One country with “the best food in Africa” is beginning to gain deserved recognition on tourist trails, but there are still few tourists. Compared to popular African destinations like Morocco, which welcomed 17.4 million visitors in 2024, and Kenya, which welcomed 2.4 million people, the country still flies under the radar.
However, a report from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), which revealed that Ethiopia’s international tourists rose 40% in five years in 2024 means that it’s time to visit while still relatively unremarkable. That growth was not a coincidence – the government has prioritized tourism as a pillar of its economic development in recent years.
One of the most important initiatives was the diet of national projects aimed at developing and strengthening major tourist destinations around the country.
The expansion of Ethiopian airlines has developed roads, airports and accommodations to make travel easier when tourists arrive.
One traveler who visited every African country ranked Ethiopia as the second favorite of 54 destinations, saying he was “obsessed” with the country.
Drew Binksy, an experienced traveler with 5.36 million subscribers on YouTube, also believes the country has the best food on the continent.
“Ethiopia has the best food in Africa. They have something called Injera. This is like a substitute for bread. It’s very good, there’s nothing else in the word. The best food in Africa. The best coffee in the world is here.”
Injera, a spongy sour flatbread made from teff flour, plays a central role in Ethiopian cuisine, which is used as both food and tools.
The rich and spicy stew made with meat and vegetables is placed directly on the injera used on the plate.
Unique spice blends such as berbele, made from chili peppers, garlic, ginger, basil and fenugreek run bold and aromatic flavors throughout the dish.
He added: “I’m obsessed with this country. There are so many cool natural spots,” before we conclude, “I can go on about Ethiopia over and over again.”
Most popular in the country is to explore the ancient rocky churches of Lalibela, trek through the scenic Simien mountain ranges, and experience the vibrant culture and cuisine in Addis Ababa.
The direct flight departs from London to Addis Ababa Airport, which takes 7 hours and 40 minutes.
