Brilliant Ethiopia Blog

Bemnet Gizachew is a guide in Ethiopia, and a good friend of Brilliant's. He talked to us about a new guiding programme set up in Ethiopia, and a hidden gem he discovered on the doorstep of Addis Ababa. 

Estimated read time: 3 minutes 

Published: 16th February 2021

Music Journalist Luca Fierro explores the history and development of Ethio-Jazz - one of the country's most unique sonic exports. From its rise in the 60s and 70s, to its fall under the Derg regime in the 80s, Luca explores the key characters that gave to life to this unique sound. 

Read time: 4-5 minutes

Published: 23rd October 2020

Coffee is far more than just a beverage in Ethiopia. It's part of the cultural fabric of the country. Galia Hillhouse, Ethiopia specialist and good friend of Brilliant's, walks you through a traditional coffee ceremony in Ethiopia, and explains why coffee is so important here. 

Estimated read time: 3 minutes

Published: 21st October 2020

Bemnet Gizachew, experienced guide in northern Ethiopia, describes the impact of the new Entoto park in the forests around Addis Ababa, and what it means for hundreds of women in the Entoto area. 

Estimated read time: 3 minutes

Published: 15th October 2020

Music journalist and long-time vegan Luca Fierro gives you a whistle-stop tour of vegan food in Ethiopia - from the spices and curries, to the flatbreads and alcoholic delights. 

Estimated read time: 3 minutes

Published: 22nd October 2020

Ethiopian specialist Marc Christensen takes a look at the rise in popularity of Ethiopia as a tourist destination over the last 10 years, and the challenges that are posed by the increased demand. 

Estimated read time: 5 minutes

Published: 8th October 2020