FAQ

What is the currency used in Ethiopia?
The currency used in Ethiopia is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB).

Can I exchange foreign currency in Ethiopia?
Yes, you can exchange foreign currency at banks, authorized exchange bureaus, and some hotels in Ethiopia.

Are there ATMs available in Ethiopia?
Yes, ATMs are available in major cities and towns in Ethiopia. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when traveling to remote areas where ATM availability may be limited.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Ethiopia?
Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments in Ethiopia, primarily in urban areas. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in more remote locations.

Which are the main international airports in Ethiopia?
The main airport, with international connections to most parts of the world, is Bole International Airport, located in the heart of Addis Ababa. Domestic services fly to all regions and most tourist sites. The national carrier, Ethiopian Airlines (www.ethiopianairlines.com) is Africa’s oldest airline, and it has an excellent safety record, as well as the most extensive intra-African flight network of any carrier, and links to several major European and North American cities.

Are there domestic airports in Ethiopia?
Yes, Ethiopia has several domestic airports that connect different regions within the country. Some notable domestic airports include Lalibela Airport, Gondar Airport, Axum Airport, and Arba Minch Airport.

Are there direct flights from my country to Ethiopia?
Direct flights to Ethiopia are available from various countries around the world. The availability of direct flights depends on your location and the airline you choose. It is recommended to check with airlines or travel agencies for specific flight options.

What is the best time of year to visit Ethiopia?
The best time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season, which typically runs from October to May. This period offers pleasant weather and is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

What languages are spoken in Ethiopia?
The official language of Ethiopia is Amharic. However, English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and tourist destinations. There are also numerous regional languages spoken throughout the country.

Are there any specific dress codes or cultural considerations I should be aware of in Ethiopia?
Ethiopia is a culturally diverse country with various customs and traditions. It is respectful to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural areas. It is advisable to avoid revealing clothing and to be sensitive to local customs.

Is it common to tip in Ethiopia?
Tipping is not mandatory in Ethiopia, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a small tip for hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers if you are satisfied with their service.

Can I obtain a visa on arrival in Ethiopia?
Yes, some nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa. However, it is advisable to check if this option is available for your nationality in advance.

Entry and Requirements

A valid passport is required for all visitors and a visa is required for all foreign visitors. Visas may be obtained by application to the nearest Ethiopian diplomatic embassy. An online Entry Visa Application and Issuance (E-Visa) is now available for US and Canadian citizens and for citizens of many other countries.

Check if your country is eligible and apply here: https://www.evisa.gov.et

The E- visa is processed and issued online on a single web page where applicants apply, pay ($52 for a 30-day tourist visa)
and secure their entry visa online. Once the online application is approved, applicants will receive an email authorizing them to travel to Ethiopia and they will get their passport stamped with the visa upon arrival in Addis Ababa.

Is tap water safe to drink in Ethiopia?
It is generally recommended to drink bottled or filtered water in Ethiopia to avoid potential stomach issues. Bottled water is readily available.

Health and Vaccination

While both doctors and dentists are available throughout the country, the major hospitals are located in main towns. In general, the standards of treatment are limited. Pharmacies carry a range of medicines but we recommend that visitors bring sufficient supplies of any drugs that they need regularly. Vaccination against cholera is required if you have visited a cholera-infected area within 6 days prior to arrival in Ethiopia.  A yellow fever certificate is no longer mandatory for Ethiopia but it might be required when you arrive from a country where the disease is endemic.

Are there any health concerns or vaccinations required for traveling to Ethiopia?
It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or travel clinic before visiting Ethiopia to receive updated information on required vaccinations and health precautions.

Are there any entry restrictions or requirements due to COVID-19?
Entry restrictions and requirements related to COVID-19 can change frequently. It is essential to check the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued by the Ethiopian government and your home country before planning your trip.

What is the voltage and plug type used in Ethiopia?
The voltage in Ethiopia is 220 volts, and the plug types commonly used are Type C (European) and Type E (French).

Will I need a power adapter for my electronic devices?
If your devices use a different plug type or voltage, you will need a power adapter or converter to use them in Ethiopia.

Can I use my mobile phone in Ethiopia?
Yes, you can use your mobile phone in Ethiopia. However, it is recommended to check with your mobile service provider regarding international roaming charges and coverage in Ethiopia.

How is the climate in Ethiopia?
Ethiopia experiences a varied climate due to its diverse geography. The highlands have a temperate climate, while the lowlands can be hot and arid. The country has distinct rainy and dry seasons.

The climate of Ethiopia varies greatly by region. In general, the climate is temperate in the highlands and hot in the lowlands. Much of the country consists of a high plateau, which gives the country a pleasant, moderate climate with minimal seasonal temperature variation with average lows of 43’F (6’°C) and highs of 79’F (26’°C).

Temperature variation in the lowlands are much greater, and the heat in the desert and Red Sea Coastal areas is extreme, with occasional highs of 140°F (60’C)! In Addis, the average temperature consistently remains around 59°F (15°C) throughout the year; however, you should not underestimate the intensity of the equatorial sun. We advise to bring a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses.

There are two distinct seasons in Ethiopia. The dry season prevails from October through May; the wet season runs from June to September, but there is also a short rainy season in March or April, especially toward southern Ethiopia, and rain can happen at any time of the year. However, even during the long rainy season, bright, warm sun usually breaks through the clouds at least once a day. The climate is mainly influenced by altitude and cloud cover rather than the time of the year. This is
due to its proximity to the equator.

Altitude Concerns ?

For much of the northern circuit in Ethiopia, you will be at altitudes between 5,000 and 8,000 ft. (Addis is 7,600ft ASL). Our excursion into the Simiens will take us to +/- 10,000ft. Altitude affects all people differently. Most people, especially if they are physically fit, will experience only minor discomfort when they first arrive: perhaps a headache or a slightly woozy feeling, but nothing more. But to reduce the possibilities that altitude sickness will affect you, drink plenty of fluids and keep physical activity to a relatively low level on the first day. Aspirin helps thin the blood and will be useful if you develop a headache.

Cell Phones and WI-FI

All modern forms of communication, telephone, mobile, fax and the Internet, are available, and telecommunication in Ethiopia is generally good. The country code is 251 and Addis Ababa’s area code is 1 (or 011 if calling from within the country). Few North American cell phone companies offer international plans which include Ethiopia. Or if they do, they are very, very expensive. If you want to use your cell phone to call home, you can purchase a local Sim Card from Ethio Telecom if you have an unlocked smart phone. Your phone will also need to be an “international phone” using the GSM network band. Alternatively, you can connect to WiFi in most major hotels and make calls using Facetime, Whatsapp or Skype as well as check your email, Facebook, etc.

Electricity

The electricity supply in the country is 220 volts AC, at 50 cycles. The power sockets are of type C, E, F and .L Please be aware that the electricity service can be erratic. You should always travel with a flashlight and spare batteries, and do not rely on an electric razor or hairdryer.

Money Matters

The local currency is the birr. Notes are printed in denominations of birr 200, 100, 50, 10, 5, and 1 and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 cent coins are minted. The birr is one of the strongest currencies in Africa. In general, the currency is not available outside of Ethiopia. The rate of exchange fluctuates moderately. US dollars are mainly accepted at major establishments, like hotels, ticket offices, shopping malls and souvenir shops. It’s recommended to have local currency while traveling for most small purchases, meals in smaller establishments and ‘just in case.’

What to Wear

Light cotton clothing with sunglasses and a hat will be required in the warm lowlands, while in the highlands light or mediumweight clothing is appropriate. Light clothing is sufficient most of the year, similar to what you might wear on a warm European summer day (though not so scanty as to offend local sensibilities), but it is advisable to carry some warm clothing, such as a light jacket, as temperatures drop at nighttime, especially from October through December, as well as during rainstorms. During the rainy season, a light raincoat is essential. Shorts are not appropriate for visiting churches, monasteries or mosques and women must cover their heads. Shoes must always be removed before entering churches, monasteries and mosques, therefore we recommend bringing an extra pair of socks just for these visits (airline socks work well) and then discard.

Cultural Customs

Recognition of traditional courtesies is important when visiting another country. While Ethiopians are well aware of the form in other countries, they tend to be conservative at home. A handshake greeting is normal, with a pleasant discussion on personal matters before getting down to business. The offer of tea or coffee is normal, and time is not that important. Smoking is not popular amongst traditional people, or in front of priests. Remember that you are a guest of the country and we encourage trip members to respect the indigenous cultures and customs. Also, we want to underscore that trip members should respect the privacy of individuals (especially when taking photographs) and not make promises unless they fully intend to fulfill their obligation.

Ethiopian Calendar

In 1582 when the rest of the Christian world adopted the Gregorian calendar, Ethiopia stayed with the Julian calendar. With the passage of time, seven and a half years have somehow dissolved in the intervening centuries. tI is now 2011 in the Ethiopian calendar with New Year’s Day falling in the month
of September. It is not only its calendar that differentiates Ethiopia from its neighbors. Ethiopia is the only civilization on the continent with its own alphabet, chronology and calendar system and religious art.

Time zone

Ethiopia is 3 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, 8 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time, and Il hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time. Relatively close to the equator: there are an almost constant twelve hours of daylight. In Addis Ababa, the sunrise and sunset start at around 6:30am and 6:45pm
respectively. Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar, which consists of 12 months of 30 days each, and the 13th month of five or 6 days (on a leap year).