Ethiopia, there already. Where to?

[Deus Ex Machina]

Hi there!
Well, I'm now in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I'll stay here for work for about 3 months (not a photographer).
I'll have some spare time which I hope to spend in quality shooting:
--I will be having my weekends free in Addis,
--will get to do some (20 days max) work trips in the south & south-east of the country, and
--will definitely take about a week off for recreation.

I like photojournalist themes, but wouldn't say no to some wildlife or landscape if its worthy...

Anyone that happened to pass through this side of the world, and has some photographic ideas on where and what to shoot, will be welcome!
Cheers,

[namasste]

If it were possible (and its not per the orphanage unfortunately), I'd pay you whatever it takes to have you go to Enat Alem and take some pics of my two sons who are there waiting for me to come get them. Please please post anything you shoot while there, especially if you get down near Awassa or anything in and around Addis. I'd love to pick your brain while you're there or after you get back about what you found to be great shooting opportunities and any does and don't related to that. Have fun, shoot lots. Be blessed.

Ameseganalo!

Scott

[Deus Ex Machina]

Hi there!
Spent my first days at work, no time to get the gear out and shoot. Will start this Sunday in Addis where a holiday (day of the Cross) promises nice traditional happenings downtown... I also plan to go and shoot a morning (probably this Monday - day off) in Merkato market, although they say it might be a bit risky. I guess with the driver near by I could avoid annoying encounters. I find it hard to believe there are dangerous areas in Addis however; I've been really charmed by those people dude..!
Enat Alem, where's that...? Would love to if its in my way man! not for money of course.. ha.
Awassa yes, I'll stay there sometimes since its a hub for the south where I'll be traveling by road. Can't get anyone to give me some directions for shooting at the great rift valley there (which I have never seen...), I'll try to arrange to spend a whole -transit- weekend there to find some good spots.
Cheers,
George

[namasste]

George, that's just awesome. Agree that the Ethiopian people are some of the kindest (and most stunningly beautiful) people I've ever encountered. Also agree that its hard to imagine not being safe around Addis. Enat Alem is an orphanage right in Addis actually. Its not all that far from the airport. George, we are out of our minds to get to see these kids and the wait is just brutal. Hopefully we'll know our travel plans in just a couple of weeks after court is open again.

I'm really anxious to see your stuff from around Awassa as that's near their home. They come from Boricha Hanranja. I've heard there is some awesome stuff to shoot down there and if you can get west a bit, you'll have the opportunity to shoot some of the Oromo people which should be an amazing experience. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with.

Be safe and enjoy your time there George! Keep me posted on how its going. Blessings to you!!!

Scott

[philmar]

for quick easy weekend trips yopu can't miss Harar or Lalibela - both re fascinating places.

For a longer sejour I'd recommend the Omo Valley before it becomes overrun by tourists.

[namasste]

for quick easy weekend trips yopu can't miss Harar or Lalibela - both re fascinating places.

For a longer sejour I'd recommend the Omo Valley before it becomes overrun by tourists.

I've heard Lalibela is amazing but have spent most of my time there (so far) in the south. Harar is getting to be a bit on the dangerous side from what I've been told by locals but I've also heard its very worth seeing.

Thanks for the tips Phil. I am going back to Ethiopia sometime in the next few weeks but doubt I'll be traveling much beyond Entoto.

Any idea on how much the short flight to Lalibela costs? Might be worth a two day excursion up there.

[sommerpears]

Wow sounds like you had quite the adventure. Care to share any of your photographs so far? What do you do for work anyways, George?

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[namasste]

George, are you still in Ethiopia right now? I am leaving Sunday to come back (I land in Addis early Monday). If so, pm me a number and I'll give you a ring. Least I can do is buy you a coffee. I may do 2-3 day trips from Addis and you are welcome to come along as well.

Peace.