What is the best time to visit Ethiopia?

The best time to visit Ethiopia depends on your priorities. Many travellers visit year-round, though spring and autumn typically offer pleasant weather and smaller crowds at popular attractions. Check weather patterns for Africa before booking.

What currency does Ethiopia use?

Ethiopia uses the Ethiopian birr (Br). Exchange at banks or airports, and withdraw from ATMs with your debit card. Credit cards are accepted in most tourist areas.

What food should I try in Ethiopia?

Ethiopia has a rich food culture shaped by its history and geography. Ask locals for their favourite spots — the best food rarely needs advertising.

How many countries can visit Ethiopia visa-free?

2 countries can enter Ethiopia without a visa, typically for up to 90 days. 117 more get a visa on arrival. Check the full list and your specific requirements above.

Is Ethiopia safe for tourists?

Ethiopia is generally safe for tourists with normal precautions. As in any country, stay aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying expensive items, and use registered transport. Check current government travel advisories before your trip.

Ethiopia Visa Requirements

Do you need a visa for Ethiopia? 2 passports enter visa-free, usually for up to 90 days. Find your passport below.

Ethiopia visa requirements

Visa-free

117

Visa on arrival

eVisa / eTA

Visa required

Ethiopia requires advance visa applications from the majority of travellers. Just 2 passport holders can enter without a visa for stays up to 90 days. 117 more qualify for a visa on arrival. 78 nationalities can apply online through an eVisa portal. Everyone else — 1 countries — must apply at a Ethiopia embassy or consulate.

Countries that can visit Ethiopia visa-free

2 countries can enter without a visa, usually for up to 90 days.

Other

Djibouti90d

Kenya360d

Visa on arrival in Ethiopia

117 countries can get a visa at the airport. Bring your passport, a photo, and cash for the fee.

Europe

Asia

Americas

Africa

Oceania

Other

Algeria

Angola

Bahrain

Belarus

Belgium

Benin

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Botswana

Bulgaria

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Burundi

Cameroon

Cape Verde

Central African Republic

Chad

Comoros

Cyprus

DR Congo

Equatorial Guinea

Estonia

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South Sudan

Taiwan

Togo

Tunisia

Uganda

Ukraine

Zambia

Zimbabwe

eVisa and eTA for Ethiopia

78 countries can apply online before travelling. Processing typically takes 1–7 business days.

Europe

Asia

Americas

Africa

Other

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Armenia

Azerbaijan

Bahamas

Bangladesh

Barbados

Belize

Bhutan

Bolivia

Brunei

Costa Rica

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Fiji

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Laos

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Myanmar

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Pakistan

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Panama

Papua New Guinea

Paraguay

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Samoa

Solomon Islands

Sudan

Suriname

Tajikistan

Timor-Leste

Tonga

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Uruguay

Vanuatu

Venezuela

Yemen

Capital

Addis Ababa

Language

Amharic

Currency

Ethiopian birr (Br)

Population

111.7M

Timezone

UTC+03:00

Visa-free access

2 countries

Travelling to Ethiopia

Ethiopia, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, is a landlocked country located in the Horn of Africa region of East Africa. It shares.

Ethiopia is located in Eastern Africa, Africa. The capital is Addis Ababa, and the official language is Amharic. The local currency is the Ethiopian birr (Br). With a population of 111.7M, Ethiopia is one of the larger country in Africa.

Before you go to Ethiopia

Passport validity

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay. Ethiopia immigration may refuse entry otherwise.

Proof of onward travel

Carry a return or onward flight ticket. Airlines and border officers may ask to see it before allowing you to board or enter.

Visa on arrival

If arriving on a visa on arrival, bring passport photos and cash for the fee. Processing takes 15–60 minutes at immigration.

Currency: Ethiopian birr

The local currency is Br. Exchange major currencies at the airport or city banks. ATMs are widely available in urban areas.

Language: Amharic

Amharic is the primary language. English is spoken in tourist areas and major cities.

Power & connectivity

Check Ethiopia's plug type and voltage before packing. Buy a local SIM card at the airport for affordable data.

Power plug guide →SIM card guide →

Check your visa for Ethiopia

Select your passport for an instant result.

Ethiopia 7-day itinerary

AI-generated day-by-day travel plan.

Explore Ethiopia

0 places, 4 dishes, and more.

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FAQ · Ethiopia

Ethiopia — your questions

It depends on your passport. 2 countries can enter Ethiopia visa-free. 117 more get a visa on arrival. 78 can apply for an eVisa online. Everyone else needs an embassy visa. Use the WorldCurio visa checker for your specific passport.