Pre-Trip Planning & Logistics
- Do I need a visa to enter Ethiopia?
- One of the frequently asked questions to travel in Ethiopia is when preparing for your journey, whether you’ll need a visa. Yes, most nationalities require a visa. You can obtain an e-Visa online before you travel through the official Ethiopian government portal. Tourist visas are also available on arrival for many nationalities at Bole International Airport, but we highly recommend the e-Visa for a smoother entry.
- What vaccinations do I need?
- A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from a Yellow Fever endemic country. We strongly advise you to consult with a travel clinic doctor at least 6-8 weeks before your trip. They will recommend vaccinations for Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and a booster for MMR. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended for travel to certain lowland areas.
- What is the best time of year to visit?
- The best time for overall trekking and historical site visits is during the dry season, from October to June. The rainy season (July to September) is lush and green, perfect for the Omo Valley when cultures are most active, though some mountain roads may be difficult.
- How far in advance should I book my tour?
- We recommend booking at least 3-6 months in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons (Christmas, Easter, September) or for festivals like Timket. This ensures the best availability for domestic flights and preferred hotels.
Money & Costs
- What is the local currency and how should I handle money?
- Your Answer: Provide practical advice. “The local currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB). It is a closed currency, so you cannot get it outside the country. Bring crisp, new US Dollars or Euros (bills dated 2013 or newer) to exchange upon arrival. ATMs are available in major cities, and credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants, but cash is king, especially outside Addis Ababa.”
- Is Ethiopia an expensive country to travel in?
- Costs can vary. Local meals and transport are very affordable. However, tourism services like licensed guides, domestic flights, and quality hotels in remote areas are priced for the international market. We offer tours at various price points to suit different budgets.”
- Is tipping customary?
- Yes, tipping is customary and highly appreciated for good service. This includes your guide, driver, hotel porters, and restaurant staff. We provide a detailed tipping guideline sheet to all our clients to make it easy.”
Health & Safety
- Is Ethiopia a safe country for tourists?
- Your Answer: Be reassuring but honest. “Generally, Ethiopia is very safe for tourists. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas of Addis Ababa, so vigilance is advised. However, the areas we operate in are stable, and our guides are trained to ensure your safety at all times. We monitor travel advisories closely and will not operate in any region deemed unsafe.”
- Is the tap water safe to drink?
- No, we do not recommend drinking tap water anywhere in Ethiopia. We will provide you with ample bottled or filtered water throughout your tour. Avoid ice in drinks and peel fruits yourself.”
- What is the altitude like, and will I be affected?
- Addis Ababa is at 2,355 meters (7,726 ft), so some travelers may experience mild altitude sickness symptoms like shortness of breath or a headache. We build acclimatization time into our itineraries. Staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activity on the first day is key.”
Culture & People
- What should I wear? Is there a dress code?
- Ethiopia is a conservative country. We recommend modest clothing—covering shoulders and knees—especially when visiting churches, monasteries, and mosques. For trekking, pack layers as temperatures can vary dramatically. Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are essential.”
- What language is spoken?
- Amharic is the official language, but there are over 80 languages spoken. English is widely understood in the tourism industry—by guides, hotel staff, etc. In rural areas, knowing a few words of Amharic (like ‘hello’ – selam, ‘thank you’ – ameseginalehu) will be greatly appreciated.”
- What is the food like?
- Ethiopian cuisine is unique and delicious! The staple is injera, a spongy flatbread, served with various wat (stews). There are many vegetarian options. International food is available in Addis and larger towns. We can cater to most dietary restrictions with prior notice.”
- Can I take photographs of people?
- Always, always ask for permission before photographing people. This is a sign of respect. Your guide will assist you with the local customs and etiquette.”
The Tour & Itinerary
What is the physical fitness level required for this tour?
- Our Classic Historic Route tour involves a moderate amount of walking, often on uneven terrain. Our Denakil Depression tour requires good heat tolerance. Our trekking are strenuous and requires good physical fitness. We can advise on the best tour for your fitness level.
- What kind of accommodation can I expect?
- We partner with a range of accommodations, from comfortable, tourist-class hotels in cities to unique and charming lodges in places like Lalibela and the Simien Mountains. We prioritize properties that offer good service, cleanliness, and character
- How will we get around? What about domestic flights?
- For long distances, like Addis to Lalibela or Axum, we use efficient domestic flights with Ethiopian Airlines. For road travel, you will be in a private, comfortable 4×4 vehicle with a professional driver. This is essential for navigating some of Ethiopia’s more rugged landscapes.
- Do you offer custom or private tours?
- Absolutely! While our set itineraries are popular, we specialize in crafting bespoke journeys tailored to your interests, travel pace, and budget. Just let us know your dreams, and we’ll design the perfect Ethiopian adventure for you.
