Ethiopia, the cradle of humanity, offers travelers an extraordinary blend of ancient history, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the Simien Mountains' jagged peaks, this East African nation captivates with its UNESCO World Heritage sites, unique wildlife, and the birthplace of coffee.
Ethiopia is generally safe for tourists in Addis Ababa and the main historic north circuit (Lalibela, Gondar, Axum), but significant security concerns exist in border regions, parts of Tigray, Oromia, Afar, and the Somali Region. Most travelers experience friendly, welcoming interactions with no security incidents.
Current safety advisory
Moderate
Exercise increased caution. Several regions (Tigray, parts of Oromia and Afar) have elevated risk due to ongoing conflict and civil unrest. Tourist areas in Addis Ababa and the Historic North are generally safe. Always check current government travel advisories before booking.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 2 — Exercise Increased Caution
Reconsider travel to some regions; Tigray, Afar, and Amhara state borders rated Level 3-4 due to conflict
FCDO Advises Against All But Essential Travel
Parts of Oromia, Tigray, and Somalia Region; Addis Ababa and main tourist sites remain relatively safe
Exercise High Degree of Caution
Ongoing civil unrest and ethnic tensions in multiple regions; security situation can change rapidly
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Register with your embassy traveler program before arrival.
Avoid demonstrations, political gatherings, and large protests — situations can escalate quickly.
Hire reputable, licensed guides for travel outside Addis Ababa; kidnapping risks exist near some borders.
Keep copies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance separate from originals.
Be alert to petty theft and bag-snatching in crowded markets, bus stations, and Merkato.
Check regional security updates from your government before visiting Tigray, Afar, Oromia border areas, or the Somali Region.
Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate — it is required for entry.
Drink only bottled or boiled water; avoid raw salads and unpeeled fruit from street stalls.
Altitude sickness is possible in Addis Ababa (2,355 m) and the Simien Mountains (4,550 m) — acclimatize slowly.
Photography of military installations, government buildings, airports, and bridges is strictly prohibited.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and monasteries — women must cover head and shoulders; remove shoes before entering.
Use licensed taxis or the RIDE app rather than unmarked vehicles, especially at night.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Overcharging taxis
Street taxis without meters dramatically inflate prices for obvious tourists, particularly at Bole Airport, Mercato, and tourist sites. Drivers may agree to one price then demand more upon arrival.
How to avoid: Use RIDE or Feres apps for fixed-price rides. If taking a street taxi, agree on the fare in birr before departing and confirm it multiple times.
Fake guides and commission tours
Men around Lalibela, Axum, and Mercato offer to 'show you around' for free before demanding payment or steering you to commission-paying shops. Some pose as licensed guides.
How to avoid: Only hire guides through official tourist offices or your hotel. Check for the official ETOA guide badge (Ethiopian Tourism Organization).
Coffee ceremony scam
A 'friendly local' invites a tourist for a coffee ceremony at a shop, which turns out to cost $20-50 per person for a short ceremony. Common around Piazza and tourist areas.
How to avoid: Only accept coffee ceremony invitations at homes or restaurants you chose independently. Ask the price explicitly before sitting down.
Begging and persistent children
Groups of children and adults at tourist sites ask for money, pens, sweets, or 'gifts for my family.' Giving cash encourages the behavior and creates dependency.
How to avoid: Politely decline and walk on. Donate to reputable local organizations rather than individuals on the street if you wish to contribute.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Rabies (if animal contact likely), Polio, Measles-Mumps-Rubella, Routine vaccinations
- Water
- Unsafe to drink. Only drink bottled water (widely available). Use bottled water for brushing teeth. Avoid ice in drinks unless from reputable establishments.
- Food
- Facilities
- Good availability in cities. Many international medications available, including antibiotics (often without prescription).
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Generally safe for solo travelers in Addis Ababa and the Historic North circuit. Use RIDE app rather than street taxis at night, stick to populated areas in the evening, and register with your embassy. Joining organized tours for remote destinations like the Danakil Depression or Omo Valley is strongly recommended for solo travelers.
Female travellers
Women travelers report generally respectful treatment in Ethiopia with relatively low rates of harassment compared to some other African destinations. Dress modestly (covered shoulders, long skirts or trousers) particularly at religious sites and outside Addis Ababa. Avoid walking alone at night. Female travelers often feel comfortable in organized tour groups.
Families
Ethiopia is a welcoming destination for families — Ethiopians adore children and extra kindness is shown to families. Key safety considerations include altitude sickness in highland areas (Addis 2,355m, Lalibela 2,500m), food and water hygiene, and long road journeys. Domestic flights rather than buses recommended for families with young children.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Homosexuality is illegal in Ethiopia and can result in imprisonment up to 15 years. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise extreme discretion. No public displays of affection. The country has very conservative attitudes on sexual orientation, and there is no legal protection. Serious consideration should be given to the legal risks before travel.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 91 or 911
- Medical
- 907 (Red Cross) or 92
- Embassy
- Tourist Police