Travel Advisory
Please check your government's official travel advisory before departure. Situations can change rapidly.
Safety Level
Official risk level and travel advisories
Ethiopia is a historic country in the Horn of Africa. Addis Ababa and main tourist routes are generally manageable with normal caution, but some regions require extra care and up-to-date government advice.
- Overall risk
- Moderate; varies significantly by region
- Main concern
- Regional security situation and petty theft in cities
- Emergency number
- Police 991, Ambulance 907 (varies by area)
- Addis Ababa and major sites such as Lalibela, Axum and Gondar are commonly visited. Situations in some regions can change, so check your government travel advisory before and during travel.
Danger Zones & Areas to Avoid
Regions with poor security or restricted access
Some regions and border areas can see periods of unrest. Check current government advisories, as the situation can change over time.
- Sensitive areas
- Parts of Tigray, Amhara, Oromia, Somali regions and some border zones
- Main cities
- Addis Ababa and popular sites are usually accessible with normal caution
- Advice
- Consult up-to-date official advisories before travelling
- Conditions in certain regions can change and access may be restricted at times. Keep to established tourist routes, follow local guidance, and review your government travel advice regularly.
Natural Disaster Risks
Earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and other hazards
Altitude sickness is a real risk on the highlands (Addis Ababa sits at about 2,350m). Watch for seasonal rains and extreme heat in the Danakil Depression.
- Altitude
- Highlands above 2,000m; acclimatise gradually
- Rainy season
- Main rains roughly June to September (kiremt)
- Extreme heat
- Danakil Depression is one of the hottest places on Earth
- On the highlands and in the Simien Mountains, ascend gradually to avoid altitude sickness. In the Danakil (including the Erta Ale volcano), prepare for extreme heat and travel with reputable guides.
Health & Disease Risks
Endemic diseases and hygiene concerns
Check recommended vaccinations before travel and take malaria precautions in lower-altitude areas. Drink bottled or treated water; medical facilities are limited outside Addis Ababa.
- Vaccinations
- Seek travel health advice; yellow fever certificate may be required
- Malaria
- Risk in areas below about 2,000m
- Water
- Drink bottled or treated water
- Consult a travel clinic well before departure for vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis. Higher-standard private clinics are in Addis Ababa; care can be limited elsewhere. Carry personal medication with a prescription.
Crime & Scam Trends
Common crimes and scams targeting tourists
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in crowded parts of Addis Ababa and at markets. Be wary of distraction tactics and unofficial guides.
- Main risk
- Pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowds
- Hotspots
- Markets, bus stations, busy streets in Addis Ababa
- Advice
- Keep valuables out of sight; use trusted guides
- Thieves target distracted visitors in busy areas such as the Merkato. Keep bags closed and in front of you, avoid displaying valuables, and be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering help.
Political Situation & Protests
Political instability and potential demonstrations
Ethiopia is a federal republic with diverse regions. Political and regional tensions can arise; avoid demonstrations and monitor local news and government advisories.
- Government
- Federal parliamentary republic with regional states
- Demonstrations
- Can occur; avoid gatherings and follow local guidance
- Regional and ethnic tensions occasionally affect certain areas, and demonstrations can turn disruptive. Stay informed through local news and your government advisory, and avoid large gatherings.
Local Laws & Prohibitions
Important local laws and penalties for travelers
Respect local customs at religious sites and dress modestly. Note Ethiopia uses its own calendar (about 7-8 years behind) and a distinctive timekeeping system; confirm dates and times when booking.
- Religious sites
- Dress modestly; follow rules at churches and mosques
- Calendar & time
- Ethiopian calendar and 6-hour time offset; confirm bookings
- Photography
- Ask permission; avoid military and government sites
- Orthodox Christianity and Islam are widely practised; dress and behave respectfully, especially at religious sites and events such as Timkat and Meskel. Do not photograph military or official buildings. Drug offences carry severe penalties.
Emergency Contacts
Police, ambulance, and fire department numbers
Key numbers are Police 991, Ambulance 907 and Fire 939. A combined 911 may also be available; numbers can vary by area, so confirm locally.
- Police
- 991
- Ambulance
- 907
- Fire
- 939
- Response times and English support vary. A unified 911 line is promoted in some areas. Keep your hotel and embassy contacts handy in case local services are hard to reach.
Embassy & Consulate Info
Location and contact details of your embassy
No embassy or consulate information is available for your selected nationality in this country.
Travel Insurance
Recommended coverage and tips for choosing a policy
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Ensure it covers medical treatment and emergency medical evacuation.
- Cover
- Medical treatment and hospital care
- Evacuation
- Emergency medical evacuation is essential
- Activities
- Include trekking and high-altitude activities if relevant
- Because advanced care may require evacuation, choose a policy with generous medical and repatriation cover. Include trekking, high-altitude and remote-area activities such as Simien or Danakil trips if you plan them.