Pickpocketing is probably the biggest problem to contend with, but that’s mostly in the capital and other large towns. While Ethiopia is generally safe for solo adventurers, travelling anywhere alone comes with its own set of dangers. We are covering it all. The bus drivers are also known for their careless driving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Ethiopia due to COVID-19. Crime, armed conflict, and the potential for ethnic conflict exist near the Ethiopian borders with Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, and Eritrea. Private taxis are for individuals or groups who flag down a cab and are travelling to a custom destination. The first rule of thumb to remember when visiting a foreign land is to never get too comfortable with your surroundings. Muggings, armed assaults and theft from parked cars happen. U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Last Update: Reissued with updates to COVID-19 information. (The Ultimate Safety Guide). Response to COVID-19 (Updated August 21, 2020) Latest Updates: Effective October 5, 2020 Traveler with a test result of RT PCR coming through international airports in Ethiopia Any international traveler … Public buses are a popular way to get around, but try to avoid travelling at night. Ethiopia is one of the most stable countries in Africa which was never colonized. What to wear in Ethiopia. I thought Ethiopia was a great place to visit and the people were friendly overall. Crime significantly increases after dark. Though like anywhere in Africa, it is still very important to remain vigilant at all times, as far as crime goes, Ethiopia is not that dangerous of a country. A simple tip for travelers: always look as if you know where you’re going. Generally, taxis are safe in Ethiopia. Some areas have increased risk. If you do that, along with applying common sense, you will be fine. Similar to other countries in East Africa, it is best to dress conservatively in … Fact Sheet – The U.S. In 2016, violent anti-government protests in some of the countries regions led to authorities advising against travel to Ethoipia. Of course, Ethiopians want to keep the country safe, as it’s beneficial for the economy and portrays a good image to the public. Ethiopian Airlines, the national airline of Ethiopia, has a good safety record. The food in Ethiopia is safe to eat, but like with anywhere, it is essential to apply some safety precautions: You’re in for a treat in Ethiopia. Many protestors were killed in the clashes by police officials. Most of the vehicles for hire are either 4×4’s or minibuses and expect to pay a large deposit upfront. How safe is it to travel to Ethiopia? Avoid walking alone after sundown. Is Ethiopia safe to travel to? Pickpockets and thieves are active throughout the city, but particularly on Bole Road and in the Piazza, the Merkato (market), the Entoto and other areas frequented by tourists and foreigners. Civil unrest and armed conflict have resulted in injuries and deaths in parts of Oromia State. Take our word for it: travel insurance can save you thousands of pounds – so make sure to purchase it before you start your trip. Shared taxis follow a fixed route, and stop and pick people up when signalled, similar to how a bus would operate. However, this is seldom enforced, and many expats still drive without the necessary legal requirements – but do so at your own risk. Foreigners are entitled to three months driving under their international license when using their own car, after which you need an Ethiopian license. Ethiopia safety, Is Ethiopia Safe for tourists and travel answered. Road signs and road names are almost non-existent, which is why we always recommend hiring a driver. There are plenty of family-friendly hotels where you and your children can stay throughout Ethiopia. Latest travel advice for Ethiopia, including how to stay safe during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and information on returning to the UK. a high turnover of customers usually means the food is fresh and not stuck in storage. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message. U.S. DEPARTMENT of STATE — BUREAU of CONSULAR AFFAIRS, Border area with Somalia due to potential for, Border areas with Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, and Eritrea due to, Somali Regional State due to potential for, Ethiopia’s Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Region (SNNPR) due to, The East Hararge region and the Guji zone of Oromia State due to, Benishangul Gumuz and the western part of Oromia State due to. Government security forces have used lethal force in some areas. Carry a copy of your passport and visa and leave originals in your hotel safe. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. There is nowhere like Ethiopia, a magnificent country that boasts a culture rich in history, spectacular wildlife, and also the motherland of where the coffee bean originated. 2. The main problems here are related to the theft of things, attacks, car theft, vandalism, and corruption. Some cases of the rarer vaccine-derived strain of polio have been found in Ethiopia. Avoid some areas with stray dogs and be careful at night - blackouts are not uncommon. Critical Infrastructure. Violent crimes rarely occur in many parts of the country. So much so that it might be depressing returning to your home country. All Rights Reserved. The primary thing to remember is trusting your intuition. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. Compared with many African countries, Ethiopia is remarkably safe – most of the time. Nevertheless, just because you can drive doesn’t mean you should. Even if you are only visiting for a few days, you should always take out travel cover. Our guide covers a range of topics, from the safety of the roads, to if it’s safe for a solo traveller in Ethiopia – and almost everything in-between. There are plenty of places to eat in Ethiopia; just remember to look for trusted and highly-rated restaurants. Thieves will sometimes operate in these areas, targetting locals as well as tourists. However, petty theft and confidence tricks are problematic. Regardless of your concern, our guide is here to help. Yes, Ethiopia is reasonably safe to visit. So, as much as it is safe to travel around Ethiopia, you need to realise that sometimes not-so-nice situations may happen - as they can and do happen in any city in the world. Indonesia Safety 2020 Albania Safety 2020 Is Lombok Safe? You should beware of people who distract you and carefully monitor their pockets. How Safe Is Ethiopia for Tourists? In fact as long as you take reasonable personal precautions just like you would at home it is a very safe country to travel in by any standards. Government security forces have used lethal force in some areas. Ethiopia does not conform to Western standards for workplace security. In Ethiopia, there are two main kinds of taxi services: ‘private taxis’ and ‘shared taxis’. Benishangul Gumuz and the western part of Oromia State— Reconsider Travel. Travelling by yourself is an enriching experience, and something everyone should try at least once. All forums . Ethiopia is a very safe place for families. The crime statistics in Ethiopia are relatively low, with petty theft usually being the most significant threat. Exercise increased caution in Ethiopia due to civil unrest and communication disruptions. The East Hararge Region and Guji Zone of Oromia State— Reconsider Travel. But in all, we still have no problem saying that Ethiopia is a safe place to visit. Travel Safety Unofficial guides in Ethiopia Most of the food is eaten with your hand, often using a piece of the Injera as a spoon. Get answers to your questions about Amhara Region . Cutlery can hardly be found (even in restaurants), but there are handwashing stations for you to clean your hands before and after eating. Because it’s essential to travel smart, we’re going to share our insider travel tips for Ethiopia. Border Areas with Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, and Eritrea—Do Not Travel. Ethiopia is located in the Rift Valley, and there is a risk of earthquakes, although none have occurred recently. However, it is important to note that Ethiopia can be harder to travel in than many countries in Africa. It’s off the beaten path, but millions of tourists still visit the country every year. Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Ethiopia. Injera is the staple dish, which is a pancake-like flatbread, made from incredibly nutritious and gluten-free grain. But whatever you do, don’t e… Now more than ever access to safe water is critical to the health of families in Ethiopia. Although the severity of these protests has since calmed down, always check recent safety reports published by the British Foreign Office before your travels. Reply to: Is Ethiopia safe for tourists? Ethiopia has lifted stay at home orders and resumed some transportation options and business operations. Civil unrest and armed conflict have resulted in injuries and deaths around the border between Benishangul Gumuz and the western part of Oromia State. Your message. To hire a car in Ethiopia, you will need a local driving license. Is Ethiopia Safe? Taxi is still one of the most preferred ways to travel. Addis Abada, the capital of Ethiopia, is both the cultural and commercial hub of the country.Tourists from all over the world go … Of course, you have to be much more organised which can be challenging, but in regards to safety, it’s very safe. I'm sorry about your experience here and I hope you'll do some research and come here some day. Ethiopia has an average crime rate. Outside the capital, the risk of petty crime drops still further. Amhara Region forums . Although tourists were never the target, some foreign-owned businesses were struck and destroyed during the demonstrations. 1. Ethiopia is the oldest independent country in Africa and the second-oldest official Christian nation in the world after Armenia. I’m a digital nomad and I’ve been travelling for the past three years. , but there are many insurance providers to choose from, so make sure to shop around to find the best deal. Street crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, are prevalent in the capital. Public transport is an affordable and reliable way to get around Ethiopia – and relatively safe, too. You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State. Country-Specific Information: As of January 4, the Ethiopian Public Health Institute announced the presence of 125,919 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ethiopia. Keep an eye on your possessions at all times, always take caution around busy areas such as bus stations, markets, and other large functions. Are travellers in danger if they go? Tourists are rarely a target, but it can happen. These restrictions impede the U.S. Embassy’s ability to communicate with, and provide consular services to, U.S. citizens in Ethiopia. The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens outside of Addis Ababa. Get notified by e-mail when a reply is posted. Perhaps there should be more! A simple tip for travellers: always look as if you know where you’re going. Apparently, there have been records of kidnappings in these areas in the past. And you know what? Ethiopia is also the place for the first Hijrah (615 AD) in Islamic history where the Christian king of Ethiopia accepted Muslim refugees from Mecca sent by the prophet Mohamed. Serious or violent crime is rare; against travellers it’s extremely rare. Incidents of civil unrest and ethnic violence may occur without warning. It has the highest risk in the border regions of eastern Ethiopia, Ethiopia’s Somali region and along the border with Eritrea. Ethiopia is a very safe country. Beautiful scenery, tall mountains, incredible history, and diverse culture; Ethiopia is not to be missed. The tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Ethiopia. We highly recommend using World Nomads, but there are many insurance providers to choose from, so make sure to shop around to find the best deal. Solo travel can be fun and safe at the same time. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. Outside the capital, the risk of petty crime drops still further. If you add human threats such as pickpockets into the mix, then you can see why safety in Ethiopia may be a concern. Most expats live and work in the capital, Addis Ababa, and while they say that the cost of living is relatively low and you can … Although you can find metered taxis in Ethiopia, they are only really found in Addis Ababa. ), Keramas Surf, A Surfer’s Paradise in Bali: A Complete Guide, 9 Of The Best Hotels To Stay In At Iguazu Falls Brazil (2021), Snorkeling in Bali: The 7 Most Incredible Snorkel Spots, Cheapest Places To Stay In Bali: 9 Affordable Budget Hotels, Puerto Vallarta Snorkeling: 5 Incredible Snorkel Spots. Every country has its upside and downside, and Ethiopia is no different. Once you head out of the capital Addis Ababa, the roads can be extremely challenging to navigate. Is Koh Tao Safe? We have created this guide on staying safe in Ethiopia so that you don’t need to worry. Solo travel can become lonely, particularly during the late evenings. Many past travellers have expressed how safe they felt when travelling in Ethiopia alone. Ethiopians are generally very friendly people and will love chatting with you and your children. Top 10 Safety Tips for Travelling to Ethiopia, Is Albania Safe? There are are no significant health risks, and violent crime (outside of borders with tribal conflicts) is mainly non-existent. Read our community guidelines. Hi, I’m Reece, founder of Journeying The Globe. Violent crime in Addis Ababa is fortunately rare, particularly where visitors are concerned. Addis Ababa Warnings and Dangers. In some more remote areas, which include the Ogaden desert in the southeast, near the Kenyan border or the Awash-Mille road at night, the so-called shiftas (bandits) often prowl. The growth in tourism is rising, and the locals are reaping the benefits of increased business. In a word: yes. Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. Always agree on a price before entering the vehicle. Exercise increased caution in Ethiopia due to civil unrest and communication disruptions. when choosing where to eat, look at trusted review websites such as TripAdvisor to see the top-rated restaurants in your area. For general purposes such as washing, cleaning, showering, and brushing your teeth, the tap water is safe to use. As a precaution, U.S. government personnel must request permission for any travel outside of Addis Ababa (personal and official), and are required to carry personnel tracking devices and, in some cases, satellite phones. Many expats move to Ethiopia for the beautiful scenery, friendly people, and diverse culture. Somali Regional State is close in proximity to terrorist organizations in Somalia, which have aspirations to conduct terrorist attacks in Ethiopia. They lack access to life’s most critical resource – water. However, Ethiopia is exposed to many natural hazards, including flooding, volcanoes, and earthquakes. There are a plethora of exciting things to do in Ethiopia. Review the. Check your vaccinations are up to date before you travel. When people think of travelling to Ethiopia the question of safety and security always comes up thanks to outdated stereotypes of civil war, poverty and famine. Look for restaurants with a high volume of people –. The country welcomes thousands of new visitors every day and over one million visitors each year. Ethiopia isn’t normally the first place people think of to travel, but it should be on your radar. So by all means listen to to official advice and take heed of it, that is the sensible thing to do, but look a little bit deeper as well and use your own judgement. Ethiopia is not without risk, but that doesn’t mean it’s not safe to live here. Civil unrest in the region has resulted in deaths, looting, and the burning of buildings. Perhaps because there’s not many of us ladies backpacking Ethiopia solo. Perhaps you’re travelling as a family and wondering if Ethiopia is a family-friend place, or maybe you simply want to know if the country is safe to explore alone. Theft is one of the most significant threats, which is why it’s important not to parade an outrageous display of wealth. The cost of living is low. Healthcare standards are generally lower than in western countries, and we advise taking out healthcare insurance before moving here. I meet many solo women who come here for an intern or visiting and I haven't came across anyone who complained. In Ethiopia and around the world, people are navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, and millions are striving to endure this crisis with an added challenge. With an estimated population of 86 million people, 78% of Ethiopians struggle with an income below … Generally, Ethiopia is safe, especially for an African country. There are plenty of cheap hostels to choose from, especially in Addis Ababa. Ethiopia is one of the safest countries in the world and by far the safest in Africa. Ensure that your personal be… Enjoy your stay in Ethiopia, but always make sure to get travel insurance! There are many expats working in Ethiopia, the pay is quite good, the standard of living is high and it is a relatively safe country. This country is a stunning place, but it comes with its drawbacks. Compared to Kenya, South Africa and some other countries in Africa, Ethiopia actually has relatively low crime rates. Addis Ababa is generally much safer than other cities in Ethiopia. Some people are very desperate for money and they will try to get it from you by all means. hostels are an affordable and great way to meet other like-minded travellers. CNN is not able to independently verify Huyeet's story but all the refugees we spoke to told a similar story. Ethiopia is a relatively low-crime country compared to other countries. Ethiopia is overall a very safe country, in fact, one of the safest in the area. a rule of thumb in most countries, and also applicable to Ethiopia. You will love your time here, but remember to apply common sense during your stay. Hence the importance of informed travel. (Everything You Need To Know), Koh Tao Vs Koh Samui (Where Is Better To Visit? © 2021 Journeying The Globe. Selam Bus and Sky Bus are two reputable and luxury bus operators. The country welcomes thousands of new visitors every day and over one million visitors each year. Serious and violent crimes are rare. A Travel Safety Belt is an effective and affordable way of protecting your notes, cards, and cash. The Government of Ethiopia has restricted or shut down internet, cellular data, and phone services during and after civil unrest. Ensure that your children are up to date with any necessary vaccines that you might need before visiting. I never felt in danger while I was there. Life in Ethiopia continues as usual. Keeping your money safe from theft and pickpockets is essential when traveling on the road. Preview. Decide for yourself what the personal level of risk is to you as an individual and takes steps to reduce it. Their buses are equipt with aircon, spacious seating, seatbelts, and drivers with a reasonable safety record. But either way, for solo female wanderers looking to travel Ethiopia alone and wondering if it’s safe, here’s the full personal lowdown based on my own experience. Pickpocketing in Ethiopia. The growth in tourism is rising, and the locals are reaping the benefits of increased business. Thousands of people visit the country every day, without ever encountering any problems. Ridesharing apps like Uber and Grab hardly exist due to unreliable internet connectivity. As of March 2019, the Aviation Safety Network records 64 accidents/incidents for Ethiopian Airlines that total 459 fatalities since 1965, plus six accidents for Ethiopian Air Lines, the airline's former name. But As a country in Africa, Ethiopia is generally considered an unsafe destination. Ethiopia’s Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Region (SNNPR)—Reconsider Travel. However, the disease may still come in from nearby countries. Serious or violent crime is rare; against travelers, it’s extremely rare. However, be wary of drivers trying to overcharge you, especially in large tourist areas such as airports, bus stations, and shopping malls. There are certain areas you will need to avoid, particularly around some of the borders. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Compared with many African countries, Ethiopia is remarkably safe – most of the time. Do Not Travel To: Border area with Somalia due to potential for terrorism, kidnapping, and landmines. Asides from that, Ethiopia is an entirely safe place to live. You will also need to watch out for scammers and con artists, particularly around tourist areas. Reconsider travel to Ethiopia due to COVID-19. Don't expect the conveniences of your country here. Ethiopia is free of wild poliovirus. Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Ethiopia. Ask a question Recent Conversations. Stick to drinking bottled water which is reasonably priced and readily available throughout the country. Compared with other African countries, Ethiopia is incredibly safe. The country is also home to over 100 million people, making it the 14th most populous country on the planet. Is the tap water safe to drink in Ethiopia? The ancient art of pickpocketing is a constant threat in Ethiopia and is the … Not only does the country offer many beautiful sights, but the food is also DELICIOUS. The threat of kidnapping is high. We’re believers in responsible travel at Journeying The Globe, and you should be too. Some areas have increased risk. However, Ethiopian cities are safer than many big cities like London, New York, or Los Angeles. The main risks are petty fraud and theft. Is it too dangerous to travel in Ethiopia? Read the entire Travel Advisory. The National WASH Inventory (NWI) report of 2012 also indicates that the majority of health facilities in Ethiopia lack access to clean water and only about 32% have access to safe water. The Merkato has the worst reputation for pickpockets abound – targeting not just faranjis (white foreigners) but Ethiopians as well. Yes, Ethiopia is reasonably safe to visit. Terrorists maintain a presence in Somali towns near the Ethiopian border, presenting a risk of cross-border attacks and kidnappings. There is a moderate level of crime in Ethiopia, including in Addis Ababa. When compared with other African countries, Ethiopia is actually pretty safe. A large part of Ethiopian culture is the food. Of course, nothing is 100% risk-free, which is why you need to exercise caution at all times. Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners. Just be ready for them, so you’re not disappointed. Buildings are not built to earthquake safety codes and may collapse due to strong tremors. Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance. Amhara Region forums . Shiftas in Ethiopia. Ethiopia has lifted stay at home orders and resumed some transportation options and business operations. If how safe is Ethiopia for tourists when it comes to kidnapping, you’re about to find out. There is a threat of kidnapping on the southern border with Kenya and in Ethiopia’s Somali region, particularly in the eastern areas to which the FCDO advise against all travel. On the whole, Ethiopia is a safe destination to visit. Let me be very clear on this, Ethiopia in general is not a dangerous country to travel to. Violent and serious crime rates are much lower than in neighboring countries and these offences are extremely rarely committed against foreigners. , volcanoes, and drivers with a reasonable safety record ; just remember to common... By e-mail when a reply is posted against travel to: border area with Somalia to! A level 4 travel Health Notice for Ethiopia Valley, and Ethiopia is not maintained by the Embassy! 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