Travel Tips for Ethiopia

Visas Requirements:  It is possible to obtain an Ethiopian tourist visa upon arrival in Addis Ababa. However, you also may obtain your Ethiopian tourist visa prior to arrival by contacting the Ethiopian Consulate. This should be done at least 45 days prior to travel and be sure that your passport will not expire less than 6 months prior to your scheduled return date. Please call the Global Descents Travel Desk at 1-800-775-6976 for more information.

Health Precautions:  Ethiopia requires all traveler to carry a yellow fever vaccination record. Global Descents recommends that you vaccinate for Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, Meningitis type A, Tetanus, and Polio. Also, please be aware that this is a malaria risk zone and it is imperative that you protect yourself by taking the proper malaria prophylaxis before, during and after your planned travel dates. These requirements and recommendations change regularly so please contact the Center for Disease Control, www.cdc.gov, or Global Descents at 1-800-775-6976 for more information.

Money:  The national currency of Ethiopia is the Birr. Although these rates fluctuate regularly, at the time of this writing the exchange rate is 8.8 Birr-1 USD. While traveler’s checks are accepted, a lower exchange rate will be offered. Only major hotels and the airport accepts credit cards. We suggest a bringing a sum of cash and perhaps a few traveler’s checks. Tipping for services is not practiced.

Beverages:  Hydration is always of the utmost importance for us on all river expeditions. Especially due to the high temperatures and physical exertion necessary throughout the trip. In addition to water, we provide a modest amount of cocktails, wine and juice mix. If you plan on consuming a larger amount of alcoholic beverages, specific sodas or juices, please let your trip leader know in order to find everything you need before the trip. If there are specific brands you are looking for its best to find them in Duty free on your way to the destination.