Eco-tourism in Ethiopia

Map Guide of the Ethiopian Central and Southern Rift Valley

National Geographic Map from Rift ValleyEthiopia has abundant and amazing natural resources and tourism potential, yet maps in Ethiopia are very rare. Touristic maps even more so. But this month the first full-colour eco-tourism MapGuide of the Central and Southern Ethiopian Rift Valley is being published! A joint effort of National Geographic, ESTA (the Ethiopian Sustainable Tourism Alliance) and HoA-REC, financially supported by US-AID and the Dutch Ministry for Economy, Agriculture and Innovation. The first of its kind in East Africa – and only second in Africa – the map is a colourful guide through the Ethiopian part of Africa’s biggest fracture, starting at the Red Sea and ending in Mozambique. 

The Map Guide shows the geographical area known as the Rift Valley, starting approximately a hundred kilometer south of Addis. It persuades you to undertake horseback riding in the Lepis Forest, or to go swimming in Lake Langano, or to follow the legendary trip of the Arc of the Covenant on the Island of Tulu Gudo in Lake Ziway. It introduces you to the indigenous people living in the Rift Valley: the Mursi, the Konso, the Hamer and more. And birdwatchers, pay attention: in the Central Rift Valley, you’ll find sixteen Ethiopian endemic birds, amongst many colourful others!

After the official launching of the MapGuide mid December, it will be distributed through Bookworld, as well as other channels such as tour operators. The communities around the various community conservation areas featured in the MapGuide have been prepared and trained to welcome guests. Local guides will proudly show their areas, and handycrafts are being made for sale. Let’s hope that the magic of the map works and that the communities will benefit from tourism!

Tulu Gudo

Next year you will be able to take the boat to the island Tulu Gudo in Lake Ziway and do a walking trail up the mountain. Youpay a visit to the former home of the Arc of the Covenant, have a break in the restaurant near the monastery and eat a fresh grilled fish from the lake. Rian, Debberah and Jasmina from HoA-REC were very lucky to experience the tryout of the trail in November. Together with Asamenew Shimeles from the ESTA branche office in Ziway and Bob Sturtevant (a Peace  Corps Volunteer at the Wondogenet College of Forestry and Natural Resources), they found their path through fields, making their way uphill, enjoying stunning views of the island's bays and its neatly terraced  cultivated fields, in search of a suitable hiking route and facilities. 

Jasmina van Driel, programme manager for HoA-REC’s Central Rift Valley Programme is very proud: “I have been working in the Rift Valley for three years now and it really makes me happy to see the development of the area and communities. It is time to reveal the beauty of the Central Rift Valley!”  As of spring 2012, the island will be ready to receive its first guests.

Lepis Forest

Lepis Forest

ESTA and its local partners (EWNHS, SEDA, ANCEDA, RCWDO) are moving forward with her eco-tourism projects: the Lepis Forest and campsite will definitely enchant her visitors! Ancient trees of more than two meters thick, beautiful birds and the black and white Colobus monkeys will guide you during a three hours hike (or horse ride) towards the campsite next to the crystal clear river. Local people will grill your corn cobs in the fire, while stars twinkle above you.

Staying the night in Lepis means going back to nature; no fancy hotel, no 4 wheel drive. This is ecological and sustainable camping, leaving no traces of your temporary presence. You’ll just enjoy the natural resources and return completely inspired and at peace, back to your ‘regular life. The Lepis community will welcome you, also from spring next year.