Ethiopia

First time visitors to Ethiopia are generally amazed by the stunning natural beauty of a country that is also incredibly rich in culture and history. The striking diversity of landscapes, ancient traditions and people leaves a lasting impression to challenge the misleading stereotype of a land stricken by years of drought and famine.

Brimming with contrasts and extremes, Ethiopia beckons visitors to explore from the tops of its highlands, where mountains soar over 14,100 feet (4,300 metres), to the depths of the Danakil Depression situated below sea level; to discover Abyssinian culture and traditions that date back over 3,000 years; to experience ancient Islamic folklore, as well as the fascinating rituals and sacred ceremonies of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.

Ethiopia is also described as the Cradle of Humanity, home to the oldest human remains in the world, while at the same time its capital Addis Ababa, meaning 'New Flower' in Amharic, is home to the more modern problems of urban migration, where homeless people roam the streets in search of food, money and a better life.

Northern Ethiopia holds the greatest attraction for visitors as one of the country's richest regions for culture, history and natural splendour. The Historic Route takes in the medieval city of Gondar, with more castles, palaces and churches than any other city in Africa; and the ancient capital of the Queen of Sheba and Ethiopia's holiest city, Axum, where the original Ark of the Covenant containing the Ten Commandments is said to rest. Ethiopia's top attraction, however, is undoubtedly the 13th-century rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, among the most incredible man-made structures in the world, revered and renowned among Ethiopians and foreigners alike and the venue for some of the most famous religious festivals in Ethiopia. Taking 24 years to complete, the astounding rock churches are believed to have been created with the help of angels.

The north also boasts the breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park, encompassing the fourth highest peak on the continent, and providing fantastic hiking opportunities and a variety of wildlife. Bahar Dar, situated on Lake Tana, is popular as a base from which to explore the intriguing monasteries built on the many islands scattered about the lake, as well as the Blue Nile Falls, or 'Smoke of Fire', which are the most impressive falls in northern Africa.

Ethiopia is set among a contrasting environment of natural beauty and the signs of poverty, where lakes, mountains and wildlife reserves compete for attention with the poor and hungry. Ethiopia is used to being overlooked as a tourist destination, but the country's unique attractions are slowly taking pride of place in North East Africa, and today the oldest independent nation on the continent welcomes visitors to experience her mosaic of ethnicity, a long and proud history, and an abundance of stunning scenery.

Climate

There are three main seasons in Ethiopia, with temperatures depending on the altitude. The lowlands are generally hot and humid, with cooler temperatures in the Ethiopian Highlands. The dry season runs from October to May and is the most pleasant time to visit, while June to September is the rainy season.

Money

The official currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB), which is divided into 100 cents. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and authorised hotels. Credit cards have limited usage outside of Addis Ababa, and even in the capital they are only accepted by major establishments. Visitors should carry a supply of travellers cheques or hard currency with them, preferably in US dollars. ATMs are sparse, but banks are usually open every day except Sundays from 8am to 11am and 1pm till 4pm.

Passport Visa

Foreign visitors to Ethiopia may obtain a visa on arrival. For tourist visas, the fees are as follows: USD 20 (one month, single-entry); USD 30 (three months, multiple-entry); USD 40 (six months, multiple-entry). Work visas are also obtainable, but are probably best organised in advance. Note that entry into Ethiopia is only allowed from Addis Ababa International Airport, unless the Government has granted prior permission for another point of entry, and a visa has been pre-organised. A yellow fever vaccination ceritificate is required to enter Ethiopia, if arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Ethiopia. A visa is a required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• British citizens require a passport that is valid upon arrival in Ethiopia. Passport holders endorsed British Citizen can obtain a tourist visa on arrival in the country (see note, below). Passport holders with other endorsements should check with the embassy to confirm their entry requirements.
• Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Ethiopia. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival in the country (see note, below).
• Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Ethiopia. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival in the country (see note, below).
• South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Ethiopia. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival in the country (see note, below).
• Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Ethiopia. A visa is a required, and can be obtained on arrival in the country (see note, below).
• New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Ethiopia. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival in the country (see note, below).

Health

Travellers to Ethiopia are recommended to have hepatitis A and cholera vaccines, as there have been recent outbreaks of these diseases. Malaria is prevalent in the low lands (below 6,562ft/2,000m) and altitude sickness may affect travellers to the highland areas such as Addis Ababa. Bilharzia is present in the majority of lakes in Ethiopia and travellers are advised to drink boiled or bottled water, as waterborne diseases are prevalent. Medical facilities are poor outside of Addis Ababa, where hospitals are available but medical supplies are erratic; visitors should bring their own regular medications with them and arrange comprehensive medical insurance before travel.

Embassy Consulates

• Embassy of Ethiopia, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 364 1200.
• Embassy of Ethiopia, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7589 7212.
• Embassy of Ethiopia, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 235 6637.
• Consulate-General of Ethiopia, Victoria, Australia: +61 (0)3 9417 3419.
• Embassy of Ethiopia, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 346 3542.
• Embassy of Ethiopia, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 678 7062.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Addis Ababa: +251 (0)1 517 4000.
• British Embassy, Addis Ababa: +251 (0)1 661 2354.
• Canadian Embassy, Addis Ababa: +251 (0)11 371 3022.
• Canadian Embassy, Addis Ababa (also responsible for Australia): +251 (0)11 371 3022.
• South African Embassy, Addis Ababa: +251 (0)11 371 3034.
• Irish Embassy, Addis Ababa: +251 (0)1 466 5050.