Welcome to Ethiopia 😊

Quick Facts About Ethiopia

Money and Finances

The currency used in Ethiopia is called Ethiopian birr (ETB). The birr is divided into 100 cents, and coins are available for denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents. Notes are available for denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50 and 100 birr.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in some areas of Ethiopia, but they can be unreliable and sometimes out of service. It is best to carry cash with you at all times, especially in rural areas where there may not be any ATMs available.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Ethiopia. It is best to carry cash with you at all times. Some hotels and higher-end restaurants may accept credit cards, but it is always best to have cash just in case. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards in Ethiopia, with AMEX being less common.

Internet and Phones

Internet speeds in Ethiopia are relatively slow, with an average download speed of 3.45 Mbps and an upload speed of 0.8 Mbps. However, there is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Ethiopia has several telco companies, including Ethio Telecom and Vodafone. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 300 ETB per month. There are sim compatibility issues, so it's best to check with your provider before travelling.

Dialling to Ethiopia

To call Ethiopia from another country, dial the country code +251, followed by the area code and the phone number. Within the country, area codes are used for major cities such as Addis Ababa (011) and Dire Dawa (025).

Transport Around Ethiopia

Air Travel

Ethiopia has several international airports including Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, the capital city. Other major airports are located in Dire Dawa, Bahir Dar, and Mekele.

Train Travel

There is a limited train network in Ethiopia, with the only inter-city routes running between Addis Ababa and Djibouti. Journey times can take up to 12 hours and ticket prices vary depending on the class of travel.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no metro system in Ethiopia.

Buses

Buses are the main form of transport in Ethiopia and there are many long-distance bus companies operating throughout the country. Ticket prices and journey times vary depending on the distance travelled, with shorter journeys costing around 50 ETB ($1.50 USD) and longer journeys costing up to 500 ETB ($15 USD).

Rideshare

Rideshare apps such as Uber and Lyft are not available in Ethiopia. However, local rideshare companies such as RIDE Ethiopia offer affordable options for transportation in Addis Ababa.

Driving by Car

Driving in Ethiopia can be challenging due to poor road conditions and erratic driving behavior. The speed limit on highways is 100 km/h (62 mph) and the country drives on the right-hand side of the road.

Local Customs

In Ethiopia, tipping is not common, but if service is exceptional, a small amount is appreciated. Locals greet each other with a handshake, and sometimes a polite bow. It is considered impolite to point with your fingers, and instead, you should use your chin. Ethiopians are generally friendly and open to talking with strangers, but personal space is respected. Men and women typically address each other using titles, such as Mr. and Mrs., and it is important to ask for permission before taking photos of locals.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The healthcare system in Ethiopia is a mix of traditional and modern medicine, with limited resources for medical care in some areas. Private healthcare facilities exist in the cities, but they can be expensive. It is recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance when visiting Ethiopia. The cost of a doctor consultation varies depending on the location and type of facility, but it ranges from approximately 200 to 500 Ethiopian birr (about $5 to $13 USD).

COVID Situation

Ethiopia has experienced a surge in COVID-19 cases in recent months due to the delta variant. The government has implemented measures such as curfews and restrictions on public gatherings to slow the spread of the virus. Vaccines are available, but the distribution is limited. It is recommended to follow the guidelines and restrictions set by the Ethiopian government and to get vaccinated before traveling.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a common and serious health risk in Ethiopia, especially in rural areas and during the rainy season. Travelers are advised to take antimalarial medication and use insect repellent. Other health risks include food and waterborne illnesses, such as typhoid fever and cholera. It is important to practice good hygiene and drink only bottled or purified water.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Ethiopia, the legal drinking age is 18. However, alcohol consumption is prohibited for Muslims, who make up over a third of the population. Additionally, the sale and consumption of alcohol is banned during certain religious holidays and events.

Recreational Drugs

Ethiopia has strict drug laws, with harsh penalties for drug-related offenses. Possession, sale, and trafficking of drugs are all illegal and can result in imprisonment and fines.

Pre-Marital Relationships

In Ethiopia, pre-marital relationships are not widely accepted and often frowned upon. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is illegal in Ethiopia and is punishable by imprisonment. Same-sex relationships are not accepted in the country and LGBTQ individuals may face discrimination.

Firearms / Guns

The use, possession, and carrying of firearms is strictly regulated in Ethiopia. A gun permit is required and it is only issued to individuals who have a valid reason for needing a firearm, such as law enforcement or security personnel.