Latest travel advice for Ethiopia including safety and security, entry requirements, travel warnings and health
2016-07-13T16:49:19.904+01:00: Latest update: Summary - on 12 July, there were reports of violent clashes, including gunfire in the city of Gondar; the situation remains tense with reports of ongoing gunfire and disruption to services; you should check the local security situation, avoid crowded areas and remain vigilant if in the city
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to:
- within 10 km of the border with Eritrea, with the exception of the main road through Axum and Adigrat, and tourist sites close to the road (e.g. Debre Damo and Yeha)
- areas off the principal roads/towns within 10 km of the borders with Sudan and Kenya
- within 10 km of the border with South Sudan
- the Nogob (previously Fik), Jarar (previously Degehabur), Shabelle (previously Gode), Korahe and Dollo (previously Warder) zones of the Somali region.
- within 100 km of the Ethiopian border with Somalia and Kenya in the Afder and Liben zones of Ethiopia’s Somali region
- the Danakil desert area: north of the Mille-Djibouti and Mille-Chifra roads, and east of the towns of Bere-Ale, Shehet, Didigsala and Chifra
- the four woredas (districts) (Akobo, Wantawo, Jikawo and Lare) of the Nuer zone and the Jore woreda of the Agnuak zone of the Gambella region
The FCO advise against all but essential travel to:
- west and south-west Shewa zones in the Oromia region (this area includes the popular tourist destination of Wenchi Crater)
- Jijiga town
- three woredas of the Agnuak zone of the Gambella region that border on South Sudan (Dima, Goge and Etang) and the Gambella wildlife reserve
On 12 July, there were reports of violent clashes, including gunfire in the city of Gondar. The situation remains tense with reports of ongoing gunfire, disruption to services, damage to hotels and possible street protests. There have also been reports that the road from Gondar airport is closed. The situation may escalate and you should check the local security situation before considering any travel to the city. You should avoid crowded areas and remain vigilant if in the city. We are closely monitoring the situation and may issue further updates shortly. If you are planning to visit the area, you should check our travel advice for any further updates before travelling.
There have been reports of landslides and torrential rain in Kindo Didaye Woreda, Wolaita Zone, SNNP regional state and Bale Zone in Oromia regional state on 12 May, causing disruption to travel in the area. Landslides have also reportedly damaged the road linking Shashemene, Aje and Alaba and there are reports of extensive damage to the road between Arba Minch and Wolayita. In mid-April there were severe floods in parts of Ethiopia including Jijiga, the Jinka road in South Omo, Moyale on the Kenyan border, and parts of the Afar region. Check local reports and the weather conditions before travelling.
A cross-border raid on 15 April 2016 in Jikawo, part of the Gambella region on the border with South Sudan, resulted in 208 civilians being killed. There have also been reports of clashes between different groups in the Gambella region on 21 April 2016, resulting in 17 people being killed. Tensions remain high in the region with the possibility of further clashes.
There were reports of a hand grenade attack in Debre Zeit on Wednesday 30 March 2016. Check local reports before travelling to this area.
Widespread protests have occurred across the Oromia region in recent weeks; some have turned violent resulting in casualties and others have caused disruption to road travel. There is a heightened risk of travel across the region. You should very carefully check the latest security situation on the ground before travelling, and review your plans accordingly.
On Saturday 12 March there were reports of clashes that lead to the Konso authorities blocking the road leading to Yabelo and Jinka regions. Police have advised people not to travel until the issue is resolved and the road reopened. You should take extra care if you’re planning to travel within this region.
On the weekend of 13 to 14 February, there was a further serious outbreak of violence in the Shashemene and Langano areas, a few hours drive south of Addis Ababa. There have been wide spread clashes with local authorities and reports of vehicles being attacked.
In late January and early February 2016, ethnic tensions in Gambella city and surrounding areas have resulted in a number of casualties. Federal authorities have been deployed and a curfew imposed. The FCO already advise against all travel in 4 woredas of the Gambella region and against all but essential travel in a further 3. You should monitor local news media for further information before travelling, remain vigilant and take care in crowded areas.
There have been heavy clashes including gunfire between protesters and security forces on 17 December 2015 in Sululta, 20km north of Addis Ababa on the road to Bahir Dar. Localised clashes in the Galabat area resulted in the closure of the Metema-Galabat border post with Sudan on 15 and 16 December 2015 and further crossing point closures may occur.
There was an explosion at the Anwar Mosque in the Merkato area of central Addis Ababa on 11 December 2015.
There is a high threat from terrorism. There are credible reports that Al Shabaab plan, and have the capability, to attack targets in Ethiopia. In October 2014 the US Embassy in Addis Ababa issued a travel warning advising “those in Addis Ababa to avoid areas where both Ethiopians and westerners frequent”, and citing threat reports of Al Shabaab’s intent to target the Bole area of the city.
You should be vigilant at all times, especially in crowded areas and public places like transport hubs, hotels, restaurants, bars and places of worship and during major gatherings like religious or sporting events. There is a high threat of kidnapping in Ethiopia’s Somali region, particularly in the eastern areas to which the FCO advise against all travel. See Terrorism
Crime levels are low, but you should avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations and be alert to the risk of street crime. See Crime
The Ethiopia-Eritrea border remains closed. Several security incidents have taken place along the border. The risk of cross-border tensions remains. There is a threat of kidnapping along the border. See Local travel
Owning ivory is strictly prohibited in Ethiopia. Anyone caught in possession of ivory can expect to be detained by police. See Local laws and customs
Around 20,000 British nationals visit Ethiopia every year. Most visits are trouble free.
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.
Terrorism
There is a high threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places frequented by foreigners.
There was an explosion at the Anwar Mosque in the Merkato area of central Addis Ababa on 11 December 2015.
In October 2013, a bomb in Addis Ababa killed 2 people, and in November 2013, Ethiopian security officials said that they believed that terrorist groups plan to carry out attacks in Addis Ababa and other parts of Ethiopia. Further attacks are likely.
The terrorist group Al-Shabaab, although based in Somalia, poses a threat across the East Africa region. There are credible reports that Al Shabaab plan, and have the capability, to attack targets in Ethiopia, particularly in Addis Ababa, Jijiga and Dolo Odo. On 14 October 2014, the US Embassy in Addis Ababa issued a travel warning advising “those in Addis Ababa to avoid areas where both Ethiopians and westerners frequent”, and citing threat reports of Al Shabaab’s intent to target the Bole area of the city. You should be vigilant at all times, especially in crowded areas and public places like transport hubs, hotels, restaurants, bars and places of worship and during major gatherings like religious or sporting events.
In the past 4 years, Al Shabaab has claimed responsibility for attacks in Uganda, Djibouti and Kenya. The group continues to link attacks in the region to military presence in Somalia as part of an African Union peacekeeping mission, and continues to threaten all countries who have military forces in Somalia, which includes Ethiopian forces. The ultimate aim of Al-Shabaab is to establish an Islamic Caliphate in the wider region, including parts of Ethiopia.
A number of indigenous Ethiopian and ethnic Somali groups which operate in Ethiopia are actively engaged in a militant campaign against the Ethiopian government, with most of their activity centered on the Ogaden region.
There is a high threat of kidnapping in Ethiopia’s Somali region, particularly in the eastern areas to which the FCO advise against all travel. You should be vigilant, particularly in towns and cities in the Somali region of Ethiopia, even in areas where the FCO do not advise against all travel. In May 2014, there was an increase in incursions across the Ethiopian-Somali border with reports of large numbers of casualties.
There is considered to be a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant at this time.
Safety and security
Crime
Petty theft and mugging is common and on the rise. Take particular care when visiting crowded public places, especially at night. There have been incidents of assaults occurring around the Bole area at night. Keep valuables like cameras and passports out of sight. Be aware of the risk of pick-pocketing, and bag and jewellery snatching including from vehicles stopped at traffic lights in Addis Ababa. Incidents involving parked and unattended cars are on the increase. When parking in Addis Ababa, leave your car in a well lit and guarded area. Consider fitting anti-shatter film to all windows on your vehicle.
Large crowds are common on key national and religious dates. These include 7 January (Ethiopian Christmas); 19 January (Epiphany/’Timket’); 2 March (Victory of Adawa); 5 May (Ethiopian Patriots’ Victory Day); 28 May (Downfall of the Derg); 11/12 September (Ethiopian New Year); 27 September (The Finding of the True Cross/’Meskel’). Large crowds also gather on Ethiopian Easter; Eid (End of Ramadan); Eid Al Arafa and the Birthday of the Prophet Mohammed.
There have been a small number of cases of arbitrary detention of British nationals in Ethiopia in recent years. There is a risk that this could reoccur – particularly where tensions are heightened (for example around major events, or in locations that might be deemed sensitive for security reasons). You should carry copies of your passport and the contact details of the British Embassy, Addis Ababa at all times. This may help if you’re questioned or detained. However, you should be aware that the Ethiopian authorities have in many cases failed to meet their international obligations to notify Embassies when foreign nationals have been detained. Even if requested, adequate consular access is not always granted.
Local travel
When travelling outside Addis Ababa consider travelling in a party and leave details of your travel itinerary with a reliable person. Carry a comprehensive medical pack. Telephones, including the sole mobile network, are unreliable. Wherever possible do not leave vehicles unattended. The Entoto hills near Addis Ababa are a popular spot with tourists and expatriates but there has been a recent increase in break-ins on unattended vehicles. In January 2014 there was an attempted robbery against a lone female on the Entoto walking trail.
There have been widespread protests across the Oromia Region in recent weeks, some of which have reportedly turned violent and resulted in casualties, and others which have caused severe disruption to road travel.
Since September 2014, there have been reports of ethnic conflict between communities in the Gambella region. The clashes began in Mejenger Zone but recently have spread wider, including to Gambella town. Reports have stated that dozens of people may have died.
There is local instability, lawlessness, military activity and a general risk of banditry in the Somali region. Since the mid-1990s, insurgent groups, some affiliated with terrorist organisations, have clashed with government forces, particularly in the Ogaden. Foreigners have been caught up in the violence or targeted. There have been attacks on staff working for international NGOs. Avoid overnight stays unless you are in secure accommodation.
In December 2011, two Swedish journalists were found guilty of supporting terrorism having entered Ethiopia illegally from Somalia. Any journalist wishing to operate legitimately in Ethiopia should get the necessary accreditation.
The Ethiopian military attacked targets across the Eritrean border in March 2012. There is a risk of further violence close to the border between Ethiopia and Eritrea.
There are cross-border tensions in the Tigray and Afar regions and the security situation has deteriorated. Take great care if you travel on the road from Addis Ababa to Djibouti, including via Asaita, due the high number of road traffic accidents.
In January 2013, an Austrian tourist was shot and killed near Bahir Dar while camping near the Nile. This is an area popular with tourists.
In May 2012, a group of tourists were attacked while travelling in the Surma region near the Omo River between the towns of El Dima and Kibbish. This is an area popular with tourists visiting the Omo valley.
There is banditry in the areas bordering Sudan, South Sudan and Kenya. If you are crossing into Kenya or Sudan, keep to the main road and seek advice from local authorities about travelling in convoy.
There has been violence, inter-tribal clashes and armed attacks in the Gambella region. While foreigners have not been targeted, there is a risk of being caught up in the violence.
Health and Safety precautions like life jackets in boats or protective railings at historical sites are rarely in place in Ethiopia.
An attack on a passenger bus in the Benishangul-Gumaz Region on 15 April killed 9 people and wounded 6. There have also been reports of an inter-ethnic attack which left as many as 9 people dead on 18 May. Both events occurred in the Sherkole woreda (district).
Air travel
On 17 February, there were reports of a hijacking of an Ethiopian Airline flight leaving Addis Ababa for Rome. The flight later landed safely in Geneva.
Road travel
Under Ethiopian laws, drivers involved in car accidents can face severe punishments, including custodial sentences and fines.
Driving standards are poor, and traffic accidents are common and sadly often fatal. You should be very careful when travelling by car.
You should avoid driving after dark in rural areas: vehicles often have no lights and livestock may be roaming the roads.
Traffic accidents are a regular occurrence in Ethiopia and Addis Ababa specifically. If you are involved in a traffic accident you should remain with your vehicle and call the local police. You should avoid confrontation and await the arrival of the police to resolve the matter.
Political situation
Protests and demonstrations sometimes take place in Addis Ababa and other cities. In the past, some of these have become violent. You should avoid any protests or demonstrations.
Local laws and customs
There is a large Muslim population and generally Ethiopians dress in a conservative manner. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas.
In 2016, the holy month of Ramadan is expected to start on 6 June and finish on 5 July. See Travelling during Ramadan
The Ethiopian Highlands are mostly Orthodox Christian with ‘fasting’ each Wednesday, Friday and during Lent when only vegetarian dishes are available (except in larger hotels).
You will need an export certificate to take antiques out of the country, otherwise the items are likely to be confiscated and you may face prosecution.
Owning ivory is strictly prohibited. A number of British nationals found with ivory jewellery have had their items confiscated by authorities and fined between 5,000 – 25,000 birr. Homosexual acts (applying to both sexes) are illegal, and carry penalties of between 1 and 15 years imprisonment.
Drug offences are treated seriously in Ethiopia. Don’t become involved with drugs of any kind.
It is illegal to carry more than 200 birr when entering or leaving Ethiopia. If you are found to be carrying in excess of 200 birr the money will be seized and a prison sentence is possible.
You must declare to customs officials on entry or exit any cash in excess of $3,000 (or the equivalent in other foreign currencies)Travellers leaving Ethiopia with more than $3,000 must present a bank advice notice if the currency was purchased from a local bank or a valid customs declaration form obtained at the point of entry. A bank advice notice or customs declaration form becomes invalid if 45 days or more have elapsed since the date of issue.
Entry requirements
Visas
You will need a visa to enter Ethiopia. Visas on arrival are only available for tourists at Addis Ababa (Bole) or Dire Dawa International airports, at a cost of approximately $US50 for 1 month and $US75 for 3 months (Euros, US dollars and Ethiopian birr are all accepted). All other categories of visitor must get a visa from the Ethiopian Embassy closest to their place of legal residence before travelling. Penalties for overstaying your visa can be severe (see below - Immigration Status).
If you travel to Ethiopia as a tourist you won’t be able to take employment, including voluntary employment. If you are caught in breach of your immigration status you may face a severe fine or possible imprisonment.
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Ethiopia. Make sure you have two blank pages in your passport on arrival.
Yellow fever certificate
Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travellers who are arriving from, or have transited through, countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Immigration status
Once you are in Ethiopia you will not be able to change your immigration status. If you have any concerns about your immigration status in Ethiopia, you should contact the local immigration authorities:
Security, Immigration and Refugee Affairs Authority
P.O.Box 5741 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Telephone: (+251-11) 1553899
Tourist visitors to Ethiopia should be aware that they will be unable to take employment, including voluntary employment, whilst visiting Ethiopia on a tourist visa. If visitors are caught in breach of their immigration status they may face severe fines or possible imprisonment.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
UK Emergency Travel Documents are accepted for entry, airside transit and exit from Ethiopia.
Health
Visit your health professional at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. Country specific information and advice is published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre on the TravelHealthPro website and by NHS (Scotland) on the fitfortravel website. Useful information and advice about healthcare abroad is also available on the NHS Choices website.
There are a number of hospitals in Addis Ababa but only private hospitals offer a reasonable standard of basic care for minor health problems. Elsewhere, medical facilities (including dentistry) are extremely poor. You should carry a comprehensive medical pack when travelling out of Addis Ababa. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad, evacuation by air ambulance and repatriation.
In December 2013, an outbreak of dengue fever was reported in Dire Dawa City. In June 2013 an outbreak of Yellow Fever was reported in South Omo Zone and the World Health Organisation launched a mass-vaccination programme to contain the outbreak.
Malaria is common in areas of the country below 2,000 metres.
Bilharzia is present in the majority of lakes in Ethiopia.
Water-borne diseases are common. Drink or use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.
Addis Ababa sits at 2,400 metres above sea level.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 907 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Money
Credit cards are accepted at only a very few outlets in Addis Ababa. It is not normally possible to get currency advances against a credit card. Make sure you have an adequate supply of hard currency or travellers-cheques.
Contact FCO Travel Advice Team
This email service only offers information and advice for British nationals planning to travel abroad.
If you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad, contact the consular assistance team on 020 7008 1500 (24 hours).
If you’re abroad and need emergency help, please contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.
If you have a question about this travel advice, you can email us at TravelAdvicePublicEnquiries@fco.gov.uk
Before you send an email, make sure you have read the travel advice for the country you’re travelling to, and the guidance on how the FCO puts travel advice together.
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