Frequently Asked Questions
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- Banking & Currency
- Language, Internet & Communication
- Passports, Documentation & Valuables
- Health & Medication
- Visa Requirements
- Travel & Transport
- Safety
- Food & Drinks
- Tipping
- Climate & Weather
- Clothing & Packing
- Electricity
- Calendar
FAQs
The banking infrastructure in Ethiopia is not highly developed, which can pose challenges for independent travelers. It is recommended to use a reputable tour operator to assist with payments during your trip..
Banks are usually open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturdays. Some private banks may close an hour later. Foreign exchange services are typically unavailable during lunch hours (12:00 pm – 1:00 pm).
ATMs are limited and often clustered in specific areas such as malls or hotels. Outside city centers, they are rare. Many ATMs in Ethiopia do not accept foreign debit or credit cards. Travelers should contact their local banks to confirm compatibility and carry sufficient cash for their needs.
Ethiopia’s currency is the Birr, divided into 100 cents. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents, as well as a 1-birr coin. Notes are available in 5, 10, 50, 100, and 200 birr.
While Ethiopian Airlines, major hotels, and travel agencies may accept US Dollars, it is advisable to use Ethiopian Birr for most transactions. Foreign currency should be exchanged at authorized banks and hotels, and receipts must be kept for reconversion when departing Ethiopia.
Yes. Birr can only be exchanged back into foreign currency for individuals holding onward air tickets. Budget accordingly if leaving Ethiopia by land.
FAQs
Ethiopia is a multi-ethnic country with 83 languages and over 200 dialects. The main languages are Amharic, Oromia, and Tigrinya.
English is commonly used in business, government and education, especially in urban areas and tourist spots.
Internet service is available in most towns and hotels, though speeds may vary.
Yes, international calls are possible in most areas, though they may be costly. Cell phone reception is generally available in urban areas.
Yes, local SIM cards are available and affordable. However, registration with a passport is required to activate a SIM card.
FAQs
Always keep your passport and valuables with you. It is advisable to carry copies of important documents and store them separately from the originals. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
Most Hotels provide Safes in rooms or at the reception. Use them to store Valuables securely.
FAQs
Larger towns have hospitals and pharmacies, but travelers should bring sufficient quantities of their medications in case the required items are not available locally.
Yes, vaccinations for diseases like Yellow Fever, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A are recommended. Consult with your healthcare provider for a full list.
FAQs
Yes, except for nationals of Kenya, all visitors require a visa and a passport valid for six months. Visa-on-arrival is available for many countries, but it is advisable to verify the latest requirements before travel.
Yes, Ethiopia offers an e-visa service for travelers from eligible countries. Check the official Ethiopian e-visa portal for details.
FAQs
Ethiopian Airlines offers comprehensive domestic flights. Buses range from minibuses to luxury buses connecting cities. Taxi-hailing apps like RIDE, FERES, YANGO and ZAYRIDE are common in Addis Ababa.
Yes, booking domestic flights in Ethiopia at Ethiopian Airlines offices can be significantly cheaper compared to online bookings.
Public transportation is available but may not be the most reliable or comfortable option for travelers. Consider private options for longer journeys.
FAQs
While Ethiopia is generally safe, it is essential to take precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and being vigilant with personal belongings.
Some border regions and areas experiencing political unrest may be less safe. Check travel advisories before your trip.
FAQs
Avoid eating from roadside stalls and unpeeled vegetables or fruits. Stick to bottled water and ensure the plastic seal is intact before purchase.
Ethiopian cuisine features spicy meat and vegetable dishes served with injera, a sourdough flatbread. Meals are often eaten with the right hand using injera as utensils.
Yes, vegetarian dishes are widely available and often part of traditional Ethiopian meals.
FAQs
Tipping is not included in meals unless a service charge is specified. A tip of 10% of the bill is customary for food and drinks.
optional, tipping tour guides and drivers is appreciated. The amount depends on the service and duration of the tour.
FAQs
The best time to visit is between January and March, with clear, sunny weather. October to December is also favorable, offering lush landscapes after the rainy season.
Pack layered clothing to accommodate varying altitudes and temperatures. Bring rainwear if visiting between April and September.
FAQs
? Lightweight clothing is suitable for the lowlands, while medium-weight layers are better for highlands. A warm coat is essential for evenings in higher altitudes.
Yes, modest clothing is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and avoid short skirts or shorts.
FAQs
Ethiopia uses 220-volt electricity with plugs of types C, E, F, and L. Travelers should bring appropriate adapters and converters.
Occasionally, power outages can occur, especially in rural areas. Consider bringing a portable power bank for charging devices.
FAQs
Yes, Ethiopia follows a unique calendar with 12 months of 30 days and a 13th month of 5 or 6 days. It is seven years behind the Gregorian calendar. Time is also counted differently in a 12-hour cycle.
The calendar influences local holidays, festivals, and business schedules. Travelers should check dates carefully to align with their plans.
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