FAQs and General InformationFAQs and General Information

Question

What should I wear?What should I wear?

Answer

Ethiopia is a religious, conserved country, in April it can get pretty hot during the day, even so modest clothing is definitely recommended, it does get windy and chilly at night so a light jacket or two is recommended. Please note: Many Ethiopians will be dressed in traditional attire for one or both of the events , These dresses and Garbs (Men) can be bought in many stores, ready made, for prices starting from 40$, close members of the family traditionally wear different styles of traditional dresses and Garb(Men) with one matching pattern/color to distinguish them, these are made custom, and the prices start at about 100$, and vary depending on the style and type of material you decide to pick, Please know that this is completely optional, We would be honored if you would like to participate and wear a matching traditional garb for the wedding, if so please feel free to reach out to us and we will be happy to discuss it further and assist in any way we can!

Question

Do Places take Credit Cards?Do Places take Credit Cards?

Answer

Outside of hotels and ATMs, not a lot of places take credit cards. We would really recommend bringing cash and exchanging currency in the airport (around where you get your visa) or at your hotel or through a bank to the local currency ,called Ethiopian Birr (or birr for short, ETB).

Question

What if I forget something?What if I forget something?

Answer

If you forget anything, there are supermarkets and pharmacies around but we would suggest you bring any medicines or household items with you as you may not be able to find the items or specific brands you prefer.

Question

Are all foods safe to consume?Are all foods safe to consume?

Answer

No, we wouldn’t recommend you consume any raw fruit, raw vegetable, raw meat or any non-pasteurized products like creamer, milk and/or yogurt while here, It may take some getting used to and Its just better to err on the side of caution. You may bring any dairy product you may need (like coffee creamer *they can be found in powder form for easy safe travel) with you if necessary.

Question

What is the electricity voltage?What is the electricity voltage?

Answer

Ethiopia’s electricity is 220V/50hz with European two prong cylindrical plugs, you might need an adaptor.

Question

What is the phone and Internet situation like?What is the phone and Internet situation like?

Answer

Telecom in Ethiopia is decent but not great. You should be able to use your international phone here, to make and receive phone calls without having to buy a local SIM card. You may want to check your with your network provider about coverage and roaming charges before doing so. If you have an unlocked phone that accepts SIM cards, you should be able to buy or rent a prepaid SIM card at the airport, I recommend buying one before leaving the airport. Most hotels and Guest houses in Addis Ababa have Wi-Fi for room guests and many of the cafes in the areas where you will be staying have Wi-Fi as well. You should be able to access internet via your phone as well. Internet speeds are okay but not consistent. You will be able to make video calls but expect calls to drop from time to time.

Question

What's the Weather Going to be like?What's the Weather Going to be like?

Answer

In Ethiopia, April is the end of summer, at night we can get lows of 57 degree Fahrenheit but with the fall breeze, it can feel colder than actual temperature, and during the day you can expect highs of 79 degree Fahrenheit, with the strong rays of sun, it can get quiet hot so strong sun screen is highly recommended.