Situated in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia boasts extraordinary natural features, a vast range of wildlife, and a captivating historical and cultural heritage. An increasing number of visitors frequent this treasure trove filled with unique attractions. Popular attractions include the medieval castles of Gondar, the walled city of Harar, and Lalibela, a pilgrimage site known for its ancient monolithic churches hewn into the area’s steep rocky hillsides. Ethiopia’s stunning natural landscapes are the real tourist drawcard. From the lush Simien Mountains to the sulphur vents of the Danakil Depression, the country’s outstanding natural environment is unforgettable. Bahir Dar, located on Lake Tana, is popular as a base to explore the fascinating monasteries on the numerous islands dotted around the lake and the Blue Nile Falls, which are arguably the most spectacular falls in North Africa.
Banking and Currency
Currency:
Local currency: Ethiopian Birr
Symbol: Br
ISO code: ETB
Subunit: santim
Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200 birr
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 santim; 1 birr
Banking:
Card Transactions:
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes/No
Diner’s club: Yes/No
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 08:00-17:30
Weekends: 08:00-16:00
Public Holidays:
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Ethiopian Airlines
International Airports: Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
Road:
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
Uber available: No
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: No
Rail:
Railway system: Yes
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes/No
Water taxis: Yes/No
Leisure cruises: Yes/No
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, if peeled and cooked
Ice: No
Meat: Yes, if well-cooked
Street food: No
Local cuisine: Ethiopian cuisine is renowned for its injera, a sourdough flatbread paired with spicy stews like doro wat, a chicken dish, and misir wat, a lentil stew. Meals are often shared from a communal plate, emphasizing a social dining experience. Spices such as berbere add distinctive flavours.
Drinks:
Ethiopean coffee
Areke – Clear alcoholic beverage
Tej - Honey wine
Tipping: 10%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: 850.14 mm
Average temperature: 24°C
Summer:
Average Highs: 25°C
Average Lows: 15°C
Winter:
Average Highs: 23°C
Average Lows: 11°C
Best time to visit: The best time to travel to Ethiopia is the dry season between October and June, when the highlands are green and lush, ideal for hiking.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Yes
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: No
Cafes: No
Shopping malls: No
Public parks: Yes, in Addis Ababa.
Libraries: No
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: C, E, F, G and L
Voltage (V): 220 V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50 V
*A Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
