Addis Ababa is Ethiopia's vibrant capital that blends tradition with modernity. Skyscrapers stand alongside historic churches and traditional markets.

In the heart of of the city, the Ensira Pottery Collective empowers local women by providing them with  opportunities to create beautiful pottery. This initiative not only preserves traditional crafts but also promotes economic independence.

The Zoma Museum is a cultural institution that blends traditional Ethiopian architecture with contemporary art. The museum is named after Zoma Shifferaw, a young Ethiopian artist who passed away in 1979.

Sabahar is a Fair Trade business founded by Kathy Marshall. The company focuses on producing exquisite handmade textiles using traditional Ethiopian weaving and spinning techniques. Sabahar employs local artisans, providing them with reliable employment and equitable pay.

Lucy is a 3.2-million-year-old skeleton of the species Australopithecus afarensis. The skeleton is about 40% complete, making it one of the most complete ancient hominin skeletons ever found. Our group was fortunate to have an intimate viewing of Lucy’s fossilized bones.

Orthodox Christianity holds a special place in Ethiopian culture. While sharing common roots with European Christianity and Judaism, it has unique traditions and practices that set it apart. Holy Trinity Cathedral, in Addis Ababa, is one of the most important religious sites in Ethiopia. The architecture is a blend of traditional Ethiopian and European styles, adorned with frescoes that depict scenes from the Bible and Ethiopian history.  It houses the tomb of Emperor Haile Selassie and his wife, Empress Menen Asfaw.

Timkat, the Ethiopian Orthodox celebration of Epiphany, is a vibrant festival marked by colorful processions, water blessings, and communal prayers.

One of the most remarkable features of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity is its rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. These ancient structures, carved directly into the mountains, are a testament to the devotion and craftsmanship of their builders.

The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is a cherished cultural ritual and tradition. It’s more than just a method of making and drinking coffee: it is a social event and a time for bonding, relaxation, and a celebration of Ethiopian culture and hospitality.

Traditional Ethiopian weddings are a vibrant celebration of love, culture, and tradition. From the colorful attire to the joyous dances, these ceremonies are a reflection of the nation's heritage.

Gondar, or the "Camelot of Africa," is a city in northern Ethiopia known for its history and architecture. It was the capital of Ethiopia from the 17th to the 19th century.

The city's most notable landmark is the Fasil Ghebbi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Gondar is also home to the Debre Berhan Selassie Church, known for its beautiful frescoes and painted ceilings. A wedding party arrived during our visit and we joined in the celebration.

At Azezo Primary School, the Grand Circle Foundation has funded various projects including infrastructure improvements, such as new toilet facilities and renovating classrooms to make them more comfortable for students.

The Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are home to some of Ethiopia's most stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

Among the rocky peaks and verdant valleys, Gelada monkeys roam freely, captivating visitors with their social behaviors and distinctive appearance.

Grain threshing is a vital part of the agricultural process. Using horses and simple tools, farmers separate the grain from the chaff, ensuring a bountiful harvest.

As we wound-down our trip, we spent a few nights on the shore of Lake Tana which is said to be the source of the Blue Nile.