Ethiopia Classical & Cultural Journey

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.

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 
 

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 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% 

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. 

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 cafes: Yes 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: No 
Cafes: No 
Shopping malls: No 
Public parks: Yes, in Addis Ababa. 
Libraries: No 

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.