BEST OF THE SOUTH (7 days) | If you have an interest in observing pre-materialist culture, this tour is the right one for you.

Timket is the greatest colorful festival of Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia. The festival of Timket falls on January 20. It is observed in commemoration of Jesus Christ’s baptism in River Jordan. Timket is a two-day affair and all the ceremonies are conducted with great pomp.

Timket traces its roots back to biblical times. In the early days of Judaism, a sacred box overlaid with gold was kept in the most holy place in the Jewish temple. Known as the Ark of the Covenant, it represented the coming Messiah.

Highlights

Ethiopian New Year takes place in September around the 11^th or 12^th. It is Known as Enkutatash, which means “Gift of Jewels”. Ethiopian follow the Julian Calendar that contains of 13 months (12 months of 30 days and one month with just 5 days/6 in a leap year). The calendar is 7 years and 8 months behind the Western Gregorian calendar. The New Year signifies the end of the rainy season and the lush green landscape (from 2-3 months of heavy rain) is very picturesque dotted with yellow Meskel Flower and a great time to celebrate the new year harvest. Celebrations are both religious and secular including church services and festive family meals. Children gather yellow flowers, receive small gifts and sing.