Practical Information

Language

Ethiopia is a land of incredible diversity, with more than 80 ethnic groups and just as many languages spoken across the country. At the heart of it all is Amharic, the main working language. Closely related to Arabic and Hebrew, Amharic is written in a beautiful script unlike any other—over 200 unique characters, called fidel, each representing a full syllable of sound.

Even the numbers tell a story. Amharic has its own numeral system, but because it never developed a symbol for zero, people today use the familiar Indo-Arabic numerals—the same 1, 2, 3 we use in the rest of the world.

Beyond Amharic, Ethiopia’s voices are rich and varied: Oromifa (Oh-roh-mee-fa) is widely spoken in the Oromo region, while Tigrigna (Tee-gree-nya) dominates the northern highlands of Tigray. Each language carries its own rhythm, history, and cultural pride—together forming the tapestry of Ethiopia’s identity.

Money

The local currency in Ethiopia is the birr. Exchanging US dollars, euros, or British pounds is generally straightforward. In Addis Ababa, you’ll find ATMs that work with Visa and Mastercard, though availability outside the capital is limited—and machines can often be out of service or out of cash. For that reason, it’s best not to rely on ATMs once you leave the city.

Credit cards are accepted only in a handful of places—usually larger international hotels like the Sheraton, Hilton, Radisson Blu, or with Ethiopian Airlines—and even then, Visa and Mastercard are the only options. Traveler’s checks can be exchanged at banks, but you’ll need to show the original purchase receipt.

A useful tip: keep all your receipts from ATM withdrawals and currency exchanges. You’ll need them if you want to change any leftover birr back into foreign currency before leaving Ethiopia.

Visa

Visa for Ethiopia can be obtained online at https://www.evisa.gov.et/#/home

Communications

Phones & Internet
In Ethiopia, EthioTelecom is the sole provider of phone, mobile, and internet services. SIM cards are inexpensive and easy to obtain, and roaming works with some international carriers. Mobile coverage reaches most areas popular with tourists, but international calls from prepaid SIMs can be pricey, and credit runs out quickly. Fax services are still available in Addis Ababa and a few other locations.

Internet Access
Internet cafés are common across the country, and hotel Wi-Fi—while not guaranteed—is becoming more widespread. That said, connections can be slow and unreliable, and some remote regions (especially the South Omo Valley and other off-the-beaten-path areas) still lack internet access entirely.

Postal Service
Ethiopia’s postal service is generally reliable but slow. Post offices are usually open Monday–Friday, 8:30am–5/6pm (though some counters close earlier, around 4pm or during lunch), and on Saturday mornings.

Accommodation

Lodging options in Ethiopia range from basic local guesthouses to luxury 5-star hotels in Addis Ababa and a few other major cities. Camping is possible in some areas, though facilities can vary greatly in quality and availability.

During festivals and peak tourist seasons, advance reservations are strongly recommended. However, be aware that bookings made by phone or email are not always guaranteed. The most reliable way to secure a room is to pay in advance and keep all receipts.

Alpha Ethiopia Tours works closely with travelers to match them with accommodations that best fit their preferences and budget.

Food & Drink

At the heart of every Ethiopian meal is injera – a soft, spongy, pancake-like bread made from teff, a local grain. Injera is spread across a large platter, topped with flavorful dishes, and shared communally. Diners tear off pieces of injera to scoop up portions of stews, meats, or vegetables.

Traditional accompaniments include wat (rich stews, spicy or mild) prepared with beef, lamb, chicken, or lentils, alongside a variety of vegetables.

Pasta is also widely available, especially outside the capital. Vegetarians will find suitable dishes, though options may be somewhat repetitive.

For drinks, short-term visitors are advised to stick to bottled water. Soft drinks and freshly squeezed fruit juices are easy to find, while coffee enthusiasts will be thrilled—Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and its brew is considered among the finest in the world.

Those interested in local beverages can try Ethiopian beers and wines, as well as traditional drinks such as:

Tella – a grain-based local beer
Tej – honey wine, often served in a rounded flask called a berele
Areki – a strong distilled liquor made from maize

Climate

Nicknamed the “Roof of Africa,” much of Ethiopia lies on the highlands at 1,800–2,400 meters above sea level. This elevation keeps the climate pleasantly temperate—warm, sunny days followed by cool nights.

Highlands (North): Main rainy season runs June–September, with a shorter one in February–April.
South (Omo Valley): Warmer overall, with rains typically in April–June and again in October.
Danakil Depression: One of the hottest places on Earth, where temperatures can soar above 50°C year-round.

This variation means travelers should pack for both sun and cooler evenings, and be ready for sudden showers depending on the region and season.

Time

Ethiopia follows its own unique system of timekeeping, which often fascinates visitors:

Calendar: Ethiopia uses the Julian calendar, which is about 7 years behind the Gregorian calendar (used in most of the world).
- It has 13 months: 12 months of 30 days each, plus a 13th month of 5 days (6 in leap years).
- The Ethiopian New Year falls on September 11 (September 12 in leap years). For example, when much of the world celebrated 2012, Ethiopia welcomed the year 2005.
Time: Ethiopia also tells time differently.
- The day is divided into two 12-hour cycles starting at sunrise and sunset.
- For example: what Westerners call 7:00 am is 1:00 in Ethiopian time; 12:00 noon is 6:00.
- Because of this, it’s always wise to confirm whether someone is referring to “Ethiopian time” or “European time.”

This distinct system reflects Ethiopia’s rich cultural identity and is an important detail for travelers to keep in mind.

Health

With proper precautions, travelers can enjoy a healthy and safe stay in Ethiopia.

Travel Insurance
All visitors are strongly advised to have valid travel insurance. Alpha Ethiopia Tours assumes that its guests are covered by a current policy.
Vaccinations & Health Risks
- Yellow Fever vaccination is required for entry.
- Other recommended vaccinations should be arranged prior to arrival.
- Malaria: present in low-lying regions; travelers should take preventive measures.
- No malaria risk in Addis Ababa and most highland areas in the north (except Bahir Dar).
Food & Water Safety
- Drink only bottled, boiled, or treated water.
- Avoid raw vegetables and salads that may have been washed in untreated water.
- Follow the traveler’s golden rule: “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it.”
Medical Facilities
The quality of healthcare facilities varies across the country. In Addis Ababa, recommended hospitals include:
- St. Gabriel Hospital
- Bethzatha Hospital
- Myungsung Christian Medical Center (Korean Hospital)

What to Bring

Most basic necessities can be found in Ethiopia, but travelers are advised to bring the following for comfort and safety:

Clothing:
- Warm layers for cool evenings
- Long-sleeve shirts and trousers (mosquito protection)
- Sturdy walking shoes
Health & Protection:
- Insect repellent
- Sunblock
- Personal first-aid kit
Weather Preparedness:
- Rain gear (during rainy season)
Other Useful Items:
- Flashlight or headlamp (for frequent power outages)

Begging

Ethiopia is a country rich in culture and history, yet it remains one of the poorest nations in the world. Poverty is widespread, particularly in urban areas like Addis Ababa, leading to a high number of beggars and street-dwellers.

Supporting Children & Street People
Giving money, candy, pens, or clothes directly to street children may unintentionally make the situation worse. Instead, we encourage guests to support local organizations that provide structured assistance.
- In Addis Ababa, Hope Enterprises (on Churchill Rd.) distributes over 200,000 meals annually. Guests can purchase meal tickets and hand them to children safely.
The “Highland Frenzy”
In rural areas, children may chase vehicles hoping to receive Highland bottled water—Ethiopia’s first bottled water, now highly coveted. This creates a dangerous situation as children run in front of moving vehicles.
- Guests are strongly advised not to throw bottles from vehicles. Instead, hand them to a hotel or restaurant in a local village where they can be distributed safely.

By choosing safe and structured ways to help, travelers can make a positive impact while avoiding harm.

Photography

When photographing people in Ethiopia, it’s important to ask first. Many locals are happy to pose, but some may prefer not to be photographed, and their wishes should always be respected.

Occasionally, individuals may request a small fee (1–5 Ethiopian birr) for photos.
Negotiate the price beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
You are under no obligation to take a photo if the terms are not acceptable.

Being respectful and mindful ensures a positive interaction and a more authentic experience.

Safety & Security

Ethiopia is generally a very safe country for visitors, but some basic precautions are important:

Personal Belongings
- Always watch your belongings, especially in large crowds.
- Pickpockets are active in areas like Addis Ababa’s Mercato and stadiums.
- Keep cash in a money belt and valuables in your hotel safe.
Common Scams
- Some locals (often students or self-appointed guides) may invite tourists to a coffee ceremony or small gathering.
- Guests may end up being charged $100 or more unexpectedly.
- To stay safe, avoid engaging with strangers on the street or attending unsolicited events.
Safe Alternatives
- If you want to experience a local coffee ceremony or traditional dinner and dance, your tour company can arrange it safely and respectfully.

By staying alert and following these tips, travelers can enjoy Ethiopia safely and confidently.

Holidays

The following are holidays in Ethiopia for which governmental offices are closed:

January 7 – Ethiopian Christmas (Genna)
January 19 – Timket (Epiphany)
March 2 – Adwa Victory Day
May 1 – Labour Day
May 5 – Patriots’ Victory Day
May 28 – Dergue Downfall Day (National Day)
September 11 – Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash)
September 27 – Meskel (Finding of the True Cross)
Variable – The Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday (Mouloud)
Variable – Ethiopian Good Friday (Siklet)
Variable – Ethiopian Easter (Fasika)
Variable – Id al Fetir (End of Ramadan)
Variable – Id al Adaha/Arefa (Feast of the Sacrifice)