Northern Ethiopia, Ethiopia
The Lasta Mountains remain ecologically important. Support tour operators who prioritize responsible trekking practices, like "leave no trace" principles.
Waste management infrastructure in Lalibela stays limited. Plastic waste is a specific worry. Minimize waste by avoiding single-use plastics.
Water scarcity can be an issue in some Ethiopian areas. Remain mindful of your water usage in hotels. Take shorter showers.
Protecting Lalibela's natural surroundings and lessening your environmental footprint forms a part of responsible tourism.
Reduce your waste by avoiding single-use plastics where possible. Carry out any non-biodegradable waste you generate, especially on treks or visits to remote sites.
Consider offsetting the carbon footprint of your flights through reputable carbon offset programs. Inquire about lodges or operators that practice sustainability.
The rock-hewn churches remain actively used religious sites. Support organizations and initiatives dedicated to their preservation and the broader local heritage.
Learn and use basic Amharic greetings. Always use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, and giving or receiving items. The left hand holds an unclean association. Respect personal space and avoid overly familiar gestures with strangers.
Shop for reusable products at places like Package Free Shop. This lessens waste during your travels.
Visit StorePack a reusable water bottle and a water purification method. This considerably lessens your plastic waste, a simple step towards sustainable travel.
Guiding your tourism spending to benefit the local community directly is a core aspect of responsible travel in Lalibela.
Seek opportunities to engage with local communities through homestays, village visits, or tours that explicitly state a community benefit.
Buy souvenirs and crafts directly from local artisans or small, locally owned shops. This places money directly with the producers. While negotiation holds customary practice in markets, avoid haggling excessively.
Prioritize eating at local restaurants rather than only hotel restaurants. Utilize licensed local guides and drivers recommended by your hotel or the official tourist office.
Avoid giving money directly to begging children; it fosters dependency and discourages school attendance. If you wish to donate, support reputable local schools or community projects.
Engaging with Lalibela's culture calls for awareness and respectful actions. Here are points on photography, religious sites, and general conduct.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals. Respect a "no." Be discreet, especially in religious settings.
Wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees. Women should carry a headscarf. Remove shoes before entering any church.
Observe quiet behavior inside and around religious sites. Do not talk loudly or disrupt prayers. Do not point your foot towards sacred objects.
Do not point with your foot, as this cultural gesture stands offensive. Avoid showing the soles of your feet towards anyone as well.
Hire a licensed local guide for the churches. Their knowledge brings invaluable insight, ensures your money supports the local economy, and assists in navigating cultural subtleties.
