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Geography/ Topography

Ethiopia is the 10th largest country in Africa and has an area of 1.112,000 square kilometers, about 60 percent of - which is arable, with 15 percent presently cultivated. The dominant feature is the high central plateau varying in height between 2000 and 3000 meters, with some mountains over 4000 meters. The country has numerous rivers, most notably the Blue Nile (or Abbay). The Rift Valley Splits Ethiopia diagonally.

History

Ethiopia the land of Kind Solomon and Queen of Sheba, its history according to recent archaeological finding stretches back to some 4.4 million years when the oldest human ancestor ever found walked its terrain. This land has always remained an enchanting mystery to all travelers. Today, Ethiopia enjoys the further distinction of being the oldest independent nation in Africa.

Climate

There are two seasons: the dry season, which prevails from October through May; and the wet season, which runs from June to September. Even in the wet season, however, it rarely rains for a full day, and traveling is usually quite pleasant. In Addis Ababa and the central part of the country the weather is Spring- like year round, with warm days and only a sweater of light jacket required at night.

Population

The population  is estimated at 60 million. The ancient Ethiopians were of Hermetic stock who later assimilated with Semitic immigrants from southern Arabia. This mixture of cultures and peoples has resulted in the unique languages and customs still found today. There are over 80 ethnic groups in Ethiopia.  

Language

Amharic with its unique alphabet is the official and primary language followed  by Tigrigna and Oromigna, English, Italian and Arabic are widely spoken.

Currency

The Ethiopian currency is birr, which floats in value, however is presently about 8.146 to one U.S. dollar.

Calendar and Time

Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar, which consists of 12 months of 30 days each and a 13th month of  5 or 6 days and is 7 years and 8 months behind the Gregorian calendar. Ethiopia is in the GMT+3hours time zone.

Shopping

Good buys include jewelry, silver, amber, wood carvings crosses (silver, bronze, wood) paintings clothes etc. The weaves of the cloth and the brightly colored borders vary according to the region and literally thousands of patterns exist.

Accommodation

All accommodation is in good quality hotels, twin shared rooms with private facilities. Single rooms are available on payment of the appropriate supplement. In Addis Ababa the two 5 star hotels are the Sheraton and the Hilton. Out of the capital hotel facilities are good and sufficient and are to tourists standard.

Electricity

Visa

Visa are required for all foreign visitors to Ethiopia.  This can be secured from Ethiopian Diplomatic and consular missions abroad.  In addition .Visitors from the countries listed below can obtain visa on arrival at Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa) are Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Irland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea Republic, Kuwait, Luxemburg, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Poland New Zealand, Portugal, Russia, South Africa, Spain Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan and United states of America.

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