Ethiopia flights and travel guide

Ethiopia has only recently been considered a suitable destination for a holiday. Since the war ended in 2001, the ancient country has once again been on tourist maps. This is still, however, a holiday destination for adventurous travellers, looking to journey off the beaten track. But those who book flights to Ethiopia are amply rewarded.

The country has the longest recorded history of any on earth and is often referred to as the “lap of civilization”. It is home to nearly 100 different tribes and has an incredibly rich culture. The natural scenery is another attraction. The landscape in Ethiopia is very diverse and includes lakes, waterfalls, the Simien Mountains, lunar landscape of the Danakil Depression and huge expanses of desert.

Search and compare: cheap flights to Ethiopia

Back to top

Ethiopia climate

Ethiopia usually has rain from June to September and no rain from October to May. The temperature ranges with the altitude, with hot and humid conditions in the lowlands and mild, cool temperatures in the highlands.

Back to top

When to fly to Ethiopia

Peak Season:
October to May is the dry season and is most popular with visitors. Though there is never a real stampede of tourists stepping off flights to Ethiopia, the dry season is the time when hotels are more likely to be booked and attractions will be busier.

Off Season:
June to September is when the country receives the most rain, however, this can still be a good time to visit as there is plenty of sunshine.

Back to top

Getting around Ethiopia

Flying is a good option for traversing the country as Ethiopia is very large. The national carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, has an extensive network. Domestic Ethiopia flights are available to more than 40 destinations across the country. Prices are reasonable.

The bus network is also good and tickets are cheap. However, they can sell out a day in advance, so book ahead if possible. Car hire is possible in Addis Ababa. It is necessary to get a four-by-four due to the roads, which are in poor condition.

Back to top

Ethiopia insider information

• Addis Ababa is the capital of Ethiopia and a huge city. Most travellers want to visit the vast open-air market, which is the largest outdoor market in Africa. Due to its size it can be wise to get a guide to show you around.
• The churches at Lalibela are a popular spot for tourists.  Dating from the 12^th Century, these churches are carved directly from rock. It’s necessary to take your shoes off to enter.
• Two drinks are constantly consumed in Ethiopia: coffee, called buna, and tej. There is a ritual around the preparation of coffee after every meal. The ceremony can last a few hours and an invitation to join is a sign of respect. Coffee is always drunk black, never with milk, though with plenty of sugar to stem the bitterness. Tej is an alcoholic drink, best described as a honey wine. It is drunk from a glass flask and is served in tejbetis (tej

Back to top

Ethiopia airports

There are two international airports in the country, but it is only possible to find cheap flights to Ethiopia that arrive in Addis Ababa.

Addis Ababa (ADD) (Bole International) Airport is located five miles out of the city centre.

Back to top

Passport/Visa

Visas and passports are required for all visitors to Ethiopia, except for Kenya and Djibouti nationals. Tourist visas can be issued at the airport upon arrival, but all other visas require advance application.

Back to top