Flight
Please book your flights to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, airport code ADD. Most major international airlines have flights into ADD although most have one or more stops, We have direct flights from Atlanta and Washington DC (IAD) a few times a week through Ethiopian Airlines, we are also able to get discounts if booked in groups. Please keep in mind that even with direct flights you will land there a day later, the flights are over 12 hours and Ethiopia is 8 hours ahead, so please arrange flights accordingly.
Travel Note
American passports do not need a Visa in-advance, although we recommend it, and can get one on-arrival, You must have at least six months left on your passport after the date you plan to enter Ethiopia. If you decide to get a visa on arrival, they usually require you to pay in foreign currency in cash so please bring USD in the amount that you are required to pay, Exact change would make your life easiest but they will also give you change back in local currency. Please check the Ethiopian Embassy website for further details on visa information: https://ethiopianembassy.org You may also get E-visa in advance by applying online with the link below, payment can be made via credit card and will be able to skip the visa line completely, We recommend this option as it makes the entrance process a bit easier which can be helpful after a long flight. Please check the Ethiopian Embassy E-Visa website for further details and application:
Travel Note
Addis Ababa is considered the diplomatic capital of Africa and has one of the largest expat populations in the world. Even so, we recommend that you have your vaccinations up to date. If you are traveling to other countries before or after Ethiopia you will most likely need a yellow card (Yellow Fever vaccine) to enter the second location, if you are flying straight to Ethiopia and back then no vaccination is needed altho some are lightly recommended. Please check the CDC’s website for their recommendations and use your discretion:
Travel Note
We will provide transportation to/from the events and the airport, We can also plan group outings where transportation will be hired by us in advance, but if you’d like to go site seeing in town or grab a meal privately, we recommend you use these options; 1.Hotel taxi’s (Arranged through your hotels, pre agreed pricing to avoid confusion) 2. We have a few ride share apps as well, they are safe to use, you have the option to pay cash (in Ethiopian currency) at the end of ride, the average person’s English proficiency is low but the total payment will be shown on the app on your phone to avoid confusion, the app is in English and quiet easy to use. *a small tip is customary but not required. Average trip cost est. 5$ 3. Private drivers/ tour guides can be hired in advance, it is possible to book for the specific times/days you plan to use it, We are available to assist with this and any anything else to make this a great trip for you all. Rental cars are likely not a good option for a multitude of reasons, primarily because of the lack of street names, gps lags and inaccuracy , the traffic can be very hectic and traffic laws aren’t well respected. If you are still interested in driving here, you can use your foreign driver’s license and use one of the many car rentals, although we urge you not to. Decent public transportation is still virtually non-existent, not safe and is not recommended.
Hotel
Sheraton Hotel in Addis Ababa is a luxurious five-star property offering modern accommodations and exceptional service. Located in the heart of Ethiopia's capital, it features spacious rooms, multiple international elegant dining options in hotel, and world-class amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool, Its conveniently located across the street from Thursdays event, its definitely one of the more expensive hotels in Addis.
Hotel
Bellevue Hotel in Addis Ababa is a charming and well-established hotel that's more Cost-effective on a mountain top with phenomenal views of the city offering comfortable accommodations with a blend of modern amenities and warm hospitality. Situated in a convenient location within the city, it provides guests with spacious rooms, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and excellent service. It is also located walking distance from the brides parents home where a couple of the events will be held. These two are just the start of many amazing, affordable hotels all over Addis, please feel free to book any one of them.
Hotel
Hotel in Addis Ababa with a full-service spa and free breakfast, it is fair priced and also where the Saturday event will be hosted.