UK
Cradle of Civilisation
From ancient churches carved into rock to dramatic highlands and vibrant tribal cultures, Ethiopia offers a journey through time and terrain. It’s a destination for curious UK travellers seeking depth, diversity, and discovery.
Air Travel
Direct flights from London to Addis Ababa take around 7–8 hours. Domestic flights connect major cities like Lalibela, Gondar, and Bahir Dar.
Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines offers excellent service and extensive domestic coverage. Other carriers include Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and EgyptAir.
Ethiopia
Cradle of Civilisation
Landmark
Travel Season
- October–March: Dry season, best for sightseeing and trekking
- June–September: Rainy season, lush scenery but muddy roads
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
- Cash is essential outside major cities
- ATMs available in Addis Ababa; Visa cards more widely accepted than Mastercard
- Exchange money at banks or authorised bureaus—not on the street
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi available in hotels and cafes in major cities
- Local SIM cards (Ethio Telecom) available at the airport
- Internet speeds can be slow; pocket Wi-Fi is rare
Getting Around
- Domestic flights are efficient for long distances
- Minibuses and shared taxis are common but crowded
- Private drivers recommended for remote areas
- No rail network for tourists
Time Zone
- East Africa Time (EAT) – GMT+3
Etiquette & Culture
- Greet with a handshake and eye contact
- Respect religious customs—remove shoes in churches
- Eating is communal; use right hand only
- Coffee is a symbol of hospitality—accepting is polite
Top Destinations
- Addis Ababa: Museums, markets, and coffee culture
- Lalibela: Spiritual heart and architectural marvels
- Gondar: Castles and royal history
- Bahir Dar: Lake Tana and monasteries
- Simien Mountains: Hiking and endemic wildlife
- Omo Valley: Tribal encounters and photography
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Injera (sourdough flatbread), Doro Wat (spicy chicken stew), Tibs (sautéed meat)
- Coffee ceremonies are a cultural ritual
- Tap water isn’t safe—stick to bottled
- Vegetarian options widely available due to fasting traditions
personal_bag What to Pack
- Modest clothing for religious sites
- Sturdy shoes for trekking and uneven terrain
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Power adapter (Type C/F plugs)
Best Time to Visit
- October–March: Dry and cool, ideal for travel
- April–May: Shoulder season, fewer tourists
- June–September: Rainy but green and vibrant
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Ethiopia is generally safe, but check FCDO travel advisories
- Emergency numbers: 991 (police), 907 (ambulance)
- Travel insurance is essential
- Vaccinations: Yellow Fever (if arriving from risk areas), Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis recommended
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Addis Ababa
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