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TRAVEL REPORT
Ethiopia

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has changed.

Section 8 has been updated (Ramadan).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Ethiopia

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Canadians are advised to exercise a high degree of caution in the country and maintain a very high level of security awareness at all times.

The risk of terrorist attacks remains high in Addis Ababa and other areas of the country. Although foreigners are not ordinarily targeted, attacks could be indiscriminate.

Violent incidents also occur from time to time, as demonstrated by an explosion in the Merkato market in the capital in January 2009 and bombings in the capital in April, May, and September of 2008.

Canadians should monitor local developments and register and remain in regular contact with the Embassy of Canada in Addis Ababa.

Regional Warning

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the following areas:

Border with Eritrea

The border between Eritrea and Ethiopia is closed due to recurring military tensions and an unsettled border dispute. Adjacent areas are part of a special and heavily militarized security corridor where armed conflict could erupt. The security situation is particularly unpredictable in the northern region of Tigray and Afar. Banditry and the threat of kidnapping are also a concern.

Danakil Desert

The Danakil Depression, bounded by the Dessie-Adigrat road, the Dessie-Djibouti road and the Ethio-Eritrean border, should be avoided. The presence of landmines poses a serious threat to travellers' safety. Explosions continue to cause injuries and death, as demonstrated by a fatal incident in April 2009. Armed assaults have been reported and attacks have targeted tourists and convoys.

Somali region

Ongoing military operations against armed insurgent groups in the Somali region of Ethiopia and in the Ogaden and Hararge areas toward the Somali border have created an extremely volatile and dangerous security situation. The rebel Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) has made specific threats against oil companies and operators in the Somali region. Humanitarian missions and foreign aid workers have also been subject to attack and abduction. The presence of landmines in this region poses an additional threat to safety. The east and south of Jijiga, and the town of Dire Dawa and the surrounding area are also deemed unsafe for travellers.

Regional Warning

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the following regions:

Border with Kenya

Inter-tribal clashes, clan disputes and banditry are common in this region. Armed clashes involving Ethiopian and Kenyan security forces periodically raise tensions and cross-border violence has been reported. Armed groups hostile to the Government of Ethiopia operate in several areas near the border with Kenya.

Border with Sudan

Tribal issues and sporadic incidents of violence have long affected part of the Sudanese border area. Although the situation outside the town of Gambella appears to be improving, tensions are still high and concerns regarding ethnic clashes and road banditry remain. Sporadic clashes have also occurred in the border areas in Benishangul-Gumuz and northwestern Amhara regions. Tensions remain high in western Oromia as well. With the exception of larger cities (Gambella, Asosa, Dembi Dolo, Gimbi), travel to this region should be avoided.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Crime

There is a moderate level of crime in Ethiopia, including in the capital. Muggings, armed assaults, and theft can happen. In Addis Ababa, crimes of opportunity such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, are prevalent. Pickpockets and thieves are active throughout the city, but particularly in the Piazza, Merkato and other areas frequented by tourists and foreigners. Crime significantly increases after dark.

Violent incidents

In the last few years, small bombings and explosions have occurred in Addis Ababa. Targets have included government buildings, public transit, and local restaurants and cafés. Travellers should be vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times.

Demonstrations

Politically and socially motivated demonstrations occur regularly and are often initiated with little to no advance notification. Some have escalated and turned violent in the past. Travellers are strongly advised to exercise caution and to avoid public gatherings and street demonstrations.

General safety information

Tourist facilities are limited outside Addis Ababa, and any travel outside the capital and in rural areas should be carefully planned.

Travellers should carry identification at all times and safely store photocopies of passports, visas, and travel documents.

Although cellular phone coverage is relatively poor outside urban centres, it is advisable to carry a cellphone in case of emergency.

Canadians should remain discreet and avoid displaying any signs of affluence in public. Valuables or bags should not be left unattended.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Ethiopian authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the Embassy of Ethiopia for up-to-date information.

Passport

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Ethiopia. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country.

Visas

Canadians must also be in possession of a valid visa. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa. However, lengthy delays have been known to occur. You should therefore acquire a visa in advance. If you arrive by any land border, you must already be in possession of a valid visa or you risk being denied entry. Visa expiry dates should be checked carefully because Ethiopian immigration authorities have become very strict in their treatment of people who overstay their visas. Fees must be paid and in some instances court appearances and/or jail time may be ordered.

Tourist Visa : Required
Business Visa : Required
Student Visa : Required 
Transit Visa : Required

Travellers are required to carry evidence of a yellow fever vaccination.

A domestic departure tax must be paid at the airport when travelling by air within Ethiopia.

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Ethiopia - ADDIS ABABA, Embassy of Canada
Address: Old Airport Area, Nefas Silk Lafto Sub City, Kebele 04, House No.122, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1130, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,
Tel.: 251 (0) 11 371 3022
Fax: 251 (0) 11 371 3125
E-Mail: addis-cs@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.ethiopia.gc.ca

Office hours are Monday to Thursday 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and on Friday 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Addis Ababa and follow the instructions. You may also call the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

This country is in the area referred to as the African meningitis belt (which extends from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east), where meningitis has occurred on an unprecedented scale. Outbreaks most often occur during the dry season (December to June). To obtain health recommendations, please refer to the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Health Web site.

Recent cases of measles have been reported in Ethiopia.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) recommends that travellers use personal protective measures against mosquito bites to prevent getting dengue fever. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue. People experiencing flu-like symptoms are advised to seek medical attention immediately.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Medical facilities

Health facilities are very limited in Addis Ababa and completely inadequate outside the capital. Physicians are generally well trained, but hospital resources remain a constant problem. As shortages of medicine do occur or supplies are simply scarce, Canadians should bring adequate supplies of all medications, in their original containers, clearly labelled. Emergency assistance is limited. In the event of a serious illness or accident, medical evacuation would be necessary.

Diseases

Water-borne, food-borne, and other infectious diseases (including cholera, hepatitis, tuberculosis, polio, typhoid, and rabies) are prevalent and pose a serious threat to travellers. Canadians are advised to use good personal hygiene practices and take all necessary precautions; boil all drinking water or drink bottled water, and avoid ice cubes and raw and undercooked food. As the HIV/AIDS infection rate is high, you should also be extremely cautious about activities involving the transmission of bodily fluids.

Malaria is common in most areas of the country, except in the capital and highland areas. Travellers are encouraged to consult with their physician prior to visiting the country and to take personal protective measures against insect bites, including using an insect repellent and mosquito nets when in the country.

Altitude sickness

The country is mountainous and high altitudes may cause health problems, including shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, headaches, and inability to sleep.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Practices

Travellers should be aware that Ethiopia operates with both the Western and the Julian time and calendar systems. Time is usually measured as a 12-hour day starting at 6 a.m. (e.g. 9:00 a.m. is referred to as 3:00).

During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), visitors should use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. Ramadan is expected to begin on or about August 11, 2010.

The Ethiopian highlands are predominantly Orthodox Christian. There is fasting in this region each Wednesday and Friday, and during Lent. Primarily vegetarian dishes are available during this period (except in large hotels).

Always obtain permission from religious authorities before visiting churches.

Dual nationality

Dual nationality is not legally recognized in Ethiopia, which may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services. Canadians should travel using their Canadian passport and present themselves as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times.

Illegal and/or restricted activities

All drugs are illegal except khat, a local stimulant. Khat is illegal in Canada.

Although weaponry is relatively easy to acquire, it is illegal to carry a firearm in Ethiopia.

Homosexual activity is illegal.

Laptop computers and video equipment other than for personal use must be declared upon arrival and departure. Tape recorders require special customs permits. If these items are being used for work, Canadians should contact the Embassy of Ethiopia in Ottawa for permission to bring them into the country.

It is strictly prohibited to photograph military installations, police and military personnel, industrial facilities, and government buildings and infrastructure, including roads, bridges, dams, and airfields. It is extremely dangerous to stop near a restricted area.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Road travel

Roads are generally in poor condition, mostly unpaved and rarely lit. Excessive speeds, local driving habits, pedestrians, roaming animals, and poorly maintained vehicles pose hazards. Overland travel should be undertaken during daylight hours only and in convoys. Periodic fuel shortages can disrupt road travel.

Overland travel to the areas bordering Kenya, Somalia, and Sudan is generally unsafe as banditry, including armed robbery and carjacking, is common. Landmines remain a hazard, particularly in the conflict zones of northern Ethiopia and near the areas bordering Sudan and Somalia.

A local driver's licence is required to drive in Ethiopia. Travellers must present their valid Canadian driver's licence or their International Driving Permit (IDP) to obtain one.

Railways

Travel by train is not recommended due to frequent acts of sabotage, bombings, and derailment. Travellers should contact the Embassy of Canada in Addis Ababa (see section 5 above) or local authorities for the latest security information.

Air travel

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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Currency

The currency is the birr (ETB). Visitors must declare foreign currencies upon arrival and may be required to present this declaration when applying for an exit visa. Travellers should exchange foreign currency at banks or official foreign exchange offices only, as penalties for exchanging money on the black market range from fines to imprisonment. Official exchange rates are close to black market rates.

Credit cards are not widely accepted except in large hotels, travel agencies, and a few shops and restaurants in Addis Ababa. Travellers are advised to take hard-currency cash or traveller's cheques to Ethiopia.

Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Drought

Due to below-average rainfall over the last four years, many regions of eastern Africa are currently afflicted by severe drought, including Ethiopia. Travellers should expect difficulties travelling overland. Local services and the availability of water and basic food may be affected. An increase in water-borne diseases has also been reported in these areas. Travellers should take preventive measures and exercise extreme caution.

Rainy Season

The rainy season normally extends from June to September. Some roads may become impassable during this period due to flooding. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Earthquakes

Ethiopia is located in an active seismic zone. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Addis Ababa in the event of an emergency (see section 5 above).

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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