Every day brought new and exciting sights, sounds and experiences – from the vast numbers of people and livestock that walked the roads, to the stunning scenery to the awe inspiring churches.

Make sure you have plenty of small notes and coins and prepare to be hassled by the constant call of ‘take picture ‘ as it is associated with the handing over of 5 birr for the privilege of the photograph or the local children trying to sell you small trinkets. It does get annoying but you have to accept that for many it is the only way they have of surviving through the dry season and it is much better than begging.

If you are travelling south and have the opportunity, fly from Addis to Arba Minch rather than drive – you are not missing that much. Try and see the museum in Jinka before visiting the southern tribes. It was one of the better museums and provided lots of information on the different tribes.