Ethiopia travel advice

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

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Ethiopia travel advice

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

The security situation varies greatly from one region to another. While it is stable in Addis Ababa, it remains volatile and unpredictable in several regions throughout the country due to ethnic and political tensions, as well as ongoing armed conflicts. Areas near international and regional borders are particularly at risk of violent clashes and increased criminal activity.

Violent incidents of civil unrest can occur at any time, and trigger security measures such as roadblocks, curfews and disruptions to telecommunications services across the country.

If you travel to Ethiopia:

• expect a heightened security presence
• ensure that your travel documents are up to date and that you have your passport stamped on arrival
• carry identification documents at all times
• make sure to stop at all checkpoints and roadblocks, even if they appear unattended
• if you are stopped by security forces, stay calm and follow instructions

If you are in a region affected by an armed conflict:

• monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation
• avoid military, police and security installations
• expect heavy security measures and increased security presence
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• shelter-in-place until the situation stabilizes and until it is safe to leave the region (flights and land transportation may be disrupted)
• sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive important safety updates from the Government of Canada
• contact the Embassy of Canada in Addis Ababa by email if you require consular assistance: consul.addis@international.gc.ca

Landmines and unexploded ordnance still pose a serious risk in several regions, particularly those affected by ongoing or past conflicts, as well as in several regional and international border areas.

• Be especially vigilant in remote areas
• Stay on main and paved roads
• Cross only at official border crossings
• Avoid walking in fields and rural areas 
• Pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines 

Amhara region

There is widespread violence in the Amhara region. Violent clashes between armed groups and security forces, as well as between various armed groups, occur regularly, including in and around cities, towns and airports.

There is a risk of kidnapping due to the presence of active criminal groups in the region, particularly in isolated areas. Both Ethiopian nationals and foreigners have been kidnapped for ransom.

A state of emergency is in effect across the region. This allows the police and the military to:

• restrict freedom of movement and assembly
• enter private properties to conduct searches
• detain persons of interest

Advice if you are in the Amhara region or affected by an armed conflict

Tigray region

Rival armed groups continue to fight for territorial control, particularly along the Afar-Tigray border and in the Southern Zone, resulting in civilian casualties.

On November 2, 2022, after two years of armed conflict, the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement was signed between the Government of Ethiopia and the main insurgent armed group in Tigray. The agreement remains fragile, as repeated outbreaks of violence continue to put the peace process at risk. In January 2026, armed clashes occurred between armed groups and the Ethiopian military. The security situation remains uncertain and could escalate with little warning. Unexploded ordnance also poses a threat to your safety.

Advice if you are in the Tigray region or affected by an armed conflict

Afar region

Sporadic clashes between armed groups may occur along the main road from Addis Ababa to Djibouti, as well as in the border areas between Afar, Somali, and Tigray Regions. Roadblocks and attacks on vehicles have occurred in the past.

Armed groups have previously targeted foreigners in the Danakil Depression.

If you decide to travel to the Danakil Depression:

• always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company, escorted by official security forces
• be aware of excessive heat and difficult terrain
• keep your gas tank at least half full
• keep a supply of water and non-perishable snacks

Cross-border tensions with Eritrea could escalate into violence with little warning. Despite demining efforts, residual landmines also pose a threat to your safety.

Advice if you are in the Afar region or affected by an armed conflict

Oromia region

Demonstrations, civil unrest, violent crime, armed conflicts, and clashes between security forces and armed groups occur in Oromia, including in areas bordering Amhara. There is a threat of kidnapping, particularly in isolated areas. Roadside attacks have also taken place. These incidents are particularly prevalent in the following zones:

• West Wellega and the main Addis Ababa to Gambella road (A4 highway)
• East Wellega
• Kellem Wellega
• Horro-Guduru Wellega
• North and West Shewa

The security situation could deteriorate without warning. A heightened security presence remains throughout these areas.

Advice if you are in the Oromia region or affected by an armed conflict

Gambella and Benishangul-Gumuz regions

In both these regions, civil unrest, armed conflict, violent crime and ethnic tensions pose risks. Armed clashes have resulted in civilian casualties. Violent clashes can occur without warning due to local ethnic tensions.

Somali region

Terrorist groups maintain a presence in Somali towns near the Ethiopian border, posing a risk for cross-border attacks and kidnappings. Violent crime, including armed robbery, occurs. Violent clashes between armed groups and security forces, as well as ethnic violence, are common. Landmines also pose a security risk.

Regions of South West Ethiopia Peoples’, Central Ethiopia, South Ethiopia and Sidama

Armed conflict and civil unrest have occurred sporadically across these regions, leading to casualties and mass arrests. Individuals have also attacked vehicles and disrupted road travel at times. Militia attacks have also occurred. 

The security situation could deteriorate without warning. A heightened security presence remains throughout these areas.

Border areas

Most border areas, including regional borders, often see higher criminal activity and violence, including in rural areas. Regional tensions and confrontations between organized criminal groups, ethnic groups, and Ethiopian authorities pose a risk.

Advice if in border areas or affected by an armed conflict

Eritrea

All land border crossings between Ethiopia and Eritrea are closed.

The border with Eritrea is still heavily militarized despite the peace agreement signed in 2018. The situation near the border remains volatile and political tensions could rapidly escalate into armed conflict. Landmines also pose a security risk.

Kenya

Inter-ethnic conflicts and banditry are common near the border with Kenya, particularly in the Dasenech woreda, and around the town of Moyale. Violent armed groups and terrorists are active in several areas near the border. Security forces regularly carry out military operations, which periodically exacerbates tensions. Kidnapping also poses a risk to your safety in these areas.

Sudan

Sporadic armed clashes over disputed land occur. The risk of armed clashes, terrorism and kidnapping is high in this area. Landmines pose a threat to your safety.

South Sudan

Ethnic tensions and sporadic violence are common. Ethnic militias from South Sudan have crossed the border to attack rival communities in Ethiopia. The security situation is extremely unstable. The threat of violent crime, civil unrest and tribal clashes is high. Kidnapping and landmines also pose a threat to your safety.

Kidnapping

There is a risk of kidnapping, particularly in isolated areas. Both nationals and foreigners are targeted by criminal groups and militias for ransom or to achieve political aims. Kidnappings have occurred in the following regions:

• Amhara
• Benishangul-Gumuz
• Gambella
• within 100 km of Addis Ababa
• western parts of Oromia
• Somali
• border areas with Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan and Eritrea (Danakil Depression)

If you are travelling in a region prone to kidnapping:

• seek professional security advice
• arrange for personal security
• change your travel patterns regularly
• be aware of your surroundings
• avoid displaying signs of affluence
• always travel in a group

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and mugging, occurs, including by passing motorcycles or cars. Common targets are bags, jewellery, and electronics.

These incidents particularly occur in crowded areas such as:

• popular tourist areas
• buses, trains, bus and train stations and airports
• hotel lobbies
• markets
• restaurants, including outdoor seating areas
• nightclubs and cinemas
• shopping centres

During your trip:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded areas
• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents in a secure place
• don’t show signs of affluence, wear expensive jewellery or show electronic devices
• don’t carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• do not carry bags with cross-body straps in public and walk towards traffic so you can see the vehicles approaching
• avoid walking outside after dark
• park your car in a well-lit and guarded area

Violent crime

Violent crime is most prevalent in regions affected by conflict.

However, violent incidents can happen anywhere, including in Addis Ababa where assaults and burglaries occur, most often after dark.

During your stay:

• avoid areas of concern and isolated areas
• be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs 
• keep your accommodation and vehicle doors and windows locked at all times
• stay in accommodations with adequate security measures
• do not leave valuables within reach or in plain sight 
• do not carry bags with cross-body straps in public
• walk towards traffic so you can see the vehicles approaching

If you are assaulted:

• immediately comply
• avoid making sudden movements
• avoid resisting or antagonizing the assailants

Interactions with security personnel

Interactions with security personnel can escalate quickly and, in rare occasions, turn violent. Both locals and foreigners have experienced forceful confrontations and detentions.

When interacting with local security:

• always carry a valid identification and be prepared to present it
• remain calm and courteous
• follow their instructions  
• do not resist arrest

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations can occur anywhere and without warning throughout Ethiopia, including in Addis Ababa.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism throughout Ethiopia, including in Addis Ababa.  

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including police stations and military bases
• diplomatic missions and NGO offices
• schools and universities
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas and tourist attractions, including:
• restaurants
• bars
• coffee shops
• shopping centres
• markets
• hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
• cultural venues, including:
• concert halls
• nightclubs
• event centres 

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. 

Be particularly vigilant during:  

• sporting events  
• religious holidays  
• public celebrations  
• major political events, such as elections  

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud may occur, especially in large cities.

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime 

Criminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit information.  

Criminals can monitor social media and listen to your phone conversations.  

Romance scams through dating sites and/or social media have occurred. 

• Be cautious when posting information or photos on social media  
• Use secure public Wi-Fi networks  
• Beware of people who show a keen interest in you online  
• Keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam if you go to Ethiopia to meet an online acquaintance in person 
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location  
• Know the risk of inviting new acquaintances to your accommodation  
• Do not discuss travel plans or any other personal information within earshot of strangers 

Useful links

Overseas fraud

Cybersecurity while travelling 

Social media and online activity

Writing on blogs or posting on social media about political subjects could lead to detention and arrest, even if the content was posted outside Ethiopia and/or a long time ago. Your online presence may be subject to scrutiny by the local government.

Outages and shortages

Power

Power outages are frequent nationwide, particularly during the dry season from November to June. Local authorities may impose power rationing.

Not all buildings are equipped with generators.

Power outages could impact essential services, including:

• street lighting
• traffic lights
• refrigeration in restaurants and supermarkets
• the supply of fuel at gas stations
• interruptions of the public water supply
• telecommunications

Communications

Cellular coverage is unreliable and connectivity remains an issue in several parts of the country.

Local authorities may shut down mobile and internet services during periods of civil unrest or ahead of anticipated protests.

You should not rely on your mobile phone in case of emergency, especially outside major cities.

• Avoid travelling alone
• Inform relatives of your itinerary

You should also save or print key information in case of an internet disruption, including:

• itineraries
• contact details for the Canadian Embassy in Addis Ababa and the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa
• emergency numbers

Fuel

Periodic fuel and food shortages occur, including in Addis Ababa.

• Never let your tank go lower than half-full
• Ensure you have access to fuel
• Carefully plan all road travel

Roads

Road safety

Driving standards, vehicle maintenance and road conditions are often poor throughout the country. Traffic accidents frequently occur, especially in Addis Ababa and on the Addis Ababa–Djibouti road. Pedestrians are often involved in accidents.

Road conditions

Road conditions vary throughout the country. Major roads are paved while most secondary roads are not.

Driving conditions may be hazardous during the rainy season from June to September. A four-wheel-drive vehicle may be necessary to travel off major highways and during the rainy season. 

Roads can be dangerous due to: 

• potholes 
• livestock and stray animals 
• numerous motorcycles and bicycles 
• a lack of traffic signs 
• pedestrians on the road 
• insufficient lighting and vehicles not using their headlights 
• poorly maintained vehicles

Driving habits

Drivers often disregard traffic laws and speeding is common. Pedestrians and other drivers’ rights of way are not respected. Drivers often don’t stop at traffic lights, making intersections very prone to accidents.

If you choose to drive in Ethiopia:

• always drive defensively
• avoid driving after dark outside of urban centres
• always keep doors and windows closed and locked   

Traffic accidents

Traffic accidents occur frequently throughout Ethiopia. Under Ethiopian law, you must not move your vehicle after an accident until the police arrives. A large crowd may gather at the site of an accident and could become hostile or aggressive.

If you are involved in an accident:

• avoid confrontation
• call the local police and remain at the scene of the accident until they arrive
• If you feel unsafe, leave immediately and report the incident to the nearest police station

Roadblocks

Roadblocks are common throughout the country outside of Addis Ababa. Within the capital, mobile checkpoints may be set up on major roads, particularly at night.

• Be prepared to show your identification  
• Follow the instructions of security forces
• Remain calm and courteous

Travelling to remote areas

There is no road assistance, and emergency services are limited to nonexistent in several areas. Cellular coverage remains unstable outside main cities.

• Avoid driving after dark
• Keep a supply of water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, medication, and essential items
• Always keep your gas tank full when in remote areas
• Keep mobile devices charged and carry a power bank
• Inform a trusted contact of your anticipated itinerary
• If you encounter a roadblock in isolated areas or in areas controlled by militias, turn around and don’t attempt to pass it

More information and advice on communication

Public transportation

Most public transport is unregulated and unsafe. You should hire private transport from a reliable source or use transportation provided by your hotel.

Buses

Minibuses and large buses are unsafe, overcrowded, and often involved in fatal accidents.

Some buses have been attacked while traveling between regions.

Only use airport transfers arranged by your hotel or tour operator.

Train

Rail services are limited, slow, often overcrowded and unreliable. Avoid travelling by train.

Taxis

Taxis are generally unsafe.

• Choose yellow taxis rather than white or blue ones
• Use only licensed taxis selected by a reputable hotel or restaurant, or those located at an official taxi stand 
• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Never share a taxi with strangers 
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination 
• Always ask for identification before accepting transportation and check that the driver’s ID matches the name of the car registration and taxi licence 
• Ask the driver to use the meter and have small bills ready for payment 

Rideshare services are available.

• Use a trusted ridesharing app
• Confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car
• Don't share your ride with another person
• Use a security feature to share your ride status with a contact

Hiking in the Danakil Depression

The Danakil Depression is an extremely arid environment that can experience very high temperatures. Facilities are very basic, with no running water, and medical services are extremely limited.

You should prepare for excessive heat and difficult terrain, particularly around the Erta Ale and Dallol volcanoes.

If you intend to hike in this area:

• never do so alone; and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that covers local medical treatment and medical evacuation
• know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Ethiopian law criminalizes sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those accused of homosexuality face prison sentences of up to 10 years in prison.

2SLGBTQI+ persons have been subject to physical and verbal harassment by the local population and authorities. You should avoid public displays of affection.

Security forces sometimes carry out arbitrary arrests and searches based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Interventions include:

• detentions
• interrogations
• alleged physical abuse

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Ethiopia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Air travel

We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Some countries have imposed measures in response to the Ebola disease outbreak. These can include restrictions on entry and health screening measures for travellers having recently visited an affected country. If you are suspected of having symptoms, you may be subject to isolation, quarantine and/or travel restrictions. Contact the authorities of the country you are travelling to for more details.

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from local authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Ethiopia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Transit visa: required

You must have a valid visa to enter the country, which can be obtained online.

Ethiopian e-Visa platform – Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Entry and overstay fines

Ensure that the Ethiopian authorities stamp your passport when you arrive.

If you need to extend your stay beyond the period authorized by your visa, you must apply for an extension at the Head Office of the Immigration and Citizenship Service in Addis Ababa before your visa expires.

You will face heavy fines and possibly arrest and detention if you do not comply. These fines increase each day you remain in Ethiopia without a stamped passport or after the period permitted by your visa.

You will not be permitted to leave Ethiopia until you have paid all entry and overstay fines in full.

Dual citizenship

Ethiopia does not recognize dual citizenship. Persons who acquires Canadian citizenship will automatically lose their Ethiopian citizenship, including the right to reside in Ethiopia.

This also applies to children born in Ethiopia, including those who have Ethiopian parents. Confirm with immigration authorities that you and your child are authorized to stay in Ethiopia.

Failure to maintain a valid immigration status results in fines, which increase with each day of non‑compliance.

Useful links

Dual citizens

About consular services

Working and volunteering

You cannot perform any type of work, including volunteer work, on a tourist visa. Make sure you obtain a visa that matches the purpose of your stay; otherwise, you may face heavy fines and possible detention.

Land border crossings

Authorities may request additional documents if you enter Ethiopia by vehicle at certain border crossings. Contact local authorities to determine specific entry requirements at land border crossings.

Immigration officials may not be present at some border crossings when you arrive.

• Cross only at official crossings
• Always ensure that your passport is stamped upon entry
• Immediately declare your presence to the nearest local authorities if you were unable to obtain an entry stamp

Failure to have your passport stamped upon entry could result in arrest, detention, and heavy fines.

Electronics and military equipment

You may not bring or transit through Ethiopia with many consumer electronics, including items that customs officials could consider having military applications. This could apply even to items commercially purchased, with no obvious military applications. Items include but are not limited to:

• satellite phones
• binoculars
• drones
• rangefinders

If you attempt to enter Ethiopia with any of these items without prior authorization, customs officials may confiscate them. You could also face arrest and detention. Confiscated items on entry may not be returned upon departure.

Foreign representatives in Canada 

Cell phones

You may bring one mobile phone into Ethiopia for personal use, but it must be registered with the Ethiopian Revenue and Customs Authority for it to function. Phones can be registered at Bole International Airport or at any shop of the main cellular provider. Any additional devices are subject to both a customs fee and an activation fee.

Computers and audiovisual equipment

You must declare all laptop computers and video equipment other than those for personal use upon arrival and departure. Some recording devices may require special customs permits.

Children and travel

Learn about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities and services are not up to Canadian standards. Some reputable private hospitals in Addis Ababa can provide adequate care for minor health problems. Most medical facilities lack personnel, equipment, supplies and medications. Outside Addis Ababa, medical services are extremely limited.

Public and private medical facilities usually require an initial cash deposit, a payment guarantee or confirmation that you have medical insurance. In the event of a medical emergency, air evacuation abroad may be necessary.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in Ethiopia.

If you take prescription medications, you are responsible for determining their legality in Ethiopia.

• Bring enough medication for your stay
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage

High-altitude illnesses

Addis Ababa is located about 2,500 metres above sea level. High-altitude illnesses may occur at high altitudes.

Be well informed about the potential health hazards at high altitudes.

High-altitude illnesses

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Death penalty

Ethiopian authorities may apply the death penalty for serious offences.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Khat, a local stimulant, is legal in Ethiopia. However, it is not permitted to take khat out of the country. Attempting to carry khat through Ethiopian airports could lead to jail sentences and fines.

• Pack your own luggage
• Don’t agree to carry packages that are not your own

Drugs, alcohol and travel

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Ethiopia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Ethiopia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Ethiopia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your identification, residence permit or visa at any time. 

• Always carry valid identification, your residence permit or a valid visa
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your identification and travel documents

Photography and drones

It’s strictly prohibited to photograph:

• military installations
• police and military personnel
• industrial facilities
• government buildings and infrastructure, including roads, bridges, dams and airfields

Never stop near a restricted area, no matter the reason, on foot or in a vehicle.

You must obtain a permit from the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority and Information Network and Security Agency to operate a drone in Ethiopia.

Pornography

Possession of pornographic material is illegal. Convicted offenders could face up to 15 years of imprisonment.

Restricted items

It’s illegal to:

• own or export any amount of ivory, including in jewellery
• export authentic antiques or religious items, such as Ethiopian crosses, without a permit
• export animal skins or other wildlife products without a permit
• export precious stones and minerals beyond a certain limit

Tourist souvenirs are often copies of Ethiopian antiques or religious items. If you choose to buy such items, ensure that you receive a receipt that clearly states the item is a souvenir and not an authentic artifact. Even with such a receipt, authorities may still confiscate certain items, especially ceremonial knives.

Street vendors

It is illegal to give money to, or purchase something from, people who approach vehicles stopped in traffic, including children.

If caught, both the beggar/vendor and the vehicle operator face fines.

Ramadan

In 2027, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 7.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

• drinking
• eating
• smoking

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• always obtain permission from religious authorities before visiting churches and mosques
• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect social and religious traditions

Camouflage clothing

It’s illegal for civilians to wear military uniforms in Ethiopia. You should avoid wearing or carrying any clothing with camouflage patterns.

Ethiopian clock

Many people in Ethiopia use the Ethiopian clock, which differs from the system used worldwide.

According to the Ethiopian clock, the day begins at dawn, not at midnight. Daytime hours are counted starting from what would be 6:00 am on the global clock. For instance, the time at one hour after dawn – 7 a.m. – would be 1 a.m. on the Ethiopian clock.

Most hotels and larger organizations, including all airlines, use the global clock. However, many individuals or smaller businesses and traffic signs continue to use the Ethiopian clock.

Check with your host if you are unsure which clock is being used for a meeting or an event.

Driving

You can drive in Ethiopia with your Canadian driver’s licence alongside an International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to 45 days. Local authorities may request that you provide proof of your arrival date, such as an immigration entry stamp in your passport.

After 45 days, you must obtain an Ethiopian driver’s licence.

Advice in case of a traffic accident

International Driving Permit

Money

The currency of Ethiopia is the birr (ETB).

Credit cards are not widely accepted except by large hotels, travel agencies and a few shops and restaurants in Addis Ababa. ATMs are very limited outside urban areas and may run out of cash without notice.

Make sure you have access to hard-currency cash in case of emergency.

It is illegal to enter or exit Ethiopia with more than 3,000 birr.

You may enter or exit Ethiopia with up to US$10,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency. This doesn’t include birr. However:

• if you enter with more, you must declare the funds upon arrival
• if you exit with more, you must have at least one of the following:
• a bank document certifying the purchase of the foreign currency and approving travel with the funds
• a customs declaration form made upon entry

Be aware that even the provision of such documents may not safeguard you against confiscation of the extra funds, imprisonment, or fines if you surpass the maximum allowable amount. Regulations may change at any time without notice.

Exchanging money on the black market is illegal and could lead to heavy fines or detention. Only exchange foreign currency at banks or official foreign exchange offices.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Ethiopia. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Earthquakes

Ethiopia is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes commonly occur in:

• Afar
• Amhara
• Oromia
• Tigray

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage. Landslides can occur with little warning following volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Roads may become impassable.

Volcanoes

Ethiopia has several active volcanoes, most of which are located in the Afar region.

Ash clouds can disrupt air travel and cause or worsen respiratory problems.

If you are near active volcanoes:

• take official warnings seriously and respect exclusion zones
• monitor local media to stay up-to-date on the latest developments
• follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice

Drought

The dry season usually lasts from October to May but has become longer and drier in recent years. Availability of water and basic food supplies may be affected during periods of prolonged drought, particularly in isolated areas.

Advice for travel to remote areas

Rainy season

The rainy season normally extends from June to September. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce access to essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. 

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders