Ethiopia Travel Tips: Visa Application, Sightseeing & Travel Advice

a map of Ethiopia

Planning a trip to Ethiopia? Get ready to immerse yourself in a land of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Whether you’re drawn to the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the bustling markets of Addis Ababa, or the diverse wildlife of the Simien Mountains, Ethiopia offers an unforgettable experience for travelers.

In this Ethiopia travel guide, we’ll provide essential travel tips, highlight must-visit attractions, and explain the Ethiopia visa application process to ensure your journey is smooth and memorable.

Ethiopia Travel Tips

There are plenty of things to see in Ethiopia during your trip there. However, there are some things to know before you travel.

Travel to Ethiopia

Ethiopia is home to one of the most popular airports in the whole of the African continent – Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa.

However, depending on where you are travelling from, you may only be able to access Bole via a connecting flight.

Ethiopia is close to the most eastern point of the African continent, so it may be easier to fly from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, or the UAE if you cannot find a direct flight.

Is it safe to travel to Ethiopia?

Currently, the Irish Government’s Ethiopia travel advice is to recommend a ‘High Degree of Caution’ for any trip to Ethiopia.

While Ethiopia is undoubtedly a stunning place with plenty of pull factors for tourists, like many other countries, it does come with some elements of danger. These can be easily avoided by planning your trip thoroughly in advance.

When to visit Ethiopia

The best time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season, which typically runs from October to May.

This period offers pleasant weather conditions for your list of Ethiopia things to do, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Accommodation

From luxury hotels in the capital city to eco-lodges in the countryside, Ethiopia offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons to get the best accommodation type for you.

Food and Drink

Indulge in Ethiopia’s culinary delights, including injera (a sourdough flatbread), spicy stews, and traditional coffee ceremonies.

Don’t miss the chance to sample tej (honey wine) and try local delicacies at bustling street markets.

Best things to Do in Ethiopia

There are plenty of things to do and beautiful sights to see in Ethiopia.

Here are just a few things you could do on your trip there:

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lalibela

This breathtaking site is home to a stunning collection of rock-cut churches dating back to the 12th century.

Discover the ancient city of Axum

Axum is located at the north of Ethiopia, near the border of Eritrea.

This city is known for its towering obelisks and archaeological treasures.

Attractions also include the centuries-old St. Mary of Zion, which is a Christian church and pilgrimage site that is thought to have housed the biblical Ark of the Covenant!

Trek through the National Parks in Ethiopia

These include attractions such as the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife.

The park is home to some exotic animals and Ethiopia’s highest mountain Ras Dashen is located within the park.

There is some spectacular scenery of the cliffs and landscape, especially from certain observation points in the park.

Visit the Blue Nile Falls

This is easily one of Ethiopia’s most spectacular natural wonders, located near the town of Bahir Dar.

The waterfall is located 28km from Bahir Dar, it falls from a height of 42 meters and bursts into clouds of mist.

While here, you can enjoy beautiful scenic views, spectacular wildlife, and some quaint villages where you can soak in the Ethiopian culture.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Addis Ababa

Ethiopia’s capital is home to a wide array of museums, art galleries, and bustling markets.

Addis Ababa is the best place to immerse yourself in the Ethiopian culture, from walks down the busy streets to sampling the local cuisine.

landscape of a city in Ethiopia

Lake Tana

Ethiopia’s largest lake, Lake Tana features some centuries-old monasteries.

For those intrigued by Ethiopia’s ancient culture, you will find some stunning murals in the 20 monastic churches.

A boat trip on this spectacular lake will leave you in awe of the beautiful landscapes.

Babile Elephant Sanctuary

This sanctuary is home to many elephants and other wildlife with 31 different mammals being protected here.

Located 25km from Harar city, the sanctuary has some beautiful rocky scenery.

Watching the giant elephants walk side by side is a truly wonderful experience.

What Visa for Ethiopia Do You Need?

To travel to Ethiopia, most visitors must obtain a valid Ethiopia visa.

The most convenient option for many travelers is the Ethiopia eVisa, which allows for online application and approval before arrival in the country.

How to Apply for an Ethiopia eVisa online

Applying for an Ethiopia eVisa is a simple and straightforward process.

You can easily apply for Ethiopian eVisa online if you choose a professional like Visa First! We simplify the process so once you create an account and enter your information, we’ll handle the boring aspects of the process!

To apply for an Ethiopian visa online, you may be asked for the following documents:

  • Completed questionnaire
  • A valid passport (with blank pages) for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Ethiopia
  • Recent photograph (must be digital)

How Can Visa First Help Me?

Visa First streamlines the visa application process for travelers to Ethiopia and other destinations worldwide.

Our experienced team provides expert guidance and support at every stage, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Whether you need assistance with your Ethiopia eVisa application or have questions about travel requirements, Visa First is here to help.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Ethiopia with confidence, knowing that Visa First has your visa needs covered.

About the Author

Rory Lynskey

After graduating with a degree in Journalism in 2019, Rory joined the Content Team in 2020. He enjoys writing about travel as well as discovering new places!

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