Travel

Travel Note

Important Travel Tips

Traveling from the U.S. to Ethiopia is an exciting journey, but here is some general information you might want to know: flights from the U.S. to Ethiopia often may have a layover in Europe, Africa, or the Middle East, depending on your chosen airline. However, Ethiopian Airlines offers direct flights from Washington, D.C., or connecting flights from major U.S. cities, which is a popular and convenient choice. Direct flights from the U.S. to Addis Ababa take approximately 13-15 hours, but with layovers, travel time can extend to 18-20 hours. It's recommended to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight due to security and international check-in procedures. Keep in mind that Addis Ababa Bole International Airport can be busy, and baggage claim or customs may take some time, so be patient. When packing, ensure your valuables, such as your passport, important documents, jewelry, cash, and electronics, are always kept on your person to avoid loss or theft. It's also advisable to bring cash in U.S. dollars, as exchanging currency in Ethiopia is smoother with cash than relying on your credit card or debit card, which may not be widely accepted, especially outside major establishments. Once in Ethiopia, expect to go through visa and customs checks, so have your passport, visa, and travel documents easily accessible. Below, we will provide more information on all things related to your trip, including accommodation, safety, and cultural tips. (https://www.ethiotelecom.et/getting-started/)

Travel Note

e-Visa Inforrmation

Here is some important information regarding the eVisa process for US citizens: The Ethiopian Immigration and Nationality Affairs main Department, in collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines, offers an eVisa service for international visitors to Ethiopia. You can apply for the eVisa online. It's crucial to meet all visa requirements to apply for an Ethiopian eVisa successfully. The complete list of documents for an Ethiopian tourist visa for US citizens includes: • Passport with at least six months validity from the date you intend to enter the country. • A recent passport-size digital photo. • A valid credit card or debit card for visa fee payment. We recommend checking for the most up-to-date information and applying as early as possible. The application period varies and can often take longer than expected. eVisa link below

Flight

Flight Options: Routes, Layovers, and Tips for a Smooth Journey

Regarding flight options from the U.S. to Ethiopia, you can choose from several major airlines, each offering different routes and layover options. Ethiopian Airlines is a convenient and reliable option, providing both direct and one-stop flights from multiple cities across the U.S. Here are a few but not all detailed breakdowns of the cities serviced by Ethiopian Airlines: • Washington D.C. (IAD): Ethiopian Airlines offers daily direct flights to Addis Ababa, making it the most straightforward option with no layovers. • Atlanta (ATL): Direct flights are available three days a week, providing a convenient option for travelers in the southern U.S. • Chicago (ORD): Flights are also available three days a week. Stopping in Dublin, Ireland, before continuing to Addis Ababa. • Newark (EWR): Similarly, flights depart from Newark three days a week, typically stopping in Lomé, Togo, before heading to Addis. Turkish Airlines and EgyptAir offer excellent alternatives for those who prefer flying with layovers to explore additional destinations. Turkish Airlines has flights with a stop in Istanbul, which is a wonderful opportunity to explore the city during an extended layover. The airline is renowned for its service and modern fleet. Similarly, EgyptAir offers flights with a stopover in Cairo, perfect for travelers interested in visiting Egypt’s iconic landmarks. EgyptAir is known for its competitive pricing. Ethiopian Airlines is praised for its direct routes and extensive network within Africa, which is ideal for those looking for a straightforward journey or extended travel across the continent. Platforms like Ethiopian Airlines, Google Flights, Kayak, Expedia, and Skyscanner are excellent for booking flights and comparing prices. Book early to secure better rates and check baggage policies to avoid unexpected fees. Ethiopian Airlines may also offer stopover deals. Safe travels! ✈️🌍

Rental Car

VIP TAXI ETHIOPIA, VIP RIDE

Getting around Addis Ababa as a tourist is simple, with various transportation options, but VIP Taxi Ethiopia stands out for those seeking premium, reliable service. VIP Taxi offers a fleet of luxury vehicles, including Teslas, Mercedes, and high-end SUVs, designed to cater to international visitors and local elites. The service starts at 200 birr (around USD 2), with an additional charge of 150 birr (about USD 1.30) per kilometer. You can book a ride by calling 8678. For those planning ahead, you can reach VIP Taxi via WhatsApp for easier communication. Keep in mind that any delay in response could be due to the time difference between Ethiopia and your home country. To learn more or make reservations in advance, visit the link below. Other transportation options include yellow city taxis, where you’ll need to negotiate the fare since they don’t typically use meters, and ride-hailing apps like Ride and ZayRide, which offer consistent pricing. Shared minibus taxis run on fixed routes and are very affordable, though they can be tricky for tourists. Addis Ababa’s light rail system offers an inexpensive alternative, though it has limited coverage. Walking is another option in central areas like Piazza and Bole, and renting a car with a driver is also available for those seeking more flexibility. However, VIP Taxi is the best option for a hassle-free experience in Addis Ababa for tourists looking for comfort, reliability, and ease.

Hotel

Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa

Hotel

Sheraton Addis, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Addis Ababa