How to plan your first trip to Ethiopia

Plan a 14-day loop through the Northern Historic Route to see the rock-hewn churches and mountain landscapes. You must obtain an e-visa online at least 3 days before arrival and hire a local driver or use domestic flights, as independent driving is difficult and infrastructure can be challenging.

1. Secure your e-visa. Apply for the e-visa on the official Ethiopian government portal. It costs $82 USD for a 30-day tourist visa. Do this at least 72 hours before your flight; print a hard copy to show immigration.
2. Book domestic air travel. Ethiopian Airlines runs a comprehensive domestic network. Book these flights separately from your international ticket to get a discount on the domestic legs. Do not rely on buses for long distances; the roads are mountainous and travel times are unpredictable.
3. Arrange your arrival logistics. Pre-arrange an airport pickup through your first guesthouse. Addis Ababa's Bole Airport is chaotic at night; having someone with a sign waiting for you will save you hours of negotiation.
4. Get necessary vaccinations. Consult a travel clinic 6 weeks before departure. You will likely need proof of Yellow Fever vaccination if arriving from an endemic area, and you should bring prescription malaria prophylactics.

Is it safe to travel in Ethiopia?

The main tourist circuit (the Historic Route) is generally safe, but political situations can change rapidly. Always check your government's travel advisory and stick to reputable local guides.

Do I need to speak Amharic?

English is widely spoken in the hospitality sector and by guides. Learning basic greetings in Amharic like 'Selam' (hello) is appreciated but not required for navigation.