Ethiopia spans over 1.1 million square kilometers, with landscapes ranging from soaring mountains to deep valleys and desert plains. The Ethiopian Highlands dominate the central and northern regions, while the Rift Valley stretches south from Addis Ababa. To the east lies the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most geologically active places on Earth.

Notable rivers include the Blue Nile, Omo, Awash, Baro, and Wabe Shebelle

Ethiopia is home to over 120 million people and more than 80 distinct ethnic groups. The official language is Amharic, but many Ethiopians speak Oromo, Tigrigna, Somali, and English. In tourism and business circles, English is widely spoken.

Languages belong to four major families: Semitic, Cushitic, Omotic, and Nilo-Saharan. Each language group reflects a rich oral tradition and cultural identity. Travelers often find that learning a few words in Amharic—like “Selam” (Hello) or “Ameseginalehu” (Thank you)—goes a long way in creating memorable local connections.

Ethiopia also follows a unique calendar system—the Ethiopian calendar, which is approximately 7 to 8 years behind the Gregorian calendar. It consists of 12 months of 30 days and a 13th month of 5 or 6 days (known as Pagumē). Major holidays and festivals are based on this calendar, making cultural immersion especially rewarding for travelers.

Ethiopia offers an e-Visa system at www.evisa.gov.et and visa on arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for citizens of over 90 countries, including the USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and others.

• Visa Fee: Approx. USD 52
• Passport Validity: At least 6 months

Grand Holidays Ethiopia provides full visa support, including invitation letters, VIP airport assistance, and fast-track immigration clearance.

Addis Ababa is not only the capital of Ethiopia but also a major African diplomatic and aviation hub. Bole International Airport serves as the gateway to Ethiopia and is well connected through:

• Ethiopian Airlines– Africa’s most awarded airline with flights to 130+ global destinations
• Extensive domestic flight network reaching over 40 cities

Grand Holidays offers airport meet-and-greet, private transfers, and fast connections to regional highlights.

Ethiopian Airlines operates the largest and most reliable domestic network in Africa. Key tourism routes include:

• Lalibela
• Axum
• Gondar
• Bahir Dar
• Arba Minch
• Jinka (Omo Valley)
• Semera (Danakil Depression)

Domestic baggage allowance: 20 kg checked + small carry-on. Excess charges apply.

Ethiopia is a year-round destination. Thanks to its elevation, temperatures remain pleasant throughout the year. Rain showers are typically short and followed by sunshine.

🏩 North (Historic Route: Lalibela, Gondar, Axum, Bahir Dar)

• Best time: September to June
• Lush and green after the rainy season. July and August can be rainy in the Simien Mountains, but the scenery is still stunning.

🔥 Danakil Depression

• Best time: September to March
• Avoid extreme heat between May and August.

☔ Rainy Season

• Main rains: Late June to August
• Southern regions: March to June, with short rains in November

🌼 Ethiopian New Year & Meskel Celebrations

Traveling in September offers a rare cultural and natural treat. The highlands bloom with Meskel Daisies (Adey Abeba), symbolizing renewal and celebration.

• Enkutatash (Ethiopian New Year)– Celebrated on September 11 (or 12 in a leap year), it’s a joyful time of fresh beginnings.
• Meskel (Finding of the True Cross)– Celebrated on September 27 (or 28), marked by bonfires, processions, and dancing.

Plus, thanks to Ethiopia’s Julian calendar, you’ll find yourself seven to eight years younger!

Recommended vaccinations: Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Polio

• Malaria risk is low in highland areas but present in lowlands (Bahir Dar, Arba Minch, Omo)
• Bring mosquito repellent, sun protection, and a basic first aid kit

Travel insurance is essential, especially for remote trips.

• Famous dishes: Injera, Doro Wot, Tibs, and shiro
• Coffee lovers can enjoy the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony
• Local drinks: Tej (honey wine), Tella (home-brewed beer), Katikala (local spirit), and Ethiopian wines
• International restaurants are available in Addis Ababa and major towns

Addis Ababa offers top hotels like Sheraton, Hyatt, Hilton, and boutique properties. Outside the capital, we work with vetted eco-lodges, heritage hotels, and mobile luxury camps.

Tourism infrastructure is growing rapidly. Some remote areas may have limited amenities, but Grand Holidays ensures the most comfortable options available.

• Road conditions on major routes are good and improving
• Travel by 4WD is often necessary in remote areas
• No national passenger rail; a cargo line connects Addis Ababa to Djibouti

Grand Holidays provides comfortable vehicles, experienced drivers, and full logistics support.

• Local currency: Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
• Foreign currency should be exchanged at banks or licensed hotels (passport required)
• ATMs are available in most cities
• Credit cards(Visa/MasterCard) are accepted at many hotels, large shops, and restaurants

Bring some cash for rural travel.

• Voltage: 220V (European 2-pin plugs)
• Free Wi-Fi in most hotels, though speeds vary
• SIM cards and local data plans are available at a low cost

• • Ask permission before photographing people, especially in tribal areas
  • Filming in churches, festivals, and sensitive areas may require permits or fees
  • Military and government buildings must not be photographed

Grand Holidays offers filming permits, location support, and professional fixers.

• • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Remove your shoes before entering churches and mosques
  • Bring sunscreen, a flashlight, insect repellent, walking shoes, and travel adapters