Ethiopia Travel Tips to Know in 2023

As you plan your travels to Ethiopia in 2023, it's crucial to be aware of the dynamic security landscape in the country. This introduction provides three key travel tips to help you navigate the unique challenges and ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Re-evaluate Travel Plans to Ethiopia

Travellers are strongly advised to reconsider their plans to visit Ethiopia due to a range of security concerns. These include intermittent violent conflicts, civil unrest, criminal activities, disruptions in communication networks, terrorism, and kidnappings, especially in border regions.

• Tigray Region and the Border with Eritrea

The Tigray Region and the border areas with Eritrea are particularly dangerous for travellers. Sporadic violent conflicts, civil unrest, and criminal activities pose significant risks in these areas. Travel to this region and its border with Eritrea is strongly discouraged.

• Afar-Tigray Border Areas

Similar to the Tigray Region, the Afar-Tigray border areas are also affected by sporadic violent conflicts, civil unrest, and criminal activities. It is advisable to avoid travel to these areas.

• Amhara Region

The Amhara Region has experienced sporadic violent conflicts and civil unrest. Travel to this region is not recommended due to these security concerns.

• Gambella and Benishangul Gumuz Regions

The Gambella and Benishangul Gumuz Regions have been affected by criminal activities, kidnappings, ethnically motivated violence, and sporadic violent conflicts. Travel to these regions is discouraged due to these significant risks.

• Specific Areas in the Oromia Region

Certain zones within the Oromia Region are prone to sporadic violent conflicts, civil unrest, and ethnically motivated violence. Travel to these specific areas, including Horro-Guduru Wollega, East Wollega, West Wollega, Kelem Wollega, Illubabor, and Bale, should be avoided.

• Specific Areas in the Southern Nations and National People (SNNP) Region

In the Southern Nations and National People (SNNP) Region, specific towns and areas are affected by sporadic violent conflicts, civil unrest, and ethnically motivated violence. Travel to these areas, including Gedeo, Konso zones, and the Amaro and Derashe special woredas, is not recommended.

• Border Areas with Somalia

Travel to border areas with Somalia is highly discouraged due to the presence of terrorists, the risk of kidnappings, and the presence of landmines in the region. Travel to these areas is restricted, except for limited exemptions for humanitarian efforts.

• Border Areas with Sudan and South Sudan

Border areas near Sudan and South Sudan have witnessed criminal activities, kidnappings, potential ethnically motivated violence, and sporadic violent conflicts. These areas, including the Nuer Zone, the Jore Woreda of the Agnuak Zone in the Gambella region, and the Pawe, Guba, Dangur, Dibati, and Bulen woredas, as well as the Metekel zone in the Benishangul Gumuz Region, are not recommended for travel.

• Border Areas with Kenya

Travel to border areas with Kenya is discouraged due to the potential for terrorism and ethnically motivated violence, particularly by groups like Al-Shabaab. Travel to these areas, including the Borena zone and surrounding areas, is restricted, with limited exemptions for humanitarian efforts.

Consular Assistance and Communication Limitations

It is essential to be aware that officials have limited capacity to provide assistance to U.S. citizens outside of Addis Ababa. Furthermore, consular access to U.S. citizens detained by Ethiopian authorities is severely restricted. 

Travellers should be prepared to navigate challenging circumstances independently.

• Contact Information for Assistance

For further assistance while in Ethiopia, travellers are advised to contact the Embassy. This unit can provide valuable information and support in case of emergencies or if travellers encounter difficulties during their stay in Ethiopia.

• Before Travelling to Ethiopia

Prior to your trip to Ethiopia, it's important to take several precautions to ensure your safety:

- Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated about local developments by following local media sources. Be prepared to adjust your travel plans based on the latest information.

- Situational Awareness: Maintain situational awareness, especially in areas frequented by U.S. citizens, Westerners, or foreign travellers. Being aware of your surroundings can help you avoid potentially risky situations.

- Travel Documentation: Carry copies of your passport and visa with you while keeping the originals securely stored in a hotel safe. This precaution can be invaluable in case of loss or theft.

- Evacuation Plans: Develop evacuation plans that do not rely on government assistance. Consider various scenarios and how you would navigate them, including how to leave the country in case of emergency.

- Enrol in STEP: Enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which allows you to receive alerts and facilitates emergency location tracking. This can be crucial for staying informed and connected during your travels.

- Country Security Report: Review the Country Security Report for Ethiopia, which provides detailed information on security conditions, potential risks, and recommended precautions.

- Health Information: Refer to the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information relevant to your travel. This includes information about vaccinations, health risks, and medical resources available in Ethiopia.

By taking these precautions and staying informed, travellers can better prepare themselves for potential challenges and emergencies while visiting Ethiopia. It's essential to prioritise safety and be proactive in ensuring a smooth and secure travel experience.

FAQS

Is it safe to travel to Ethiopia in 2023?

Travel to Ethiopia in 2023 comes with significant safety concerns. The Department of State has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory due to sporadic violent conflicts, civil unrest, crime, communications disruptions, terrorism, and kidnappings in various regions. Travellers are strongly advised to carefully assess the risks and consider the latest security information before planning their trip.

Are there any areas in Ethiopia that are safe to visit?

While the security situation in the capital, Addis Ababa, is relatively stable, other parts of Ethiopia are affected by security issues. It is crucial to stay informed about the specific areas to avoid and to follow the advice provided by the Department of State. Additionally, always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, even in areas deemed relatively safe.

Can U.S. government personnel travel freely in Ethiopia?

No, the government personnel face significant restrictions on travel within Ethiopia. They are generally restricted from travelling to areas with security concerns, and their travel is limited to essential diplomatic engagements and humanitarian efforts, with limited exemptions.

What should I do if I need assistance while in Ethiopia?

If you need assistance while in Ethiopia, particularly in emergency situations, you can contact the Embassy. However, it's important to be aware that consular access may be limited in certain areas, and officials may have restricted ability to provide assistance outside of Addis Ababa.

How can I stay updated on the latest developments in Ethiopia during my trip?

To stay updated on the latest developments in Ethiopia during your trip, monitor local media for breaking events and regularly check for travel advisories and security updates. Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) can also help you receive alerts and facilitate emergency location tracking.

What should I do to prepare for my trip to Ethiopia?

When preparing for your trip to Ethiopia, consider the following:

- Carry copies of your passport and visa, leaving the originals in a hotel safe.

- Develop evacuation plans that do not rely on government assistance.

- Stay informed about local developments and be prepared to adjust your plans.

- Follow the Department of State on social media for updates.

- Review the Country Security Report for Ethiopia.

- Ensure you have a contingency plan for emergencies.