Ethiopia is more than four times the size of the UK, and with roads in various stages of construction and repair, full day drives are not uncommon. This is compounded by the fact that driving should always take place in daylight; wild animals plus unlit donkey carts and locals herding livestock mean that accidents are all too likely after dusk. But these long drives really allow you to appreciate the changes in scenery; anyone venturing south will be traversing the Rift Valley, with its surprisingly lush lakes and astounding views across hills, valleys, escarpment and forest. It also provides the perfect excuse to stop in little towns for a reviving cup of coffee – follow the smell of frankincense and fresh popcorn to find a roadside stand.
1. Aksum
2. Bahir Dar & Lake Tana
3. Bale Mountains National Park
4. Danakil Depression
5. Gondar
6. Harar
7. Lalibela
8. Omo Valley
9. Rift Valley Lakes
10. Simien Mountains
11. Southern Rift Valley
12. Yabelo Wildlife Sanctuary