Page 1: Ethiopia visas, health, safety, when to go and money matters.
Page 2: Getting to Ethiopia including air, rail, and bus options.
Getting Around Ethiopia
In general the roads in Ethiopia aren't great and bus journeys are bumpy and long. If you don't have a lot of time on your hands, a few domestic flights can really make a difference. If you have less than 2 weeks, certainly take some flights, or you'll be spending the entire time on the road in a bus.
By Air
Ethiopian Airlines has a comprehensive domestic service and if you fly Ethiopian into the country, you can get some excellent discounts on your domestic flights.Scheduled flights include all destinations on the historical route -- Axum, Bahr Dar, Gondar and Lalibela. You can fly in between these destinations rather than heading back to Addis Ababa for a connection. {p] Most other domestic flights originate from Addis Ababa and include the following destinations: Arba Minch, Gambela, Dire Dawa, Jijiga, Mekele, and Debre Markos. For more information, destinations and to book flights see the Ethiopian Airlines web site.
By Bus
There are many bus companies in Ethiopia and between them they cover all the major towns. There is one Government bus service where you can actually book your seat (rather than first come first serve) but they tend to leave a little later than the private buses (which take off when full).It is illegal for passengers to stand in the aisles of the long-distance buses in Ethiopia, which makes for a relatively civilized bus experience. Buses also do not run at night which makes travel safer.
All the long-distance buses will leave early in the morning. Plan to get to the bus station by 6am. You can book your tickets in advance on most of the longer journeys. Otherwise, you can get your tickets on the day of departure, but beware of touts selling at inflated prices. Bus tickets will usually cost around $150 per 60 miles (100 km)
The Lonely Planet Guide to Ethiopia suggests getting a seat behind the driver if you like fresh air. Ethiopians are notorious for keeping their windows shut when traveling.
Minibuses, Taxis and Garis
Minibuses and taxis basically cover your transport within the bigger cities and towns, or for short distances between towns.Taxis are not metered and you'll have to bargain for the right fare. Ask your hotel manager what a reasonable fare should be before you set off.
Minibuses between towns can usually be caught at the bus station, but they can also be flagged down. They are a little more expensive than buses, but should get you to your destination quicker. The conductor (woyola) will shout out the final destination. You can recognize minibus taxis by their blue and white coloring scheme. Because minibuses ply a fixed route, the fare should be set.
Garis are horse-drawn carriages which is a great way to travel in the bigger towns and cities. The ride is cheap, but you'll have to master the local language to get to where you want to go. A Gari typically holds two passengers.
By Train
There is one railway line in Ethiopia connecting Addis Ababa with Dire Dawa (and then on to Djibouti City). There are differing reports as to whether this train is still functioning. However, things may improve in the next few years.If the train is running, it departs every 2-3 days and the journey can take up to 16 hours depending on conditions of the track etc. The trip itself is quite beautiful through desert landscapes. Get a 1st class seat; there are no couchettes or berths on the train. Click here for a recent trip report.
By Car
Touring Ethiopia by car eliminates the lengthy bus journeys somewhat, and allows you to see the beautiful scenery which you miss when you fly. Currently, you cannot hire a car without a driver in Ethiopia. You also have to rent a 4 wheel-drive vehicle to really get by on the roads.
Most Tour Operators in Ethiopia can arrange car-hire for you including:
- 13 Suns
- Green Land Tours
- Kibran Tour and Travel
- National Tour Operation and Travel Agency Enterprise Ethiopia
Taking a Tour
I don't often advocate tours over independent travel, but Ethiopia is perfect for a tour or two while you're there. The Omo River Region has to be explored, and the only way to get there is to take a tour. The historical tour will mean so much less if you don't go with a guide to explain the significance and history behind what you're seeing. Trekking, birding and white-water rafting are all excellent pursuits in Ethiopia and have to be planned with a tour company.The distances alone in Ethiopia make a tour worthwhile if you are short on time.
Tours will usually include transport, lodging and some meals. Most tours will include a domestic flight if they are less than 14 days. The rest of the time you'll be traveling in 4 wheel-drive vehicles.
Good Tour Companies in Ethiopia include:
- Ethiopian Rift Valley Safaris
- Solomon Berhe Tours
- 13 Suns
- Green Land Tours
- Kibran Tour and Travel
- National Tour Operation and Travel Agency Enterprise Ethiopia
You can also check infohub or the Africa Guide for a good list of tours from a variety of tour operators.
More Ethiopia Travel Information ...
Page 1: Ethiopia visas, health, safety, when to go and money matters.Page 2: Getting to Ethiopia including air, rail, and bus options.
Sources
Lonely Planet Guide to Ethiopia and Eritrea
Ethiopian Embassy in the US and the UK
Ethiopian Airlines
Ethiopia Travel Blogs -- travelblog.org and travelpod.com
