Except for nationals from Djiboutian and Kenyan, all visitors to Ethiopia will need to obtain an entry visa upon arrival from Bole or Dire Dawa International Airport or embassy. Single entry visas are valid for stays up to 30 days, but there are also multiple visas good for three to six months. Fees vary depending on the type and the validity.

Health and Safety

No vaccinations are required to enter Ethiopia, although it is highly recommended to take precautions against prevalent diseases like typhoid fever, hepatitis E and B, meningococcal meningitis, rabies, and malaria. Healthcare facilities are limited even in the big cities, so be sure to bring along  enough prescriptions with a doctor’s note if you are taking any drugs. The low oxygen levels and high altitude can take some getting used to so if you suffer any heart conditions or have high blood pressure, consult your physician before booking a trip. It’s always a good idea to have comprehensive travel and health insurance should any medical emergencies or accidents arise while traveling.

Ethiopia has a relatively low crime rate compared to other neighboring African nations. However, it is best to avoid the eastern regions of the country (beyond Harar City), as separatist groups from Somalia occasionally launch guerilla attacks on Ethiopia. Armed insurgent groups are also known to operate in regions like Afar and Oromiya, so be sure to check the local political and civilian situation before planning a trip. With a fair amount of research and vigilance, travel to West Africa can be very rewarding.