My experience as a solo traveler

Our twice-yearly Hamlin Ethiopian Adventurers come from every part of the world! We’ve had couples, moms and daughters, best friends and solo travelers all join us for this trip of a lifetime. 

Traveling as a solo traveler, especially to an extraordinary country like Ethiopia, can be very rewarding. It is a great opportunity to go on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth and confidence. 

Carol joined our March 2025 trip and was one of several solo women travelers on the tour. Here, she shares her feelings and motivations for coming on the adventure on her own.

“I was not concerned about traveling on my own. I knew the [Hamlin and Ethiopian] guides and the group would be there for any queries or concerns I had.

I took into account that Catherine Hamlin Fistula Foundation had done this trip many times before and with the same experienced guide… also knowing that the Hamlins’ had lived there [in Ethiopia] for 60 years safely, despite much political upheaval. I made the decision to book the journey knowing that no travel is completely risk free.”

Traveling solo, not alone

Our Hamlin Ethiopian Adventures provide a unique opportunity for participants to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Ethiopian people and learn about their unique customs and traditions.

Traveling together in a small group gives like-minded people the chance to bond over a shared love of adventurous travel and a common commitment to eradicating obstetric fistula in Ethiopia. Carol says,

“We were only a small group and we got to know each other quickly. Some arrived at different times, but all was well co-ordinated from Addis Ababa airport. The trip itself was incredibly well organized and I thought Eyayaw [Ethiopian tour guide], the drivers and the Hamlin staff were exceptional in their assistance, information and the overall experience. 

The accommodation was always very good and the tour itself was extraordinary. We visited Hamlin hospitals, Desta Mender the rehabilitation center, the Hamlin College of Midwives, regional hospitals and outlying clinics where those young student midwives became the main player. We also visited many tribal groups on the way back to Addis Ababa, where we saw first-hand where the women come from who need birthing support.

The women we met, the doctors and the students were so very grateful for what Catherine Hamlin has enabled. Though Catherine and her husband, Reg are no longer there, everything is now handled by an Ethiopian workforce who is wholly committed to caring for women’s injured bodies with the same well crafted, nurturing model [the Hamlin Model of Care].” 

“A thousand thanks”

When you join one of the Hamlin Ethiopian Adventure trips, you are given an insider’s tour of Hamlin’s Addis Ababa and Yirgalem Fistula Hospitals plus two rural Hamlin-supported midwifery clinics by members of our dedicated Hamlin clinical team. You also have the opportunity to meet some beautiful fistula patients, whose bravery and resilience is truly heartwarming and inspiring.

As you travel south to Jinka, you have plenty of time to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Great Rift Valley and experience the diverse tribal groups of southern Ethiopia, each with their own distinct culture and traditions. 

Safety is our top priority. Hamlin representatives and an expert local travel guide with vast knowledge and experience provide support every step of the way.  

Carol is ever thankful for the incredible experiences she shared with her fellow travelers. 

“I would recommend this trip to anyone and appreciated all the assistance from Australia and in Ethiopia. It was an unforgettable experience that has given me so much hope for the future where people care and do commit that feeling into a reality for those who need it.” - Carol

Learn more about how you can join one of the Hamlin Ethiopian Adventures.