One of Africa’s most dramatic landscapes, Ethiopia packs in spectacular waterfalls nestled amid lush green forests, Martian deserts strewn with jagged boulders, hot volcanic springs and some of the highest mountains on the continent. It’s sprinkled liberally with a healthy dose of the past, too; the rock-hewn churches at Lalibela are enchanting testaments to Medieval Christendom while the ruined Aksemite kingdom is a haunting graveyard of ancient palaces, underground tombs and faded racial memories.
Its rich history is one of the many things which sets Ethiopia apart from its African neighbours. Aside from a brief occupation my Mussolini, it is the only country on the continent never to have been fully colonised. While many African countries are still in their infancy, with almost arbitrary states imposed upon incongruous tribal loyalties, Ethiopia was once a great empire itself and may even be the oldest nation in the world.
The majority of Ethiopia’s foreign business is conducted in the capital Addis Ababa, a vibrant metropolis with a unique personality bursting with disparate strands of past and present. Yet while the city is a fascinating introduction to the country, make sure it isn’t your only taste of it; facing up to wild contrasts beyond the capital’s boundaries is one of the exhilarating experiences in travel.
Getting there
Ethiopia is landlocked and most travellers arrive by air into Addis Ababa. There are several buses crossing to neighbouring countries but many are unsafe; the border with Eritrea is completely closed.
Getting around
If travelling long distances then consider domestic air travel; there is a good bus network but it can take a long time to get anywhere. Driving is possible but you may need an Ethiopian licence if staying for more than a week.
Local information
Language(s): Amharic; there are also many regional languages.
Time: UTC+3
Climate: Tropical monsoon, though the high elevation of much of the country keeps temperatures in the twenties. Temperature: Max 25°C (April), Min 4°C (November). Rainfall: Max 295mm (August), Min: 2mm (December)
Currency: Birr (ETB)
Business etiquette: Greet with a light handshake and direct eye contact. Take time to inquire about family and health; do not rush straight to business. Ethiopia is relatively new to international business and many Ethiopians may be sensitive to change or difference. Generally, Ethiopians are eloquent and humble and respect those qualities in others.
Tipping: 10 percent is standard
Duty free: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 227g tobacco; 1l alcoholic beverages; 2 bottles or 500ml perfume; gifts to Br500.
Safety: Border areas should be avoided due to conflict in neighbouring countries, particularly to the east.
Laws: Written authorisation is required to export cultural artefacts.
Healthcare: Vaccinations required for hepatitis A, diphtheria, malaria, tetanus, typhoid and yellow fever. Several others may also be required, including hepatitis B and rabies. Water should be boiled/sterilised. Health insurance is essential and should include emergency repatriation; healthcare facilities are extremely limited.
Socket type: Type C
