he turbulent region of Tigray is home to the largest concentration of rock-hewn churches in the world. The oldest churches date back to the 5th century, and there are as many as 121 of them! Ancient paintings and preserved religious manuscripts can still be admired in their original locations rather than behind glass in museum display cases.

Bale Mountains National Park is a vast plateau where forested slopes meet a valley of boulders and where you can encounter the Ethiopian wolf, the world’s most endangered canid species.

In the Omo River Valley, various tribes live within a relatively small area, still preserving their unique identities. However, new roads, mobile networks and electricity are bringing “development” to the region, and perhaps now is the last opportunity to experience these traditional communities before their way of life changes forever.

The travel talk will take place on Wednesday, 18 November 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Cultural Centre Izola.