules are especially important in Orthodox churches or Muslim mosques—while you will usually be allowed to enter, you will be frowned upon for showing too much skin. A loose t-shirt and trousers/jeans/long skirt are a better bet.

• Do know the rules for churches and mosques: In addition to dressing modestly, you may be asked to remove your shoes in either an Orthodox church or a mosque. Also local women will tend to cover their hair with a scarf in either a church or a mosque; as a visitor you are usually not required or even expected to do the same, but doing so would be a nice way to show respect.

• For the Kenya extension, do wear muted earth tones (beige, khaki, etc.) because they don’t show dirt easily, coordinate well, and don’t distract animals. Don’t wear white or very brightly colored clothing. These colors have traditionally been used to keep animals away, and even color-blind animals can spot dark and light shades like black and white, which is why white is a danger signal for some species.

IMPORTANT: Plastic bags are no longer allowed in Kenya (optional extension) and travelers will be asked to dispose of any such items when crossing the border. These items include but are not limited to duty-free and general plastic shopping bags, bin liners (which may be used to protect luggage), and dry cleaning bags. If you have plastic bags upon arrival to Kenya, you will be asked

not have any issues crossing the border, we strongly recommend that you do not bring any plastic bags on this adventure. If you are caught with a plastic bag after you have crossed the border, this

What to Bring We have included suggestions from Trip Experience Leaders and former travelers to help you pack. These lists are only jumping-off points—they offer recommendations based on experience, but not requirements. You may also want to consult the “Climate” chapter of this handbook.

And don’t forget a reusable water bottleas we are working to eliminate single-use plastic bottles on all of our trips.

Year-Round Clothing Checklist

Shirts: A mixture of short and long-sleeved shirts to layer

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Shorts: Cut long for modesty

Shoes and socks: Comfortable walking/ running shoes or low-cut hiking shoes, with arch

boots should offer better support and traction than shoes.

Light rain jacket/windbreaker with hood

Wide-brim sun hat or visor for sun protection

Underwear: Most hotels and lodges will not include “smalls” (underwear) in their laundry service for cultural reasons. It is usually OK for you wash them yourself in your room.

Sleepwear

Optional: Swimsuit and cover-up

Seasonal Clothing Recommendations

For the rainy season (June-September):

Rain gear: Waterproof jacket/windbreaker with hood and waterproof pants

Hood/lens cap/waterproof bag for camera

Essential Items

deodorant, etc.

Spare eyeglasses/contact lenses; sunglasses

Sunscreen: SPF 15 or stronger

Insect repellent

Flashlight or headlamp

Lightweight binoculars for the Kenya extension: To avoid disturbing the animals’ natural activities, we stop the vehicle at a respectful distance. By having your own binoculars, you’ll be able to enjoy the experience more. Models such as 8 x 21 or 6 x 16 provide suitable

and require a very steady hand.

Pocket-size tissues

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Moist towelettes (baby wipes) and/or anti-bacterial “water-free” hand cleanser

Electrical transformer & plug adapters.

Camera gear with extra batteries or battery charger

Medicines & First Aid Gear

Your own prescription medicines

tablets, something for upset stomach. Maybe a cold remedy, moleskin foot pads, or antibiotic cream.

An antibiotic medication for gastrointestinal illness

Optional: A strong prescription pain medication for rare emergency purposes

Optional: Motion sickness medicine if you are susceptible (the roads are very bumpy).

Optional Gear

Eye drops: The dry air and dusty roads can cause itchy eyes.

Surgical masks, to cover your mouth during game drives on dusty terrain

Hand-wash laundry soap

Field guide: A small, lightweight guide so you are not encumbered during game drives.

Phrase book

Small gift for Home-Hosted visit

Folding walking staff, sold in most camping stores

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Do Not Bring Single-Use Plastic Bags on the Kenya Extension

Single-use plastic bags are banned in Kenya (optional extension). If you like to bring a bag for shoes or laundry, we recommend a lightweight nylon bag, packing cube, or reusable cloth tote instead. We also recommend a reusable toiletry bag instead of a Ziploc-style bag.

luggage before you depart.

Electricity When traveling overseas, the voltage is usually different and the plugs might not be the same shape.

Voltage

Electricity in Ethiopia and Kenya is 220-240 volts. In the U.S. it is 110 volts. Most of the things a traveler will want to plug in—battery chargers, MP3 players, tablets or computers—can run off

before you plug it in. If you have something that needs 110 volts—like a shaver or a hairdryer—you can bring a transformer to change the current. (But transformers tend to burn out, so it might be better to leave whatever it is at home.)

Plugs

The shape of plugs will vary from country to country, and sometimes even within a country depending on when that building was built. To plug something from the U.S. into a local socket

types of plugs in this region, it may be easier to purchase an all-in-one, universal adapter/converter combo. Versatile and lightweight, these can usually be found at your local electronics goods or hardware stores. Sometimes you can buy them at large retailers too, like Target or

you arrive at your destination.

Different plug shapes are named by letters of the alphabet. Standard U.S. plugs are Type A and Type B. Here is the list of plugs for the countries on this trip:

Ethiopia: C and F

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Kenya: G

Type C Type F Type G

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CLIMATE

Ethiopia: Ethiopia lies to the north of the equator and experiences three climate zones. The plateau regions in central Ethiopia, including Addis Ababa, experience cool, mild weather with average lows in the 40s and 50s and average highs getting up into the high 70s. The plateau sees heavy rains from June to September (monsoon season) and a relatively dry climate from November through February. The lowlands, which surround the plateau to the northwest and south, experience an arid climate with heavy rains typically only in July and August and a dry heat from October to mid-May. Temperatures in this region usually range from the low 70s to high 90s. Along the border of Eritrea, Ethiopia sees desert climates with intense heat averaging from the mid 80s to low 100s and very little rainfall throughout the year.

Kenya: The climate in Kenya varies with the terrain—the coast is tropical, the interior temperate, and the north is arid. The Masai Mara Reserve, which is in the southwest, is at a moderate-to-high elevation (4,900-7,100 feet above sea level). This makes the climate wetter and more temperate than other parts of the country, with temperatures usually falling in the range of 85-65 degrees. The rainy seasons are April-May and November; the dry season is from July to October.

Climate Averages & Online Forecast

average climate as opposed to exact weather conditions. This means they serve only as general indicators of what can reasonably be expected. An extreme heat wave or cold snap could fall outside these ranges. As your departure approaches, we encourage you to go online to www.oattravel.com/myaccount for your 10-day forecast.

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Average Daily High/Low Temperatures (°F),

Humidity & Monthly Rainfall

AKSUM, ETHIOPIA

Temp. (Avg) % Relative

Humidity (avg)

Monthly Rainfall

(inches)

62 54 --

64 49 0.2

67 47 0.5

69 49 0.9

70 51 1.5

69 52 2.1

66 71 7.3

65 75 7.0

66 62 2.1

65 62 0.4

63 62 0.8

62 59 0.1

MONTH ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA

Temp. High-Low % Relative

Humidity (am-pm)

Monthly Rainfall

(inches)

JAN 69 to 53 81 to 37 5.0

FEB 70 to 55 80 to 41 6.6

MAR 72 to 56 79 to 42 9.8

APR 71 to 57 82 to 47 12.4

MAY 72 to 58 81 to 45 11.9

JUN 69 to 56 85 to 54 22.7

JUL 65 to 55 92 to 68 18.7

AUG 65 to 55 92 to 68 18.7

SEP 66 to 55 91 to 65 22.4

OCT 69 to 54 81 to 47 10.7

NOV 69 to 51 79 to 38 3.8

DEC 69 to 51 81 to 38 6.3

SIMIEN MOUNTAINS (DEBARK),

Temp. (Avg) % Relative

Humidity (avg)

Avg. # of Days with

Rain

60 -- 3

62 -- 3

65 -- 4

66 -- 6

66 -- 9

64 -- 11

60 -- 12

60 -- 14

61 -- 10

61 -- 6

60 -- 3

59 -- 2

MONTH LALIBELA, ETHIOPIA

Temp. (High-Low) % Relative

Humidity (avg)

Avg. # of Days with

Rain

JAN 70 to 52 -- 7

FEB 68 to 57 -- 16

MAR 68 to 57 -- 31

APR 70 to 57 -- 29

MAY 73 to 58 -- 17

JUN 76 to 61 -- 16

JUL 74 to 59 -- 30

AUG 70 to 56 -- 30

SEP 68 to 55 -- 30

OCT 66 to 53 -- 21

NOV 66 to 52 -- 14

DEC 67 to 52 -- 15

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BAHIR DAR, ETHIOPIA


Humidity (avg)

Avg. # of Days with

Rain

82 to 59 -- 1

84 to 63 -- 3

85 to 67 -- 4

87 to 69 -- 5

83 to 69 -- 23

77 to 62 -- 30

72 to 59 -- 31

70 to 57 -- 31

72 to 57 -- 30

74 to 57 -- 31

75 to 59 -- 28

76 to 59 -- 14

MONTH GONDAR, ETHIOPIA


Humidity (avg)

Avg. # of Days with

Rain

JAN 79 to 61 -- 1

FEB 79 to 63 -- 3

MAR 80 to 64 -- 6

APR 82 to 68 -- 7

MAY 79 to 67 -- 24

JUN 74 to 63 -- 30

JUL 70 to 59 -- 31

AUG 67 to 57 -- 31

SEP 69 to 59 -- 30

OCT 71 to 58 -- 31

NOV 72 to 59 -- 25

DEC 73 to 59 -- 13

MONTH NAIROBI, KENYA

Temp. High-Low % Relative

Humidity (am-pm)

Monthly Rainfall

(inches)

JAN 77 to 58 93 to 41 1.8

FEB 80 to 58 89 to 35 1.7

MAR 80 to 60 92 to 38 2.9

APR 76 to 61 96 to 52 6.3

MAY 74 to 59 96 to 56 4.7

JUN 73 to 56 94 to 53 1.2

JUL 71 to 54 93 to 52 0.5

AUG 72 to 54 92 to 49 0.5

SEP 76 to 55 92 to 41 1.0

OCT 78 to 58 93 to 40 1.7

NOV 75 to 60 96 to 51 4.7

DEC 75 to 59 96 to 49 3.0

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ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS

During your adventure you’ll be accompanied by one of our local, expert Trip Experience Leaders.

an enriching adventure. As locals of the regions you’ll explore with them, our Trip Experience

and wildlife come alive. Coupled with their unbridled enthusiasm, caring personalities, and ability to bring diverse groups of travelers together, our Trip Experience Leaders ensure that your experience with O.A.T. is one you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Culture & Points to Know

Keep an Open Mind

• This is Africa—weather, the political situation, migration of game, fuel availability, road

• In some cases, they may change the sequence of places visited, or we may not follow the trip itinerary exactly as published.

• Poverty is prevalent, so be prepared to witness a lower standard of living during our visits to local villages and schools.

Accommodations

• Our hotels and lodges are comfortable, but not luxurious.

• There can be occasional problems with electricity, hot water, and air conditioning (where it exists).

• The roads can be dusty and very bumpy, especially during game drives on the optional extension to Kenya.

• Near the towns, some roads may be littered with trash.

Safety & Security

As you travel, exercise the same caution and awareness that you would in a large American city. Don’t be overly nervous or suspicious, but keep your eyes open. Carry a one-day supply of cash in your pocket. Carry most of your money, and your passport, in a travel pouch or money belt under your shirt. Replenish your pocket supply when you are in a safe and quiet place, or in our vehicle. Do not leave valuable items unattended in your room. Almost every lodge offers use of a hotel safe at the front desk.

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Pickpockets

Pickpockets may create a sudden distraction. In any sort of puzzling street situation, try to keep one hand on your money belt. If an encounter with a local turns out to be long and complicated and involves money or your valuables, be very careful. Con artists sometimes target travelers.

Be careful when taking photos from the vehicle in towns or city centers. It is not unheard of for thieves to reach inside the open window while you are distracted and grab cameras or purses. If you’re taking photos out of an open window in a crowded area, have someone else in the group watch over your valuables.

Language Barrier

You can have some great “conversations” with local people who do not speak English, even if you don’t speak a word of the local language. Indeed, this non-verbal communication can be a highly rewarding part of travel. To break the ice, bring along some family photographs, or a few postcards of your hometown. If you want to meet kids, bring a puppet or other interactive toy. Your Trip Experience Leader can help get the ball rolling.

Your attire is a key part of your non-verbal presentation. Your clothing should show a respect for local tradition. In small towns or near villages, you should dress in a relatively modest

people in cities and large towns dressed in a modern style. And, of course, many foreign tourists are not sensitive to this at all. But you should dress modestly if you want to earn the respect of the local people.

Taking Photographs

The etiquette of photographing most people in the countries on your itinerary is about the same as it would be on in your hometown. In general, you need permission to take a close-up, as you would at home, but not for a crowd scene. Be especially polite if you want to photograph an older person. If you want to shoot a great portrait, show interest in your subject and try to have a bit

Leader can help.

Responsible Safari Travel (Kenya Optional Extension) We do our best to have a minimum negative impact on local cultures and the natural environment in every country we operate trips. Here’s how you can assist in this effort.

Respecting Wildlife

• Observe the animals silently and with a minimum of disturbance to their natural activities. Loud talking on a game drive can frighten the animals away.

• Never attempt to attract an animal’s attention. Don’t imitate animal sounds, clap your hands, pound on the vehicle, or throw objects. Failure to obey this rule could result in your removal from a National Park by one of the Park Rangers on patrol.

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• Please respect your driver-guides’ judgment about your proximity to wildlife. Don’t insist that he or she take the vehicle closer so you can get a better photograph. A vehicle driven too close can hinder a hunt or cause animals to abandon a hard-earned meal.

• Litter tossed on the ground can choke or poison animals and birds.

• Never attempt to feed or approach any wild animal on foot. This is especially important near lodges or in campsites where animals may have become accustomed to human visitors. Failure to adhere to this could cause you to be bitten and need immediate rabies shots, which are unpleasant and costly.

•

Conserving the Natural Environment

• Minimize the disposable items you bring on the trip and dispose of your trash properly.

• Ask whether plastic drinking water bottles can be recycled. Most days, it’s better to keep your empty bottles with you until you reach your hotel.

• Stay on established trails to avoid damaging plants.

• Don’t pick any vegetation, or remove any item of biological interest.

Religion in Daily Life

In Ethiopia, the two biggest religions are Ethiopian Orthodox Christian and Muslim. Although the two religions differ, they both play an important role in daily life. For example, it is common

holidays such as Easter or the end of Ramadan. Also the dress code is similar in both churches and mosques, where modest dress is considered polite; you may be asked to remove your shoes; and local women tend to cover their hair with a scarf. (Female travelers are not required to cover their hair, but doing so would be a nice way to show respect.)

Ethiopian Cuisine

You may have tried Ethiopian food at home, but what you’ll get here is totally different as there are ingredients that are only found locally. However one component stays the same, and that’s the injera, a type of pancake made from a semi-fermented grain called tef that serves as a platter, utensil, and bread all in one. Food is piled on top of the injera, and pieces of it are broken off to be used as a scoop for the food. (Or in some restaurants, it will be served on the side like bread.) But be warned: Travelers tend to get “injera fatigue” at some point as the taste is an acquired one—tangy and slightly sour. If that happens to you, stick to the yummy toppings instead. Some typical dishes include:

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• Wat: Ethiopia’s version of curry, made with lamb, beef, goat, or chicken (in a nod to Kai wat is a spicy reddish version

while alicha wat is a milder yellow version.

• Kitfo:hot spices, and thyme (think of a warm steak tartar and you’re not far off). Can be served as leb leb (warmed but not cooked) or betam leb leb (lightly cooked).

• Vegetable dishes: Ethiopian cuisine is very meat-heavy, but on Wednesdays, Fridays, and the 55 days before Ethiopian Easter, vegetarian dishes are the norm as these are considered fasting days, when most locals will avoid meat. Look for dishes like messer (lentil curry), gormen (collard greens), and shiro (a type of humus). If you are a vegetarian, some of these dishes must be ordered in advance on non-feast days, so we recommend that you let your Trip Experience Leader know as soon as possible.

• Drinks:Italian-style lattes and cappuccinos are especially popular, as is local variations that combine coffee with tea or the herb rue ( ). For alcoholic beverages try tej, which is brewed from honey, local beers, Gouder red wine, or Awash Crystal white wine.

Shopping There may be scheduled visits to local shops during your adventure. There is no requirement to make a purchase during these stops, and any purchase made is a direct transaction with the shop in question, subject to the vendor’s terms of purchase. O.A.T. is not responsible for purchases you make on your trip or for the shipment of your purchases.

Returns

If you discover an issue with an item, you should contact the vendor directly and expect that any resolution will take longer than it would in the U.S. We recommend that you keep a copy of all your receipts, invoices, or contracts, along with the shop’s contact information. Keep in mind, local practice may vary from U.S. standards, so don’t assume that you have a certain number of days after the purchase to speak up or that you are guaranteed a refund.

Crafts & Souvenirs

Ethiopia

Popular souvenirs include textiles (such as scarves or a traditional Ethiopian dress called a caftan), hand-woven baskets, spices, coffee, jewelry, clay pottery, and wood sculptures.

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East Africa

Traditional souvenirs include woodcarvings, gems and gemstone jewelry, batik artwork, traditional African woven cloths, hand-woven carpets and mats, leather goods, Maasai beadwork,

U.S. Customs Regulations & Shipping Charges

For all things related to U.S. Customs, the ultimate authority is the U.S. Bureau of Customs & Border Protection. Their website, www.cbp.gov has the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Or you can call them at 1-877-227-5511.

The top three points to know are:

• At time of writing, your personal duty-free allowance is $800 for items brought with you. Items totaling more than $800 are subject to duty fees.

• Items shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. Even when the shop has offered to include shipping and duties in the price, this typically means shipping to the nearest customs facility and payment of the export duties—not door-to-door shipping or payment of the import duties. All additional duties or shipping charges would be your responsibility. Unless an item is small enough to send by parcel service (like FedEx), chances are you will need to arrange shipping or pick-up once the item is in the U.S. and will need to pay customs duties.

• It is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins.

Ethiopia Customs Regulations

Ethiopia has strict guidelines regarding what is allowed to enter and leave the country. For more information, please visit the U.S. State Department website at https://travel.state.gov. A few points to know:

• All cell phones entering Ethiopia must be registered with the Ethiopian Revenue and Customs Authority. This can be done at the Bole International Airport or any Ethio Telecom shop.

• Personal laptops and video equipment are allowed, but any professional photography/video equipment or laptops intended for anything other than personal use much be declared upon arrival and departure.

• Export permits are required for antiques, religious artifacts, Ethiopian crosses, and wildlife parts. If you decide to purchase any of these items while in Ethiopia, you must request a permit through the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority.

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DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY

Ethiopia

Facts & Figures

• Area: 426,372 square miles

• Capital: Addis Ababa

• Languages:

• Ethnicity: Oromo 34.4%, Amhara 27%, Somali 6.2%, Tigray 6.1%, Sidama 4%, Gurage 2.5%,

other 8.8%

• Location: Northern Africa, bordering Sudan, Eritrea, and Djibouti to the north, Somalia to the east, Kenya to the south, and South Sudan to the west.

• Geography: Ethiopia features deserts along the eastern coast and a mountainous terrain in the central regions.

• Population: 108,386,391

• Religions: Ethiopian Orthodox 43.5%, Muslim 33.9%, Protestant 18.5%, traditional 2.7%, Catholic 0.7%, other 0.6%

• Time Zone: Ethiopia is seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. When it is noon in D.C., it is 7:00 pm in Ethiopia.

Ethiopia celebrates a number of national holidays that follow a lunar calendar, such as traveling during these holidays, please visit

National Holidays: Ethiopia

Historical Overview of Ethiopia

Highlands. Due to migration and imperial expansion, it grew to include many other primarily Afro-Asiatic-speaking communities, including Oromos, Amhara, Somalis, Tigray, Afars, Sidama, Gurage, Agaw and Harari, among others.

One of the earliest kingdoms to rise to power in the territory was the kingdom of D’mt in the 10th

rose to power in the Tigray Region with its capital at Aksum and grew into a major power on the Red Sea, subjugating Yemen and Meroe and converting to Christianity in the early fourth century.

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The Aksumite empire fell into decline with the rise of Islam, forcing the Ethiopians to move south into the highlands for refuge. The Aksumites gave way to the Zagwe Dynasty who established a new capital at Lalibela.

Unlike the Aksumites, the Zagwe were very isolated from the other Christian Nations, although they did maintain a degree of contact through Jerusalem and Cairo. Like many other nations and denominations, the Ethiopian Church maintained a series of small chapels and even an annex at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Saladin, after retaking the Holy City in 1187, expressly invited the Ethiopian monks to return and even exempted Ethiopian pilgrims from the pilgrim tax. His two edicts provide evidence of Ethiopia’s contact with these Crusader States during this period. It was during this period that the Ethiopian king Gebre Mesqel Lalibela ordered the construction of the legendary rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. The Zagwe Dynasty gave way to the Solomonic Dynasty in the 13th century, during which period Ethiopia went through military reforms and imperial expansion that made it dominate the Horn of Africa. Portuguese missionaries arrived at this time.

In 1529, a conquest of Abyssinia (Futuh al-Habash) by the Ottoman-allied Muslim Adal Sultanate devastated the highlands, and was only deterred by a Portuguese intervention. With both Ethiopia and Adal greatly weakened by the war, the Oromo people were able to invade into the highlands, conquering the remains of the Adal Sultanate and pushing deep into Ethiopia. The Portuguese presence also increased, while the Ottomans began to push into what is now Eritrea, creating the Habesh Eyalet. The Portuguese brought modern weapons and baroque architecture to Ethiopia, and in 1622 converted the emperor Susenyos I to Catholicism, sparking a civil war which ended in his abdication and an expulsion of all Catholics from Ethiopia. A new capital was established at Gondar in 1632, and a period of peace and prosperity ensued until the country was split apart by

reign was followed by Yohannes IV who was killed in action in 1889. Under Menelik II Ethiopia started its transformation to well organized technological advancement and the structure that the country has now. Ethiopia also expanded to the south and east, through the conquest of the western Oromo (now Shoan Oromo), Sidama, Gurage, Wolayta and other groups, resulting in the borders of modern Ethiopia. Ethiopia defeated an Italian invasion in 1896 and came to be recognised as a legitimate state by European powers. A more rapid modernisation took place under Menelik II and Haile Selassie. Emperor Haile Selassie’s reign was interrupted in 1935 when Italian forces launched a second invasion in 1935 and occupied Ethiopia. From 1935-1941, Ethiopia was under Italian occupation. A joint force of British and Ethiopian rebels managed to drive the Italians out of the country in 1941, and Haile Selassie was returned to the throne. The

that lasted until summer 1943. In 1961 the 30-year Eritrean Struggle for Independence began, following the Emperor Haile Selassie’s dissolution of the federation and shutting down the Eritrean parliament. The Emperor declared Eritrea the fourteenth province of Ethiopia in 1962. Eritrea regained its independence after a referendum in 1993.

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After a period of civil unrest that began in February 1974, a provisional administrative council of soldiers, known as the Derg, seized power from the aging Emperor Haile Selassie I on September 12, 1974, and installed a government that was socialist in name and military in style. The Derg summarily executed 59 members of the former government, including two former Prime

died on August 22, 1975. He was allegedly strangled in the basement of his palace or smothered with a wet pillow.

The new regime in Ethiopia met with armed resistance from the large landowners, the royalists and the nobility. The resistance was largely centered in the province of Eritrea. The Derg decided in November 1974 to pursue war in Eritrea rather than seek a negotiated settlement. By mid-1976, the resistance had gained control of most of the towns and the countryside of Eritrea.

In July 1977, sensing the disarray in Ethiopia, Somalia attacked across the Ogaden in pursuit of its irredentist claims to the ethnic Somali areas of Ethiopia . They were assisted in this invasion by the armed Western Somali Liberation Front. Ethiopian forces were driven back far inside their own frontiers but, with the assistance of a massive Soviet airlift of arms and 17,000 Cuban combat forces, they stemmed the attack. The last major Somali regular units left the Ogaden March 15, 1978. Twenty years later, the Somali region of Ethiopia remained under-developed and insecure.

From 1977 through early 1978, thousands of suspected enemies of the Derg were tortured and/or

and early 1980s; in 1984, the Workers’ Party of Ethiopia (WPE) was established, and on February 1, 1987, a new Soviet-style civilian constitution was submitted to a popular referendum. It was

was renamed the People’s Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on September 10, 1987, and Mengistu became president.

The regime’s collapse was hastened by droughts and a famine, which affected around 8 million people and left 1 million dead, as well as by insurrections, particularly in the northern regions of Tigray and Eritrea. The regime also conducted a brutal campaign of resettlement and villagization in Ethiopia in the 1980s. In 1989, the Tigrayan Peoples’ Liberation Front (TPLF) merged with other ethnically based opposition movements to form the Ethiopian Peoples’ Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF).

in Zimbabwe, where he still resides. In 2006, after a long trial, Mengistu was found guilty of genocide. In July 1991, the EPRDF, the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), and others established the Transitional Government of Ethiopia (TGE), which was composed of an 87-member Council of Representatives and guided by a national charter that functioned as a transitional constitution. In June 1992, the OLF withdrew from the government; in March 1993, members of the Southern Ethiopia Peoples’ Democratic Coalition also left the government.

In 1994, a new constitution was written that formed a bicameral legislature and a judicial system. A general election in 1995 to elect the Parliament also elected Meles Zenawi as prime minister and Negasso Gidada as president. Ethiopia’s second multiparty election was held in 2000 and Meles was re-elected as prime minister. In October 2001, Lieutenant Girma Wolde-Giorgis was elected

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president. In the 2005 general election, allegations of irregularities that brought victory to the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front resulted in widespread protests in which the government is accused of massacring civilians.

With the collapse of the Soviet Union, and with the rise of radical Islamism, Ethiopia again turned to the Western powers for alliance and assistance. After the September 11 attacks in 2001, the Ethiopian army began to train with US forces based out of the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) established in Djibouti, in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency. Ethiopia allowed the US to station military advisors at Camp Hurso.

In 2006, an Islamic organisation seen by many as having ties with al-Qaeda, the Islamic Courts Union (ICU), spread rapidly in Somalia. Ethiopia sent logistical support to the Transitional

out between the ICU and Ethiopian Army. As the Islamist forces were of no match against the Ethiopian regular army, they decided to retreat and merge among the civilians, and most of the ICU-held Somalia was quickly taken. Human Rights Watch accused Ethiopia of various abuses including indiscriminate killing of civilians during the Battle of Mogadishu (March – April 2007). Ethiopian forces pulled out of Somalia in January 2009, leaving a small African Union force and smaller Somali Transitional Government force to maintain the peace. Reports immediately emerged of religious fundamentalist forces occupying one of two former Ethiopian bases in Mogadishu shortly after withdrawal.

Meles Zenawi died on August 20, 2012 and was succeeded as prime minister by Hailemariam Desalegn. On October 7, 2013, Mulatu Teshome was elected president of the country. On April 2, 2018, Abiy Ahmed was declared Prime Minister. Sahle-Work Zewde is the 4th and current

Kenya

Facts & Figures

• Area: 224,080 square miles

• Capital: Nairobi

• Languages:languages are also spoken.

• Ethnic groups: Kikuyu 22%, Luhya 14%, Luo 13%, Kalenjin 12%, Kamba 11%, Kisii 6%, Meru 6%, other African 15%, non-African (Asian, European, and Arab) 1%

• Location: Kenya straddles the equator on the eastern coast of Africa. It is bordered by Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania.

• Geography: Kenya has an impressively varied landscape. Lake Victoria is on the southwestern border of the country, with Tanzania to the south. The other features of Kenya

scenic highlands, lakes, the Great Rift Valley, and the towering Mount Kenya.

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• Population: 45,925,301 (estimate)

• Religions: Christian 82.5%, Muslim 11.1%, Traditionalists 1.6%, other 1.7%, none 2.4%,

• Time zone: Kenya is on East Africa Time, eight hours ahead of U.S. EST. When it is 6am in Washington D.C., it is 2pm in Nairobi.

In addition to the holidays listed below, Kenya celebrates a number of national holidays that follow a lunar calendar, such as Easter and

during these holidays, please visit www.

National Holidays: Kenya

Historical Overview of Kenya

Some of the earliest humans roamed the land now known as Kenya. Since those primordial times, groups of people from all over Africa and the Middle East have migrated through or into the area. As long as a millennium ago, the Swahili language, which blends Arabic with African Bantu speech, had developed as a common tongue in this region. The aristocratic Hima moved in prior to A.D. 1000, establishing large kingdoms and introducing cattle herding. Bantu peoples followed, including the Kikuyu, who remain the largest single group today.

Arabs sailed south from the Middle East to become a dominant presence in the coastal region as early as the 11th century A.D. In Arabic the country was called the land of the Zenj, or “black people.” For centuries, the coastal area was divided up into city-states known as the “Zenj states.” Mombasa, one of Kenya’s major cities today, originated as one of these city-states.

the 15th century and dominated the coastal region for a time. In 1729, the Arabs regained control

Arabs and Africans conducted a slave trade whose effects extended far inland. By the latter half of the 19th century, Britain had become the dominant power, drawing the borders of the newly

tribal areas as crown land available for white settlement.

Decades of colonial rule bred resentment among native Africans. In the 1950s, Kikuyus played a prominent role in the Mau Mau rebellion, which was one act in the drama that culminated in

Though he had been involved in the Mau Mau rebellion, he established moderate, pro-Western policies and was acknowledged as Mzee, “the wise old one,” by his own people and many world leaders upon his death in 1978. Kenyatta’s successor, Daniel arap Moi, continued to follow the

after independence.

amassed such a large fortune that he may still be the richest man in Africa. In 1991, he submitted

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to international pressure to allow the formation of other political parties, but still won the 1992 election. International observers noted that the movement to create more parties relied heavily on support that cut across tribal divisions; in contrast, Moi’s political machine emphasized and played on tribal rivalries, resulting in mass evictions of the Kiyuku and oppressive measures

defeated. Today’s Kenya is still marked by tribal differences and rivalry but with the end of Moi era, it’s slowly making its way towards a more promising future.

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RESOURCES

Suggested Readings

General Africa

by John Reader (History): A great introduction to Africa from its ancient cultures up to modern times.

OR by Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher (Photography/Anthropology) Traveling throughout Africa from the Sahara to Cape Horn, Beckwith and Fisher have produced decades of striking images.

by Bartle Bull (History) In fascinating and often amusing detail,

driven wagons to the modern-day version in comfortable camps.

Ethiopia

by Ryszard Kapuscinski (Non-Fiction) A Polish journalist captures the story of Haile Selassie, the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1930-1974, and his downfall through interviews with Selassie’s associates and servants.

by Kevin Rushby (Travel Narrative) One man’s journey through Ethiopia and Yemen, including an examination of the political and historical landscapes of Ethiopian culture.

by Graham Hancock (History) A British journalist explores the mystery of the Lost Ark of the Covenant.

and by Maaza Mengiste (Historical Fiction) Award-winning Ethiopian-born author Maaza Mengiste tells the tales of a family during the revolution that resulted in the overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie in 1974 in and the struggles of an orphaned servant in the 1930s as the country faces Mussolini’s impending invasion in .

Suggested Movies

Ethiopia

(TV Series, Documentary) A British journalist goes in search of the Ark of the Covenant.

(Action/Adventure) An archaeologist goes in search

that the Ark of the Covenant is in Egypt, many believe that the Ark is located in a church in Axum, Ethiopia.

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Kenya

(1986, Drama) The true-life story of a rescued lion named Elsa and the family who helped save her. Shot on location in Kenya.

try to build a new life in a strange land. In German, with subtitles.

(1985, Drama/Romance) A young Danish woman falls for Kenya, her new coffee plantation, and a restless big-game hunter in 1910s. Based on the book by the same name.

(2010, Biopic/Drama) An 84-year old Kenyan villager is determined to learn how to read and write no matter the odds. An uplifting movie based on a true story.

Overseas Adventure Travel Forum (tips from previous travelers) www.oattravel.com/forum

Overseas Adventure Travel Store www.oatshop.com

Overseas Adventure Travel Frequent Asked Questions www.oattravel.com/faq

International Health Information/CDC (Centers for Disease Control) http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Electricity & Plugs www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets

Foreign Exchange Rates www.xe.com/currencyconverter www.oanda.com/converter/classic

ATM Locators www.mastercard.com/atm www.visa.com/atmlocator

World Weather www.intellicast.com www.weather.com www.wunderground.com

Basic Travel Phrases (80 languages) www.travlang.com/languages

Packing Tips www.travelite.org

U.S. Customs & Border Protection www.cbp.gov/travel

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) www.tsa.gov

National Passport Information Center www.travel.state.gov

Holidays Worldwide www.timeanddate.com/holidays

Useful Websites

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Notes

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