Visas — Most nationalities need a visa. E-visas are available through the official evisa.gov.et website and are the easiest option. Visa on arrival is available at Bole Airport for many nationalities. Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 or 90 days. Apply before you go to avoid delays.
Money — The currency is the Ethiopian birr (ETB). ATMs are available in Addis Ababa and other major cities, but they frequently run out of cash and many do not accept foreign cards. Carry enough US dollars or euros to exchange — crisp, recent bills get the best rates. Credit cards are accepted at upmarket hotels in Addis but almost nowhere else. Outside major towns, cash is king. Budget accordingly and stock up on birr before heading to rural areas.
Language — Amharic is the national language and uses its own script, Ge'ez, which you will see on signs and menus. Tigrinya is widely spoken in the north, Oromiffa in the south and west. English is taught in schools and you will get by in tourist areas, but outside major destinations, a few words of Amharic go a long way. "Selam" (hello) and "amesegnalehu" (thank you) are good starts.
Safety — Ethiopia has experienced regional conflicts and political tensions, particularly in Tigray and parts of the Amhara and Oromia regions. Check current travel advisories before your trip. The main tourist areas along the Historic Route and in Addis Ababa are generally safe for travelers, but the situation can change. Petty crime and pickpocketing occur in cities, especially around Mercato in Addis. Use normal urban precautions.
Health — Malaria is present in lowland areas below 2,000 meters, including the Omo Valley, Danakil, and areas around Lake Tana. The highlands, including Addis and most of the Historic Route, are malaria-free. Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from an endemic country. Altitude can be an issue — Addis sits at 2,400 meters and the Simien Mountains go above 4,500 meters. Drink bottled water everywhere.
Time — Ethiopia uses its own calendar, which is roughly seven years behind the Gregorian calendar. The clock also differs: Ethiopian time starts at dawn (6 AM), so "1 o'clock" Ethiopian time is 7 AM. Confirm whether someone is using Ethiopian or international time when making arrangements. This catches everyone out at least once.
Tipping — A 10% service charge is often included on restaurant bills. If not, 10% is standard. Tipping guides, drivers, and hotel staff is expected and appreciated.
Connectivity — Ethio Telecom is the sole provider. Tourist SIM cards are available at the airport. Mobile data works in cities and along major routes but is slow or absent in remote areas. Wi-Fi is available in hotels and cafes in larger towns but can be unreliable.