It’s not often I return to a country more than once.

In fact, it’s basically never.

There’s just too much other stuff to see in the world.

But once, just once, I had to make an exception and that exception was, of course, for my beloved Ethiopia.

Yes here I am, back in the horn of Africa, my second visit in under 3 months!

Can you believe it?!

Well if you were following my journey at the end of last year, probably you can, because you’ll know I fell head over heels in love with this country and met so many great people.

Indeed I felt called to return.

So now having spent 2 months here, and explored most of the country, I’m definitely getting to grips with some of the weird and wonderfully workings of it!

And how weird and wonderful it is!

Here is my comprehensive list of everything you need to know about travel in Ethiopia.

#1 There’s 9 UNESCO Sites

The largest number of any African country, Ethiopia has 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and all of them are worth visiting!

Perhaps this figure gives you an insight into just how incredible this country’s landscape and culture is!

#2 Amharic is the National Language

Related to Arabic and Hebrew, Amharic is a Semitic language, but possesses its own alphabet and sounds.

Trying to get to grips with it can be an interesting experience!

Besides Amharic there are 83 other languages spoken in Ethiopia that are both regional and tribal and most Ethiopians speak 2 or 3 as a result.

Thankfully, English is widely understood, especially amongst young people and those in the tourism industry!

#3 They’ve Got Their Own Time System

It’s a common maxim that Ethiopians like to do things their own way and the fact that they have their own calendar and time system is a good indicator of this!

Using the Julian calendar, Ethiopia’s month, dates and years are vastly different from the international model.

Their clock also runs differently – namely 6 hours apart the western clock – because their days begins at 12 o’clock, when the sun rises at our 6am!

#4 It’s Safe

Despite what you might think, Ethiopia is incredibly safe, even for solo female travellers.

I’ve never been harassed or had any trouble, even in the capital Addis Ababa.

In fact, I’ve rarely felt more looked after!

Possibly this is something to do with most Ethiopians being devotedly religious people and a cultural expectation that the highest respect and hospitality be shown to visitors.

#5 Everything Closes for Lunch

Don’t try to do any errands between the hours of 12pm and 2pm in Ethiopia, everything shuts down for lunch and you’ll end up just wasting time!

This comes from the voice of experience!

#6 Guides Are Great

I’m never one for taking tours or guides, but in Ethiopia it really is a wise decision to do so.

Getting to grips with the history of the country is near impossible without one, and in many towns, learning about the history will be the whole reason you’re there!

I took guides in Axum, Harar and Lalibela and found them all fantastic.

In some parts of the country, guides or tours are also required for example, if you’re heading the Danakil Depression, Simien Mountains or Omo Valley.

In some other cases, it’s almost impossible to get to places without a tour or guide including the Lake Tana Monasteries or the Tigray churches.

#7 It’s Not As Cheap As You’d Hope

Largely because of the need for guides and tours, Ethiopia is not SUPER cheap (read. it’s still pretty cheap) to travel in.

Accommodation costs can mount up, as can the long domestic travel distances and “tourist tax” is common!

Food and drinks however remains crazily cheap and delicious!

#8 You Gotta Go with the Flow

This is Africa, so expect disorganisation, chaos and plans that quickly change when you’re in Ethiopia!

Trust me, it’s much easier if you’re flexible, just accept the current situation and go with the flow.

Getting stressed and angry won’t change anything and you’ll only end up not enjoying yourself!

Visas

#9 Get Your Tourist Visa at the Airport

Many nationalities are now offered visas on arrival at Addis Ababa Bole Airport – check your local foreign embassy for confirmation.

If you qualify, simply arrive at the international airport and pay $50 USD for 30 days as a tourist.

(Some nationalities require exit flight tickets, so check this too.)

Longer visas are also possible for more money.

Please note, if you’re coming overland, you’ll have to get an eVisa in advance – see below.

#10 eVisa Are Handy

You can also get an eVisa before arrival at Addis Ababa airport.

In recent years, this system has been streamlined and now equals a much smoother and quicker process for tourists on arrival.

If you do decide to go down this route, only use the official government website to get your Ethiopia eVisa.

eVisas are now accepted at all Ethiopian land borders too.

#11 Multiple Entry Visas No Longer Available

It seems the rules have recently changed on multi-entry visas to Ethiopia… they are no longer being issued.

What to Pack

 

#12 Bring Your European Adapter

The European 2-pin plug is used throughout Ethiopia, so make sure you pack the correct travel adapter.

#13 Prepare for Cold Evenings

Due to the high altitude at which most of the country sits at, Ethiopia can get cold in the evenings, therefore packing several pairs of long trousers, as well as sweaters, scarfs and some thick socks is a great idea.

I love this travel scarf, which would be ideal for Ethiopia.

 

There’s tons of great hiking opportunities in Ethiopia, so make sure you come prepared.

Hiking boots with good grip are a must, especially if you’re venturing into Simien Mountains, Bale Mountains or Danakil Depression.

I always recommend Keen Targhee II as some of the best and most affordable hiking boots on the market.

About the Author: Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a budget travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie backpacks the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile More from this author.