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Blessed with rich cultures, unique wildlife, startlingly blue skies and dramatic landscapes littered with ancient treasures, Ethiopia is a captivating destination that might not yet be on your radar, but should be.

Discover museums and colourful markets in the dynamic capital of Addis Ababa; and explore Camelot-style medieval castles and royal palaces in Gondar, Ethiopia's fascinating former capital.

Head to the spectacular Simien Mountains to hike along striking escarpment trails; tackle an ascent of Ras Dashen, Ethiopia's highest peak; and spot unique wildlife including gelada baboons, walia ibex and Simien foxes.

Visit the holy town of Lalibela and see its World Heritage Listed rock-hewn churches, superbly carved out of volcanic rock; or make the pilgrimage to Axum, littered with ancient obelisks and revered as the home of the Ark of the Covenant.

Experience Christmas Ethiopian-style with the Genna festival; or watch the moving rituals and colourful processions of the Timket festival, with thousands of white-robed Ethiopian Orthodox faithful observing the Epiphany.

Marvel at ornate island monasteries and the thundering Blue Nile Falls with a cruise on Lake Tana; and witness the largely unchanged lifestyles and unique traditions of the Omo Valley's diverse ethnic tribal groups.

If you're looking for a destination with a difference, combining ancient history, cultural riches and stunning landscapes, this might be the place!

 
 

 

Our all inclusive approach

All of our Ethiopia journeys are supported by private vehicles, handpicked comfortable hotels, fascinating touring options and helpful camping crews. Additionally, we aim to incorporate as many inclusions as possible into the trip cost such as most meals, transfers, excursions, permits and national park fees.

Authentic experiences

Experience Ethiopia through unique experiences that provide a glimpse at the country's daily life. Whether you choose to trek along the dramatic Simien Mountain Range, discover the unspoiled cultures of the Omo Valley or witness the colourul Timket Festival, even the most experienced traveller will find inspiration here.

Experienced local guides

Our enthusiastic guides are eager to share their extensive knowledge of the cultural, social and historical gems of Ethiopia with you to ensure you have a memorable experience in their fascinating country.

Leaders in responsible travel

Responsible travel practice is at the heart of every program that we offer in Ethiopia. When you book one of our adventures you are supporting sustainability, the protection of local communities and natural environments and the appreciation of local cultures.


 

Support of local economies

We employ our guides, cooks, scouts, drivers and logistics and operation team locally. All of our employees are insured for any accident while on duty and follow pre specified saftey guidelines. We encourage travellers to shop at local curio shops and restaurants to further support the community.

Animal welfare focus

We advocate for cruelty free animal encounters and encourage travellers to follow the guidelines in our detailed Animal Welfare Code of Conduct.

Child safe tourism

We protect vulnerable children by adhering to our comprehensive Child Welfare Code of Conduct and seek to educate travellers about the issues surrounding such abuses.


Hotels

In cities or large towns you will be accommodated in 3 star, twin share properties that are centrally located, comfortable and reliable.

Camping

We offer two styles of camping; fully supported and semi-participation. Both styles feature quality two person tents erected in scenic wilderness.



A custom made itinerary is the ultimate way to see the world how YOU want. They are created especially for you, giving you complete freedom to choose what you want to see, where you want to go and when you want to do it. If you love our current itineraries but want to customise it privately as a couple, a group of friends, family, club, business or school, you have the freedom to add or remove as many elements as you like to suit the interests of your group. Alternatively, you can start with a blank canvas and create a new and exciting itinerary from scratch! Our well-travelled consultants can give you firsthand suggestions and eliminate any uncertainty with trip planning to ensure you maximise the quality of your experience and get truly off the beaten track. Simply email, phone or visit us to start planning your dream adventure.


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Ethiopia: Trekking & Culture | World Expeditions
Currency

Ethiopian Birr

We suggest carrying money in US dollar cash (other currencies may cause confusion at banks) – use notes printed after 2006 only.

Many hotels will change USD cash into Birr.

A cash card affiliated with Visa or Mastercard that can be presented at a foreign exchange bureau or used in an ATM machine is also useful in major centres only. ATMs/Cash Machines are found throughout Addis Ababa and in major cities/towns such as Bahir Dar, Gondar, Axum and Lalibela. Beyond these centres it will be very difficult to change money.

The Jupiter Cazanchise and Jupiter Bole hotels (most commonly the group hotels) also have ATM machines which issue Birr in their lobbies. (NOTE: reliability of these machines cannot be guaranteed.) For this purpose, credit cards are very useful. However, few if any places accept credit cards for payment of purchases or meals.

International Dialing Code

+251

Electricity
Type C plug

Electricity in Ethiopia is 220 Volts, at 50 hertz. The most common pin type is C. (2 round prong).

Visas

Visas for Ethiopia are required for passport holders from the following countries:-

Australia

New Zealand

Canada

United States

United Kingdom

All other nationalities should check with your nearest embassy or consulate.

It is now possible to arrange single entry tourist visas for Ethiopia online prior to travel. Travellers must be entering the country via Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa. Go to, https://www.evisa.gov.et/#/home, and follow the instructions (visa fees apply). Please note online processing may take up to three days to be completed by the relevant authorities.

Safety

Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.

Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.

We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.

We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.

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