Ethiopia

COVID-19

Following prevention measures, Ethiopian security forces have been instructed to enforce social distancing measures and stop large gatherings. Traffic police have been ordered to stop overcrowding on public transport.

Landmines

Landmines are a hazard in the border areas with Eritrea, Sudan and Somalia. If you travel near these borders despite our advice, stick to well-travelled roads. See Safety

Driving permit

If you want to drive in Ethiopia, you can apply to convert a valid Australian licence to a local one. Your Australian license must be authenticated in Australia for it to be recongised.  More information: Ethiopian Embassy

International driving permits aren’t recognised in Ethiopia.

Road travel

Driving in Ethiopia can be dangerous because of:

• poor road conditions
• poorly maintained vehicles
• local driving practices
• poor lighting
• people and animals, particularly camels, wandering on roads

In 2016, a US national died when protesters threw rocks at his car on the road from Holeta to Addis Ababa.

Security forces sometimes close roads, including highways. In August 2017, security forces closed the main road from Addis Ababa to Jijiga between Baile and Harar because of intense fighting.

Car accidents

Drivers involved in car accidents can face severe punishments, including prison and fines.

If you’re in a car accident, it’s illegal to move your vehicle before a police officer arrives. However, if you feel unsafe, leave the area immediately and report to the nearest police station.

If you plan to drive in Ethiopia:

• become familiar with local traffic laws and practices before driving
• drive legally
• don’t drink and drive
• keep your car windows and doors closed and locked at all times, including when moving
• avoid driving at night, where possible

If you’re stopped by police, follow their instructions.

If rocks are thrown at your car, leave the area as quickly and safely as possible.

To protect yourself when travelling outside Addis Ababa:

• get local advice on road and security conditions along your planned route before you travel
• leave details of your travel itinerary with a reliable person
• travel in a group where possible
• carry a well-stocked medical pack
• consider carrying a satellite phone — regular telephones, including the mobile network, are unreliable

More information:

Motorcycles

Check with your insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike or similar vehicle. Your policy may not cover accidents that occur while using these vehicles.

Always wear a helmet. Make sure your passenger does too.

Taxis

Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines. Arrange these through your hotel. Avoid flagging down taxis in the street.

Consider sitting in the back seat rather than the front.

Not all taxis are metered. Ensure the meter is on or agree on the fare before you leave.

Public transport

Ethiopia has bus and limited rail services. However, safety standards aren’t the same as in Australia. Buses have been attacked outside Addis Ababa.

Petty crimes occur on public transport. Take care of your belongings when travelling on buses and trains.

More information:

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Ethiopia’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government