Plan Your Trip

How to Get There

• Flights: Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) is the main gateway. Many international airlines fly here.
• Visas: Most travelers need a visa. E-visa is available for many nationalities at evisa.gov.et.
• Airport Info: The airport is a few minutes from central Bole. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are available at arrivals.

Where to Stay

Most of the places in Bole are very convenient since it is a few minutes from the airport. It also has many amenities you could want; food, markets, shops, music, hotels, nice places to walk, cultural shows, event spaces and more. We highly recommend staying in Bole for convenience.

The neighborhoods around Piazza, 4 Kilo, and Beherawi have some of the biggest parks, museums, palaces, churches, nice places for food, and some event spaces.

Meskel Square has some museums, music venues, and high quality hotels. Meskel Square is the biggest public gathering venue; if you are in Addis during big holidays, the big celebrations happen there.

Other parts of Addis have sights worth visiting and things worth doing, but they are not very saturated. You can easily make trips from wherever you are staying. You can check our Maps to see what Addis has to offer in detail.

Transportation

The most convenient way to get around is to use ride-hailing apps like Ride (Android | iOS), Feres (Android | iOS), and Yango (Android | iOS).

• Taxis are available, but agree on a price before starting your ride.
• Public transport (minibuses, light rail) is cheap but can be crowded and confusing for newcomers - mainly due to the language barrier.

Currency & Money Exchange

ATMs are available at the airport, and you can exchange money there as well. Cash is used widely so it's a good idea to get some as you arrive.

Make sure to carry some dollars in cash. Cards are accepted, but there are the occasional stories where a card fails, and cash would prevent a lot of headache at immigration.

SIM card & Internet

You can buy your SIM from either Ethio Telecom or Safaricom Ethiopia. Buy at Bole Airport or any service shop, make sure to bring your passport. You can buy e-SIMs online but prices for normal SIMs are much cheaper.

Safety Tips & Local Etiquette

Addis Ababa is a vibrant and welcoming city, but like any destination, it helps to know a few local tips and customs to make your stay smooth, respectful, and safe. Here’s what every traveler should know before exploring Ethiopia’s capital.

Safety Tips

1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings:
   • Addis is generally safe, but petty theft (like pickpocketing) can happen, especially in crowded areas like Mercato.
   • Keep your belongings secure — backpacks zipped, phones and wallets close. Don't flash your phone, jewelry, and other valuables.
2. Use Trusted Transportation:
   • Use ride-hailing apps like Ride or Feres instead of random taxis.
   • If you are not using ride-hailing apps, agree on a price before the ride starts.
3. Stay in Well-Lit Areas After Dark:
   • Stick to busy, well-lit streets in the evening. Group travel is always safer at night.
4. Carry a Copy of Your ID:
   • Keep your passport locked at your hotel.
   • Carry a copy or a photo of your passport for ID checks.
5. Beware of Scams:
   • Friendly strangers offering unsolicited tours or help with directions may expect a tip.
   • Politely decline if it feels suspicious.

Local Etiquette

1. Greetings Matter:
   • A handshake is the standard greeting.
   • Close friends often greet with a shoulder bump or two/three air kisses.
   • Address elders and officials with respect.
2. Dress Modestly:
   • In public spaces, modest clothing is appreciated, especially near religious sites.
   • Shorts and sleeveless tops are fine in some places, but best avoided in churches and mosques.
3. Eating Customs:
   • Meals, especially traditional ones, are often shared from a communal plate.
   • Wash your hands before eating (handwashing stations are common).
   • Use your right hand when eating injera and dishes — the left hand is considered impolite for eating.
4. Photography:
   • Always ask permission before photographing people.
   • Avoid taking photos of government buildings, military sites, and airports.
5. Religious Respect:
   • Ethiopia has deep Orthodox Christian and Islamic traditions.
   • Remove your shoes when entering a church or mosque.
   • Women may be asked to cover their hair in religious spaces.
6. Tipping:
   • Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated.
   • Round up your taxi fare or leave 10% at restaurants if service was good.