Tourists Praise Ethiopia’s Rich Heritage, Beauty of Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, January 21, 2026 (ENA)—Tourists visiting Ethiopia during the Timket celebrations have expressed their deep admirations of the natural and historical heritage sites and the growing beauty and vibrancy of Addis Ababa.

The visitors who have toured different parts of the country emphasized that Ethiopia offers a rare blend of ancient history, living culture, and warm hospitality that leaves a lasting impression.

One of the visitors, Marek Dague, told ENA that he was struck by the beauty and fast transformation of Addis Ababa following his tour of the major parts of the city including Merkato, Piazza, and Bole.

“I am interested in everything I observed,” he said, adding that Ethiopia deserves far greater international attention.  

According to him, more global visitors should come and experience “the beautiful people, cultures, histories, languages, and scenery” found across the country.

Ethiopia is home to numerous UNESCO registered tangible and intangible heritage sites, Dague explained, adding that reflecting on his travels in the northern and eastern parts of the country.

 “We saw a lot, and we’re very happy with what we saw,” he added.  

French tourist Sofiane Gabriel, who arrived in Ethiopia for the first time with friends, shared similar sentiments after touring large parts of the country, particularly the north.

“Our trip was incredible. We crossed almost half of Ethiopia,” he said.

Gabriel said they visited natural and historical heritage sites in Amhara, Tigray, Afar, Oromia, and other regions, expressing admiration for the diversity and depth of what they encountered. Beyond attractions, he highlighted the warmth of Ethiopian society.

“People invited us for coffee and food and approached us like family. It is an unforgettable human experience,” he said.

He added that Ethiopian culture is exceptionally well preserved.

“Everywhere you go, you see traditional clothes, customs, and ways of life. The culture is very rich and well protected,” Gabriel underscored.

Describing Addis Ababa, he said, “It is a modern, calm, and beautiful city. It reflects the energy of the Ethiopian people, and the country has a bright future.”  

Jean Baptiste, an associate professor of social anthropology at a university in Paris and a frequent visitor to Ethiopia, said Addis Ababa has undergone dramatic transformation in recent years.

“The last time I came was in 2020. Now the city feels completely different. The change is impressive and beyond expectation,” he said.

He praised the pace of infrastructure development, describing it as “an impressive achievement,” and said he is particularly drawn to southern Ethiopia.  

Baptiste further noted his interest in writing books about the cultures of southern communities, especially along the Omo Valley and among the Mursi people.

He also advised tourists to prepare before visiting Ethiopia.

“Tourists should read a bit before coming to have a deeper understanding of this very rich and intense country,” he said, encouraging visitors to look beyond surface impressions.

Concluding his remarks, Baptiste strongly recommended Ethiopia as a destination, urging travelers to engage with its history, cultures, and people to fully appreciate the depth of the country’s heritage.