Lalibela (Ethiopia)

Lalibelais famous uniquely for its 11 rock cut churches, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. The rest of the town is not particularly interesting. But the magnificent view you get of the whole region from the site and the countryside - you'll go through if you arrive by bus - also make this a worthwhile visit.

Visiting the churches is much more interesting with a guide who will show you the sights, particularly the underground passages linking the churches. Children and hotel managers offer their services as paid guides but I would advise you to go to an official agency where the guides speak good English as well as other languages.

The churches are divided into two groups, those in the south and those in the north. It is better to take your time and visit them over two days, especially as the entry ticket (which is relatively expensive for visitors) is valid for 4 days. The only thing I found disappointing about my visit was that the erosion protection structures, recently built by UNESCO, look like service station shelters.