Coffee culture in the cradle of humanity

Ethiopian Airlines is launching new domestic routes in 2026 to destinations including Negele Borana, Gore Metu, and Debre Markos.

According to the ambassador, this is a strategic move to diversify tourism offerings beyond the popular northern circuit while promoting sustainable travel.

Negele Borana, in Oromia, serves as a gateway to Bale Mountains National Park, where visitors can spot endemic wildlife such as the Ethiopian wolf and mountain nyala. Gore Metu offers immersion in rural Ethiopian life, with opportunities to engage with local farming communities and explore waterfalls and lush highland scenery. Debre Markos, in Amhara, is home to ancient monasteries and offers spectacular views of the Blue Nile Gorge.

"These new routes are a testament to our commitment to offering a richer, more varied, and truly unforgettable Ethiopian experience," the ambassador says.

To make Chinese tourists feel welcome, Ethiopia has rolled out concrete measures in recent years.

Yimam notes that training and certification programs are underway for local guides to become proficient in Mandarin, ensuring a growing pool of Chinese-speaking guides is available.

Major hotels, reputable tour operators, and larger souvenir shops in Addis Ababa and other key destinations have increasingly integrated WeChat Pay and Alipay, he says.

Workshops are also held for hotel and restaurant staff members to better understand Chinese customs, preferences and dietary requirements.

For Chinese families planning a trip, Yimam recommends applying for an e-visa in advance rather than relying on visa-on-arrival. "While visa-on-arrival is technically available, the e-visa process offers significantly more convenience, peace of mind, and a smoother entry experience, especially for families," he says, adding that visa-on-arrival can involve longer queues during peak travel periods.