First-time visitors will relish Ethiopia's stunning natural
beauty, as well as its incredibly rich culture and history. The
striking diversity of landscapes, ancient traditions and people
leave a lasting impression to challenge the misleading stereotype
of a land stricken by years of drought and famine.
Ethiopia can boast to being the only country in Africa that
wasn't colonised, having defeated and expelled the Italians after a
mere five years of occupation. It has emerged into the present day
as a fiercely independent and proud country, and one in which Islam
and Christianity coexist in relative harmony.
Brimming with contrasts and extremes, Ethiopia's attractions
range from the tops of its highlands, where mountains soar over
14,100 feet (4,300 metres), to the depths of the Danakil
Depression, which is situated below sea level. Discovering
Abyssinian culture and traditions that date back over 3,000 years
is incredibly exciting and it is possible to experience ancient
Islamic folklore, as well as the fascinating rituals and sacred
ceremonies of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
The capital, Addis Ababa (meaning 'New Flower' in Amharic) is
home to the more modern problems of urban migration. Addis Ababa
can be a difficult place to navigate, but anyone with a desire to
learn more about Ethiopian culture would be remiss not to spend
more time in this complex city.
The north of Ethiopia is the most attractive region for anyone
interested in history or natural beauty. The Historic Route winds
through the medieval wonders of the country, including the ancient
cities of Gondar and Axum, and the breath-taking Lalibela churches,
which were carved out of rock. The north also boasts the lofty
Simien Mountains National Park, where visitors will find the fourth
highest peak on the continent, fantastic hiking opportunities and a
variety of wildlife.
Bahir Dar, situated on Lake Tana, is popular as a base from
which to explore the intriguing monasteries built on the many
islands scattered about the lake, as well as the Blue Nile Falls,
which are arguably the most impressive falls in North Africa.
The south of Ethiopia, on the other hand, is the heartland of
some of the surviving tribal cultures, with villagers living much
as they have for centuries. There are fewer awe-inspiring ancient
sites and the game reserves and tribal enclaves draw adventurous
travellers.
Ethiopia was once overlooked as a tourist destination, but the
country's unique attractions are taking pride of place in northeast
Africa. Today the oldest independent nation on the continent
welcomes visitors to experience its long proud history and
abundance of stunning scenery.
Key Facts
Language:
Amharic is the official language, although over 80 local
languages are also spoken. English and Arabic are widely spoken as
well as some French and Italian.
Passport/Visa:
All visitors must obtain an eVisa or get a visa from the
Ethiopian Embassy closest to their place of legal residence before
travelling. E-visas can be obtained before departure online at
www.evisa.gov.et/. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is
required to enter Ethiopia if visitors are arriving from a country
with a risk of yellow fever transmission or have transited through
an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs. It is highly
recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months'
validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their
travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different
rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Currency:
The official currency is the Ethiopian birr (ETB), which is
divided into 100 cents, and foreign currency can be exchanged at
banks and authorised hotels. Only major establishments accept
credit cards in Addis Ababa, and credit cards have even more
limited usage outside the capital. Visitors should carry hard
currency with them, preferably in US dollars. ATMs are sparse, but
banks are usually open every day except Sundays from 8am to 11am
and 1pm till 4pm.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Two-pin plugs
are used. Even in Addis Ababa, electricity supply is irregular and
blackouts are common.
Travel to Ethiopia
Overview
There is plenty to see and do in the ancient country of
Ethiopia, but getting to attractions isn't always easy. However,
many of the attractions are incredibly impressive and it's worth
negotiating the chaos for a sight of them.
Most tourists travel to the colourful capital of Addis Ababa to
start their exploration. It's worth spending at least a day here to
experience the vibe of this enormous African city, with its lively
markets and fascinating attractions, such as the Ethiopian National
Museum, which is home to Lucy, the famous early hominid fossil.
Northern Ethiopia holds the greatest attraction for visitors, as
it's one of the country's richest regions for culture, history, and
natural splendour. The Historic Route has some breathtaking assets
and is a fairly well-beaten trail on which travellers can feel
safe.
With more castles, palaces, and churches than any other city in
Africa, the medieval city of Gondar is a wondrous place. Not to be
outdone, the city of Axum is said to contain the Ark of the
Covenant, as well as the ancient capital of the Queen of Sheba.
The ancient city of Harar, fourth holiest city in the world for
Islam, boasts 82 mosques within its fortified walls, but Ethiopia's
top attractions are undoubtedly the 13th-century rock-hewn churches
of Lalibela. They are among the most incredible manmade structures
in the world, revered and renowned among Ethiopians and foreigners
alike, and the venue for some of the most famous religious
festivals in Ethiopia. Having taken at least 24 years to complete,
the astounding churches are believed to have been created with the
help of angels.
Climate in Ethiopia
Ethiopia is in the tropical zone lying between the equator and
the Tropic of Cancer. There are three different climate zones in
the country and weather varies substantially depending on altitude.
The lowlands are generally hot and humid, while cooler temperatures
characterise the Ethiopian Highlands.
Although the low-lying areas are tropical in climate due to the
proximity to the equator, the mountainous regions can get chilly
and the climate is more alpine. The average annual temperature in
the highlands is about 61F (16C), while the lowlands average about
82F (28C).
In Addis Ababa, which ranges from 7,218 feet to 8,530 feet
(2,200m to 2,600m), the maximum average temperature is 79F (26C)
and the minimum is 39F (4C). May is the hottest month and August is
the coolest.
There are two rainy seasons in Ethiopia: a short, mild one
between February and April, and a more intense rainy season from
mid-June to mid-September. Although travel is easily possible
during the spring rainy season, it is generally avoided during the
far wetter summer period, as road travel can become difficult.
Visitors should be aware that Ethiopia can get rain year-round and
that rainfall, like everything else, is dependent on region.
The best time to visit Ethiopia is in the dry season between
mid-October and March, but travellers should be sure to check out
the climate for the particular region they want to explore before
making a decision.
Health Notes when travelling to Ethiopia
Travellers to Ethiopia are recommended to have hepatitis A,
hepatitis B, meningococcus, and cholera vaccinations. There is a
risk of yellow fever in Ethiopia, and proof of vaccination is
required if visitors are arriving from a country with a risk of
yellow fever transmission or have transited through an airport of a
country where yellow fever occurs.
Malaria is prevalent in the lowlands and altitude sickness may
affect travellers to the highland areas, including Addis Ababa.
Bilharzia is present in many of the lakes in Ethiopia and
travellers are advised to drink boiled or bottled water, as
waterborne diseases are prevalent. A rabies vaccination is
recommended for anyone who will be spending a lot of time in
wilderness areas or around animals, and a polio booster is
recommended for adults who had the vaccine as children.
Medical facilities are poor outside of Addis Ababa, while in the
capital, hospitals are available but medical supplies are erratic.
Visitors should bring their own regular medications with them and
arrange comprehensive travel insurance.
Safety Notes when travelling to Ethiopia
The vast majority of trips to Ethiopia are trouble free, but
safety precautions are recommended. Visitors are cautioned to avoid
all public demonstrations and large crowds, particularly in Addis
Ababa, and to keep a low profile in public places. Valuables should
not be displayed, as petty theft is a concern, and visitors should
only use buses or taxis from the airport that have been organised
by their hotel or travel company.
Most of Ethiopia can be explored in relative safety, but there
are travel warnings in place for some areas, and travellers are
advised to check travel warnings on reputable government websites
before planning their itineraries. Caution should generally be
exercised in all border areas and the British FCDO advises against
all travel to within six miles (10km) of the borders with Eritrea,
Sudan, South Sudan and Kenya, though there are a few exceptions to
this rule made for prime tourist hotspots and main roads.
Travel warnings are also in place for parts of the Somali
region, parts of the Danakil desert, and parts of the Gambella
region. Overland travel to Sudan or Kenya is dangerous due to armed
bandits, and should only be attempted in a convoy.
Flooding often affects Ethiopia between June and September each
year, with flash floods sometimes killing hundreds of people in
low-lying areas.
Customs in Ethiopia
The Ethiopian Highlands are mainly Orthodox Christian and
restaurants do not serve meat dishes on Wednesdays, Fridays, and
during Lent. The Ethiopian calendar, which is similar to the Julian
calendar, consists of 13 months (12 months of 30 days, and a
thirteenth month of five or six days). Homosexuality is illegal in
Ethiopia, and carry penalties of between 1 and 15 years
imprisonment. Shoes should be removed before entering mosques and
churches; photographs should not be taken of military buildings and
airports, and permission should be asked before photographing
religious festivals and people.
Duty Free in Ethiopia
Travellers to Ethiopia over the age of 18 years do not have to
pay customs duty on 400 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco; 2 litre of
alcoholic beverages; 2 bottles or 600ml of perfume.
Doing Business in Ethiopia
Etiquette is very important in Ethiopia, both socially and in
business. Formal attire is expected of men and women; greetings are
very important and the shaking of hands is the norm for first
meetings. Ethiopians like to establish good relations with one
another and personal relationships are the cornerstone of
business.
Businessmen in Addis Ababa understand some English, and perhaps
some French and Italian. Ethiopians also respect their elders, so
visitors should show the same courtesy. Business hours are
generally 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, with an hour taken at
lunch, though this may vary from business to business.
Communication in Ethiopia
The international dialling code for Ethiopia is +251 and the
outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g.
0027 for South Africa). Internet services are increasingly
available and travellers can purchase prepaid SIM cards for
unlocked phones.
Tipping in Ethiopia
Tourist hotels and restaurants usually add a 10 percent service
charge to the bill, but tipping is still fairly common, though only
small amounts are customary.
Passport/Visa Note
All visitors must obtain an eVisa or get a visa from the
Ethiopian Embassy closest to their place of legal residence before
travelling. E-visas can be obtained before departure online at
www.evisa.gov.et/. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is
required to enter Ethiopia if visitors are arriving from a country
with a risk of yellow fever transmission or have transited through
an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs. It is highly
recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months'
validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their
travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different
rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in
Ethiopia. A visa is required and can be obtained online or on
arrival in the country for those travelling as tourists and
arriving at Addis Ababa.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon
arrival in Ethiopia. A visa is required, and can be obtained on
arrival in the country for those travelling as tourists and
arriving at Addis Ababa.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens require a passport that is valid upon arrival
in Ethiopia. A visa is required, and can be obtained online or on
arrival in the country for those travelling as tourists and
arriving at one of the main airports. Holders of British passports
with endorsements other than 'British Citizen' should check with
the embassy to confirm their entry requirements.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon
arrival in Ethiopia. A visa is required, and can be obtained online
or on arrival in the country for those travelling as tourists and
arriving at Addis Ababa.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival
in Ethiopia. A visa is required, and can be obtained online or on
arrival in the country for those travelling as tourists and
arriving at Addis Ababa.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon
arrival in Ethiopia. A visa is required, and can be obtained online
on arrival in the country for those travelling as tourists and
arriving at Addis Ababa.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon
arrival in Ethiopia. A visa is required, and can be obtained online
or on arrival in the country for those travelling as tourists and
arriving at Addis Ababa.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Ethiopia, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Ethiopia. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Cholera is a risk in parts of Ethiopia. CDC recommends this vaccine for adults who are traveling to an area of active cholera transmission. Most people do not travel to areas of active cholera transmission. Avoiding unsafe food and water can also prevent many cholera infections. Cholera is rare in travelers but can be severe. Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease (more information).
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Talk to your doctor about how to prevent malaria while traveling. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, especially if you are visiting low-altitude areas. See more detailed information about malaria in Ethiopia.
CDC recommends this vaccine if you plan to visit parts of Ethiopia located in the meningitis belt during the dry season (December–June), when the disease is most common.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Ethiopia, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Ethiopia
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Health recommendation: Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Ethiopia, so CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine for travelers 9 months of age or older to these areas.
Country entry requirement: The government of Ethiopia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever (this does not include the US - for complete list, see Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Ethiopia, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Ethiopia. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Cholera is a risk in parts of Ethiopia. CDC recommends this vaccine for adults who are traveling to an area of active cholera transmission. Most people do not travel to areas of active cholera transmission. Avoiding unsafe food and water can also prevent many cholera infections. Cholera is rare in travelers but can be severe. Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease (more information).
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Talk to your doctor about how to prevent malaria while traveling. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, especially if you are visiting low-altitude areas. See more detailed information about malaria in Ethiopia.
CDC recommends this vaccine if you plan to visit parts of Ethiopia located in the meningitis belt during the dry season (December–June), when the disease is most common.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Ethiopia, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Ethiopia
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Health recommendation: Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Ethiopia, so CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine for travelers 9 months of age or older to these areas.
Country entry requirement: The government of Ethiopia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever (this does not include the US - for complete list, see Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Ethiopia, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Ethiopia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Ethiopia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Ethiopia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Ethiopia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Malaria is a risk in Ethiopia. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Ethiopia may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Ethiopia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Ethiopia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.
Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency is the Ethiopian birr (ETB), which is
divided into 100 cents, and foreign currency can be exchanged at
banks and authorised hotels. Only major establishments accept
credit cards in Addis Ababa, and credit cards have even more
limited usage outside the capital. Visitors should carry hard
currency with them, preferably in US dollars. ATMs are sparse, but
banks are usually open every day except Sundays from 8am to 11am
and 1pm till 4pm.
Bole International Airport (ADD) Addis Ababa Bole International Airport http://www.addisairport.com
Location: Addis Ababa The airport is situated five miles (8km) from Addis
Ababa.
Time: GMT +3.
Transfer between terminals:
The terminals are close to each other, but a free shuttle
service is available.
Getting to the city:
Most hotels offer shuttle services from the airport, though
these should be booked in advance. Local minibuses are also
available but tend to be crowded and can be uncomfortable with
luggage.
Car rental:
Car rental is available at the airport.
Airport Taxis:
To avoid haggling and overpricing, travellers should use the
yellow-coloured government taxis parked at the terminal, which are
more comfortable and reliable than the unofficial blue and white
cabs. Passengers should make sure to agree on a fee with the driver
before starting their journey.
Facilities:
Facilities include a bank and bureau de change, restaurants and
bars, duty-free and gift shops, travel agents, a post office, and a
tourist help desk.
Parking:
Public parking is located near the entrances of each
terminal.
Overview of the Attractions in Ethiopia
There is plenty to see and do in the ancient country of
Ethiopia, but getting to attractions isn't always easy. However,
many of the attractions are incredibly impressive and it's worth
negotiating the chaos for a sight of them.
Most tourists travel to the colourful capital of Addis Ababa to
start their exploration. It's worth spending at least a day here to
experience the vibe of this enormous African city, with its lively
markets and fascinating attractions, such as the Ethiopian National
Museum, which is home to Lucy, the famous early hominid fossil.
Northern Ethiopia holds the greatest attraction for visitors, as
it's one of the country's richest regions for culture, history, and
natural splendour. The Historic Route has some breathtaking assets
and is a fairly well-beaten trail on which travellers can feel
safe.
With more castles, palaces, and churches than any other city in
Africa, the medieval city of Gondar is a wondrous place. Not to be
outdone, the city of Axum is said to contain the Ark of the
Covenant, as well as the ancient capital of the Queen of Sheba.
The ancient city of Harar, fourth holiest city in the world for
Islam, boasts 82 mosques within its fortified walls, but Ethiopia's
top attractions are undoubtedly the 13th-century rock-hewn churches
of Lalibela. They are among the most incredible manmade structures
in the world, revered and renowned among Ethiopians and foreigners
alike, and the venue for some of the most famous religious
festivals in Ethiopia. Having taken at least 24 years to complete,
the astounding churches are believed to have been created with the
help of angels.
Mercato Addis Ababa
The Mercato is one of the largest outdoor markets in Africa and
Addis Ababa's most colourful sight. Ideal for souvenirs, there are
tailors, spice merchants, and purveyors of just about every
commodity under the sun, including wonderful Ethiopian coffee.
Mercato is memorable but not for the faint hearted, given its
wandering animals, hollering vendors, and riot of colour, aromas,
and sensations. The spice market is particularly interesting, with
its exotic colours and smells. The Mercato is a pick-pocketing
hotspot so visitors should be careful with their valuables. It's
best to wear a money belt under clothes rather than keeping cash in
an accessible place. Shoppers should bargain hard as prices are
enormously flexible and foreigners are routinely charged three to
four times the going rate.
National Museum of Ethiopia Addis Ababa
This museum displays a varied range of exhibits across three
floors, and they cover Ethiopian history from the prehistoric to
the contemporary. The museum is not world-class in terms of its
facilities or exhibition space, but it does contain some genuinely
fascinating artefacts and gives visitors a good historical overview
of Ethiopia. The most famous exhibit is the replica statue of Lucy,
thought to be the oldest hominid skeleton ever found and estimated
to be 3.18 million years old. Lucy was discovered in 1974 and named
for the Beatles song. The fragile original skeleton is in the
vaults of the building. Also of interest is the selection of
celebrated Ethiopian artworks from Axum, Lalibella, and the Tana
Monasteries, as well as relics from Haile Selassie's reign.
St George's Cathedral Addis Ababa
St George's Cathedral was founded by the great Emperor Menelik
to commemorate his 1896 victory over the invading Italian army. A
relic of St George was carried into battle by the Ethiopians and
the emperor built the cathedral to pay tribute to the saint that
ensured his victory. The cathedral is a holy place of pilgrimage
for Rastafarians. It has a traditional Ethiopian design and
octagonal shape, and the outer walls of the building are covered in
wonderful artwork and mosaics, including work by Afewerk Tekle, one
of Ethiopia's most celebrated artists. Inside, beautiful
stained-glass windows enhance the sacred atmosphere. In 1930, the
church hosted the coronation of Emperor Haile Selassie and he and
Empress Menen are two of the famous Ethiopians buried here.
Lalibela Addis Ababa
Lalibela is one of the world's most remarkable spiritual sites
and Ethiopia's greatest tourist attraction. It is home to the
country's astounding rock-hewn churches and is an important
pilgrimage site for Ethiopia's Orthodox Christians. There are 11
functioning churches in total, all carved from a single piece of
granite. The churches were carved from the top down and some lie
nearly hidden in deep trenches, while others stand in open caves.
Each is unique. The churches are connected by a labyrinth of
tunnels and dark narrow passageways with crypts, grottos, caverns,
and galleries hewn from the red rock. They were carved between the
10th and 12th centuries in a bid to create a New Jerusalem for
those unable to pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
Axum Addis Ababa
Axum is a city in far northern Ethiopia. Its 17th-century Church
of St Mary of Zion is said to house the Ark of the Covenant, which
visitors aren't permitted to see. Colossal stone obelisks dating
back to 300 AD are remnants of the Kingdom of Aksum and are
recognised as remarkable historical artefacts by UNESCO. In 2005
one such obelisk was returned to Ethiopia with great fanfare after
having been looted by Italy in the early 20th century. The largest
number of these impressive sculptures is in the Northern Stelae
Park, and the tallest one that remains standing is King Ezana's
Stele, which is over 78 feet (24m) tall and weighs 160 tonnes. Some
tombs have been excavated under the giant stele, but archaeologists
have not yet explored the vast majority of this fascinating
underground world, and the extent of the mysteries the obelisks
guard is unknown.
Harar Addis Ababa
Harar is a fascinating, exotic town of considerable interest to
visitors willing to make the 320-mile (520km) journey east from
Addis Ababa. Harar is the fourth holiest city in Islam and was
forbidden to outsiders until 1887, when it became part of the
Ethiopian Empire. Harar boasts about 82 mosques (three from the
10th century) and 102 shrines. The city is perched on the eastern
wall of the Great Rift Valley, affording it a cool climate and
wonderful views of the soaring mountains to the east. The main
attractions are inside the Walled City, a fascinating warren of
medieval mosques, houses, and markets. Another popular attraction
is the nocturnal Hyena Man, who feeds wild hyenas strips of raw
meat suspended from his mouth and sticks.
Bahir Dar Addis Ababa
Bahir Dar is one of the most popular tourist destinations in
Ethiopia. Known for its palm-lined avenues, it sits at the southern
edge of Lake Tana, which is the source of the Blue Nile. The town
is the main base for visiting Tissisat Falls and the lake's 37
islands with their ancient churches and monasteries. Unfortunately,
many of these churches deny access to women but there are
exceptions. The lake is enormous and it will probably take half a
day just to visit two or three of the monasteries. The scenery is
beautiful, though, and visitors may even spot some local fishermen
in traditional papyrus canoes or groups of hippo. The most
beautiful of the monasteries on Lake Tana are Debre Kebran Gabriel,
which dates from the 14th century, and Ura Kidane Mehret, which has
exceptional frescoes.
Gondar Addis Ababa
Gondar is a city like no other, scattered with ancient castles
and churches, magnificent mountain scenery, and a pleasantly cool
climate. Situated 460 miles (748km) north of Addis Ababa, this is
the next clockwise step after Bahir Dar on the official Historic
Route through Ethiopia. Founded by Emperor Fasilides around the
year 1635, Gondar grew as an agricultural centre and market town.
The city was the capital of Ethiopia for hundreds of years, which
accounts for the abundant imperial architecture, most densely
concentrated in the Royal Enclosure, which contains numerous
castles. The oldest and most architecturally interesting is the
Castle of Fasilides, which has Axumite, Portuguese, and Indian
elements. Near the edge of Gondar is the Church of Debre Birhan
Selassie, which was built in the 17th century and contains the
country's most celebrated ceiling murals. Gondar is also a natural
base for treks into the Simien Mountains and many tour companies
tout their services in the city.
Hiking in the Simien Mountains
Forming part of one of the major mountain ranges in Africa, the
Simien Mountains rise to their highest point in Ethiopia at Mount
Ras Dashen (15,157ft/4,620m). The range boasts several other peaks
above 13,123ft (4,000m). The Simien Mountains National Park is
known for its dramatic landscapes and spectacular scenery
comprising deep canyons, escarpments, dizzying precipices, and
jagged spires and pinnacles formed by millions of years of erosion.
There are a variety of trekking options, ranging from one-day hikes
to treks lasting 10 days; most routes will pass through the small
villages and cultivated fields dotted about the lower valleys
before reaching the plateaux and high altitude areas, from where
the views are breath-taking.
The park is home to a variety of rare endemic wildlife,
including the walia ibex (a type of mountain goat), the Simien fox,
and troops of red-chested gelada baboons that live in the cliffs.
The gelada baboons are highly entertaining and surprisingly
unbothered by humans, peacefully grazing alongside watching
travellers. Large birds of prey, such as the lammergeyer, can also
be seen.
The small town of Debark is a good base for hiking into the
Simien Mountains, and the National Park Office is the place to
organise guided treks. All visitors must be accompanied by an
official armed ranger due to the lawless nature of some areas of
the Simien range following years of civil war. Apart from
organising the obligatory escort, travellers should bear in mind
that the high altitude in the Simien range can be a challenge.
Birding in Ethiopia
Ethiopia has emerged as one of the foremost birding destinations
on the African continent, boasting more than 850 known species, of
which at least 23 are endemic to Ethiopia. Habitats supporting the
best bird life include the Rift Valley lakes, the highland massif,
forests, and the lowlands.
The Rift Valley is scattered with lakes that offer an enormous
diversity of bird life; more than half of all Ethiopia's species
have been recorded at both Awash National Park and Abijata-Shalla
Lakes National Park. Lake Langano and Nechisar National Park are
also excellent birding sites and commonly seen birds include
kingfishers, storks, pelicans, flamingos and fish eagles.
The highland escarpments form the most typical of Ethiopian
habitats for birds and offer a number of species not found
elsewhere in Sub-Saharan Africa, such as the Golden Eagle,
Red-billed Chough, and Ruddy Shelduck; other endemics include
Rouget's Rail and the Spot-breasted Lapwing. More than 50 species
of birds inhabit the Simien Mountains National Park, including the
impressive Bearded Vulture, or Lammergeyer, with its 10-foot (3m)
wingspan. Bale Mountains National Park in the highlands is another
popular birdwatchers paradise.
The south of the country also affords superb birding
opportunities with sought after endemics such as the Prince
Ruspoli's Turaco, Degodi Larks and Stresemann's Bush Crow.
Various tour operators offer birdwatching adventures in
Ethiopia. Travellers should do some research into reputable tour
companies and good guides as the quality of tours varies, though by
all accounts the best guides are truly wonderful. October to
December is generally considered the best time to go on
birdwatching adventures in Ethiopia, but there is some variation
according to region.
Legend has it that the dramatic rock-hewn churches of Lalibela were created with the help of a team of angels. Buried deep into the rock in the highlands of northern Ethiopia, the 11 monolithic churches were built in the late 12th and early 13th Centuries by King
Elshaday Kebede is a San Francisco Bay Area-based Black solo female traveler and content creator that enjoys traveling to affordable destinations. Having grown up in Ethiopia, travel is her biggest passion, and also one she does not take for granted. Following her becoming a U.S. citizen in 2019
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Selam, an assistant guide who doubled as chief cook, set a plate in front of me, a mountain of spaghetti topped with what would prove to be a delicious tomato sauce. I started to tell her that even after our six-hour walk it was much more than I needed, but she didn’t understand, and I didn’t want to offend her. So I lifted my fork and spoon and ate the lot. I didn’t want to waste food, not in Ethiopia