FAQs

Addis Ababa offers a blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Key highlights include the National Museum (home to Lucy), Holy Trinity Cathedral, Mount Entoto for city views, and the bustling Merkato market. Newer additions like Unity Park and Entoto Park provide modern recreational spaces. Top Addis Ababa Tourist Attractions 1. National Museum of Ethiopia Home to "Lucy", the famous 3.2-million-year-old hominid skeleton, this museum showcases Ethiopia’s ancient history, royal artifacts, and cultural heritage. Location: Near Addis Ababa University Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed Mondays) Entry Fee: ~200 ETB ($3.50) 2. Holy Trinity Cathedral A stunning example of Ethiopian Orthodox architecture. It’s the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie and a deeply spiritual site. Location: Arat Kilo area Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM Entry Fee: ~100 ETB ($1.75) 3. Mount Entoto Escape the city and enjoy panoramic views from this historical mountain. Visit Entoto Maryam Church and see Emperor Menelik II’s palace. Location: 10 km north of the city Getting There: 30-minute drive (taxi recommended) Entry Fee: Free (Donations at church) 4. Ethnological Museum Located inside the former palace of Haile Selassie, this museum offers an excellent introduction to Ethiopia’s ethnic diversity and traditions. Location: Addis Ababa University (Sidist Kilo Campus) Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed Mondays) Entry Fee: ~200 ETB ($3.50) 5. Merkato (Mercato) One of Africa’s largest open-air markets, Merkato is the place to experience local life, buy spices, coffee, fabrics, and handmade crafts. Location: Near the city center 6. Meskel Square A major city landmark and gathering spot. If you’re lucky, catch a festival or parade, especially during the Meskel celebration in September. Hours: 8 AM- 9 PM daily 7. Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum A powerful and emotional museum documenting the Derg regime’s atrocities and honoring victims of political violence. Location: 2Q67+272, Africa Ave, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Hours: 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM from Monday to Saturday (Closed Sunday) 8. St. George’s Cathedral An iconic octagonal church known for its stained glass, history, and connection to Ethiopian royalty. Location:  2QP2+PG4, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Hours: Daily, from 9 AM–12 PM, 2–5 PM How Many Days are Enough for the Main Attractions in Addis Ababa? Half-Day Tour (4-5 Hours) for: Layovers or short visits Route: National Museum (1 hour) – See "Lucy" & ancient artifacts Holy Trinity Cathedral (45 mins) – Imperial history & architecture Tomoca Coffee (30 mins) – Ethiopia's best coffee experience Drive through Meskel Square – Photo stop at iconic landmark Full-Day Cultural Tour (8-10 Hours) for: First-time visitors wanting depth Morning: Entoto Hill (8-9 AM) – Panoramic city views + Maryam Church Ethnological Museum (10 AM-12 PM) – Culture & former palace Afternoon: Lunch at Habesha Restaurant (12:30-2 PM) – Traditional injera + live music National Museum (2:30-3:30 PM) – Archaeological treasures Merkato Market (4-5:30 PM) – Guided shopping for spices/crafts Evening Option: Fendika Cultural Center (7 PM+) – Azmari music & dance Two-Day Immersive Experience Day 1: History & Landmarks Unity Park (Grand Palace) Holy Trinity Cathedral St. George Cathedral & Museum Dinner at Yod Abyssinia (Cultural show) Day 2: Nature & Local Life Entoto Hill sunrise Shiro Meda Market (Textiles/souvenirs) Lunch at Kategna Restaurant Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum Sunset at Friendship Park Addis Ababa is a city of intriguing contrasts, where ancient history meets modern development. Hope the list of main attractions in Addis Ababa offers you to make the most of your visit.

Ethiopia is a landlocked country located in the Horn of Africa region in East Africa. On the map, it lies roughly between 3°24′N and 14°53′N latitude and 33°E to 48°E longitude, placing it in the Northern and Eastern Hemispheres. Where Is Ethiopia on the World Map? Ethiopia lies in the Eastern Hemisphere, just north of the Equator. Its coordinates are approximately 9°N latitude and 38°E longitude. It’s part of the African continent, but also close to the Middle East across the Red Sea. Where Is Ethiopia on the Map of Africa? Ethiopia shares borders with six countries:  North: Eritrea Northeast: Djibouti East: Somalia South: Kenya West: South Sudan Northwest: Sudan A Quick View of Ethiopia's Location Location Description Continent Africa Region Horn of Africa, East Africa Borders Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya, South Sudan, Sudan Capital Addis Ababa Coordinates Approx. 9° N latitude, 38.7° E longitude Position on World Map Northeast Africa, Northern & Eastern Hemispheres Key Geographic Features within Ethiopia Ethiopian Highlands: A defining feature, this vast, rugged mountainous region covers much of central and northern Ethiopia. It's often called the "Roof of Africa." Great Rift Valley: This major geological trench cuts through the country from north to south, creating a series of lakes and volcanic landscapes. Blue Nile River: One of the two primary tributaries of the famous Nile River, the Blue Nile originates from Lake Tana in the Ethiopian Highlands. Why Ethiopia’s Location Matters for Travelers It's a gateway to Africa: Addis Ababa’s Bole Airport is Africa’s 4th-busiest. Many international travelers transit through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Its central location in East Africa makes it ideal for exploring neighboring countries Historical crossroads: Part of ancient trade routes. Diverse landscapes: Highlands (80% of the country), deserts (Danakil Depression), and the Great Rift Valley. In summary, on a map of Africa, you will find Ethiopia in the northeastern part of the continent, in the “Horn of Africa,” surrounded by these neighboring countries and characterized by a central location relative to the region’s geography.

The Ethiopian calendar is 7 to 8 years behind the Gregorian calendar (used in most of the world) due to different calculations of Jesus’ birth date and an alternative calendar system.  What are the Main Reasons Ethiopia is 7 Years Behind the Rest of the World? 1. Different Calculations of Christ’s Birth The Gregorian calendar, which is internationally dominant, starts counting years from the year 1 AD, traditionally recognized as the birth year of Jesus Christ. The Ethiopian calendar, however, bases its year count on a different calculation, placing the birth of Jesus in what the Gregorian calendar calls 7 to 8 years earlier (around 7 BC). Because of this, the Ethiopian calendar year numbering runs approximately 7 to 8 years behind the Gregorian year. That’s why Ethiopia is currently in the year 2017 (as of 2025 in the Gregorian calendar). 2. The Ethiopian Calendar Has 13 Months 12 months of 30 days each 1 small month (called Pagume) of 5 or 6 days, depending on the leap year 3. New Year Begins in September Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash) is celebrated on September 11 (or 12 in a leap year), not January 1. Its leap year system is aligned more closely with the Julian calendar, adding a day every 4 years without exception, unlike the Gregorian calendar’s slightly more complex leap year system. Why is the Ethiopian Calendar Gap Sometimes 7 or 8 Years? From September to December, the gap is 7 years (e.g., 2016 in Ethiopia = 2023 Gregorian). After January 1st, the gap becomes 8 years (Ethiopia’s New Year hasn’t arrived yet). How Ethiopians Use the Calendar Today Official government & religious events follow the Ethiopian calendar. Business & international dealings often use the Gregorian calendar. Holidays like Enkutatash (New Year) and Timkat (Epiphany) are based on the local system. The Ethiopian calendar’s "delay" of about 7  to 8 years is because it starts counting years based on a different historical calculation for Jesus Christ’s birth, combined with a unique calendar system inherited from the Coptic and Julian calendars. This difference in calendar years is not a mistake but a result of historical religious traditions and alternative interpretations of biblical chronology.

Injera (እንጀራ in Amharic, ጣይታ in Tigrinya) is a distinct, spongy, and slightly sour fermented flatbread that serves as a fundamental staple in Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine. It is far more than just bread; it acts as the plate, the utensil, and a vital component of nearly every meal. What Is Injera? Injera is a soft, spongy, sour flatbread made from teff flour, a tiny, nutrient-rich grain native to Ethiopia. It has a slightly tangy taste due to the fermentation process. Injera texture is porous, perfect for soaking up stews and sauces. Key Features of Injera Main Ingredient: Teff flour Taste: Mildly sour due to natural fermentation Texture: Soft, spongy, slightly chewy Appearance: Large, round, pancake-like with visible pores on the surface Cooking Method: Poured on a flat griddle called a mitad, cooked on one side only Why Is Injera So Special? 1. Deep Cultural Importance Injera is not just food — it's a cultural icon. Meals in Ethiopia are typically served on a large round injera with different stews (known as wot) placed on top. People eat together from the same platter, tearing pieces of injera by hand to scoop up bites. This act of sharing represents hospitality, family bonding, and community spirit. 2. Naturally Healthy Teff, the main ingredient in traditional injera, is high in iron, fiber, and protein, and it's also gluten-free. The fermentation process used to make injera helps with digestibility and enhances its nutritional profile. 3. Flavor Meets Function The slightly sour taste of injera perfectly complements Ethiopia’s spicy, flavorful dishes. Its spongy texture soaks up sauces, turning every bite into a burst of taste and aroma. 4. Cultural Significance Central to Ethiopian and Eritrean meals Symbol of hospitality, community, and tradition Shared from a communal platter, often during holidays and gatherings Injera is not just a food item; it's a cornerstone of Ethiopian culinary identity and a symbol of their rich cultural heritage. So when you're in Ethiopia, let's try a freshly made injera to better understand the Ethiopian cuisine culture.

Yes, you can leave Bole International Airport (ADD) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during a layover — but it depends on the length of your layover and your visa status. Following conditions: You have a visa, or you're from a country eligible for a visa on arrival or visa-free entry. Your layover is long enough (ideally 6+ hours) to allow time for immigration and city travel. You go through immigration and customs successfully. If you don’t meet visa requirements or have a short layover, you’ll need to stay inside the transit area. Visa Rules for Leaving the Airport Here are the details: 1. Visa Requirements If your layover is short and you remain within the international transit area without passing through immigration, you do not need a visa, but you cannot leave the airport. If your layover exceeds 12 hours and you want to exit the airport, you will need a transit visa or a tourist visa to leave the airport and enter Ethiopia. For Ethiopian Airlines passengers with a layover between 8 and 24 hours, the airline often provides a complimentary transit visa along with hotel accommodation, allowing you to leave the airport during the stopover. If you plan to leave the airport during your layover but do not qualify for any visa exemption, you should apply for an Ethiopian tourist visa in advance or on arrival if eligible. Visa Requirements for Leaving the Airport Visa Type Cost Processing Time Notes e-Visa $52 3 days Apply online Visa on Arrival $50-70 Immediate Available for most nationalities Visa-Free     Kenya, Rwanda, and Djibouti citizens 2. Layover Duration You should have at least 6–8 hours of layover time if you plan to leave the airport. This allows time for: Immigration and customs Travel to/from the city center (about 20–30 minutes) A short tour, meal, or rest Rechecking security before your next flight If your layover is less than 6 hours, it’s best to stay at the airport. What is a short layover in Addis Ababa? A short layover is typically considered under 4–5 hours. In that case, it's best to stay inside the airport, as there may not be enough time to leave, go through immigration, and get back through security before your next flight. Important Tips for Leaving the Airport Keep your boarding pass & visa handy because re-entry security checks are strict. Traffic Alert: Addis has heavy traffic, so allow 1+ hour to return. Money: Exchange some cash to ETB (Birr)—many places don’t accept cards. Safety: Stick to central areas and avoid walking alone at night. Pro tip: If short on time, enjoy the airport lounges (some offer showers and local food). In summary, you can only leave the airport during your layover in Addis Ababa if you have the appropriate visa (transit or tourist), and your layover is long enough to accommodate the visa and border formalities. If you do not have a visa or if your layover is short, you must stay within the airport’s international transit area.

No. A Schengen visa doesn't work as an entry pass to Ethiopia. Ethiopia has unique visa requirements that are quite different from those of most of the other countries around it. Ethiopia will not let any Schengen visas or third-country resident permits (such as US or UK) pass muster for entrance into its territory. Ethiopia Visa Requirements for Schengen Visa Holders If you have a valid Schengen visa or long-term resident permit in an EU country, you still need to provide a separate Ethiopian visa. No matter what the reason might be, your Schengen visa will not let you into Ethiopia. Is a Schengen Visa suitable for Ethiopia? No. A Schengen visa only authorizes travel within the Schengen Area. In Ethiopia, it has no force, and you must select from among: Ethiopian e-Visa (available online for eligible nationalities). Visa on arrival (available for a limited list of countries at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport). A visa from an Ethiopian embassy or consulate is required before your trip. How to Get an Ethiopian Visa for Ethiopia Most nationalities find arranging their Ethiopian visa a simple process for vacation purposes: Ethiopia eVisa (Highly Recommended): For most nationalities, the simplest and most convenient method is to apply for an Ethiopian eVisa through the official government portal. This allows you to receive your visa approval before traveling. This process is effective and allows you the opportunity to get your visa approval agents prior to partitioning. Visa on Arrival: If a visa on arrival is possible for some nationalities at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), it is generally less work to apply for an eVisa in advance. This will save time and avoid potential confusion upon arrival. Embassy/Consulate: When particular circumstances call for it or if an eVisa is not possible, you may need to apply for a visa from an Ethiopian Embassy or Consulate. Final Answer Is a Schengen visa valid on arrival in Ethiopia? No. Before traveling, you must obtain a visa through a reliable Ethiopian source. Always check the latest entry requirements on the official Ethiopian immigration website or consult your nearest Ethiopian embassy.

Making a mistake on your Ethiopia e-Visa application can be stressful, but there are ways to address it effectively. If you discover that you made an error on your Ethiopia e-Visa application, or if you need to modify your submitted Ethiopia visa application details, then this is what you need to know. 1. Before Submission Remember to check your application thoroughly before you submit it. Once the form is submitted and payment is accepted, applicants are unable to edit information directly on the Ethiopian eVisa. Ensure that your personal details, passport information, and travel dates are correct. Typical Mistakes in the Ethiopian eVisa Application Wrong personal information related to name, passport number, and nationality. The incorrect travel date or type of visa that you selected. Missing or unmatching documents. Payment problems resulting in a failed submission. 2. If You See a Mistake After You Submit However, if you spot a mistake after you have already applied, you cannot make any changes to the Ethiopia eVisa application form online. Instead, you should immediately get in touch with the official Ethiopian e-Visa support through their official email (like [email protected]) or using the contact form on their website. Admit you were wrong, and request what you should do to fix it. Often, the advised course of action is to both cancel the wrong application and reapply using the proper details. This is to make certain that your visa reflects your travel documents accurately, which allows you to avoid any rejection at the border. 3. If Your Application is Denied for Errors You will normally receive a message if your e-Visa application is denied due to having made a mistake or providing incorrect data to the Ethiopian government. You'd then be able to reapply with corrected information. The government fee is usually non-refundable, but it also depends on the service provider whether the processing fee is refundable. Tips to Avoid Errors Enter details as per your passport. Check that your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return. Upload your Passport, Clear and Recent Photographs on your Dashboard. Have a rough idea of your travel plan on hand so you can input the arrival and departure dates with the correct details. Can I update the Wrong information on the Ethiopia e-Visa After Approval? No, once your e-Visa is approved and issued, you cannot change any details. If you find an error after approval, you must apply for a new visa with the correct information. While an error on your e-Visa is frustrating, acting quickly and precisely is key. Following these steps can help you fix an error on your Ethiopia e-Visa form and ensure a smooth entry for your traveling experience to Ethiopia.

If you're transiting through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you might be wondering: "Do I need a transit visa at Addis Ababa Airport?". The answer is: it depends on the duration of your layover and whether you plan to leave the airport. Do I Need a Transit Visa for Addis Ababa? You don’t need a transit visa if: You are still in the international transit area of Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa). You have a stopover of under 12 hours and have through tickets. But if you leave the airport — even for a day tour of the city or a night’s stay in a hotel — you will need a transit visa. What is an Addis Ababa Transit Visa? A transit visa is a temporary visa that allows travellers to depart from the airport, taking up residence in Ethiopia for 72 hours until their next connecting flight. It allows you to step out of the airport and spend a short while in the country without needing to obtain an entire tourist visa. Transit visa options include 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours. Ethiopian transit visa is ideally suited for travelers who: Have long layovers (12+ hours), Wish to explore Addis Ababa, or Have to change terminals or airlines and need to go through immigration. Can I Get Out of the Airport on an Ethiopian transit Visa? Yes, travelers holding a valid transit visa can leave the airport and experience the city, arrange to stay in a hotel, or go on a guided layover tour. Make sure your transit visa covers the full duration of your planned stay in Ethiopia. How to Apply for an Addis Ababa Transit Visa Online Option: Apply via the Ethiopian Visa portal (72h processing). On Arrival: Available at Bole Airport (have cash, passport copies, onward ticket). Ethiopia Transit Visa vs Tourist Visa Unlike the tourist visa, also valid for stays of 30 days, for tourism purposes or for business, the transit visa is intended only for brief stays for travelers on their way to somewhere else and is only valid for a few days. If your layover is a bit longer and you’re interested in exploring more than just the airport in Ethiopia, then a tourist visa may be more appropriate. Visa-Free Layovers in Addis Ababa If you’re just passing through Addis Ababa, not leaving the airport, and have a short stopover, you can enjoy visa-free transit. But this doesn't apply to everyone, so know where you stand before you go in. Conclusion In summary, if you are transiting via Ethiopia and have to leave the airport, you will need a transit visa for Addis Ababa. For brief, in-terminal layovers of less than 12 hours, you generally don’t need a visa. Plan your itinerary, check your visa requirements in advance, and make the most of your stopover in Addis Ababa.

Ethiopian visa payment refusal is a common issue that can throw a wrench into your travel plans; however, knowing the causes and possible solutions gives you the best start for entering Ethiopia’s bustling capital, Addis Ababa, and beyond. Common Reasons for Ethiopian Visa Payment Failure Common reasons for Ethiopian visa payments being declined include: Card Details Not Valid: The card number, expiration date, or CVV is not correct. Check to make sure all the information matches up with your credit or debit card. Card Type Not Supported: The e-Visa website processes the  most popular cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, but not certain prepaid or virtual cards. Use a plain credit/debit card. Not Enough Money: You must have at least $20 plus any bank fees (processing fees) in your account at the time of the payment. Bank Limitations: There are banks that see international transactions as sketchy. Let your bank know that you are travelling to Ethiopia before you go. Technical Problems: The Ethiopian e-Visa site might be slow due to a high number of visits. Slowness or incompatibility with the internet (e.g., outdated browsers) can also be a cause. Not Eligible for e-Visa: Citizens of some countries are not eligible to apply for an Ethiopian e-Visa and must apply through the embassy, resulting in online application or payment failure. Resolutions to Resolve the Visa Payment Problem Cross-Check Card Information: Check that you have entered the card number, expiry date, CVV, and billing address accurately. Provide a card in your name to prevent any mismatches. Use a Different Card: If one card does not work, try another Visa or Mastercard that has enough money. Avoid prepaid cards. Call Your Bank: Make sure it’s okay to use your card for international purchases. Ask them to approve the transaction if it is stopped. Clear Browser Cache: Use the latest version of the browser (Chrome/Firefox) and clear cookies/cache to avoid technical errors. Make sure that you have an uninterrupted internet connection. Try Again Later: Should the e-Visa site be offline, give it a few hours and retry. Submit at least 3-5 days in advance of travel to prevent a delay. Embassy Application: Non-e-Visa-eligible travelers must apply through the nearest Ethiopian embassy. These practical tips help travelers overcome common Ethiopian visa payment issues and ensure a smoother application process.

Ethiopia is a country of many people, with more than 80 languages used in its different regions. For tourists, the ability to communicate in the most commonly used language is essential to get the most out of their travel and get around. Here are Ethiopia’s 3 major languages and their importance to visitors. 1. Amharic (አማርኛ) – The National Language Amharic is the official working language of the Ethiopian federal government and is widely spoken across major cities like Addis Ababa. It uses the Ge’ez script and is used in government, media, and public services. Where spoken: Nationwide, especially in urban areas (Addis Ababa, Gondar, Bahir Dar) and central regions Cultural Note: Amharic uses the Ge’ez script, unique to Ethiopia, which you’ll see in churches and historical sites like Aksum. Useful for travelers: Government signs, menus, and transport announcements are often in Amharic. Basic phrases like "Selam" (Hello) and "Ameseginalehu" (Thank you) go a long way. 2. Oromo (Afaan Oromoo) — Most widely spoken Native language Ethiopia's most widely spoken language of native speakers is Oromo. It is the first language of the Oromo people, the country’s largest ethnic group. Oromo is the first language of more than 35 percent of Ethiopians. Spoken: Oromia region (Adama, Jimma, Arsi), parts of the south and west Useful for travelers: Useful when you are visiting the backcountry out of Addis, making a cultural visit or travelling by national park (Bale Mountains, Awash), or rural Oromia. Key phrase: "Akkam?" (How are you?) 3. Tigrinya – commonly spoken in the north Tigrinya, spoken by approximately 7% of the country’s population (around 8 million), is mainly found in the Tigray region and along the Eritrean border. It’s also spoken by the Tigray ethnic group in both the north’s urban and rural areas. Spoken: Tigray region and northern Ethiopia Useful for travelers: Crucial for anyone visiting northern Ethiopia, especially the Tigray region and heritage sites like Aksum. Note: Lalibela is in Amhara, where Amharic is dominant. Simple sentences such as “Kemey” (how are you) can warm the heart. Other Information for Travelers Aside from these three, there are other very important languages in Ethiopia, such as Somali, Sidamo, Wolaytta, and Afar, that also shape the colourful culture of the country. English is widely taught in schools and used in higher education, making it a useful language for international visitors. The official and top three spoken languages in Ethiopia — Amharic, Oromo, and Tigrinya —matter because they speak to the country’s ethnic diversity and regional identities. Knowing a few phrases enhances your experience and can make you connect more easily with the locals.