Ethiopia

The Government of Ethiopia may respond to civil unrest and political tension by imposing strict security measures at short notice. Past measures have included restriction of movement and suspension of internet and telecommunication services.  Restrictions may change rapidly and without warning. If you're in Ethiopia, monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Security conditions can change fast and without warning.

International events and political changes can trigger demonstrations. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Ethiopian security forces aren't widespread in the country. They may not be able to respond to incidents.

Danakil desert

Travelling to the Danakil desert in north-east Ethiopia is hazardous.

In December 2017, a tourist was shot and killed, and an Ethiopian guide was shot and wounded, at Erta Ale in the Afar region. There's now an increased police and military presence there.

Only travel to this area with a well-known tour company. Tour companies often get support from armed police or the military.

Crowds

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Large crowds are common on key national and religious dates. These include:

• 7 January (Ethiopian Christmas)
• 19 January (Epiphany, also called 'Timket')
• 2 March (Victory of Adawa)
• 5 May (Ethiopian Patriots' Victory Day)
• 28 May (Downfall of the Derg)
• 11-12 September (Ethiopian New Year)
• 27 September (The Finding of the True Cross, also called 'Meskel')

Large crowds also gather on:

• Ethiopian Easter
• Eid (end of Ramadan)
• Eid al Adha
• the birthday of the Prophet Mohammed

Monitor local media for news of planned and possible unrest.

During periods of unrest:

• avoid protests, demonstrations and other large crowds
• if you come across violence, find a secure place to stay until it's safe to leave
• follow advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

In response to COVID-19, Ethiopian authorities have closed all land borders to restrict the movement of people.

Kenya

Don't travel to the Ethiopian Somali Regional State, including its border with Somalia and its borders with the Oromia Regional State.

There are armed groups. Cross-border violence happens along the border. Violent crime includes:

• kidnapping
• armed robbery
• tribal and clan disputes

Somalia

Don't travel to the Somali region. This includes the border with Somalia and Oromia.

Violent clashes between government forces and insurgents are common in this border region. Ethiopian troops are in Somalia. Tensions are high.

Firearm, grenade and landmine attacks on security forces are common. Civilians have been killed and injured.

The threat of terrorist attack, including kidnapping, is particularly high. 

Serious armed clashes have occurred in the past year along the border between the Somali and Oromia regions, including Jijiga in Ethiopia.

Sudan and South Sudan

Don't travel to the areas bordering Sudan and South Sudan. This includes the Gambela region. 

The security situation in these areas is extremely unstable. There's a high threat of violent crime and civil unrest from armed groups and tribal clashes. The risk of bandit attacks and kidnapping is high.

The area also has landmines. 

In April 2016, members of South Sudan's Murle community attacked the Gambela region, killing 200 people.

Eritrea

Don't travel to the disputed border area between Ethiopia and Eritrea.

Ethiopian forces withdrew from the border area in June 2018. However, the situation is still unstable. The area is heavy with landmines.

Cross-border conflict or other violence could start again at any time.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Reports say terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets in Ethiopia. These include commercial and public places that foreigners visit.

Terrorists may use events such as international meetings or days of national or religious significance to mount attacks. An attack could happen at any time.

Possible targets for terror attacks include:

• clubs, hotels, resorts, restaurants and bars
• schools, places of worship, embassies and government buildings
• landmarks, tourist areas, markets and marketplaces, shopping centres and malls
• political and sporting events
• outdoor recreation events and public gatherings, including large religious festivals and concerts

Terrorists also target transport including:

• aircraft and airports
• petrol stations
• buses and bus terminals
• railways and other transport infrastructure

Some local hotels, have received bomb threats in the past.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• consider the kinds of public places known to be terrorist targets
• have an exit plan if there's a security incident
• be alert in the lead up to, and on days of, national or religious significance
• monitor the news for any emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow instructions from local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the affected area immediately if it's safe to.

More information:

• Terrorism

The threat of kidnapping is particularly high in the Somali region. Kidnapping is also a risk near the Kenyan and South Sudanese borders.

Despite our advice, if you're travelling to an area where there's a threat of kidnapping:

• get professional security advice
• arrange for personal security

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it does not make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Unprovoked violent assault occurs, including in popular tourist areas in Addis Ababa. Avoid walking alone at night.

If you're a victim of violent crime, especially rape, visit a doctor as soon as possible as HIV/AIDS is widespread.

Keep an eye on local information sources about crime.

Petty crime is common and includes:

• pickpocketing
• bag snatching
• jewellery theft

Petty crimes often take place in crowded areas such as:

• the Mercato open air market
• tourist spots including Piazza and Meskel square 

These crimes are often carried out by groups of children. Some robbery victims have been assaulted.

Always pay close attention to your belongings.

Highway robberies and armed carjackings have been reported outside the main urban centres.

Keep your car windows and doors closed and locked at all times, including when moving.

Don’t leave valuables on show in your car.

Ethiopia experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including drought, flooding and plagues of locusts.

Ethiopia is in an active earthquake and volcanic zone.

If a natural disaster occurs:

• keep your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• monitor local media and other sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with friends and family

Drought

Some areas of Ethiopia are experiencing severe drought. Local services may be affected. Drinking water and basic food may be hard to find. An increase in disease has been reported.

Flooding

Some areas of Ethiopia experience severe flooding. Flash flooding may occur in the rainy season from July to September. Some roads can't be used.

Locusts

Some areas of Ethiopia are experiencing a severe locust plague. Conditions conducive to locusts are likely to last for the remainder of 2020.

*This advice predates COVID-19 and the Australian Government's travel ban for all Australians.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• International travel and health

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Ethiopia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor saying:

• what the medications are
• how much you take
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in Ethiopia.

More information

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health)
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is widespread in Ethiopia. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel and carry your vaccination card. Some countries require you to present your Yellow Fever vaccination card if you have travelled in Ethiopia.

Malaria is found in Ethiopia except for the capital Addis Ababa and areas above 2000m. Chloroquine-resistant strains are reported in some areas.

Other insect-borne diseases include:

• dengue
• leishmaniasis
• filariasis
• African sleeping sickness

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consider taking medication to prevent chloroquine-resistant malaria.

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle pain, rash or bad headache.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is widespread. Take precautions if taking part in activities that put you at risk of infection.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are also common. These include:

• cholera
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• measles
• tuberculosis
• brucellosis
• meningitis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) and other waterborne diseases are spread through freshwater lakes and rivers.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Polio

Ethiopia is still vulnerable to international spread of the wild poliovirus.

Stay up to date with recommended polio vaccinations, including a booster dose, through the Australian Immunisation Handbook.

Altitude sickness

The altitude in the mountain regions of Ethiopia can cause problems. People with lung, heart or chest problems should take extra care. Even if you're healthy, you can still be affected.

Symptoms of altitude sickness include:

• headache
• dizziness
• vomiting
• coordination problems

In severe cases, fluid can build up in your lungs, brain or both, which can be fatal.

To protect yourself from altitude sickness:

• ascend slowly, especially above an altitude of 2500m
• rest when needed and don't push your body
• avoid alcohol and cigarettes

If you're affected by severe altitude sickness, get to lower ground as soon as possible.

Medical facilities

Health facilities are limited in Addis Ababa and inadequate in rural areas.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be moved to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long jail sentences and heavy fines.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

Family law in Ethiopia can differ a lot from Australian law. This includes divorce, child custody and child support. Laws affecting business activities can also be very different.

Get professional advice on your rights and responsibilities if you're engaging in business or family-related matters.

Ethiopia applies the death penalty for serious offences, including aggravated murder.

If you're in an accident, it's illegal to move your vehicle before a police officer arrives.

In Ethiopia, it's illegal to:

• take part in same-sex sexual acts
• buy or remove Ethiopian antiquities, animal skins or other cultural artefacts, including some Ethiopian crosses, without a permit
• export precious stones and minerals beyond prescribed limits for personal use — check with local authorities before you buy
• own ivory
• give money to or buy something from a beggar or vendor in traffic

It's also illegal to take photos:

• near military zones or of military personnel
• near the Presidential Palace in Addis Ababa
• where signs clearly prohibit photography

More information:

• advice for LGBTI travellers

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• staying within the law and respecting customs

Ethiopia doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual national, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Standards of behaviour and dress are conservative in Ethiopia. Take care not to offend.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Time and calendar differences

The Julian calendar is used in Orthodox Christian areas in the highlands. Some Ethiopians set their clocks differently from standard practice elsewhere. This leads to significant time differences.

Ethiopian Airlines and other large international airlines use standard international time.

To avoid confusion, always check bookings and appointments.

You can only get a visitor visa on arrival if you enter Ethiopia via Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa. All other travellers must have a visa approved in advance.

For a business visa, you may need approval from the Ethiopian Department of Immigration and Nationality Affairs before applying to an embassy.

More information:

• Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Visa conditions

Check your visa's expiry date. If you overstay your visa, there is a daily fine.

Entry and exit requirements can change at short notice. Contact the Ethiopian embassy for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Restrictions put in place to restrict the spread of COVID-19 can change at short notice. Monitor the media and follow the advice of authorities.

A number of airlines are offering flights to and from Ethiopia. Contact airlines or your travel provider for the latest information. 

All arriving passengers must carry a certificate demonstrating a negative COVID-19 PCR result taken no more than 5 days (120 hours) prior to arrival. All passengers must self-isolate for 7 days at home or in a hotel at your expense. 

Regional states across Ethiopia may have additional measures in place. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Ethiopia has closed all land borders to people, except for the import of essential goods.

COVID-19 risk reduction measures are in place and may impact day-to-day life. You must wear a mask outside the home unless eating or drinking. Two metres of physical distance is required between individuals. A maximum of three people may dine together at restaurants and the number of attendees at meetings and social events is limited You should follow the instructions of local authorities: they are authorised to use fines and imprisonment to enforce restrictions. Those diagnosed with COVID-19 while in Ethiopia and suffering no symptoms or mild symptoms are permitted to self-isolate at home.

If you're staying in Ethiopia, follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19. Stay in touch with family and friends so they know you're safe and well. 

Health screenings

To prevent the spread of the Ebola virus into Ethiopia, authorities screen travellers at all entry points. If you have a high temperature during screening, you may be quarantined.

Yellow fever vaccination

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate (PDF) to enter Ethiopia. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave. 

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 74KB)

Electronic devices

In March 2017, the US government announced new restrictions on carrying electronic devices. These apply to people travelling from or through Ethiopia to the US.

There are no guidelines covering the use of drones in Ethiopia. They may be confiscated at airports or at the border. Seek permission before using drones.

More information:

• US Department of Homeland Security

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

The official currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB).

Currency controls are strict in Ethiopia. If you have more than USD3000, or the same amount in another foreign currency, you must declare it when you arrive and depart. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You can't exchange Australian dollars in Ethiopia. However, most banks exchange US dollars.

Major banks can cash traveller's cheques.

There are limited ATMs in major Ethiopian cities, mostly in large hotels. ATMs can't always be used for cash advances and can run out of cash unexpectedly. Always travel with ETB.

Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and a few other outlets in Ethiopia.

Check with your bank to make sure your card will work in Ethiopia.

Landmines

Landmines are a hazard in the border areas with Eritrea, Sudan and Somalia. If you travel near these borders despite our advice, stick to well-travelled roads. See Safety

Driving permit

If you want to drive in Ethiopia, you can apply to convert a valid Australian licence to a local one. Your Australian license must be authenticated in Australia for it to be recognised.  More information: Ethiopian Embassy

International driving permits aren't recognised in Ethiopia.

Road travel

Driving in Ethiopia can be dangerous because of:

• poor road conditions
• poorly maintained vehicles
• local driving practices
• poor lighting
• people and animals, particularly camels, wandering on roads

Security forces sometimes close roads, including highways. Closures can occur without notice.

Car accidents

Drivers involved in car accidents can face severe punishments, including prison and fines.

If you're in a car accident, it's illegal to move your vehicle before a police officer arrives. However, if you feel unsafe, leave the area immediately and report to the nearest police station.

If you plan to drive in Ethiopia:

• become familiar with local traffic laws and practices before driving
• drive legally
• don't drink and drive
• keep your car windows and doors closed and locked at all times, including when moving
• avoid driving at night, where possible

If you're stopped by police, follow their instructions.

If rocks are thrown at your car, leave the area as quickly and safely as possible.

To protect yourself when travelling outside Addis Ababa:

• get local advice on road and security conditions along your planned route before you travel
• leave details of your travel itinerary with a reliable person
• travel in a group where possible
• carry a well-stocked medical pack
• consider carrying a satellite phone — regular telephones, including the mobile network, are unreliable

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike or similar vehicle. Your policy may not cover accidents that occur while using these vehicles.

Always wear a helmet. Make sure your passenger does too.

Taxis

Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines. Arrange these through your hotel. Avoid flagging down taxis in the street.

Consider sitting in the back seat rather than the front.

Not all taxis are metered. Ensure the meter is on or agree on the fare before you leave.

Public transport

Ethiopia has bus and limited rail services. However, safety standards aren't the same as in Australia. Buses have been attacked outside Addis Ababa.

Petty crimes occur on public transport. Take care of your belongings when travelling on buses and trains.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Ethiopia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 991.

Medical emergencies

Call 991 or go to the hospital.

Police

Call 991 or go to the local police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Addis Ababa.

Australian Embassy, Addis Ababa

Turkish compound (off Cape Verde street)

Bole Subcity, Woreda 3

PO Box 3715

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Phone: (+251 11) 667 2678 or (+251 96) 794 1377

Fax: (+251 11) 667 2868

Email: adba.consular@dfat.gov.au

Website: ethiopia.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: @AusEmb.ET

Twitter: @AusAmbET

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia