Ethiopia Travel Guide

Ethiopia travel tips & advice

Ethiopia is officially known as Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and is one of the oldest countries in the world, dating back to 1000 B.C. It is a landlocked country in the Horn of Africa. The capital is Addis Ababa and Eritrea, Sudan, Kenya, Somalia, Djibouti border it. Being one of the oldest countries in the world, it is filled with all sorts of history, political and otherwise. A couple of known facts include:
* Joined as a member of the League of Nations in 1923
* Signed the Declaration by United Nations in 1942
* Was one of the original 50 countries to join the United Nations

Visas are required for the United States and some European countries. These can be obtained at the airport in Addis Ababa by showing proof of passport, two photos, money, and time; processing can take over two hours.

If entering Ethiopia by road most choose come from Kenya. There are other border points available, though. Dewale and Galafi, Djibouti and Humera and Matema, Sudan offer entranceways.

Once you are in Ethiopia, you have choices of transportation:
* Car – Traffic drives on the right and the area has a good network of all weather roads within the cities. A 4×4 will be needed otherwise, but take note that there tends to be a fuel shortage outside of the cities. A valid International Driver’s License is needed.
* Bus and Taxi – Buses are available but tend to take longer as they wait for enough travelers for a safety convoy. Taxis are available in the capital and are marked with blue and white markings. Shared taxis are available at less cost. All taxi prices should be negotiated.