FAQ

Firstly, there is no obligation to make a donation or to tip. We believe that people need to be paid a realistic wage, and inflated tips work against that. Excessive tips can actually spoil the person receiving and be against the work culture. Never the less small appropriate tips to guides and/or drivers are welcome.

It is advisable to be aware in places and times of worship to cover up.
However, in other times and places it would not show any disrespect if you wear shorts, jeans and t-shirts as all are acceptable in most parts the country.

Local payments at restaurants, shops etc will be paid in the local currency. The local currency is the Ethiopian birr (ETB), made up of 100 cents. Birr notes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 50 and 100.

Visitors may import an unlimited amount of foreign currency USD, Euro or GBP which should be declared on arrival to the customs authorities on the appropriate blue-colored form.

Foreign currency may only be exchanged at authorized banks and hotels and a receipt must be obtained. Pounds are as good as Dollars & Euros in banks. The currency declaration form must be retained as this will be required by customs on departure.

Visitors may change back any surplus Ethiopian birr to cash at the exchange form you must bring with you all receipts for exchange transactions.

You can access cash with most visa and master cards at some locations in Addis and at major hotels, airlines and ticket offices mostly in Addis Ababa.

Telephone, fax, and internet access is available in most tourist destinations. There are internet services at hotels, telecommunication offices, and at private internet cafes in Addis and most of the towns out side of Addis Ababa.

Ethiopia is relatively safe to travel in compared to many African cities. However, pick pockets do operate in some places in Addis. In crowds there is also a chance of bag snatching but this is not common and some basic precautions should mean you have a good trip with no major problems.

A money belt or safe pocket is a good idea, with only daily spending money in your outside pocket or wallet.

Yes, there are some areas where photography is prohibited, like in Addis, the main palace; military camps, and organizations and some infrastructures such as the bridge over the Abay (Nile) River.

There is no departure tax.

Visa applications may be obtained at Ethiopia’s diplomatic missions overseas. However, nationals of 33 countries are now allowed to receive their tourist visas on arrival in Ethiopia at the regular charge.

The list includes Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greek, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russian Federation, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, citizens of United Kingdom and the United States.

For China including passports issued in Hong Kong and MACAO, a visa is available on arrival.

Yes Addis and the destinations you will be heading to offer a wide selection of tasty and delicious foods both for vegetarians and non vegetarians. It is easy to pick your selection from the menu at a restaurant or just by asking the person providing your service.

Visitors may export souvenirs, although some articles (such as animal skin and antiques) require an export permit.

You don’t have to just buy souvenirs and local products from the sellers that greet you at the markets or at the sights. You need to do a little research to find the best prices for genuine and locally made products. At fair trade shops you are still contributing to the right people but you just get to shop in peace.