Visitors to Ethiopia, a country known for little more than hardship and starving citizens, will realise it’s actually full of historical mysticism and cultural diversity. With over 80 ethnic groups, each with its own distinctive language and traditional ways, cultural exploration in this African gem is an unending treat. Home to Africa’s highest peak and lowest point, Ethiopia is also a wonderland for outdoor adventure tourists and wildlife fanatics. Among the most popular trips are wildlife safaris and mountain trekking, which afford awe-inspiring views of the surrounding natural beauty and wildlife. A must see is the remains of the legendary Lucy, said to be the world’s oldest heap of bones, dating back over three million years. These remains are housed at the National Museum in Addis Ababa, the country’s capital city. For shopaholics, a trip to the African continent’s largest market, Mercato, requires high energy levels and a remarkable fervency for shopping.