Ethiopia
East Africa • ETH
Last updated: October 13, 2026
Ethiopia is a land of ancient history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural landscapes, often referred to as the cradle of humanity. Visitors can explore world-renowned rock-hewn churches, high-altitude mountain ranges, and vibrant traditional markets.
Visa Requirements
Most international visitors require a visa to enter Ethiopia. An e-visa system is available for tourists, and visa-on-arrival is available for some nationalities at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photographs
- Proof of onward travel
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination if coming from an endemic area
Popular Attractions
Lalibela is famous for its eleven monolithic rock-hewn churches carved directly into the earth during the 12th century, serving as a site of profound religious significance.
The Simien Mountains National Park offers dramatic jagged peaks and deep precipices, providing a unique habitat for endemic wildlife like the Gelada baboon.
Axum is an ancient city known for its towering stelae and as the legendary final resting place of the Ark of the Covenant.
Gondar, often called the Camelot of Africa, features the impressive Fasil Ghebbi fortress complex with its collection of medieval castles.
The Danakil Depression is one of the lowest and hottest places on Earth, showcasing otherworldly volcanic landscapes, salt pans, and bubbling acid pools.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Always use your right hand when eating, shaking hands, or passing items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Ethiopian coffee ceremonies are a central part of social life; it is considered polite to stay for at least three rounds of coffee if invited.
Remove your shoes before entering an Ethiopian Orthodox church or a local person's home as a sign of respect.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered.
Avoid public displays of affection, as this is generally frowned upon in conservative Ethiopian society.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals, especially in the tribal regions of the Omo Valley.
Safety Tips
Check government travel advisories frequently, as some border regions and specific areas may experience civil unrest or insecurity.
Stick to main roads and avoid traveling at night between cities to minimize the risk of accidents and incidents.
Use reputable tour operators for trekking or remote area expeditions to ensure experienced guides and logistical support.
Drink only bottled or treated water and be cautious with street food to avoid gastrointestinal issues.
Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport and visa in a separate location from your originals.
Exercise caution in crowded urban areas to prevent pickpocketing and petty theft, particularly in markets.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis is required for travelers aged 9 months or older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and influenza.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended due to potential exposure to contaminated food or water.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice safe eating and drinking habits to avoid illness.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date for COVID-19 prior to travel.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for those involved in outdoor activities or who will be in contact with animals.
Pre-exposure rabies vaccination is recommended.
View sourceMeningococcal
Source: CDC
Recommended due to risk in certain areas.
Check local guidelines for details.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may engage in activities that increase exposure risk.
View sourceRoutine vaccinations
Source: CDC
Make sure routine vaccinations are up to date for traveling.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date with Tdap vaccination prior to travel.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine childhood vaccination is recommended before travel.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Essential due to the risk of mosquito-borne diseases in Ethiopia.
Use insect repellent and sleep under bed nets.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Essential to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like malaria.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and stay in climate-controlled or screened lodging.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Preventive measures for food and water-borne illnesses.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; drink only bottled or boiled water.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent malaria and other insect-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use permethrin-treated gear.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Preventive measures required to avoid foodborne and waterborne illnesses (e.g., traveler's diarrhea, Hepatitis A, Typhoid).
Drink only bottled, sealed, or treated water and eat food that is cooked and served hot.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
To protect against COVID-19 while traveling and upon entry.
Check current regulations related to COVID-19 before traveling.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids; vaccination is recommended for those who may require medical care.
View sourceDiphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (Tdap)
Source: CDC
Recommended as a routine vaccination for adults and children traveling.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk of food or water contamination.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
Typhoid can be contracted through contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Meningococcal disease
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers visiting the meningitis belt during the dry season.
View sourceMeningococcal Disease
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers visiting during the dry season, especially if visiting areas with high transmission risk.
View sourceMeningococcal Vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers visiting the meningitis belt during the dry season or involved in long-term residence.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who might have sexual contact with a new partner or get a tattoo/piercing.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who may have sexual contact or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito bites that can lead to diseases such as malaria.
View sourceMalaria Prevention
Source: CDC
Consider preventive medications if traveling to high-risk areas.
View sourceMalaria prevention measures
Source: CDC
Due to malaria risk in certain areas, preventative measures or medications may be necessary based on itinerary.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceMeningococcal
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers attending the Hajj or Umrah.
Protects against bacterial meningitis.
View sourceRisk Area: Addis Ababa and highlands above 2,000 meters
Chemoprophylaxis: None
Seasonality: No malaria risk
View sourceRisk Area: Rural areas below 2,000 meters
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Rural areas below 2000m
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Most areas below 2000 meters altitude
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Addis Ababa and highlands above 2000 meters
Chemoprophylaxis: None
Seasonality: No malaria risk
View sourceRisk Area: No malaria risk
View sourceRisk Area: Entire country
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View source