Ethiopia

Ethiopiahttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/africa/ethiopiaEthiopiahttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/latest-travel-warnings-and-alerts-for-ethiopiaWhat are the issues affecting travelers to Ethiopia. Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.2020-10-08T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/latest-travel-warnings-and-alerts-for-ethiopiahttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>Ongoing cholera outbreak in Ethiopia – February 2020</h2> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <p>Recurrent outbreaks of cholera in Ethiopia <a href="http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-02/15/c_138787126.htm" target="_blank">have resulted in the deaths of 76 people</a> and infected thousands of others since April 2019.</p> <p>The Ethiopian Public Health Institute reports that the outbreak has been particularly severe in the Somali, Southern and Oromia regional states of the country.</p> <p>Other regions affected by the outbreak include Tigray, <a href="/stories/discovery/the-chosen-path" target="_blank" title="Christmas Day celebrations in Lalibela">Amhara</a>, Harar, and the capital, Addis Ababa.</p> <h3>What is cholera?</h3> <p>According to the Centers for Disease Control and Protection, the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/cholera/general/index.html" target="_blank" title="CDC">cholera bacterium</a> is usually found in water or food sources that have been contaminated by feces from a person infected with cholera and <span>is unlikely to spread directly from one person to another</span>. An outbreak is most likely to spread in places with poor sanitation, water treatment, and inadequate hygiene.</p> <h3>What are the symptoms?</h3> <p>Severe cases of cholera are characterized by watery diarrhea and vomiting, which, if left untreated, lead to rapid loss of body fluids and dehydration. </p> <h3>How to avoid cholera</h3> <p>If you are traveling to <a href="/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/crime-in-ethiopia" target="_blank" title="Is Ethiopia safe?">Ethiopia</a> soon, <a href="/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/staying-healthy-in-ethiopia" target="_blank" title="How to Stay Healthy While Traveling in Ethiopia">exercise high levels of personal hygiene</a>. Speak to your travel doctor before you depart to see if a <a href="https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/vaccine-preventable-diseases/cholera" target="_blank">cholera vaccine</a> is recommended.</p> <p>If you get diarrhea, monitor your health closely and do not let it go untreated for too long – extreme cases can be deadly. Be extra cautious of where you eat, and only drink boiled or purified water. Say no to ice cubes in drinks.</p> <p>Carry hand sanitizer, and wash your hands whenever you can.</p> <p>Only eat food that is packaged or that has been freshly cooked and is served hot. Avoid fruit or vegetables that cannot be peeled, and don't eat raw salads.</p> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Before you buy a travel insurance policy, check your government travel warnings and health advice – there may be no travel insurance cover for locations with a government travel ban or health advice against travel.</em></p>Getty Images/Jakob Polacsek 1627478790 Getty Images At Africas largest outdoor market "Mercato Market" in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/safety-for-women-in-ethiopiaIs Ethiopia safe for women traveling alone? We asked Alicia Erickson to share eight travel safety tips. 2022-03-14T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/safety-for-women-in-ethiopiahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p><span>On 3 November 2020, fighting broke out in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region between local Tigray forces and the federal government. Although the conflict was contained to the Tigray region for several months, the fighting gradually spread to bordering regions as Tigray Defense Forces advanced into the Afar and Amhara regions in July 2021. </span></p> <p>Tigray, Afar, and Amhara are home to some of the most sought-after tourist destinations in northern Ethiopia, including the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela in Amhara and the dramatic salt flats and fiery volcanoes of the Danakil Depression in Afar. The Simien Mountains – a fantastic national park for trekking and endemic wildlife sightings – require traveling on roads being used by federal troops that border conflict zones and should also be avoided.</p> <p>On 2 November 2021, the Ethiopian government declared a state of emergency. Under this declaration, the government is able to impose curfews, restrict freedom of movement, and institute censorship, among other actions. Following a ceasefire request by the Tigray Defense Forces (TDF) in late December 2021, the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) claimed that it would not advance any further into the Tigray region.</p> <p><span>While the Ethiopian government proposed to end the state of emergency in late January 2022, the situation remains unstable in northern regions. Military conflict persists in Tigray and sections of Amhara and Afar, with the potential to escalate or spread with little warning. Telecommunications, electricity, and public services are limited in the Tigray region, making travel unpredictable and highly risky for foreign tourists. Many foreign companies evacuated their workers and ethnic violence and threats against Tigrayan citizens continues to be an ongoing issue. </span><span>Until the situation has a more obvious resolution, travel to and around Ethiopia’s northern regions should be avoided entirely.</span></p> <p>Travel in the rest of Ethiopia should be treated cautiously. Ongoing incidences of civil unrest, including protests and strikes, are occurring around Ethiopia. These incidences can cause roadblocks and closures, internet and cell phone network interruptions, and disruptions to transport and business operations.</p> <p>The capital, Addis Ababa, is relatively stable at the moment (March 2022), as is travel to southern regions of Ethiopia. This includes the popular Omo Valley, a region renowned for its vibrant tribes, as well as Dorze, one of my favorite areas in Ethiopia that is renowned for its dancing and is abundant in green hills and lake views. However, travel to these regions of Ethiopia should still be treated cautiously. Communication with locals living in the intended regions of travel is the best way to stay informed about localized travel and the on-ground situation.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#etiquette"> Gender roles in Ethiopia: What to expect </a></li> <li><a href="#do"> What women should and shouldn’t do in Ethiopia </a></li> <li><a href="#clothing"> What to wear in Ethiopia </a></li> <li><a href="#pack"> What to pack for Ethiopia </a></li> <li><a href="#nightlife"> Nightlife safety for women </a></li> <li><a href="#accommodation"> Accommodation safety tips </a></li> <li><a href="#transport"> How to get around Ethiopia safely </a></li> <li><a href="#caution"> Places to be cautious as a solo woman traveler </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="etiquette">1. Gender roles in Ethiopia: what to expect</h2> <p>About a year before my December 2019 trip, Ethiopia elected its first female president, Sahle-Work Zewde. Around the same time, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed appointed women to half the cabinet positions. While these political landmarks received praise on an international level, such change is still evolving locally. Outside of urban centers, gender roles remain largely traditional throughout the country.</p> <p>Women are commonly responsible for tending to the house and children. Aside from religious sites and the capital city of Addis Ababa, I rarely saw women outside of the house.</p> <p>I spent a number of afternoons with women learning how to make <em>injera</em> (bread) and to roast coffee in the Amharic highlands, providing an intimate window into their everyday lives.</p> <p>Dorze was the exception, where women were openly drinking, dancing, and smoking hookah at the local market. Men were generally much more visible in public, assuming roles such as tourist guides and drivers, operating weaving looms, and selling goods at the market.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/ethiopia/alicia-erickson/dorze-market-alicia-erickson.jpg" alt="Women in a market in Ethiopia" /> <figcaption>Women in Dorze market, Ethiopia. Photo credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="do">2. Etiquette tips: what women should and shouldn’t do in Ethiopia</h2> <p>There is not necessarily a “do” and “don’t” list, but be aware that tourism in many regions of Ethiopia is new. Male guides will be eager to offer you their services, which can be helpful, but use common sense when negotiating costs and maintaining a professional relationship. </p> <p>The cultural and geographic knowledge of the guides I met was irreplaceable, but I did encounter an eagerness to know about my personal life. Err on the side of caution if sharing contact details; I had my WhatsApp and social media networks abused by guides and artisans with whom I established a professional working relationship. </p> <p>There aren’t necessarily places women travelers can’t go, but you should be aware of cultural traditions, such as not eating meat during fasting periods.</p> <p>The continued internal conflict has added an additional level of uncertainty to travel in Ethiopia. It is important to monitor the on-ground situation closely in the country. Avoid travel in Tigray and northern regions highlighted in red, including parts of Amhara and Afar. While I typically am a huge advocate for solo travel, consider hiring local guides for activities like hiking. Guides can be especially important assets to understand where to go and not go, while navigating potential road closures and communications shutdowns.</p> <h3>Listen to The World Nomads Podcast: Ethiopia</h3> <iframe width="100%" height="190" src="https://webplayer.whooshkaa.com/episode/568785?theme=light&enable-volume=true" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe> <h2 id="clothing">3. What women should wear in Ethiopia</h2> <p>Similar to other countries in East Africa, it is best to dress conservatively in Ethiopia. I opted for long dresses and skirts, loose pants and tops. I always kept a lightweight scarf on hand to cover my head and shoulders when going into religious sites.</p> <p>The weather can vary drastically between regions. The highlands are extremely hot during the day and very cold after sunset. I piled on all my warm layers at night in the mountains.</p> <p>Ethiopia is known for its cotton weaving, so you can find an abundance of beautiful hand-woven scarves and blankets across the country, perfect both for warmth and cultural sensitivity.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/ethiopia/alicia-erickson/tukul-hut-amhara-region-alicia-erickson.jpg" alt="Stunning landscapes and a traditional Tukul hut in the Amhara region" /> <figcaption>A traditional Tukul hut in the Amhara region. Photo credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="pack">4. What to pack for Ethiopia</h2> <p>Due to the variable climate across regions, loose clothes during daytime and layers for nighttime are important.</p> <p>A compact down coat, hat, and gloves are recommended.</p> <p>Sturdy sandals and/or hiking boots are important. Even if you’re not trekking in the Simien Mountains, the highlands regions and the Danakil are rocky, mountainous areas, requiring a good pair of shoes.</p> <p>Running water is rare in rural regions, meaning facilities to wash hands and take showers are intermittent. I relied on hand sanitizer, hand and face wipes, and dry shampoo.</p> <p>Toiletries are scare, particularly outside of Addis Ababa, so come prepared with what you will need, including toothpaste and <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/worldwide/sustainable-travel-for-women">sanitary items</a></span>.</p> <p>Also bring ample sunscreen, which is very important for the Danakil Depression and the high altitude areas.</p> <p>Other items that came in handy included toilet paper, a headlamp, water purification tablets, and a quick drying towel.</p> <h2 id="nightlife">5. Nightlife safety for women</h2> <p>Outside of Addis Ababa, there is little nightlife in Ethiopia. You can find live music performances and local bars in areas such as Mekele and Lalibela, which are safe places to go out at night.</p> <p>In rural areas, join in at music and dance gatherings if they present themselves, but otherwise you’ll find the nights are quiet.</p> <p>In Addis, it is safe to walk around alone during the day but it’s best to take a taxi at night. Violent crime is rare, though petty crime such as pickpocketing can be an issue.</p> <h2 id="accommodation">6. Accommodation safety tips</h2> <p>Accommodation is extremely variable throughout the country. I camped in the Danakil, stayed in guesthouses in small towns, rented an Airbnb in Addis, and stayed in eco-friendly homestay-style homes in Dorze and the Amhara highlands. </p> <p>There is no fast and hard rule on this except to stay at official establishments when possible. The homestays I encountered provided separate <em>tukuls </em>(round, thatched huts) for each guest, so safety was never a concern. I didn’t experience camping in areas outside the Danakil, though I would not anticipate safety is a concern being in the mountain regions. The biggest concern is bringing enough warm clothes for the cold nights.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/ethiopia/alicia-erickson/women-selling-vegetables-lalibela-market-alicia-erickson.jpg" alt="Women in a market in Ethiopia" /> <figcaption>Wwomen selling vegetables at a market in Lalibela. Photo credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="transport">7. Travel logistics for women getting around Ethiopia</h2> <p><span>Domestic flights have been suspended across the Tigray region. Intermittent and often unpredictable road closures are an issue across Ethiopia. These closures are a result of security reasons as a defense against armed actors, or due to protests or military occupations. They aren’t necessarily limited to the north and closures can take place in Addis and commonly travelled roads throughout the country. These closures may happen with little to no notice and may impact overland travel. </span></p> <p>Ethiopia is a large country <a href="/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/getting-around-in-ethiopia" target="_blank" title="How to get around safely in Ethiopia">with a complicated transport system</a>. Local bus schedules are unclear and don’t necessarily include routes to places you want to go to.</p> <p>Booking private transfers is possible but can get expensive, especially if you are traveling alone. I booked my arrival flight on Ethiopian Airlines, which gave me significant discounts on local flights in a network that covers a number of regions.</p> <p>The best thing to do is to give yourself time and flexibility in your itinerary.</p> <p>Buses are possible with a bit of time and asking around. Even when I got stuck on a mountain road due to a truck accident blocking the path, I managed to find buses across the ravine taking passengers in the opposite direction.</p> <h2 id="caution">8. Places to be cautious as a solo woman traveler</h2> <p><span>Since my visit in 2019, the underlying political tensions erupted into a full-scale conflict that continues to impact the northern regions of Tigray, Amhara, and Afar. Violent uprisings and conflict</span><span> occur in these areas, which should be avoided. The border regions should be visited only with extreme caution and vigilant tracking of up-to-date realities on the ground.</span></p> <p>There are no places I would not recommend for solo women travelers, though keep in mind that foreign women are likely to attract more attention and stares than men. This holds true both in rural areas, where there is a lack of exposure to tourists, as well as in city centers, where I would frequently be stopped on the streets by men wanting to engage in conversation. I met numerous travelers who had rocks thrown at them while cycling through remote areas of Ethiopia. However, I hiked through rural villages and was often welcomed in for coffee and lunch.</p> <p><a href="/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/crime-in-ethiopia" target="_blank" title="Is Ethiopia Safe?">Political tensions can be an issue in Ethiopia</a>. When I was there at the end of 2019, there was a lot of political discussion around the new party in power. The country is largely divided along ethnic divides, which can result in regional instability.</p> <p>Significant internal displacement was occurring as a result of famine and political conflict, though this would not necessarily impact the everyday traveler in the common areas of tourism.</p> <p>Border regions are also best avoided, though likely will not be an issue for most travelers unless intending to take an extensive overland, cross-country excursion.</p> <h3>Have you traveled to Ethiopia as a solo woman? Share your experience with us below!</h3>Alicia Erickson 0 Alicia Erickson

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/staying-healthy-in-ethiopiaEthiopia is a high-risk country for travelers when it comes to health and hygiene. Find out how to avoid getting sick with these tips.2019-11-18T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/staying-healthy-in-ethiopiahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>If you are planning to travel to Ethiopia, be prepared before arriving in the country. Remember: prevention is better than treatment.</p> <h2>Poor medical facilities and access to help in Ethiopia</h2> <p>The biggest health concern for anyone traveling in Ethiopia is the obvious lack of treatment or emergency health.</p> <p>Even in the capital, Addis Ababa, medical facilities are very limited and generally inadequate.</p> <p>Access to medical help gets even worse when you leave the capital city. This shortage of medical assistance is also an issue if there's an emergency situation. Ambulances and helicopters to take you to hospital can be unreliable and very expensive.</p> <p>The best way to avoid requiring medical care is to do all you can to avoid getting sick.</p> <p><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/first-aid-kit" target="_blank" title="What Should be in Your Travel First Aid Kit?">Pack a travel first-aid kit</a> with medications for pain, plus for common cold and flu, and antibiotics you can only get from home.</p> <p><strong><a href="/travel-insurance/" target="_blank" title="Travel Insurance">Don't leave home without travel insurance</a>. We suggest you check your government’s travel advisory for their latest advice on travel to Ethiopia and <a href="https://helpdesk.worldnomads.com/customer/en_au/portal/articles/2404691-what-countries-are-covered-by-world-nomads-travel-insurance-?b_id=12919" target="_blank" title="Which countries does World Nomads cover">read about which countries World Nomads travel insurance includes coverage for</a>.</strong></p> <h2>Mosquito-borne diseases in Ethiopia</h2> <p>Make sure you are vaccinated against yellow fever before going to Ethiopia. You will need to show proof of your vaccination when you enter the country if you have been to a place where it is present.</p> <p>Prior to visiting, make sure you speak to a doctor about malaria medication and if it's right for you, and take medication as prescribed. Ethiopia is a high-risk location for malaria infection. You are at most risk below 6,500ft (2,000m) in elevation, and there is no risk in Addis Ababa. </p> <p>If you are not on anti-malarial medication, cover up at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, when hiking in forested areas or near stagnant water, and ask if your accommodation has mosquito nets if you are staying in a location that doesn't have flyscreens on the windows.</p> <p>Always carry insect repellent and give your room or tent a good spray each night before bed. Try to wear light-weight, long-sleeved clothing at all times to be extra cautious.</p> <h2>Altitude sickness in Ethiopia</h2> <p>Ethiopia is a very mountainous country, and <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-deal-with-altitude-sickness" target="_blank" title="Altitude Sickness: What Every Traveler Needs to Know">high altitudes can cause health problems for even the fittest of travelers</a>.</p> <p>Altitude sickness can affect anyone, even trained athletes. Fitness only goes so far when you are climbing mountains.</p> <p>Addis Ababa is the third-highest capital city in the world, at an altitude of 7,700ft (2,355m). Some travelers may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, headaches and an inability to sleep within the first few days of arriving. When you arrive, take it slow, drink lots of water, avoid exertion, take it easy carrying your backpack around. Give it a few days to acclimatize to the high altitude before you start getting active.</p> <p>If you have respiratory problems (including asthma) or a heart condition, consult with a doctor before traveling to Ethiopia.</p> <h2>Water sanitation in Ethiopia</h2> <p>An important tip for all travelers is to avoid swimming in any lakes, rivers, or still bodies of water in Ethiopia. Most bodies of water here have been found to contain parasites.</p> <p>Ethiopia also has <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/travelers-diarrhoea-health-tips" target="_blank" title="How to treat traveler's diarrhea">outbreaks of acute diarrhea</a>, and is one of the five leading causes of death in the country. The country also sees recurring cases of cholera, typhoid, and other bacterial diarrhea, and you should be aware the conditions for outbreaks exist in both urban and rural locations.</p> <h2>Food poisoning in Ethiopia</h2> <p>When it comes to eating, the number one rule is to boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it – and this rule applies when traveling in Ethiopia.</p> <p>Only eat food that has been well-cooked, fruit that can be peeled, and avoid menu items like salads. If you want to be really careful, you might even want to avoid eggs, yogurt or milk, or only eat vegetarian meals.</p> <p>It's recommended you eat seafood with caution in Ethiopia due to <a href="https://www.iamat.org/risks/ciguatera-fish-poisoning" target="_blank" title="What is Ciguatera Fish Poisoning">Ciguatera fish poisoning</a>. If you start to feel unwell within eight hours of eating, seek medical help as soon as possible.</p> <h3>Listen to The World Nomads Podcast: Ethiopia</h3> <iframe width="100%" height="190" src="https://webplayer.whooshkaa.com/episode/568785?theme=light&enable-volume=true" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe>Getty Images/Mariusz Kluzniak 1569719815 Getty Images Colorful grocery and camel market in Ethiopia

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/crime-in-ethiopiaEthiopia is a relatively safe country, but here's what you need to know about crime, scams and pickpockets before you go.2019-11-20T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/crime-in-ethiopiahttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#safe"> How safe is Ethiopia? </a></li> <li><a href="#scams"> Travel scams in Ethiopia </a></li> <li><a href="#weather"> When to visit Ethiopia </a></li> <li><a href="#danger"> Where not to go in Ethiopia </a></li> <li><a href="#pickpocket"> Beware of pickpocketing in Ethiopia </a></li> <li><a href="#crime"> Road safety in Ethiopia </a></li> <li><a href="#hiking"> Outdoor adventure safety in Ethiopia</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="safe">How safe is Ethiopia for travelers?</h2> <p>Ethiopia is currently experiencing civil unrest. Stay up to date with the situation and consider changing your plans if need be.</p> <p>There are frequent incidences of civil unrest in Ethiopia, including protests and strikes. In November 2019 there is civil unrest in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples' Region, including Hawassa/Awasa.</p> <p>A referendum on potentially forming a new regional state will be held in the Sidama Zone of Ethiopia's Southern Nations Region on 20th November 2019. Demonstrations could occur before, during and after the referendum.</p> <p>Street protests have turned violent in the past, so if you see a protest, walk the other way.</p> <p>Ethiopia is fairly safe when it comes to crime. All African nations will hold some degree of risk, and most of all it's important to watch your back, not show outrageous displays of wealth, and be discreet with your valuables. Try to <a href="/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/safety-for-women-in-ethiopia" target="_blank" title="Women's safety">walk with confidence</a>, like you know where you are, and be comfortable with changing your plans if something becomes unsafe or risky.</p> <h2 id="scams">1. Scams in Ethiopia</h2> <p>Never accept an invitation from someone on the streets of Addis Ababa to join them at a 'gathering' – especially if they try to assure you it will be free. Most of the time this scam involves chat (khat) chewing, or someone guiding you around at no cost, but then they tell you how much you owe them after their kind gesture has come to an end. </p> <p>Students will join your walking tour in order to practice their English, but at some point, they will begin asking you for money so they can pay for books or shoes. These students are persistent, but not aggressive, but do not give them money.</p> <p>When World Nomads' Ellen Hall was hiking to a rock church in the Gheralta region, a local guide was hired to help assist them up the rocky slope. When he asked for money, the lead guide told her not to give him more money, as he was already being paid.</p> <h2 id="weather">2. Safest time of year to visit Ethiopia</h2> <p>Peak tourist season in Ethiopia is from late September to January when temperatures are pleasant, skies clear and rainfall low in most parts of the country.</p> <p>The rainy season lasts from June to September but won't cause too much disruption to your plans. During this time you will see fewer tourists and greener landscapes. June and July are the wettest months, especially in the north – so avoid this time of year if you want to hike in the Simien Mountains.</p> <p>As the country is situated on a high plateau, temperatures at higher altitudes are typically lower than at sea level. In Ethiopia's lower-lying regions, temperatures are warmer.</p> <p>Pack a mixture of warm and cool climate clothing to be on the safe side.</p> <h2 id="danger">3. Dangerous places to avoid in Ethiopia</h2> <p>Ethiopia is a tribal country. It's common for outbreaks of violence to occur in some parts of the country, but not directly affect other areas of Ethiopia. It's important travelers are aware of any unrest, and to know which locations are listed as Do Not Travel or Reconsider Your Need to Travel.</p> <p>Stay up to date with your government's travel advisory prior to leaving for your trip, and sign up for alerts so that you are across the situation. Be aware the internet connection in Ethiopia is not reliable.</p> <p>If you do see large crowds of protestors, <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/safety-advice-civil-unrest" target="_blank" title="How to stay safe during civil unrest">avoid them at all costs</a>.</p> <p>Travelers should avoid all border regions with Kenya, South Sudan, Sudan or Eritrea, and not travel to the Somali region in the east to avoid the threat of violence and conflict.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/ethiopia/panoramic-view-of-addis-ababa-gettyimages-904630600.jpg" alt="A panoramic view of a city from above, mountains in the distance and many cars on the streets" /> <figcaption>Panoramic view of the airport road area in Addis Ababa where most of the foreign embassies and consulates are located. Photo credit: Getty Images/Emad Aljumah</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="pickpocket">4. Pickpocketing in Ethiopia</h2> <p>The ancient art of pickpocketing is a constant threat in Ethiopia and is the most common crime travelers will experience.</p> <p>'Snatch and run' thefts, including from occupied vehicles, and other petty crimes are common in the capital, Addis Ababa.</p> <p>Remain cautious and aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables out of sight and don't dress in flashy clothing. Pickpocketing is usually a crime of opportunity rather than a planned attack. </p> <p>When it comes to specific areas to watch out for, exercise caution in crowded streets, and be extra careful while walking around the Mercato in Addis Ababa where pickpockets may operate.</p> <p>Criminals will be looking for an easy score on national and religious dates – so check out the festival calendar before you go.</p> <h2 id="crime">5. Crime on the roads</h2> <p>Travelers should be cautious at all times <a href="/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/getting-around-in-ethiopia" target="_blank" title="How to get around Ethiopia safely">when traveling on roads in Ethiopia</a>.</p> <p>There have been reports of highway robbery, including carjacking, by armed thieves outside urban areas. Some incidents have been accompanied by violence.</p> <p>If you need to travel by road, be cautious and limit road travel outside major towns or cities to daylight hours and travel in convoys.</p> <p>When driving, be wary of other motorists warning you of a mechanical problem or loose tire. This may be a scam used by thieves to get you to stop the vehicle.</p> <p>Most of all, be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times to ensure that you aren't being followed.</p> <h2 id="hiking">6. Hiking safely at high altitudes</h2> <p>Ethiopia has high and rugged mountains, deep valleys and sweeping plains. Its altitudes range from the highest peak of Ras Dashen at 15,157ft (4,620m) to the Danakil Depression at 485ft (148m) below sea level.</p> <p>Hiking and trekking are popular among travelers to Ethiopia, and whether you're going for a day hike or multi-day trek, it's important you are prepared for all the elements.</p> <p>In the Simien Mountains National Park you must hike with a certified guide, as well as a licensed armed guard. This means you cannot set off and go hiking alone. There are a number of trails that can take anywhere from two days to two weeks to complete, so keep this in mind while planning the right trek for your level of fitness.</p> <p>The Simien Mountains, the rock churches in the Gheralta Mountains, Lalibela Highlands and the Sanetti Plateau are just a few of the popular destinations to go to for an outdoor adventure. When you visit high elevation areas such as the Simien Mountains or Bale Mountains, you will <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-deal-with-altitude-sickness" target="_blank" title="Altitude Sickness: What Every Traveler Needs to Know">need to acclimatize and stay hydrated on your trip</a>. It's important you do your research and make sure you're aware of the risks.</p> <h3>Listen to The World Nomads Podcast: Ethiopia</h3> <iframe width="100%" height="190" src="https://webplayer.whooshkaa.com/episode/568785?theme=light&enable-volume=true" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe>Getty Images/ICHAUVEL 1600644498 Getty Images A priest in front of a colorful Church in Axum northern Ethiopia Located in the Mehakelegnaw Zone of the Tigray Region near the base of the Adwa mountains

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/getting-around-in-ethiopiaA lack of infrastructure, public transport and good roads makes most of the continent difficult for travelers. This is what you need to know about getting around Ethiopia safely.2019-11-18T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/africa/ethiopia/getting-around-in-ethiopiahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>This is what you need to know about <a href="/stories/discovery/the-chosen-path" target="_blank" title="Photo essay: Christmas Day celebrations in Lalibela, Ethiopia's holiest city">getting around Ethiopia safely</a>.</p> <h2>How safe are the roads in Ethiopia?</h2> <p>Ethiopia has a high rate of traffic fatalities, and driving is not for the inexperienced or nervous driver. Excessive speed, unpredictable local driving habits, pedestrians and livestock make driving in Ethiopia dangerous. There is also very little concern for the safety standards of vehicles in the country, which leads to further hazards on Ethiopian roads.</p> <p>Ethiopian roads are poorly maintained, badly marked and have limited lighting for drivers at night.</p> <p>If you choose to rent a car and drive around Ethiopia, prepare for some <a href="/stories/fear/trouble-in-baboon-territory" target="_blank" title="In the wilds of Ethiopia, a moment of solitude turns into the surprise of a lifetime">nerve-wracking, bumpy rides</a>.</p> <p>Avoid driving at night outside urban areas, as it can be dangerous due to broken down vehicles, animals crossing the roads, and potential roadblocks, plus the threat of armed robbery.</p> <p>Be extra cautious and study the route you intend on driving before setting out to avoid any distractions. Ask locals or accommodation staff for advice on the best routes to take if offline, downloaded maps are unreliable.</p> <h2>Public transport in Ethiopia</h2> <p>Rideshare apps aren't popular in Ethiopia due to poor internet connectivity, so taxis are still one of the best ways to get around. Try to use metered yellow taxis, which are in a better condition than blue or white taxis.</p> <p>Public transport in Ethiopia can be unreliable, however, <a href="http://skybusethiopia.com/site/feedback" target="_blank" title="Skybus Ethiopia">Skybus</a> and <a href="https://selambus.net/" target="_blank" title="Selam bus - Ethiopia">Selam</a> are two comfortable bus companies, and operate between Addis Ababa and a few other major hubs around the country.</p> <p>Minibusses run like taxis and are a cheap and fast way to get around cities. However, they are often in disrepair and aren't the safest method of transport. Try to avoid using minibusses at night for your own safety.</p> <h2>Tips for driving in Ethiopia</h2> <p>Be smart if you get behind the wheel in Ethiopia. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are driving:</p> <ul> <li>Always carry spare tires, fuel, and tools to repair any damage on long trips, as there is no roadside assistance</li> <li>Keep your doors locked and windows closed</li> <li>Keep bags, purses, and valuables out of sight – place them in the trunk, on the floor, or in the glove compartment</li> <li>Never open your doors or windows to speak to someone on the street, especially beggars; <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/to-give-or-not-to-give-which-donation-is-best" target="_blank" title="To Give or Not to Give: Which Donation is Best?">never give to beggars</a>.</li> </ul> <h2>Land mine danger</h2> <p>While traveling during the day, on paved and unpaved roads, is generally considered safe, land mines and other anti-personnel devices can be encountered on isolated dirt roads that were targeted during various conflicts, especially along the Eritrean border.</p> <p>Before you do any off-road travel in Ethiopia, it is important you ask locals authorities to ensure the area has been cleared of mines. Better yet, avoid going off-road on your own – this is best done with a reliable, trustworthy tour operator.</p> <h3>Listen to The World Nomads Podcast: Ethiopia</h3> <iframe width="100%" height="190" src="https://webplayer.whooshkaa.com/episode/568785?theme=light&enable-volume=true" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe>Getty Images/Dan Gold 1914144958 Getty Images Driving on a road in Ethiopia looking out of a car, with mountains in the distance