ethiopia overland tour

Travel to Ethiopia: Everything you need to know

By Joan Torres 30 Comments Last updated on April 25, 2024

From visiting the most epic Christian sites to meeting ancient tribes with animistic beliefs, and from roaming around the thickest jungle to crossing the most inhospitable desert; traveling in Ethiopia is the most diverse African experience and this travel guide contains everything you need to know about it

I seriously thought that Ethiopia was a touristic, well-known country in the West but, when I came back from my trip, I was surprised to find out that many people had absolutely no clue about it, like they didn’t even know about its geographical location.

The truth is that traveling can be extremely subjective and, while Ethiopia may be a relatively touristic country as per Against the Compass standards – meaning that this is one of the most visited countries I talk about in this blog – compared to other average destinations, it is a real off the beaten track destination.

Little is known about this African country and, when people ask me what it is like to travel in Ethiopia, I always begin the conversation with the following:

The main reason to visit Ethiopia is that it is an exceptionally diverse experience.

On the one hand, the cultural diversity is huge. In Ethiopia alone, you have 80 distinct ethnic groups who speak more than 80 languages and practice different religions, from different branches of Christianity to Islam and animistic beliefs.

On the other hand, this is a historically rich country and the one with the most impressive historical and archeological sites in sub-Saharan Africa, once the capital of the Aksumite Empire – one of the most powerful ancient empires in the continent that ruled for more than 800 years – and home to endless jaw-dropping millennial rock-hewn churches and European-like medieval castles.

Furthermore, contrary to any Western cliché, Ethiopia is also a land of natural contrasts, composed of fertile tropical forests in the south and vast flat deserts in the east, the Danakil Depression being home to lava pools and the hottest settlement in the world. In the north, Lake Tana is the source of the Blue Nile and Simien Mountains is one of the very few places in Africa with regular snowfall, the highest peak being at 4500m.

And by the way, the scenery in Ethiopia is unconditionally hair-raising, a real blessing to your eyeballs.

And if that wasn’t enough, Ethiopia was recently rebranded the Land of Origins by the Ministry of Tourism because these lands are the origin of humankind – where the oldest hominid was found – the first place to ever produce coffee and they practice one of the rawest and most ancient ways of Christianity.

Trust me, after traveling to so many countries, I am rarely impressed but still, Ethiopia definitely wowed me.

This guide contains everything you need to know to travel to Ethiopia (literally, everything), from how to get a visa to getting in, top experiences, cultural facts, budget and loads of personal travel tips.

In this Ethiopia travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Overlanding
• Best time to visit
• Travel insurance
• Top experiences
• Books on Ethiopia
• Cultural facts
• The country
• People & Language
• Money, budget & costs
• Is it safe?
• Solo female travel
• Moving around
• Where to stay

our recommended travel insurance for Ethiopia

With its Backpacker plan, IATI Insurance is the best insurance for any kind of adventurous destination, like Ethiopia.

🪪 How to get a visa for Ethiopia

How to get an e-visa for ethiopia.

Everybody needs a visa for Ethiopia but today, pretty much any nationality can get a tourist e-visa.

And you can easily apply through the official website .

Make sure you do it through the above URL because there are many non-official websites which, even though they do issue valid visas, charge much more money.

Typically, there are 2 types of tourist e-visa:

• 30-day visa, which costs 82USD
• 90-day visa, which costs 102USD

And it takes up to 3 days to process. Mine took less than 24 hours.

It’s a very easy process which has absolutely no secret and very little requirements.

Is the Ethiopian e-visa valid at land borders?

Officially, the tourist e-visa is only valid for those entering via Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa .

My trip to Ethiopia was part of a 3-month journey through the Horn of Africa, traveling from Eritrea to Djibouti, Soma liland and then entering Ethiopia overland, so I intended to apply for it at the embassy in Djibouti.

However, once I got there, they told me that they had run out of visa stickers and that they would not receive more after a couple of weeks at least.

Then, I tried my luck in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland but, unfortunately they weren’t issuing visas anymore, so I was in a situation in which, according to the official information, the only thing I could do was booking a flight from Hargeisa to Addis Ababa, which kind of sucked.

However, I contacted a few travelers who said that in Africa, anything can happen and proof of that is that they managed to travel to Ethiopia overland with an e-visa, so I decided to try my luck as well and successfully managed to cross the border from Somaliland , no questions asked.

Visa on arrival for Ethiopia

If you don’t have time to apply for an e-visa because your flight to Addis Ababa is less than 3 days ahead, you can also get a VOA at Bole International Airport.

Otherwise, I don’t see any good reason why you should get a VOA instead of an e-visa.

How to apply for an Ethiopian tourist visa via embassy

The only reason for applying for your Ethiopia tourist visa at the embassy is because you are entering overland and don’t want to risk a potential denial because you are only in possession of an e-visa.

You can find Ethiopian embassies and consulates in many cities across Europe and North America. Just contact your nearest one to ask about the process, which tends to be very easy.

🛫 How to get to Ethiopia

How to travel to ethiopia by plane.

Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa is one of the most transited airports in the African continent.

I had actually been there twice even before visiting Ethiopia, as Addis Ababa is a common stop for many flights going to other African destinations and the Middle East .

The main airline operating in the country is Ethiopian Airlines , a modern company that flies all over the world , including to and from the American continent.

Moreover, there are many other international airlines that fly to Addis. I actually flew out of the country with Emirates.

Remember that, if you fly in with Ethiopian Airlines, you get a 50% discount on all domestic flights . Check the how to move around section of this post for more information.

How to travel to Ethiopia overland

Ethiopia shares a border with so many countries :

Traveling to Ethiopia from Sudan

Completely open to foreigners. There are regular minivans running from a Sudanese city named Qadarif to the border, and the border formalities are not very complicated.

Read my Sudan travel guide.

Traveling to Ethiopia from Djibouti

An easy border to cross from a bureaucratic point of view but difficult from a logistic point of view, as you need to cross the desert on a 4×4.

Moreover, an easier option would be taking the train that goes from Addis to Djibouti City, but it is a bit unreliable. For more information, check the moving around section.

Traveling to Ethiopia from Kenya

Crossing from the Kenyan town named Moyale should be a simple process.

Traveling to Ethiopia from South Sudan

Not possible. You would have to go through the jungle and go across the most dangerous part of South Sudan, so forget it. There are daily flights connecting both countries though.

Traveling to Ethiopia from Eritrea

This border is closed for foreigners and more often than not, also for locals. The only way of traveling between both countries is by flying in, from Asmara to Addis.

Read my Eritrea travel guide .

Traveling to Ethiopia from Somalia

The one I used. As you may know (or not), Somalia is divided into two regions, actual Somalia and Somaliland.

You can travel to Ethiopia from Somaliland, using the border near the city of Harar. It was very easy and quick to cross. There are normal roads and plenty of public transportation.

Read my Somaliland travel guide

⛅ Best time to visit Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a big country composed of several geographical regions, each having a different optimal season to visit, so it’s a bit difficult to guess the ideal time to come.

Rainy season

Typically, most travelers avoid the rainy season running from mid-June to mid-September, especially because the northern highlands is where it rains the most, the region with the highest concentration of popular destinations, including Gonder, Axum, Tigray churches, Simien Mountains and Lalibela .

In the south, however, which includes the famous Omo Valley , the rainy season runs from March to June, and it’s highly advisable to avoid these months, for the simple reason that the remotest villages, which are only accessible along muddy roads, will be unreachable.

November to January is high season

The weather is ideal and, up to January, the landscapes are beautifully green still. Expect to find big crowds and high prices though.

February and March is a good time too

As the weather is pleasant and most crowds are gone but the main downside is that it is already dry season, so the northern landscapes won’t be as pretty. I visited Ethiopia from February 1st to mid-March.

Therefore, in order to avoid the crowds and still get pretty landscapes, I believe that mid-September and October would be the best time to go backpacking in Ethiopia.

However, bear in mind that the Danakil Depression , one of the country’s highlights, is also one of the hottest places on Earth, and September and October’s heat will be unbearable; it is advised to visit here from mid-November to February.

And last, you may also want to organize your visit so you come during one of their most important cultural festivals :

• Genna – Ethiopian Christmas that takes places on January 7th
• Timkat – Ethiopia’s Orthodox Christian celebration that takes place on January 20th
• Meskel – Ethiopian religious holiday that takes places at the end of September

As you can see, telling you the right time is a bit tricky!

🚑 Travel insurance for Ethiopia

Ethiopia is an adventurous region, so make sure to choose a proper backpacking insurance with good adventure coverage. I recommend IATI Insurance .

• It covers the largest number of adventure activities, including trekking
• Covers both short-term trips and 1-year long trips.
• Covers senior citizens too.
• Readers of this blog get an exclusive 5% discount

🛖 Top experiences in your trip to Ethiopia

Trekking among tens of thousands of baboons.

A rugged, mountain range composed of insanely vertiginous cliffs and several peaks above 4000 meters and inhabited by, literally, thousands and thousands of an endemic species of baboon, trekking the Simien Mountains is one of the highlights of any trip to Ethiopia.

Read my experience trekking in the Simien Mountains of Ethiopia

Visiting the hottest (inhabited) place on Earth

Danakil is a vast depression popularly known for being one of the most inhospitable places on Earth, an arid, unwelcoming land filled with volcanoes and insane geological formations, colors and absolutely crazy landscapes, inhabited by a distinct ethnic group named Afar.

Read my experience visiting the Danakil Depression

Exploring ancient churches built over cliffs

Ethiopia was one of the first countries to adopt Christianity and its churches are not only some of the most ancient churches in the world, but they have been carved out from rocks located in the most unbelievable and vertiginous locations, and what is even more incredible is that they are still as functional as they used to be 1200 years ago.

Feeding wild hyenas with your mouth

In the eastern city of Harar, there is a man who has dedicated every day of his life to feeding hyenas. Those hyenas aren’t domestic but they are free, live in the wild and everyday, at around 6-7pm, a bunch of them come nearby his house to get feed some fresh, raw meet. It is possible to assist the peculiar ceremony and feed them with your own mouth.

Assisting an actual bull-jumping ceremony

A traditional ceremony celebrated by the Hamar tribe (one of the many tribes in the Omo Valley) in which a young boy jumps naked over 10 bulls in order to prove that he is ready to be married.

Before the actual ceremony, there is a party in which people from all the nearby settlements gather to drink, dance and do some other cultural stuff.

Read my experience visiting the Omo Valley on a budget

📚 Best books for planning your trip to Ethiopia

If you don’t have one yet, remember to get a Kindle for your journey, so you don’t have to carry along all your books! CLICK HERE TO GET YOURS

Ethiopia travel guide by Bradt

This is the Ethiopian Bible, definitely, the best book guide available for Ethiopia, and probably, the most complete book Bradt has ever written. A complete travel guide filled with endless insights, cultural facts and history. A must-have.

Ethiopia travel guide by Lonely Planet

It is not as complete as Bradt’s but it’s not that bad, it’s easier to read and they have a special chapter dedicated to the tiny, neighboring country of Djibouti.

🕌 Facts about the country, the people and religion

10 facts about ethiopia as a country.

1 – The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia – It is a landlocked country in the Horn of Africa, one of the largest countries in the continent and with a population of 108,000,000.

2 – The capital of Ethiopia – The capital is Addis Ababa, often referred as the political capital of Africa, as this is the African Union Headquarters and has a strong political and diplomatic influence in all the continent.

3 – It’s a very poor country as per Western Standards – Nearly 50% of their total GDP is based on agriculture, mainly coffee. It is however, one of the most powerful and influential countries in Africa. A curious fact is that I met many Somalis from Somaliland and Eritreans whose short-term objective was migrating to Ethiopia and getting an Ethiopian passport, which is apparently better than other African passports.

4 – It’s never been colonized – Italy tried to take it over twice, at the end of the 19th century and in 1936, but they were defeated so, along with Liberia, Ethiopia is the only African country which has never been colonized, one of the reasons why it is so unique and barely has any foreign influence.

5 – Ethiopia has close ties with Eritrea – Neighboring Eritrea is Ethiopia’s little brother, a country with practically the same culture. They have the same food, religion and share a big bunch of ethnic groups. The dominant ethnic group in Eritrea are the Tigrinya, which also turn out to be one of the most influential groups also in Ethiopia, inhabiting the Tigray region, the most touristic destination in Ethiopia. Moreover, they used to be the same country until 1991. For more information, read my Eritrea travel guide .

6 – They are 6 hours ahead of anyone – The funniest fact about Ethiopia is that their time is different than ours, but they are 6 hours ahead. This means that if someone from Ethiopia tells you to meet at 18h, you need to be there at 12h. Well-educated people from Addis Ababa will talk to you in rest-of-the-world-time, so will those in the countryside who are used to dealing with tourists. But the rest of the country will not and, more often than not, if you ask them: are you talking in Ethiopian time, or faranji time? they will not know what you are talking about. You are likely to meet many travelers who missed a certain bus because of this particular fact.

7 – Ethiopia is the origin of mankind – Lucy , the oldest and most complete hominid ever discovered, dating back from more than 3 million years ago, was found in Ethiopia, in the Afar Depression.

8 – Ethiopia is an ethnic Federal state – Given the ethnic complexity, in 1994, Ethiopia was divided into 9 separate autonomous regions, each one ruled by one of the largest and most influential ethnic groups.

9 – Ethiopia was once one of the most powerful Empires – The Aksumite Empire, whose center was in today’s Tigray region and Eritrea and which ruled from 80BC to 825AD, was one of the most important empires in the Ancient World, along with Rome, Persia, and China.

10 – This is former Abyssinia – A few hundred years after the fall of the Aksumite Empire, there was a man who claimed to be a direct descendent from the last Aksumite King and managed to establish a feudalist state that lasted until 1974, when the famous Emperor Haile Selassie was overthrown and modern Ethiopia started to develop.

9 Facts about Ethiopians and their language

1 – There are two types of Ethiopian – On the one hand, you meet lovely, kind-hearted people who are always willing to help, or simply have a chat with you. And on the other hand, there are the people who try to rip you off continuously. During your Ethiopian trip, you will be meeting both types all the time and, by experience, you will be able to differentiate them easily.

(But most people are good 😉 )

Faranji , hey you, you you, faranji , you! Something I found extremely irritating (and most travelers do as well) is that, when you get into a new city or place, many people will start yelling: hey you, faranji, faranji, come here, come here! This also can happen with people you bump into in the street. In response, something very funny you can do is looking at them and say: hey you, habesha, habesha, come here, come here! Habesha means local , or Ethiopian , so you are basically telling them the same thing. Because they don’t expect such a reply from a faranji , in most occasions they will freeze, while others will laugh and probably shake your hand, turning an annoying person into a pleasant one.

2 – There are 80 distinct ethnic groups – The major groups being Oromo, Amhara, Tigray, Sidamo and Somali, which make up nearly 80% of the total population.

3 – The rest of the groups are minorities – And 45 of them live in a region named Southern Nations, Nationalities and People’s region, the vast majority being tribal people.

4 – Amharic is the official language – The lingua franca, the one used by the Government and the one used by the dominant ethnic group, the Amhara people, is Amharic.

5 – It comes from Ge’ez – Which is the language spoken in Ancient Axum and is still used today by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.

6 – The alphabet is so cool – It’s called a syllable alphabet.

7 – But more than 80 languages are spoken – Or 70, depending on the source. Each ethnic group has a distinct language.

8 – And not everybody speaks Amharic – Especially in the tribal areas. It’s funny to think that, if certain tribal people from the south travel to Addis Ababa, they would feel more foreign and different than you do. You would certainly be more able to speak to the people than them.

9 – English is just OK – Not everybody speaks good English but in most towns, it is enough to get by.

6 Facts about religion in Ethiopia

1 – Ethiopia was the second state to officially adopt Christianity – After Armenia, in 330AD.

2 – Many Ethiopians belong to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church – Around 44% of the total population.

3 – They have a very raw way of practicing Christianity – Scholars claim that Christianity evolved directly from Judaism but, while it kept evolving to other forms of Christianity such as Catholicism or Protestantism, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church didn’t, hence it is one of the earliest forms of Christianity that clearly has some Judaic influences.

4 – People in white robes – If you see locals in traditional white robes is because they went to Church on that day. On Sunday, you will see wearing them more than usual.

5 – There are Catholics and Protestants too – Around 20%, and they mainly live in the south.

6 – Muslims make up one third of the total population – Differently to what most travelers who have already been to Ethiopia believe, more than 30% of Ethiopians are Muslim, and many foreign people don’t notice them because they inhabit regions that don’t receive many tourists, Ethiopian Somalia for example.

🍲 Ethiopian food and drinks

I have a love and hate relationship with the food in Ethiopia.

On the one hand, traditional food is healthy, mainly composed of stewed vegetables and a protein bread named injera .

On the other hand, despite the unbelievable geographical and cultural diversity, there isn’t much food variety across the country.

Anyways, injera is the cornerstone of any Ethiopian meal, a flat bread made from a local grain named tef . It is sour and has a peculiar crêpe texture and, basically, an average Ethiopian eats injera 3 times a day.

Some travelers don’t like it at all. I did like it but after 6 weeks of traveling in Ethiopia, I got particularly sick of it.

Fasting days in Ethiopia Ethiopians are very religious and besides the 40 days of Lent, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church also recognizes every Wednesday and Friday as fasting days, meaning that most restaurants will only serve vegetarian dishes.

Most popular food in Ethiopia

This is the most available and traditional dish, consisting of different kinds of stewed vegetables and curries that vary from restaurant to restaurant, but typically being spinach, potatoes, carrots and lentils.

It is very cheap, usually less than a $1, and this is what most Ethiopians eat each and every day.

Also very traditional but not as available as beyanet because this is meat-based, usually goat or sheep, hence more expensive, and many Ethiopians can’t afford to eat meat every day.

Tibs is roasted meat with beriberi, a chilly powder sauce, served, of course, along with injera .

This was my favorite dish, the Ethiopian hummus, I would say. Shiro is chickpea paste mixed with onions, garlic and bean flour. Energetic, healthy and delicious.

Shiro Tegamino

Same as shiro wat but much, much thicker and what I liked about it is that, for some reason, it was always served with normal bread, instead of injera .

This was a pretty fancy dish, typically available in expensive restaurants and consisting of a chicken stew cooked in a complex gravy.

Kita fir fir

Kita fir fir is injera with spices and chilli and it’s typically eaten for breakfast. I didn’t like really like it because it’s 95% just injera .

By the way, for breakfast, besides kita fir fir and its different varieties, ful is also very easy to find, which is small beans in tomato sauce and garlic. In the south, you may get some really tasty avocado as well.

Western food in Ethiopia

Many restaurants will serve pasta, pizza and burgers but don’t expect much of it.

In Addis Ababa, however, you can find good international food. Expensive as per Ethiopian standards, but good.

Pizza with cheese, tuna, chocolate and strawberries One day in Mekele, we went to one of the fanciest restaurants in town, a Western-style café typically frequented by the upper Ethiopian class. I ordered a pizza, one that was called calazori, just because it had tuna in it but, to my surprise, they brought me kind of a crêpe covered with chocolate and strawberries. No, I didn’t order this, but I ordered a calazori pizza . He opened the crêpe, which was made of pizza bread, to show me that the actual pizza ingredients were inside. By default, I don’t like chocolate, but that mix was disgusting anyways, so I told her to just change it for a normal pizza without chocolate. Anyways, my point is that, outside of Addis Ababa, don’t have big expectations of Western food.

Beer in Ethiopia

Beer is a big deal in Ethiopia and they have a lot of brands.

The best part is that Ethiopian beer is so cheap, one bottle never costing more than 17 birr in local places, which is less than 50 cents.

Coffee in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is coffee’s birthplace and, today, it is a very important part of their economy and exports.

Traditional style coffee is called buna and pretty much on any corner all around the country, you will see a lady preparing it in a clay pot named a jebena , and serving it in small cups. It’s good, and so cheap, around 5 birr (like 15 cents), but they may charge you double in touristic areas.

💻 Internet and connectivity in Ethiopia

Wi-Fi is really, really bad all over the country.

Even when hotel owners try to sell you the beautiful idea that their hotel prices include Wi-Fi and breakfast, just assume that most likely, Wi-Fi won’t work and, if it does, it’s terribly slow.

If you want to connect to the internet, you must get a SIM Card and telecommunications in Ethiopia is a monopoly controlled by Ethio Telecom .

Their mobile internet isn’t the fastest ever but it’s decent and if, like me, you have to work online while on the road, it’s good enough for creating a hotspot and do regular browsing.

It wasn’t very expensive but it wasn’t cheap at all as per Ethiopian standards.

Get a VPN for traveling in Ethiopia

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Ethiopia. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 Backpacking in Ethiopia: need to know about money, budget & costs

In Ethiopia, they use the Ethiopian Birr (ETB) and, approximately:

1 USD = 53 ETB

Something I remember is that Ethiopian bank notes are some of the dirtiest I have ever seen, to the extent that when I got back home and finally touched some clean ones, it was a real reverse cultural shock.

Always have some hand sanitizer handy with you. In fact, in Ethiopia I got a small eye infection and I suspect it was because of rubbing my eye after touching some of those notes.

Black market rate in Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, there is a black market rate, which can be sometimes double the bank rate .

This means that, at the bank, if the exchange rate is 53, in the black market you can get it for up to 100, but only in Addis Ababa.

That’s why, in order to take advantage of this rate, it is recommended to come to Ethiopia with all your money in cash.

There is black market all over the country but in Addis Ababa you will get the best rate, especially near Meskel Square.

Just ask around where can you exchange your foreign currency.

However, bear in mind that, at first, they will tell you a very shitty rate, so remember to bargain.

ATMs in Ethiopia

In big cities, you can find ATMs, no problem, and they always accepted my foreign credit card. Sometimes they run out of cash though.

Nonetheless, remember that when withdrawing money, you will always get the bank rate.

Faranji and habesha price

In Ethiopia, there is a dual pricing, like I had never seen before: faranji and habesha .

Faranji means foreigner and habesha local .

In restaurants for example, food and drinks in the English menu may cost up to 3 times the habesha price and, if you believe you can grab the local menu and point out any meal marked with the original price, then you are wrong because they will always charge you the faranji price.

Moving around by local bus is also very frustrating because you know they will charge you double, or triple if they can, and negotiating is always a pain because you need to get angry, or even yelling at them, something they don’t usually expect.

I found this extremely frustrating and one of the worst things about traveling in Ethiopia.

And if you think, however, that this is how things work in their culture, I think you are wrong because I talked about this subject with many Ethiopians and they also agreed that it isn’t the right way to treat foreign tourists.

I can understand they charge double in touristic places but why do you have to pay a faranji price if you take the local bus or eat in a local restaurant?

Independent travel in Ethiopia. How much does it cost?

Traveling in Ethiopia on a backpacking budget is cheap and below is a list of the price of the most typical things.

How much does food & drink cost in Ethiopia?

Please note that, in very touristic areas such as Lalibela, paying these amounts can be very challenging but those are the prices assuming you pay the local price, so take it as a base reference.

• Vegetarian local meal like beyanet or shiro : 30 to 50 birr
• Non-vegetarian local meal like tibs : 50-70 birr
• Meal in a nice restaurant: main dishes from 100 birr
• Beer: 15-20 birr
• 1kg of pretty much any fruit (mango, avocado, etc): 30 birr
• Local coffee (buna): 5 birr
• Coffee (machiato, espresso): 15 birr
• 2l mineral water plastic bottle: 15 birr

How much does accommodation cost in Ethiopia?

• Local hotels (creepy ones): 100 birr
• Nice, decent accommodation: 300-600 birr
• Mid-range hotels: from 700 birr

How much does transportation cost in Ethiopia?

• Short local bus ride: 20 to 40 birr
• Long distance bus ticket (Addis Ababa to Gonder): 300 birr
• Domestic flight: $50-$100 one-way
• Local shared taxi (Lalibela to Mekele): 600 birr (This will highly depend on your negotiations skills. For example, two tourists who were traveling in the same car paid 1500 birr).

How much does a tour cost in Ethiopia?

• Danakil Depression 2-day tour: $250
• Omo Valley: $100-$150 a day
• Simien Mountains 3-day trek: $170
• Entrance fee to Lalibela: $50

Average daily budget for backpacking in Ethiopia (independent travel)

Assuming you don’t take any domestic flights and travel by local bus, the minimum a budget backpacker will spend is:

$35-40 a day

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Ethiopia?

That’s a complicated question.

Overall, I feel Ethiopia is a safe country to visit, but let’s go by parts.

The conflict with the Tigray

The Tigray war was a conflict between the Ethiopian Federal Government and the Tigray People’s Liberation, which lasted from November 2020 to November 2022, causing thousands of casualties and displaced people.

The war isolated completely the whole region of Tigray in the north, home to highlights like Axum, Mekele ( Danakil getaway ) and hundreds of rock-hewn churches.

Today, the war is over and the Tigray region is once again accessible.

Pickpocketing is real

Not bluffing, if you are not careful, you are likely to be pickpocketed in Ethiopia.

I have only been pickpocketed in two countries: in Mexico, and in Ethiopia.

Actually, in Ethiopia it happened to me twice, in 2 different areas of Tigray region. On one occasion they stole my brand-new GoPro, and on the second time they took my wallet with my credit card in it.

This can happen anywhere but in here chances are way higher, so be careful of your belongings.

I strongly recommend you get a money belt ! CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!

By the way, in big cities, especially in Addis Ababa, never walk alone at night. Your physical integrity is unlikely to be threatened but there is a high chance of being mugged.

Terrorism in Ethiopia

According to the FCO, the Ethiopian travel advice is that you should avoid the Somali province and the area or Gambella, which borders a conflict area of South Sudan.

There is an existing terrorism threat in Ethiopia but it is limited to the Ethiopian Somalia region, the province that borders Somalia.

Since I traveled to Ethiopia from Somaliland by land, I did cross that region and you could really feel the tension and threat I am talking about.

The security measures were insane. Every X km, there was a police checkpoint in which everybody from the bus had to get off and the police would check every single bag, one by one. It was very annoying.

Outside of Ethiopian Somalia, however, I never had or saw any issue.

Danakil Depression

You may have heard that Danakil Depression comes with its own issues and for that, I recommend you read my travel guide .

💃 Solo female travel in Ethiopia

Here’s the deal.

I traveled in Ethiopia as a solo man, so I can’t really speak for women, but I’ll just give you a small summary of what some kick-ass female travelers told me.

Most women said that Ethiopia was safe but the level of verbal harassment was insane, to the extent that some claim they’ll never go back to Ethiopia.

Many local men believe Western girls are easy and you may have to deal with occasional sex offers and creepy compliments. In fact, I was once with a girl from London and witnessed how a very disgusting man would just stare at her and do some creepy movements with his tongue.

Despite being predominantly a Christian country, Ethiopia is a conservative, patriarchal society in which men tend to be sexist.

Nevertheless, all women said that harassment was always verbal and, other than that, they had great fun in Ethiopia.

If you are female traveler who has been to Ethiopia and wants to write a guest post for Against the Compass, please get in touch.

Here you can see more solo female travel articles .

🛺 Transportation tips: how to travel around Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a big country and as such, moving around can prove challenging. Here are some travel tips:

Traveling around Ethiopia by coach (long-distance bus)

From Addis Ababa, you can always take a long distance bus to major destinations such as Arba Minch, Harar, Gonder or Meskel. Most buses are quite comfortable, some more than others; it doesn’t depend on the company but on the type of bus.

Selam for example, good reputable company.

Buses leave from Meskel Square and typically, they all leave at 4am, which is very annoying but given the long distances, it does make sense.

Book your tickets one or two days before. Unfortunately, you can’t book them online but you need to go to Meskel Square itself, where all company stalls are.

There is a way of booking them over the phone, but it’s a real headache.

Basically, you need to call the bus company and tell them which coach you want to take. They will give you a bank account number in which you need to deposit the respective amount. For that, you need to go to the bank but, when I got there, it was so crowded and such a mess that I thought it would be easier to take a taxi to the square.

Ethiopia travel tip: At Meskel Square, you will be approached by local men who claim they work for a specific bus company, saying they can take you to the respective office. Well, they don’t actually work for the company but they want to get a tip for helping you book your ticket, so just ignore them.

Traveling around Ethiopia by local bus

If you are backpacking in Ethiopia on a budget, you will take the local bus.

Taking the local bus in Ethiopia isn’t very different from other developing countries, but just bear in mind that distances here are huge. I personally got really tired and decided not to take any during the last 2 weeks of my trip.

Moreover, you will always have to battle to get a decent price, which will never be great because they always end up saying that you have to pay extra for the luggage, which is completely bullshit.

In the end, they always win.

Traveling around Ethiopia by plane

If you are not on backpacking on a budget, I recommend you take a few domestic flights.

From Addis, there are direct flights connecting any major touristic city, including Lalibela, Gonder, Axum, Harar and even the Omo Valley .

There are direct flights between secondary cities too but maybe not everyday and, worst case scenario, you will have to make quick layover in Addis.

Traveling around Ethiopia by air will save you a lot of time and energy.

All flight are operated by Ethiopian Airlines, a modern, reliable company, and any one-way flight ticket averages $100.

One of the best travel tips for Ethiopia is that, If you fly in with Ethiopian Airlines, you get a 50% discount in all domestic flights and, if you only have a few weeks to travel in Ethiopia, you may want to get 1 or 2 at least. However, I didn’t fly in with Ethiopian Airlines but, when I booked my domestic flight via their website, there was a tick box which you could mark claiming you actually did fly with them, so the discount was applied anyways. At the check-in counter, no questions were asked. Nonetheless, I just checked their website, and the tick box is gone (it comes and goes) so in that case, if you still want to get your discount, most people book their tickets directly at the Ethiopian Airlines office, which you can find everywhere.

Traveling around Ethiopia by train

There is one train line connecting Addis Ababa with Djibouti country via Dire Dawa (the closest big city to Harar). It runs every other day, one day towards Addis Ababa and one day towards Djibouti.

A one-way ticket from Dire Dawa to Addis Ababa costs 600 birr (price for foreigners).

The train has been built by the Chinese and it’s funny that, at every station, you see Chinese people telling Ethiopian employees what to do.

Traveling by train is always great but I will never catch the Ethiopian train again, for the following reasons:

• It’s very unreliable. We stopped for around 3 hours due to a bus breakdown. Also, the day I was supposed to catch it, the train never arrived because of another breakdown, so had to wait for one additional day.
• The train station is very far away from the city. Good luck negotiating the price of a taxi ride. When I arrived in Addis, they wanted to charge me 500 birr, and I ended up paying 300.
• Very long queues for getting in and out, as the authorities check each and every bag and, since they don’t have x-ray machines, they basically make everyone empty their bags.
• The train itself isn’t very comfortable, plus they don’t sell any food, only sodas.
• It’s an extremely busy train with loads of kids roaming around.

🏨 Accommodation: where to stay in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is well-sorted for hotels, some of them being very good value for money options.

You can check them all on booking.com .

Most hotels owners will ask you to pay in USD but, as I told you in the money section, better to exchange those USD in the black market, get 20% extra, and then pay your hotel in birr.

Creepy hotels – When I was passing through a city, I had to stay on 1 or 2 occasions in one of those creepy hotels which are OK for 6 hours and cost less than 4USD. They are all over the country

Backpacking Hostels – You can find some in Addis Ababa and also in cities like Gonder.

Guest Houses, nicer hotels – Decent accommodation costs from 400 to 600 birr for a double room, and you can find them everywhere, all over the country.

Mid-range hotels – There is also a wide range of relatively good hotels, all of them starting at 900 birr or so.

❗ More resources for traveling in Ethiopia

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Useful websites for more Ethiopia travel tips

All Addis Around – For everything related to events, restaurants and bars in the capital.

Migrationology – For anything related to Ethiopian food.

All guides and articles for traveling in Ethiopia destination

• Omo Valley Travel Guide
• A City Guide to Lalibela
• Danakil Depression Travel Guide
• Trekking Guide in Simien Mountains

Travel guides to other countries in Africa

• Eritrea Travel Guide
• Somaliland Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Sudan
• Travel Guide to Egypt
• Libya Travel Guide
• Mali Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Mauritania
• Tunisia Travel Guide

This Ethiopia travel blog was a long one, a post in which I put so much effort, and time! I hope you find it useful and if you have any questions or suggestions, leave a comment in the ”comments” section.

30 comments

Hello! Thank you for all of this wonderfully detailed information! I have a few questions: Are toiletries easy to find? Things like shampoo, body soap, sunscreen, mosquito repellant, etc? Are over the counter medicines available? Like Ibuprofen, Pepto-Bismol, etc. What kind of converter for electronics should be used? Thank you in advance!

Hello Maree! Yes, toiletries are very easy to find. Outside of main cities, you may no be able to find international brands but they do have local brands. Counter medicines are available everywhere. About mosquito repellant, is better to bring it from your home country. In my experience in Africa, I have always found it expensive and not the best quality. For electronics, they use regular EU connector.

What was your experience, i intend to go there this december

I’ve travelled to Ethiopia six times or so over the last ten years. The first time I carefully brought along a crisp US20 dollar note for my visa on arrival. As more tourists have come, the price has risen, but it’s become even easier to get the visa. I really wouldn’t bother getting the Evisa as very often the queue for the Evisa is longer than the visa on arrival. And no need for pristine US dollars, they take pounds, euros and card as well.

Hello Joan,

Thanks for sharing your vast travel experience in Ethiopia. Would you know if there is any buses going from Lamu in Kenya, all the way to Lalibali? And if crossing that frontier is a hassle? The alternative is flying to Addis but with the layover there I think a bus would be faster. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

I dont think there aren’t direct buses from Kenya to Lalibela. It’s just too remote.

Im interested in traveling to Lilabela but concerned about the current of civil war in Ethiopia. Is it safe for senior age Black Americans to visit? If so could you recommend a tour guy?

Hi there, as far as I know, Lalibela is still within the safe area, but the city is out of electricity and there are no tourists.

correction of email below

Speaking to my in laws who live in Addis, who have relatives in the North- NOT a good idea to be travelling as a tourist outside of AA.

so sorry to bother you but would you please elaborate a little? I am currently in addis ababa and i’ve asked around and have received conflicting answers. (I think also due to language barriers but) some say it is totally fine. Others say I’m crazy to go around.

Would love some first hand info from people who are currently here. Thank you in advance.

Hello, well not being in Addis right now it seems like you’re in a better place to find out:) The UK Foreign Office has got some very detailed advice on its website- says Lalibella is ok. I would read that carefully. And whatever you do, don’t go to Tigray. Good luck.

We will be near Ethiopia in late March 2023 and would love to visit Lalibela holy land churches for 3-4 days. Could you advise how to tour them if we fly from Addis Ababa? We are Black Americans and do not know the local language. Thank you.

hi, there’s a tourist office in Lalibela, in the center of the town, where you can buy the tickets

Actually one and half day is enough to visit all the 11 rock cut churches. You could visit some county side churches combining hike to the highlander farmer village where you see their way of life, even take part in their daily activities… Lalibela based tour agent “Highland Eco trekking tours” is known for organizing authentic experience in the area

To Dr King: We went a couple years ago and used a guide named Alex Aregaw( +251 92 019 0138 on Whatsapp or [email protected] by email). He’s also on TripAdvisor: https://en.tripadvisor.com.hk/ShowUserReviews-g480193-d7033629-r793913298-Lalibela_Local_Tour-Lalibela_Amhara_Region.html he is the guy in the mask and white shawl in the first photo. His English is good and he’s very polite and nice to deal with. I occasionally keep touch with him on Instagram, and apparently a few tourists are trickling back now, and water and electricity are back, after they were destroyed when the TPLF invaded last Christmas.

For the author of the article: I’m amazed you got pickpocketed twice in Tigray! We spent like 15 days in various parts of Tigray and never encountered any crowds or groups of people, even in Axum and Mekele. We even had not been locking our car — I realized after we had been driving it for like 10 days that when closing the driver’s side door, it automatically unlocked the car — and no one ever stole the GoPro out of our windshield. But, I was always parking in hotel parking lots or I had been paying a local guy to watch the car if I parked in the street.

Thanks for your advice EG. Truly appreciate it. Peace

Hi, thanks for the useful information. How long do you suggest for a trip in Ethiopia ? I’m planning to cross the border from Sudan and after Ethiopia move on to the next bordering country. Regards, Suné from South Africa 🇿🇦

difficult to say! I spent there 6 weeks, the country is huge! but from crossing from north to south save at least 3 weeks for all the highlights!

Hello, This is very informative. What about getting sick from drinking the water or eating food, for someone who has not been there before? What precautions should one take?

I’d only drink mineral bottled water and be careful on where to eat meat

We just returned from Ethiopia. We travelled as a family with a 8 y.o. child. We’ve been in the Omo Valley with Lalo Tours. They gave the best price from the beginning. 400 USD for 2 days 2 nights everything included. It was the best part of Ethiopia trip. After this we went in Danakil with ETT after long negotiations we have obtained 900 USD for 3 days 2 nights tour. This part was very adventurous. 2 nights sleeping under the sky. You can have mosquitos, wind and dust. Beautiful and incredible sceneries. Don’t expect more than basic conditions for food and accommodation. You should come preprepared. After this it followed Lalibela where we had the best accommodation in all Ethiopia at Ben Abbeba local guide for 40 USD payable in in Birr.

Some tips and tricks:

1. Don’t use ATMs or official exchange offices. Come with USD in cash and change it in Addis on black market. We managed to change it for 99.5 for 1 USD (We heard about 110 for 1 USD). Go to Meskele sq pick up a restaurant and ask discreetly about changing money. Like this all the prices will drop to almost 50% for you.

2. In Addis specially look up for pickpocketing, snatching of the phone from hand, etc. We didn’t experience but we met people who did. So be very aware. We used money belt for USD transportation. For birr it is impossible because you will get a lot of birrs for your USD. Use a backpack.

3. In Addis use Ride app for ridesharing. Select pay in cash and you will have dirt cheap rides.

4. Everywhere it said that if you use international flight with Ethiopian Airlines you will have almost 50% discount for internal flight. Is nobody checking this. So, I believe if you tick on their website that you have am international ticket with them, it will work even if don’t have in reality. More than this if you want to be sure and you don’t have luggage you can make online check-in and you will not face any question from anyone. Another trick is that if you have international flight with them, once in Addis change your USD in birr on black market and after this go to Ethiopian Airlines Office and buy your domestic tickets with cash. Like this you will have the smallest prices.

5. Political situation. It can become quite instable sudden. During our stay in Amhara started some violent demonstrations, especially Gondar. In Lalibela was peaceful, but we didn’t have mobile internet, and, in some parts, we heard a lot of gun shots, the locals said that people buy weapons and test them… Keep an eye on BBC section for Ethiopia and western embassies. Local guides we will tend to minimize the danger, but it is there.

6. If travelling with children, be aware of the sanitation conditions. Ours got food poisoned and for 3 days it was a nightmare with continuously vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, fatigue In Addis we didn’t find any antidiarrheic medicine, just antibiotics that worked finally. We also faced another problem, that by our mistake, we had all the medications in the luggage and Ethiopian Airlines lost them for 10 days. So, travelling with small children can become difficult.

7. Erta Ale volcano activity. It is totally different from the lava lake that you can see it on YouTube. Now there are 2 small volcanic cones like 3-4m in diameter that spit lava. Guides said that the situation is changing each day. You can see the lava or if unlucky only smoke. Be prepared because the smoke can be quite irritating. A face musk can help but not too much. Especially with children in Dallol area you will fill incredibly hot. Drink plenty of water, otherwise there are chances to faint from heat. The guides and agencies are totally unprepared for something like this. You will not have somebody with you permanently to take care. You must handle it on your own.

I will be happy to answer to other questions if there are any. Safe travel for everybody!

Buf! this is one the best travel report/feedback we’ve ever got in ATC. Thanks a lot Vladimir!

I’ve just been researching the visa situation for Ethiopia, and came across your site. The fees are currently vastly different to what you have here ($82 for a 30 day visa, $202 for 90 days, extension $102 and $302 respectively). Your site is very interesting. I am planning an overland trip from Cairo to Cape Town early 2024. 😀

It seems they increased prices, thanks a lot for the update!

I’ll be a black American solo female traveler in 2024 to AA and this detailed info has me excited and informed instead of intimidated and uncomfortable. Fortunately, I currently live in Washington, DC in an Ethiopian community where these beautiful people are my neighbors and small business owners. Daily I interact with them, learn a word or two of Amharic, and eat their food (which I also have a love/hate relationship with ;)) Safe travels, everyone!

Have a lovely trip Chelsea!

You are out of date on. VISAS. Embassies no longer do them VOA no longer available unless you are from an AU country. So you must use e visa..where prices now 82 and 202 dollars…for 1/3 months.

thanks for the update!

You really are amazing. Thanks for the very interesting and comprehensive info. I have 2 friends who have just come back from travelling in Ethiopia and I am planning a trip there myself.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

Join our Expeditions

From Syria to Iraq in Pakistan, Against the Compass is finally running expeditions to the most epic and off-the-beaten-track countries.

We have scheduled expeditions for every month of the year.

Latest posts

• Backpacking Venezuela Travel Guide (2024)
• How to travel to Afghanistan during Taliban rule (2024)
• How to visit Los Llanos in Venezuela
• How to visit Angel Falls and Canaima National Park
• Things to do in Haiti in a 1-week itinerary

Ethiopian Wanderer Tours

Witness the magic of Ethiopia’s religious holidays, learn about the ancient kingdoms that shaped Ethiopia on the Northern Historical Route, walk amongst the tribes of...

10-day Northern Ethiopia

Classic route through Northern Ethiopia 10-Day Tour: Addis Ababa - Bahir Dar - Gondar - Simien Mountains - Axum - Mekelle - Lalibela - Addis...

3-day Danakil Depression

Travel-Plan 3-Day Danakil Depression Mekelle - HamadEla - Camel Caravans and Sunset from the Salt Lake Assale - Dallol - Mekelle We have 3 price...

Witness the magic of Ethiopia’s religious holidays, learn about the ancient kingdoms that shaped Ethiopia on the Northern Historical Route, walk amongst the tribes of the South Omo Valley, feel the thrill of adventure on an overland expedition into the Danakil Depression, measure up the size of the Simien and Bale Mountains from your tent, or see endemic bird species in the Rift Valley.

The travel adventure is in your imagination. We make it a reality.

Tours and pricing

Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar – Gondar – Simien Mountains – Axum – Mekelle – Danakil Depression – Lalibela – Addis Ababa

17-day Ethiopia round trip

Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar – Gondar – Simien Mountains – Axum – Mekelle – Danakil Depression – Lalibela – Awassa – Arba Minch – Omo Valley – Addis Ababa

4-day Addis Ababa & Lalibela

Addis Ababa city tour – Fly to Lalibela – Visit the Rock Cut Churches – Explore Lalibela – Fly back to Addis Ababa

Mekelle – HamadEla – Camel Caravans and Sunset from the Salt Lake Assale – Dallol – Mekelle

GoNOMAD Travel

Inspiration and links to plan your trip.

Ethiopia: Overland on the Historical Route

By Marie Javins

“Denial ain’t just a river in Egypt. It’s in Ethiopia too.”

This occurred to me while I stared at Ethiopia’s Tis Abay — the Blue Nile Falls — near Lake Tana’s colorful monasteries and the Ethiopian source of the Nile.

Most people think of pharaohs, pyramids, and feluccas when they think of the Nile, but the world’s largest river starts in Uganda and Ethiopia then goes on to visit Sudan before reaching Egypt.

Tis Abay is the first site along Ethiopia’s Historical Route , a loop that begins in Addis Ababa and goes through Bahir Dar, Gonder, Axum and Lalibela before returning to the capital. It’s the only natural site along the route.

Ethiopia, inaccurately renowned as a famine-stricken desert country, has massive green mountains, unique birds and animals, and stunning landscapes.

Other Stone Churches

But the monasteries of Bahir Dar’s Lake Tana, the archeological sites at Axum, the stone-hewn churches of Lalibela , and the 17th-century castles of Gonder overshadow not just nature but also other stone churches, the hyena-feeding men of medieval Harar, the thriving Tigrayan capital of Mekele, the tribes of the Omo Valley, and the unlauded jewel in the crown — the rich, undiluted Ethiopian culture.

Ethiopia, most famous for being the recipient of 1985’s We Are the World fundraising campaign, has suffered from its infamy. With so many astonishing historical and natural sites, Ethiopia has tourism potential worthy of Egypt or Rome. But instead of being known for 2,000-year-old obelisks, 12-century churches quarried from volcanic rock, Abyssinian lions, and a 3.5 million-year-old human skeleton, Ethiopia is known for droughts and starving children.

Tourists, instead of asking if there are campgrounds in the World Heritage Simien Mountains, discreetly inquire if Ethiopian Airlines serves food.

Tourism brings in sustainable income and can genuinely help Ethiopia in a way that foreign aid cannot.

And fortunately, the secret of Ethiopia’s Historical Route is starting to leak out. It’s recently been featured in both Transitions Abroad and in the UK’s Wanderlust magazine.

Late in 2000, Lonely Planet put out its first guide to the African Horn, and Bradt has just released a third edition of the Philip Briggs classic guide to Ethiopia.

Writer Paul Theroux visited Ethiopia for his book Dark Star Safari. A trickle of intrepid backpackers, en route from Cairo to Cape Town has led the charge, but more and more tour companies are introducing small-group trips to the main sites along Ethiopia’s Historical Route.

Welcome to Ethiopia

A Dragoman overland truck had brought me north from Kenya to Ethiopia. On our first night in Ethiopia, the trip leader gave our group of eight a rundown of what to expect.

“When you hear children scream YOU YOU YOU at you, it means nothing. They are just excited to see you, and it is the English equivalent of something not impolite in Amharic. Don’t be offended by it.

“The same goes for the word faranji. It means foreigner, and they use it to describe you. It is not meant as an insult.

“Also, cover your shoulders, no short shorts, and no public farting. It is a major rule here.

“Ethiopia is a tough country to travel in, but it is also a rewarding country. Some say it is the India of Africa. For those of you who have been to India, that may mean something.”

It meant a lot to me. India had been a challenge.

Lush Green Hills

We drove north towards Addis Ababa. Lush, green hills surrounded our single ribbon of asphalt, and it was hard to reconcile the fertile land around us with our preconceptions of a famine-stricken country. Occasionally, small drab towns would surround the road with cement-block single room homes that were open in front. People, goats, dogs, and donkeys covered the road, oblivious to any vehicle right-of-way rules.

Children in surplus Titanic t-shirts chased our truck and screamed “YOUYOUYOU FARANJI” at us, waving enthusiastically. A few got so excited they threw rocks in the air, and occasionally in our direction. Guidebook writer Philip Briggs calls it “faranji hysteria” while Lonely Planet calls it “faranji frenzy.”

It is exclusively a rural phenomenon. In cities, especially in relatively cosmopolitan Addis Ababa (the home of the UN’s “Economic Commission for Africa”), faranjis are a common site.

The Benefits of Group Travel

As we made our way north from Bahir Dar to Gonder, the advantages of group travel in Ethiopia became clear. Our trip leader was a familiar, respected face in Ethiopia. His regional knowledge took us to inexpensive local inns and restaurants, instead of government-run hotels.

And traveling in a big Mercedes tourist bubble had one major advantage. It was a buffer zone, where us weary tourists could retreat from the dozens of excited children screaming YOUYOUYOU. It was a place to rest when we tired of being constantly greeted, constantly assisted, and constantly escorted by well-meaning new friends. And more importantly, it gave us a respite from the confusion and guilt we felt after frequently being asked for money.

An Intact Culture in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is one of the few African nations whose culture is intact due to historical isolation. Aside from a brief period of Italian occupation under Mussolini (which the Ethiopians fiercely resisted), Ethiopia was never colonized. Its culture is unique, ancient, and dazzling, with music, food, drink, and religious ceremonies seen nowhere else on earth.

But one could argue that a different kind of colonization has taken place since the 80’s influx of foreign aid. Some tourists complain of being mistaken for walking ATMs, and people deal with the demands on their wallets in different ways.

In his Guide to Ethiopia, Philip Briggs suggests that perhaps some recipients of foreign aid do not distinguish between an aid organization and the individual tourist. He also points out that indiscriminate giving of trinkets assuages only the guilt of the giver, and that the way for tourists to truly aid Ethiopians is by patronizing local businesses.

Ethiopia’s Camelot

In Gonder, two young Ethiopian students — Peter and Ababa — befriended me.

“Why,” I asked them, “does everyone ask for pens?” Children requesting pens is common in, but by no means exclusive to Ethiopia.

“For schoolwork,” was their response.

“What if,” I suggested, “the tourist gives a box of pens to the teacher?”

“Then the teacher will keep them.”

They took me to see the last Felasha Jew in Gonder, and then escorted me back to the hotel. They asked me to send Bob Marley cassettes when I could. Reggae is popular in Ethiopia, and Jamaican Rastafarianism began when Ras Tafari became Emperor of Ethiopia in 1930, adopting the name Emperor Haile Selassie.

In the morning, our Dragoman group excursion was to the Royal Enclosure, Fasilada’s Bath, and the Debre Berhan Selassie Church.

Emperor Fasilada was the man credited with constructing most of the 300-year-old palaces and buildings, at a time when Gonder was the capital of Ethiopia. War, invasions, and time have destroyed many. Most of the best-kept remaining castles, stables, churches and towers are within the Royal Enclosure.

Fasilada’s Bath is just over a mile away. It’s an atmospheric compound featuring a sunken pool surrounding a small castle. The lake is filled at Timkat, the three-day Ethiopian Orthodox Church festival that occurs in January. After a ceremony, celebrants jump into the lake to commemorate Christ’s baptism by John the Baptist.

Our last stop in Gonder was the Debre Berhan Selassie Church, the only original Gonder church to escape destruction at the hands of the Dervish of Sudan in the 19th-century. Legend has it that a swarm of bees saved the church. The bees were surely great art-lovers, as the colorful 17th-century frescos on the walls and ceilings of the church are among the finest in a country where even the smallest church features colorful paintings.

On Lake Tana, every small monastery we’d visited featured bright depictions of Biblical scenes, extending to chapters not seen outside of Ethiopia. The Debre Berhan Selassie Church is not round like the churches in much of the country. It is rectangular, as legend has it that the church was built to house the rectangular Ark of the Covenant.

Axum: Home of the Ark

Ethiopians do not doubt that the Ark is in Ethiopia, but it is not in Gonder. Its resting place is not even a chuch, but is a secure building in Axum’s St. Mary of Zion church compound. Ethiopia’s Biblical epic, the Kebre Negast, recounts the legend of how the Ark came to Axum. Graham Hancock’s The Sign and the Sea is a modern book that examines and disproves aspects of the legend, but suggests that Ethiopia’s claim is somewhat credible.

The Ark legend aside, Axum has plenty of concrete reasons to merit a visit. Hundreds of tombs and granite obelisks — called stelae — dot ancient archeological sites. Less than five percent of them have been excavated. The Northern Stelae Field alone has over 120 carved monoliths, which were reputedly raised by the power of the Ark. Archeologists, however, argue that elephants, rollers, and winches were responsible for erecting the 2000-year-old stelae.

Independent Travel to Lalibela

“Do you know the difference between faranjis and Ethiopians?” The shopkeeper of a bookstore/cybercafe addressed my friend Monica on our first night of traveling away from the Dragoman group. We were en route to Lalibela and had caught an early bus from Axum to the upscale Tigrean capital of Mekele, arriving after a quickly-repaired breakdown.

“Mmm… no. What?”

“When faranjis go out for coffee, they all pay separately.”

He laughed uproariously, either at his joke or the absurdities of faranjis. Ethiopian custom is that the individual who does the inviting always picks up the tab.

The next morning, bus officials ushered us through the bus park gate before the six a.m. opening time. No one complained. Faranjis were, not unjustly, considered incapable of fending for themselves against the anxious locals gearing up for the mass sprint to the buses. Buses fill quickly, and Ethiopian law states that all passengers must have a seat, although this rule is often ignored in rural areas.

Ethiopian Pop Music

We headed out, the sounds of an Ethiopian cassette playing through a tinny speaker above the bus driver’s head. Ethiopian pop music is far more popular in Ethiopia than Western acts. In this instance, it sounded like the music we’d seen in Addis Ababa as part of an Azmari Beats variety-style show. Imagine the war cry of Xena: Warrior Princess set to music.

Our trip took all day due to a leaky radiator and Chinese-sponsored road construction. And our next day’s trip quit being inconvenient and devolved into absurdity when a four-hour ride by Land Cruiser turned into a hitchhiking epic that finally put us in Lalibela after a disastrous overnight cargo truck ride over a pitted dirt road.

Medieval Lalibela, the final stop along the Historical Route, was worth the effort. Some Ethiopians believe that Lalibela’s churches were built by angels — and why not? Like the pyramids of Egypt, the 800-year-old structures seem too grand, too perfect to be manmade. They are subterranean, hewn straight out of solid red rock, connected by tunnels and catacombs. There are at least 11 unique, active shrines, visited more by devoted pilgrims than by tourists.

Lalibela’s churches, along Ethiopia’s River Jordan, are a testament to the devotion of Ethiopia’s Orthodox Christians that have long dominated half (or more) of the country. Ethiopian Christianity is rooted in ancient Judaism, and because Ethiopia had little contact with other Christian countries, its religions evolved in their own undiluted, Old Testament-inspired ways. Indigenous Felasha Jews operated in a similar void until nearly all were airlifted to Israel during the ’80s and ’90s.

The most famous of Lalibela’s churches is the Church of St. George. After Jesus and the Virgin Mary, St. George is the most popular biblical character in Ethiopia. Various interpretations of him slaying the dragon abound throughout the Christian part of the country, and paintings of him adorn the walls of Lake Tana monasteries. He is said to have visited his Lalibela shrine, and my guide pointed out his horse’s hoofprints on the wall.

Later, I caught an Ethiopian Airlines flight back to Gonder, while Monica waited for the group to meet her at Lalibela. The trip had taken several days by road, but was a comfortable hour by Africa’s oldest airline. Independent bus travel in Ethiopia had been arduous but rewarding.

Monica and I were thrilled to be squashed in with locals, interacting on a personal level, and sharing meals with strangers. But tourists with time constraints (or back problems) would do better to take the inexpensive daily Historic Route service offered by Ethiopian Airlines. Tickets are available in Ethiopia, or from Ethiopian Airlines New York or Washington offices.

Leaving by Land

Word has been getting out that there’s a lot to see in Ethiopia, and tourist numbers, though still small, have increased. Most tourists fly in and out of Addis Ababa, with its international airport, diverse restaurants and upscale hotels.

But some travel overland from Nairobi, seeing game parks and tribes along the way. And a backpacker’s route is evolving overland to Egypt through northern Sudan, via Gonder, Shihedi, Metema, and Gedaref on the Sudanese side.

I took the sparsely -traveled overland route to Egypt, and so on a late October afternoon found myself sitting in a tiny blue-and-pink concrete hotel in Shihedi. I ordered dinner, along with an Ambo, Ethiopia’s superb brand of mineral water. It was one of two weekly “fasting” days, which meant that only vegetarian food was available.

Ethiopian cuisine, spicy meats or pureed vegetables served on flat injera gluten-free bread that doubles as utensils, is a “love-it-or-hate-it” food, and I loved it. The sound of a pool cue clicking on balls came from next door, and the Xena war-cry in the distance indicated that a sporting event was on, or perhaps the girls’ choir was practicing.

I relaxed with my shiro-wot, and answered questions posed by curious locals. Yes, I was alone. Yes, I liked Ethiopia. Yes, I often traveled alone and preferred it that way.

But this time I was lying. Group travel had been the ideal way to see Ethiopia and now I was lonely. I’d enjoyed being able to retreat to the group when the squeals of children had overwhelmed me. And our group had behaved well. We’d adapted to the onslaught of “YOUYOUYOU” children, had dressed conservatively so as not to offend, and hadn’t raised a fuss when the women of our group had been forbidden from certain male-only monasteries on Lake Tana. And best of all, no one had farted in public.

Rainy season is mid-June to mid-September. If traveling independently by road, avoid during this time as remote roads may be impassable. The Blue Nile falls are more impressive during or right after rainy season.

CALENDAR AND TIME

The Ethiopian calendar is 7.5 years behind the Western Gregorian calendar. Time is told on a 24 hour clock that begins at daybreak. 6 a.m. is the start of the Ethiopian day, so 7 a.m. is “one,” 8 a.m. is “two,” and so on.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Steep fees are charged for video cameras at historic sites. Avoid using a video camera for still shots if you do not want to pay the fee. Still cameras are treated with extreme suspicion outside of historic sites. They are not allowed in many public buildings such as post offices, banks, and even some department stores.

INTERNET ACCESS

Cybercafes exist in Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, Gondar, and Mekele. Service in Addis Ababa is slow, but outside of Addis Ababa it is excruciatingly slow and expensive. Electricity is unreliable.

Marie Javins is a cartoonist who has worked for Marvel comics and others, she lives in Los Angeles.

• Latest Posts

• Tunisia: Being of Service in Zammour - April 27, 2024
• Greece Getaway: Camping Hacks for Your Next Getaway - April 25, 2024
• Products and Clothing You Might Enjoy - April 25, 2024

One thought on “ Ethiopia: Overland on the Historical Route ”

This was an interesting post to read. I definitely enjoyed perusing over it. Did you only get to visit historical sites while you were in Ethiopia? I’ve heard they have beautiful natural sites as well that attract many visitors such as the Blue Nile Falls and the Danakil Depression. Ethiopia seems like a country with a lot to offer its tourists and not just the regular wildlife safari. Happy travels to you!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Insert/edit link

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

OVERLAND Ethiopia Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

OVERLAND Ethiopia Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Visiting Tips (2024)

• Africa Tours
• Ethiopia Tours

Ethiopia Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Ethiopia is one of the world’s most historically rich countries; archaeological digs in the area have uncovered artefacts dating back more than 3 million years! A visit to Addis Ababa features some cultural museums and hiking opportunities on Mount Entoto. Or, tour the ancient city of Gondar , with its walled fortress and palace from the 17th-century.

• Ethiopia Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Ethiopia

6 Trips in Ethiopia with 77 Reviews

• Starts Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
• Ends Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Best of Ethiopia

• Trip customizable
• Best price guaranteed
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Accommodation Hotel & Hut
• Transport Bus, Boat, Flight & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 6-65 yrs
• Operated in English
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Ethiopia: Africa’s Hidden Treasure

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Museum and gallery visits Sightseeing Tours , Museum and gallery visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Wildlife 'data-more-tripid='27877'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat, Bus, Flight & Private Vehicle

Complete Ethiopia

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Wildlife Sightseeing Tours , Wildlife , National parks , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Nature and bush walks , Local culture , Road trips & Waterfalls 'data-more-tripid='27875'>+6 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut, Lodge & Resort
• Transport 4WD Jeep, Boat & Private Vehicle

Charming Ethiopia

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Natural landmarks sightseeing Sightseeing Tours , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Museum and gallery visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='27872'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Bus & Private Vehicle

• Starts Benishangul, Ethiopia
• Ends Benishangul, Ethiopia

Tour To Paripueira Beach

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Beach
• Accommodation No Accommodation
• Age Range 1-99 yrs
• May 04 10+ seats left
• May 07 10+ seats left

Tour To São Francisco River

• Activities Local boat rides
• May 10 10+ seats left

Ethiopia Tour Reviews

Ethiopia - tour highlights and travel tips.

Ethiopia is an African nation located on the continent’s Eastern Horn (Horn of Africa). It is home to over 74 million people, and aside from Nigeria, contains the highest population in Africa. Many historians regard Ethiopia as the place of human origin as the country holds the distinction of being one of the oldest nations in the world.

Travel Highlights

• Take a hike along the Simen mountains in one of many unique variety of national parks.
• Go to southern Ethiopia to get a glimpse of Lake Chamo, and also to learn a little about how ancient tribes got on.
• Check out Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa for some shopping. While you're there, visit the Addis Ababa University, which is Africa's largest University.
• Your trip to Ethiopia is incomplete without trying ‘Injera’, sponge-like sourdough often served with soup.

Travel Tips

• Learn a little Amharic, Ethiopia’s national language, for your dealings with the locals.
• Ethiopia is also for the most part low-crime. Usually, western Ethiopia is the best place for travelers due to lesser known conflicts.
• Be vigilant and careful in the areas that lay in the borders with Sudan and Kenya. These have been periodical hotbeds of crime.
• Be careful of people who may drum up a pity story to dupe you out of some cash.
• Don't be afraid to explore places that are deemed safe for tourists.

Ethiopia has seasonal weather so please do check up on the best time to visit Ethiopia before planning your tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Ethiopia, do check out our Ethiopia Travel Guide for more information.

• Eco tours in Ethiopia
• Ethiopia guided tours
• Ethiopia family tour packages
• Ethiopia solo trips
• Ethiopia tailor-made vacation packages
• Ethiopia tours for senior citizens
• Ethiopia tours for young adults

Upcoming Departures

• Spring 2024/2025
• Summer 2024/2025
• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025

Best price guaranteed - No booking fees

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Ethiopia Tours & Trips from Addis Ababa

Find your perfect adventure! We have 148 tours of Ethiopia that start in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The most popular month is June, and tour lengths range between 1 and 30 days.

148 Ethiopia tour packages from Addis Ababa with 73 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Heritages of Northern Ethiopia

Our adventure with Tankwa Tours and Travel Agency was awesome! Every day was a paradise in Ethiopia! Well planned holiday and everything went as it should and made it stress free and very enjoyable. Good service and great package prices. Repeat customers here.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

8 Days Omo vally Tours ;

Most amazing experience. Highly recommend. The driver, the guides, the food—all welcoming. I will be returning. Ethiopia is forever in my heart.

• Sightseeing

10 Days North and Eastern Ethiopia Historic Tour

From the first moment I felt very comfortable with the contact person (Armaye) who answered me quickly, dissipated doubts and gave me a thousand pieces of advice. We did the tours of north Ethiopia first to Bahar Dar, Gondar, Lalibela; the experience was great, especially because it was the first time we were traveling through Ethiopia and we did not know very well what we would find, but I must say that we had a nice guides in all cities, punctual, attentive and with a lot of suggestions of places to visit and eat; In addition, the accommodations suggested by Armaye, was totally within our expectations. Then after the Northern tour we decided to visit southern part of the country (Arbaminch, Dorze village, Awassa, Langano, Bale Mountains park, Awash, Harar) we loved the couple of nights we spent in langano lake at Sabana resort. We made the trip by road but we have taken some domestic flights for the north tour, and we were fully satisfied with the whole team of Armaye Tours and the experience was great, All the services they have provided have been fantastic: the drivers, vehicles and local guides, have been really good and very, very professional. Thanks to them, the trip has enchanted us, and we have been able to discover a wonderful country and people.So, from my experience, I would definitely recommend this company, if you have the opportunity to travel to Ethiopia.

• Hiking & Trekking

6 Days Bale Mountains Trekking Tour

Excdllent tour. The organisation was, from start to finish, spot on. All the guides etc wee competent, professional and friendly. Camping in the Bale mountains was an unforgetable experience. Totally reccommended

All Inclusive Historical Trip To The Northern Ethiopia ( 5 Night/ 6 Days )

If it is your first visit to Ethiopia, you will be surprised at the cultural and natural diversity.

The Natural Site Tour

A life time Experience Tour with the Exotic Tribes of Ethiopia

Very knowledgeable guide with a deep love of Ethiopia and a broad knowledge. Highly recommended.

North Ethiopia

Northern Ethiopia 7 Days

I landed on November 4th without any luggage. Car and guide Yihun were at airport and drove me to the hotel. Melese met me at the hotel and immediately took me shopping for bag clothes etc. he even negotiated the price for me. It was to be a group tour but due to political problems I got a personally guided tour at the group price. I appreciated the fact that Melese hadn’t cancelled the tour. Next day we toured Addis. Yihun and the driver were excellent and we even had a traditional injera, raw meat, BBQ chicken and local beer lunch. Melese and I flew to Bahar Dar and spent two nights at a decent hotel. First day lake and monasteries. We talked about if there was any chance I could spend time with a local Bahar Dar family Next lunch was at his sisters with coffee home made beer araki injera meat and vegetables. It was simply amazing as the kids were there as well. I really felt at home. By organizing the get together Melese surpassed all of my expectations. Fighting broke out that day in Lalibella and we had to reschedule with Melese help. Manuel was my guide in Gander. Sightseeing and Ethiopian lunch. Made local friends at the airport. Ethiopians are friendly and young people approached me so as to practice their English. Lalibela trip was memorable. Muchuw was my guide. We visited the rock churches met drank and ate with locals at an outdoor bar. Children with smiling innocent faces crowded around and it was amazing. This was innocence in the face of war. I was the Only guest at hotel with bullet holes in some rooms due to fighting near by. Next day attended church with the locals. Muchuw and I stopped at a shop and bought a proper football for a group of 10 children who were playing without a proper ball. Met the ringleader at the rock church. Will never forget the look on his face when we gave him the ball. Got back to Addis and flew to South Africa the next day I travel because I want to meet people and learn about their life, aspirations, likes and dislikes. Melese and his team made sure that all my requirements were exceeded and I left Addis with wanting to go back some day. Friends I made there are in touch frequently thru WhatsApp and some have agreed to watch over the lalibela children. Even got another guide to agree to teach the kids to play football. Have travelled everywhere, but this trip I will fondly remember and cherish thanks to Melese and his team.

5 Days Historical North

A very well put together tour. The guides at each location were very friendly and helpful. Each went out of their way to make sure my trip was as informative, fun, and comfortable as possible. The manager of the group, Addis, also personally called to ensure that everything went smoothly during my trip. I would definitely recommend this company For tours in Ethiopia.

Heading to visit Ethiopia's historic sites

We did a boat tour to the Monasteries on lake Tana and visited the Nile Falls. A special thanks to our guide Tiruneh who showed us the monasteries because he was a great story teller. The tour was smoothly organized, guides and drivers were very nice and competent, so no complaints from our side. We had a great first impression of Bahir Dar and its surroundings.

Explore historic sites of Ethiopia

Amazing tour, very well organized by Tigistu and his company: we saw interesting sites and learnt a lot about Ethiopian rich history and culture. Highly recommended!

Around the Rift Valley Lakes

• Wildlife & Nature Photography

9 Days Ethiopia Wildlife Photography Tour

Outstanding Wildlife Photography Tour If you take this photographic tour with Armaye I can say that it is excellent from the moment you are contacted to plan it. Armaye was always kind and willing to have a good experience according to our budget and interests. He sent me an itinerary for 9 days and we traveled with him also we have used local guides at some parts. We saw a lot of Wildlife including our main targets(Ethiopian Wolf, Walia Ibex, Gelada Baboons, Menilik’s Bushbuck, Bale Monkey and Mountain Nyala) also reaching them with some hikes. Breathtaking views in Simien Mountain park but more chance to see wildlife and endemic birds in Bale Mountains. Our pictures are amazing, a beautiful memory. Unfortunately for me it wasn’t enough time I had in Ethiopia as I would like to visit many parks and more endemic wildlife and birds so I will plan to come some other time and use Armaye Tours service.

Visit Historical Places in North Ethiopia

I and my family found Tankwa Tours & Travel agency's contact address from my friend who hiked in the Simien mountains for 10 days with Tankwa tours. The team was great and kind to serve us as friend and sometimes as guests. Our guide Melese Asifaw was knowledgeable in history and bird watching tours. He knows so many bird names as Ethiopia is the bird paradise country in Africa. All in all we had wonderful trip with Tankwa Tours & Travel Agency. we defiantly recommended this company for travelers.

What people love about Ethiopia Tours from Addis Ababa

Beautiful country, excellent guides and accommodations. Saw and learned allot

Tours starting from Addis Ababa

• Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa tours (128)
• Addis Ababa to Lalibela tours (8)
• Family from Addis Ababa (87)
• In-depth Cultural from Addis Ababa (64)
• Active from Addis Ababa (34)
• Explorer from Addis Ababa (32)
• Hiking & Trekking from Addis Ababa (16)
• Private from Addis Ababa (12)
• Festival & Events from Addis Ababa (6)

• 1 800 970 7299
• Live Chat (Online) Live Chat (Offline)
• My Wishlist
• Find a Trip

Your browser 'Internet Explorer' is out of date. Update your browser for more security, comfort and the best experience on this site.

Africa Overland Tours & Vacations

• Overland Tours
• Africa Overland Tours & Holidays

Overland travel is in our blood.

In 1988, two young backpackers gathered some friends and set off across the continent in a modified ex-council truck. They must have had fun, because when they got home they started a little company called Intrepid. These days, our itineraries are more polished, our vehicles are custom-built for overlanding and our leaders are passionate and expert locals, but we’ve still got that sense of adventure.

You’ll get off the beaten track, connect with local people and see more animals than you can poke your (respectfully distant) binoculars at. An African Overland tour is truly a drive on the wild side.

World Sale - Up to 20% off!

Save up to 20% off* small group adventures worldwide for a limited time only.

Our Overland tours in Africa

Okavango experience, 10 days from 1647.

Tour through Johannesburg, Maun, Chobe, the Okavango Delta and Victoria Falls on a ten...

Explore Southern Africa

18 days from 3249.

Spend some time exploring Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe with included safari...

Gorillas & Game Parks

16 days from 4064.

Encounter the wildlife of Kenya and Uganda on this adventure including a gorilla trek...

Cape Town to Vic Falls

22 days from 2750.

Spend three weeks exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, from Cape...

East Africa Highlights

10 days from 3542.

Travel through East Africa from Kenya to Tanzania, stopping at the Masai Mara, the...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Kenya Wildlife Safari

8 days from 1437.

Experience Kenyan wildlife on an eight day trip travelling from Nairobi to Lake...

East Africa Safari & Coast

13 days from 4460, road to zanzibar, 12 days from 2495.

Experience the beauty of the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, Usambara Mountains and Zanzibar...

The Masai Heartlands

15 days from 3596.

Uncover Kenya and Tanzania on a 2 week trip with Serengeti safaris, Ngorongoro, Nakuru,...

Serengeti Trail

8 days from 2138.

Roam the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Amboseli National Park to spot Africa's Big...

Vic Falls to Kruger

9 days from 1611.

Take on a safari adventure through Hwange National Park, Matobo National Park, Kruger...

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches

27 days from 6710.

Go deep in East Africa on this epic trip, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Experience Southern Africa

16 days from 4235.

Visit Africa and travel through southern Africa's beautiful regions. Visit South Africa...

Botswana Adventure

10 days from 4544.

Visit Africa and travel through Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe on a tour from Windhoek...

Kruger to Vic Falls

Travel from South Africa's capital to Botswana and Zimbabwe, visiting two of southern...

Namibia Discovery

13 days from 4106.

Travel from Cape Town in South Africa to Namibia’s Windhoek through coastlines, sand...

Kruger, Coast & Cape

22 days from 2660.

Embark on a 22 day Southern African odyssey through wildlife-rich game parks, idyllic...

Amazing Southern Africa

22 days from 8390.

Jump onboard an exhilarating journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls through the...

Vic Falls to Cape Town

22 days from 2768.

Discover the unique and contrasting lands of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South...

Garden Route Adventure

14 days from 1648.

See Africa from Durban to Cape Town on a 14-day adventure. Tour Tsitsikamma, Addo...

Best of East Africa

20 days from 3983.

Step out onto the Serengeti and keep your eyes out for rhinos, lions, leopards and a...

Cape Town to Zanzibar

41 days from 5207.

See Africa on this incredible overland adventure from South Africa to Tanzania. Soak up...

Serengeti & Kilimanjaro

15 days from 5525.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya, including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Nairobi to Stone Town

9 days from 2138.

Marvel at East Africa from Nairobi to Stone Town on this epic trip with safaris, hikes...

Okavango & Beyond

9 days from 2300.

Travel from Zimbabwe to South Africa via Botswana. The Okavango and Beyond trip is the...

Vic Falls to Stone Town

17 days from 2023.

See East Africa in 17 days including Victoria Falls, Matobo, South Luwanga, Lake Malawi...

Southern Africa Adventure

30 days from 4320.

Take a month long southern African adventure from Cape Town into Namibia, Botswana and...

Essential East Africa

10 days from 1790.

Hit the (dirt) road through Kenya and Tanzania. Safari in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro...

Johannesburg to Kenya

37 days from 6341.

Travel the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar and the savannahs of the...

Cape Town to Kenya

49 days from 7407.

Experience the ultimate African adventure on this epic trip including Kenya, Botswana,...

Kruger & Coast

9 days from 1140.

Explore diverse southern Africa on this nine-day adventure, including Kruger National...

Gorillas to Vic Falls

42 days from 8757.

Explore Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe on this epic trip that included a...

Essential Botswana

9 days from 1150.

Four countries, at least five national parks, hundreds of animals, thousands of birds,...

Safari to Kilimanjaro - Machame Route

16 days from 6125.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Africa Encompassed Southbound

63 days from 10288.

Set out on a mighty African adventure through Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe...

Vic Falls to Kenya

28 days from 4476.

Discover East African wilderness and the animals that call it home on an adventure...

Zanzibar to Cape Town

40 days from 4676.

Explore Africa on an epic wildlife-rich adventure from Tanzania to South Africa while...

Kenya to Cape Town

48 days from 6764.

Tour Africa's best from Kenya to Cape Town through Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi, Zimbabwe...

Real East Africa & Zanzibar

14 days from 2644.

Explore the wildlife-rich plains of Kenya and Tanzania and then unwind in Zanzibar....

Stone Town to Nairobi

9 days from 2012.

Explore Tanzania on this trip travelling to Nairobi via the Serengeti and the Usambara...

Essential African Safari

9 days from 950.

Travel from Zimbabwe to Botswana and South Africa on a real African adventure. Visit...

Stone Town to Vic Falls

16 days from 1972.

Track rhinos on foot and embrace the sights and sounds of Eastern Africa on this unique...

Johannesburg to Gorillas

52 days from 10602.

Experience the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar, the savannahs of the...

Kenya to Vic Falls

27 days from 4544.

Explore the wilds of East Africa on a trip from Nairobi to the Serengeti, Usambara...

Kilimanjaro & Serengeti Adventure

15 days from 5908, beaches, game parks & gorillas, 27 days from 6858.

Spend 27 days exploring the wonders, wildlife and tribal cultures of East Africa to...

Zanzibar to Vic Falls

19 days from 2324.

Explore East Africa from Zanzibar's beaches to the roar of Victoria Falls, seeing...

Johannesburg to Zanzibar

29 days from 4307.

From Johannesburg to Botswana, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Lake Malawi and...

Zanzibar to Nairobi

12 days from 2360.

Get a true taste of eastern Africa on a 12-day trip to Zanzibar, the Serengeti,...

Vic Falls to Zanzibar

20 days from 2402.

Travel from the thundering Victoria Falls to the spice plantations of Zanzibar via...

Vic Falls to Gorillas

43 days from 8991.

Take an epic trip through eastern Africa, via Victoria Falls, the Serengeti and...

Our accommodation styles

The style of accommodation depends on the adventure you choose. When in cities and towns we often stay in hotels, but on the majority of Africa Overland tours you’ll be camping – sometimes in campsites that you’ll share with other tour groups, and sometimes in the middle of the wilderness (don’t worry, our leaders are well trained to protect you and it’s very safe!).

Campsites facilities can be basic. Sometimes the showers are cold, and some toilets are of the squat or hole-in-the-ground variety. You’ll be expected to pitch your own tent each night, but the two-person canvas tents provided are easy to set up and come with built-in mosquito screens.

Our Overland vehicles

Intrepid’s fleet of Overland safari trucks are custom-built for wildlife viewing and off-track adventure. While the seats are comfortable, the ride can be pretty bumpy at times. Most trucks have electrical plugs for charging phones and cameras, but we’ve made a conscious decision  not  to have Wi-Fi on-board (who needs the internet when you’ve got Africa to gaze at?). And there’s “natural air-conditioning” – meaning you’ll need to open a window for fresh air.

While we regularly service our trucks, the occasional breakdown may happen (don’t worry, your leader is well trained to deal with these situations). But that’s all part of the adventure.

Meet our leaders

If you're thinking of travelling on an overland safari through Africa with Intrepid Travel, but you're not entirely sure what it will be like – then take a look behind the scenes of a real overland experience and meet our leaders.

What crew will accompany me on an Overland tour?

Good things come in threes, right? On most Overland tours in Africa, you don’t just get one local leader, but a crew of three – a leader, driver and a cook! The leader is there to organise logistics, keep you safe and ensure the trip runs smoothly. While not being guides in the traditional sense, our African leaders – many of them hailing from Kenya and South Africa – have a broad knowledge of their destinations, a keen eye for wildlife-spotting and a passion for their homeland. At some points, we may also use specialist local guides to give you deeper insight into a place, especially when tracking and identifying game.

It’s the cook’s job to shop, oversee meal preparation and ensure the group keeps a high standard of hygiene. Your driver’s responsibility is to maintain the truck and get you from A to B safely. By the end of the trip, the trio of leader, driver and cook often feel like new friends. 

Some Overland trips in Southern Africa have a smaller group size of maximum 16 people. On these tours, you'll only have two crew members with you – a leader and a driver. In these instances, the leader will help prepare meals. Check out the ‘Group Leader’ section of the Essential Trip Information to find out how many crew you’ll have on your trip.

What’s the group size?

You’ll be part of a group of maximum 22 people of all ages and nationalities, from all walks of life. That’s what overland travel is all about: sharing experiences with like-minded adventurers from around the world. On our longer combination trips, your crew and group may change halfway through. Be prepared to spend a lot of time with each other and to make some new friends; it happens a lot.

What are drive days like?

Africa Overland tours involve a lot of time on the road covering long distances, and many early morning starts. Some days we’ll drive for five, six, even nine hours at a time, although we take regular breaks. One of the beauties of overlanding is seeing changing landscapes and local village life roll by right outside your window, but not every traveller is comfortable with so much driving. Changes in weather, road conditions and traffic (or unexpected border and national park closures) can throw drive times out by hours, so it's important to have an open mind and a degree of flexibility. If you’re the kind of traveller who prefers a strict, set schedule, you might be better suited to one of our destination-based shortbreak adventures. Check the itineraries on our website for an approximate breakdown of drive times for each trip. 

How do game drives work?

Most Africa Overland tours are geared around wildlife viewing. We often stay a few days in each national park, giving us plenty of opportunity to encounter a wide variety of animals. On these days, you’ll usually do two game drives a day – one in the early morning when wildlife is most active, and one in the early afternoon after lunch. Game drives often last 2-4 hours.   

While we do use open-roof 4x4 safari vehicles on occasion (like in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater), most game drives are done in the Overland truck, which is specially built for safe wildlife viewing with big sliding windows. When we come across an animal, the driver will stop and you’ll be able to get out of your seat and move around the interior of the truck.

It’s important to know that an African safari is not a David Attenborough documentary. There’s no guarantee you’ll see every member of the ‘Big Five’, and we never veer off the marked trails to get a closer look at an animal. When we’re in their territory, wildlife comes to us. Whatever happens, you’re sure to experience some pretty mind-blowing stuff.

Am I expected to help out with tasks on the road?

On most Overland tours, you’re more than just a passenger – you’re part of a team. Your leader may split you into smaller groups and draw up a daily roster. You’ll then take it in turns to help with tasks such as cooking, shopping, washing up and cleaning the truck, although it’s not difficult work. Please come prepared to roll up your sleeves and pull your weight – it’s all part of the fun!

How do meals work?

When camping, breakfasts and most lunches and dinners are included. While at times you’ll be required to help out with basic cooking – chopping vegies, kneading dough – the cook overseas all meal preparations. Meals are tasty yet simple, made using local ingredients your crew will pick up along the way. Dinner might be pasta or a BBQ, but we also throw in some local specialties. Breakfasts often involve toast, spreads, eggs and tea/coffee, while lunch is usually a sandwich and some fruit; sometimes you’ll need to prepare a packed lunch if we’re going to be out on a game drive all day. If you have any dietary requirements please tell us at the time of booking, and remind your crew at the welcome meeting.

On drive days, we’ll usually make a stop at a market or shopping centre, giving you the chance to stock up on snacks and supplies. When heading into national parks for a few days we often take an esky with ice, so you can pick up some local beers or South African wine to enjoy by the campfire. We start each day with a supply of clean, filtered water for you to fill up your drink bottle. When staying in hotels, meals aren’t included, but your leader will recommend some affordable and delicious local restaurants.

How do the itineraries operate?

While we stick to the planned itineraries where we can, overland travel – especially in remote parts of Africa – is unpredictable. Closed roads, inclement weather or mechanical issues can affect the running of your trip. In those cases, there are plenty of other tried-and-true routes we can take. An open mind and sense of flexibility are key to enjoying your adventure.

Optional activities – such as bike rides, hot air ballooning and walking safaris –  are dispersed throughout the itinerary. Please note that these are subject to availability, and that the prices listed are merely an indication. Ask your leader for more information.

How do we deal with money on the road?

One of the great things about an Overland tour is that many things are built into the cost of the trip – accommodation, transport, game drives, activities, community visits and most meals. You will, however, need your own financial supply for tipping, visas, personal shopping, drinks, laundry, meals when staying in hotels, optional activities and snacks for the road, so please factor this into your budget. We make regular stops at ATMs along the way so you don’t have to carry too much cash with you. Make sure you read your Essential Trip Information carefully so you know what’s included.

How do visas and border crossings work?

Many of the countries visited on our Africa Overland tours require visas for entry. Some are best obtained before you leave home, and others can be obtained en-route. Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller, although we’re happy to help with any questions. Entry requirements can change at any time, so check out the relevant consular websites for up-to-date information specific to your nationality. Visas can take several weeks to process, so it’s best to apply as soon as you’ve booked your trip.

When crossing the border between countries, your leader will explain what you need to do and will walk and talk you through the whole process, so there’s no need to feel nervous. Along with your passport, you may also need to present proof of your Yellow Fever vaccination (your doctor or nurse should give you a small booklet after having the immunisation), so make sure you bring it with you. If you’re purchasing a visa at the border, you’ll often need cash (in the local currency or in USD). Your leader will be able to give you all this information on the ground so you’re well prepared.

What should I know about health?

To fully participate in an Africa Overland tour, you’ll need to have at least a basic level of fitness. Long travel days, hot and dusty conditions, bumpy roads – overland travel can be challenging on the body. You’ll need to be physically able to help with camp chores and to climb up and down the steps of the truck 8-10 times a day. To choose a trip that suits your fitness level, please look carefully at the physical rating on our website.

It’s also a good idea to check with your doctor to see if any pre-existing medical conditions will affect your ability to participate in the trip, as we won’t have immediate access to doctors or medical facilities in some of the more remote parts of Africa. You’ll also need certain vaccinations, so make an appointment to see a travel doctor as soon as you’ve booked your trip. See the Essential Trip Information for more information about health.

How do I pack for an Overland trip?

When overlanding, it’s best to pack as lightly as possible. Although you won’t have to carry your bag over long distances, you’ll need to help load and unload it from the truck. On most trucks, your main luggage will be stored in a personal locker at the back of the vehicle, but in some cases bags are stored together in one communal compartment. Either way, we strongly recommend a backpack or duffel bag instead of a hard-framed suitcase. Lockers usually measure 26 inches long, 18 inches wide and 10 inches high, so keep your bag within those dimensions, and make sure it weighs no more than 20 kilograms.

You’ll also need a daypack to keep your water bottle, camera and other personal items (this is stored at your feet or in the overhead shelf of the truck). You can stock up on basics – toilet paper, soap, batteries, a small lock for your locker – when we stop at supermarkets along the way.

The clothing and equipment required will depend on your destination and the time of year. Even in summer it can get cold at night, especially when camping, so layers are always a good idea. Bring comfortable, durable clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty (because they will get dirty!). We’ll supply the camping gear, including a basic ground mat, but you’ll need to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. For more information about what to bring, check the Essential Trip Information.

While most Africa Overland tours are classified as Basix, for those less inclined to rough it, there’s a “glamping” option with our Comfort range of trips. On a Comfort trip, you’ll still need to be prepared for long, hot, bumpy drives in the truck, but you’ll rest your weary head in lodges and permanent tented camps instead of campsites.

Plus – you won’t be preparing your own meals, as they’re mostly included and provided by the lodges. Check out our Comfort trips in Africa below.

Combine your overland journey with another African adventure

Going on an Overland adventure might be a dream holiday, but there's plenty of other great things to see and do in  Africa  too. You can  climb Mt Kilimanjaro , explore the lush rainforests of Madagascar or go on a Real Food Adventure through Morocco. Make your Overland adventure part of an even bigger Africa holiday on any of the trips below. 

Read more about Africa

Best Ethiopia Overland Journeys Tour Companies

Search 54 Ethiopia tour operators and travel companies, with 148 reviews.

World Expeditions

Road Scholar

African Trails

On The Go Tours

Featured Ethiopia Trips

Rockjumper Birding

Ethio Travel & Tours

Intrepid Travel

Health Safety +

G Adventures

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

Peregrine Adventures

9 match your criteria (1 - 9 shown)

View Ethiopia trips

Plan your Ethiopia trip

Ethiopia Reviews & Ratings

Overall it was a great trip. Thanks

This was a very good trip

This was a very good trip and above my expectations. A hectic two weeks but we saw and did so many different things. The highlight for me was seeing the Danakil Depr...

This was a very good trip and

This trip was a perfect.

This trip was a perfect Christmas treat - lots to see and do in Sr...

See all Ethiopia reviews

Related Trips and Tours

Trip planning.

OVERLAND Ethiopia Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

OVERLAND Ethiopia Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• You are here:
• Overland Tours

Your Safari

Tour length, rates in usd $ – change currency, starting from.

• Nairobi (0)
• Entebbe (0)
• Johannesburg (0)
• Zanzibar (0)
• Dar es Salaam (0)
• Kampala (0)
• Victoria Falls Town (0)
• Windhoek (0)
• Addis Ababa (0)
• Cape Town (0)
• Mombasa (0)
• Livingstone (0)
• Antananarivo (0)
• Hoedspruit (0)
• Port Elizabeth (0)
• Pretoria (0)
• Bujumbura (0)
• Hazyview (0)
• Upington (0)
• Diani Beach (0)
• Blantyre (0)
• Nelspruit (0)
• Lilongwe (0)
• Bulawayo (0)

Comfort Level

• Luxury+ (0)
• Mid-range (16)
• Budget (12)

Private or Shared Tour

• Private tour (0)
• Shared tour (28)

Safari Type

• Lodge, tented camp or hotel (12)
• Camping (16)

Operator Rating

• & up (27)

Specialized Tours

• Fly-in safaris (0)
• Family (11)
• Beach time (2)
• Honeymoon (0)
• Gorilla trekking (0)
• Photographic safaris (0)
• Mountain climbing (0)
• Walking safaris (0)
• Self-drive (0)
• Guided self-drive (0)
• Chimp trekking (0)
• Overland tours (28)
• Cycling safaris (0)
• Canoe safaris (0)
• Horseback safaris (0)
• Birding tours (0)
• Accessible safaris (0)
• Golf & Wildlife (0)

Other Tour Features

• Airport transfer is included (28)
• Itinerary can be customized (1)

Filter by Operator

Filter by accommodation, operators from.

• South Africa (26)
• Tanzania (2)
• United Kingdom (0)
• United States (0)
• Australia (0)
• Belgium (0)
• Botswana (0)
• Comoros (0)
• Denmark (0)
• Ethiopia (0)
• Eswatini (0)
• Germany (0)
• Ireland (0)
• Lesotho (0)
• Madagascar (0)
• Mauritius (0)
• Mayotte (0)
• Mozambique (0)
• Namibia (0)
• Netherlands (0)
• New Zealand (0)
• Nigeria (0)
• Portugal (0)
• Reunion (0)
• Seychelles (0)
• Singapore (0)
• Switzerland (0)
• United Arab Emirates (0)
• Zimbabwe (0)

African Overland Tours & Safaris

Traveling as part of an overland safari is something of a rite of passage for travelers to Africa. And it’s a fabulous introduction to the continent. It may not be for everyone. The low-budget feel, the close and relentless proximity with other travelers, and the sense of always being on the move doesn’t suit every traveler. But traveling in this way has many upsides. This includes the opportunity to see as much of Africa as you can while spending as little money as possible. Most likely, it’s the sort of epic trip that will stay with you for a lifetime. And it may perhaps even sow the seeds of a passion for the continent that will last just as long.

3-Day Kenya Under Canvas

$187 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 15 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Jambo Travel House

5.0 /5  –  2 Reviews

3-Day Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Manyara National Park

$1,375 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Going Green Safari Tours

5.0 /5  –  149 Reviews

14-Day Botswana Wild Side

$2,407 pp (USD)

Botswana, Namibia, South Africa & Zambia: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Khama Rhino, Maun (City) , Okavango Delta, Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Savuti (Chobe NP) , Chobe NP, Kasane (Town) , Livingstone (End)

Sunway Safaris

4.5 /5  –  30 Reviews

4-Day Zula Sun City Wonder Escape

$1,085 to $1,095 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Mid-range Resort

You Visit: Johannesburg Airport (Start) , Sun City, Pilanesberg GR, Johannesburg (End)

Zula Zula Adventure Bus

2-Day Kruger National Park

$442 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 20 people per vehicle) Mid-range Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Pure Diamond Tours and Safari

Not yet rated

14-Day Walking Safari in South Africa and Swaziland

$2,243 pp (USD)

South Africa & Eswatini: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Mpumalanga, Greater Kruger, Malolotja NR, Zululand (KwaZulu-Natal) , Isandlwana (KZN Battlefields) , Royal Natal (Drakensberg Mountains) , Drakensberg Mountains (Mountain Range) , Johannesburg (End)

17-Day South Africa Rainbow Route

$2,730 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Greater Kruger, Kruger NP, Malolotja NR, Zululand (KwaZulu-Natal) , Royal Natal (Drakensberg Mountains) , East London (City) , Addo Elephant NP, Knysna (Garden Route) , Hermanus (Whales) , Cape Town (End)

13-Day Botswana Trans Kalahari Camping Safari

$2,321 pp (USD)

Botswana & South Africa: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Serowe (Town) , Kubu Island (Makgadikgadi Pans NP) , Makgadikgadi Pans NP, Maun (City) , Okavango Delta, Central Kalahari GR, Khama Rhino, Johannesburg (End)

15-Day Namibia to Zambezi

$2,973 pp (USD)

Namibia & Zambia: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Livingstone (Start) , Victoria Falls, Zambezi Region, Rundu (City) , Etosha NP, Brandberg Mountain (Rock Art) , Swakopmund (City) , Namib Desert, Windhoek (End)

15-Day Zambia and Namibia Camping Safari

$2,268 pp (USD)

Namibia & Zambia: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Camping & Guest House

You Visit: Livingstone (Start) , Victoria Falls, Zambezi Region, Rundu (City) , Etosha NP, Brandberg Mountain (Rock Art) , Spitzkoppe (Damaraland) , Swakopmund (City) , Namib Desert, Windhoek (End)

14-Day Mozambique and Kruger - Beach and Bush

$2,478 pp (USD)

Mozambique & South Africa: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Zululand (KwaZulu-Natal) , Kosi Bay (iSimangaliso WP) , Ponta do Ouro (Beach) , Maputo (City) , Inhambane (City) , Xai-Xai (Town & Beach) , Kruger NP, Greater Kruger, Johannesburg (End)

13-Day Cape Town to Namibia

$2,716 pp (USD)

Namibia & South Africa: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Mid-range Mountain Hut & Lodge

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Cape Point (Cape Peninsula) , Cederberg (Mountain Range) , Orange River, Fish River Canyon (|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld TP) , Namib Desert, Swakopmund (City) , Damaraland, Etosha NP, Windhoek (End)

10-Day Tour to South Africa and Zimbabwe

$2,531 pp (USD)

South Africa & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Great Zimbabwe (Ruins) , Matobo NP, Hwange NP, Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls Town (End)

14-Day Cape Town to Windhoek - Camping Safari

$2,396 pp (USD)

Namibia & South Africa: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Camping & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Cederberg (Mountain Range) , Orange River, Fish River Canyon (|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld TP) , Namib Desert, Swakopmund (City) , Spitzkoppe (Damaraland) , Brandberg Mountain (Rock Art) , Etosha NP, Windhoek (End)

12-Day Zambia and Malawi

$2,728 pp (USD)

Malawi & Zambia: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Camping & Hotel

You Visit: Livingstone (Start) , Victoria Falls, Kafue River, Lower Zambezi NP, Lusaka (City) , South Luangwa NP, Lake Malawi, Lilongwe (End)

16-Day Zambia Malawi Livingstone Trail

$3,915 pp (USD)

Malawi & Zambia: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Mid-range Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , Kafue River, Lower Zambezi NP, Petauke (Town) , South Luangwa NP, Kuti WR, Mt Mulanje, Liwonde NP, Mumbo Isle (Lake Malawi) , Lilongwe (City) , Lilongwe Airport (End)

15-Day Namibia to Victoria Falls Elephant Track

$3,947 pp (USD)

Botswana, Namibia & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Windhoek (Start) , Sesriem (Town) , Swakopmund (City) , Brandberg Mountain (Rock Art) , Etosha NP, Grootfontein (Town) , Kavango Region, Okavango Panhandle, Zambezi Region, Chobe NP, Victoria Falls (End)

21-Day Namibia and Bostwana - Desert and Delta

$2,823 pp (USD)

Botswana, Namibia & Zambia: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Livingstone (Start) , Victoria Falls, Zambezi Region, Rundu (City) , Etosha NP, Brandberg Mountain (Rock Art) , Spitzkoppe (Damaraland) , Swakopmund (City) , Namib Desert, Windhoek (City) , Ghanzi (Town) , Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi Pans NP, Chobe NP, Livingstone Airport (End)

15-Day Zimbabwe & Zambia Ancient Pathways

$2,418 pp (USD)

Zambia & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

You Visit: Livingstone (Start) , Victoria Falls, Kafue River, Chinhoyi Caves (Highlight) , Nyanga NP (Eastern Highlands) , Chimanimani NP, Great Zimbabwe (Ruins) , Matobo NP, Hwange NP, Victoria Falls Town (End)

13-Day Botswana Wild Parks from Maun

$3,605 pp (USD)

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Mid-range Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Okavango Delta, Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Makgadikgadi Pans NP, Chobe NP, Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls Town (End)

Related Searches

• African Safari & Beach Tours
• African Photographic Safaris
• Birding Safaris in Africa
• Walking Safaris
• Best Safari Parks
• Best Safari Countries
• Chimp Trekking Safaris
• African Family Safaris
• Climbing Tours in Africa
• Best Safari Packages
• Canoe Safaris
• Family Safari Considerations

7 Questions About Overland Safari Tours

Answered by

Anthony ham.

Why should I choose an overland safari?

“Overland safaris enable you to travel on a tight budget and for longer. You also get to see far more of the continent than would otherwise be possible. And you can share the experience with like-minded travelers. Africa can be an expensive place and not everyone’s budget extends to the costs of a dedicated safari package. Not every traveler wishes to restrict themselves to one destination; nor does everyone have limited time to allocate to their safari. If your idea of the perfect safari is to rest in one place and contemplate the horizon and those animals that move slowly across it, this won’t be for you. With an overland safari, you get a feel for the continent. Its wildlife and its myriad habitats, its people and its parks are unrivaled in scope, and a true reflection of the continent’s astonishing diversity. And if you like what you see in a particular place, you can always plan to come back.”

What are the popular routes?

“The classic trans-African journeys from the Cape to Cairo do still happen. However, most overland routes are less ambitious, coming together around Nairobi (for East Africa), and Cape Town or Johannesburg (for southern Africa). Flexibility is a byword for the overland safari industry, so you can often just join for the sections that interest you. The parks of central and southern Kenya and the country’s coast are a staple. So is the northern safari circuit and coast of Tanzania. In East Africa, Rwanda is often combined with central and southern Tanzania, while those heading north may take in Uganda and even Ethiopia. Another common route begins in Cape Town, takes in major South African parks such as Kruger, then traverses either Botswana or Namibia on its way north through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and/or Mozambique. Join up all the dots, as some itineraries do, and you’ve the makings of a grand African journey.”

Will I have any chores or duties?

“Yes, you do. On an overland safari everyone is expected to contribute. It usually works on a fair roster system, with chores such as cooking, washing up, setting up camp and packing it all away again later. Part of the appeal is the sense of everyone pulling together to make things work. So, you’re not paying any more for your safari than is absolutely necessary. Overland safaris generally travel with a very small staff, often just a guide and driver. That’s why everyone needs to pitch in and, in that sense, traveling in this way is no holiday. But in no time at all you’ll get into a rhythm and the sense of working together as part of a team has considerable appeal for many travelers.”

What type of vehicle should I expect?

“Overland safari vehicles are rather impressive beasts, designed in such a way that they’re as functional for major African highways as for deep-sand national park trails. The cabin is like a bus – a party bus on some trips, hence the fridge. And there’s a seating area and big windows high above the level of other vehicles. Massive tires are common to make sure that no trail will be too difficult. Large storage areas down below are for carrying camping and other equipment, as well as supplies for those areas where shopping in supermarkets is impossible. For wildlife viewing, some tours use the larger overland truck, others change to smaller, open-sided 4x4 vehicles, and some also use a combination of both.”

How much time is spent driving on an overland safari?

“The amount of time you spend on the road while on an overland tour will vary from one safari to the next. In some ways, you’re always on the road. Your vehicle is your means of transport to get from A to B, but also the safari vehicle and home base for each night’s camp. Most travelers’ memories of these trips are those of a road trip that rolls on and on across Africa. There will be days when you’re not driving at all (when you’re in towns like Nairobi or Arusha or some coastal idyll). Then there are other days when long hours in the vehicle are a necessity to make the whole trip work.”

How much will this safari cost?

“Prices vary but most overland safaris start at around US$45 per person per day. The key is finding out what’s included. Are you expected to bring your own camping equipment? Will you be expected to contribute to any costs (such as fuel, which is unlikely, or food supplies, which is expected) along the way? Are national park fees included? What happens if the truck isn’t full? Will you be expected to make up any shortfall? Remember also that many overland companies require a payment up front as well as a separate local payment. The local payment covers optional activities and many activities are actually considered optional (and therefore extra to the up-front payment). On one level, this allows you to pick and choose the activities in which you wish to participate, and ensures that you only pay for those that you choose. At the same time, the trip may be a lot more expensive than you realize if you are only quoted the up-front payment because many activities will not be included in this price. One final thing: Sometimes, discounts are possible if you take the journey in reverse. Drivers occasionally need to get the vehicle back for the next trip and value having some company on the way back.”

What should I consider when choosing an overland trip?

“Your choice will probably come down to a combination of dates that work for you and what it is you want to see. That’s assuming that you’ve already made the decision that this kind of traveling is for you. If wildlife is your main reason for traveling, quiz the operator about how much time you actually get to spend in the parks themselves. If local culture is a priority, check whether there’ll be dedicated time allocated for interacting with locals. Find out also whether there are any rest days built into the itinerary. Or whether you’ll have any free time to go off and explore on your own, where appropriate. Ask about the level of experience of your guide-to-be. Also query whether it is possible, and how much it costs, to leave halfway through your trip if you discover that it’s not for you.”

Explore Ethiopia and see its beauty that knows no bounds.

One cannot resist the lure of africa., – rudyard kipling, ethiopia is without a doubt like nowhere else in the world, experience ethiopia, origin of the iconic blue nile., peek into the peerless history of the fascinating ethiopia, see our best deals.

Best of Ethiopia Tour

No. of Days: 15 Days

Ethiopia: Africa’s Hidden Treasure

No. of Days: 8 Days

Charming Ethiopia Tour

Omo Valley Cultural Express Tour

About ethiopia.

Best time to go – mid-October to June (dry season)

Home to 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

What type of traveler are you.

Religious Travelers

Family Vacation

Honeymooners

Nature Lovers

Photography Travelers

Senior Travelers

Popular experiences in ethiopia.

“Celebrating Ethiopia”

Omo Valley Tribes

“Unspoilt tribes”

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Danakil Depression

“Hell on Earth”

Birding Destinations

Omo Valley Sites

Why absolute ethiopia is the company of choice.

Ethiopia is Africa’s second largest country by population and 10th largest by size so there is a lot to know and be aware of. We are locally born in Ethiopia and educated here. We know the country, the terrain and the people. Professionally qualified and certified to take charge of Ethiopian tourist expeditions, we promise to take care of you and provide you an experience like no other. Despite Ethiopia being known as a poor country, you will still feel that touch of luxury with our modern, top-quality transportation and accommodation services.

Read more About Us

Latest Articles

A look at the kara tribe, ethiopia’s famous body painters.

by AEDeveloper | Mar 11, 2020

o Famous for their body and face painting, the Karo people are a Nilotic ethnic group that resides along the east banks of the river in southern Ethiopia. With an estimated population between 1000 and 3000, the Karo tribe is one of the smallest tribes amongst the Omo...

Souvenirs in East Africa

by AEDeveloper | Mar 8, 2020

    1. Kiondo Kiondo is a beautiful handbag hand-woven by the local artisans from the Kamba and Kikuyu tribes of Kenya. You can choose from a variety of colors and sizes. The bags are made from fibers; they are long-lasting and light-weighted, which makes it...

Ethiopian Holidays You Can Time Your Holiday With

by AEDeveloper | Feb 24, 2020

 Ethiopia is a country apart from the rest of the world… literally. They have their own calendar so while other countries are currently in 2020, Ethiopia is still in the year 2012, having celebrated their new year last September 2019. Their holidays are also unique...

Sign up to receive great promos and news

Be the first to get updates of promos, announcements and new services! Just leave your e-mail address with us and we’ll get you covered!

Ethiopia always has a special place in my imagination… I felt I would be visiting my own genesis, unearthing the roots of what made me an African – Nelson Mandela

Our Members and Partners

About Ethiopia Featured Tours Booking

Ethiopia Tours

• Historic Routes
• Culture Tours
• Trekking and Adventure Tours
• Birding Tours
• Excursion and City Tours
• Tailor Made Tours

About Us Destination National Park Guides and Vehicles Blog

Terms & Conditions Travel Partners

Email: [email protected]

Tel . +251-113691083 Cell . +251-911208865 Fax . +251-113691129 Skype : absolute.ethiopia

EU tightens visa requirements for Ethiopians over a lack of government cooperation on deportations

The European Union is tightening visa requirements for people from Ethiopia

BRUSSELS -- The European Union announced on Monday that it is tightening visa requirements for people from Ethiopia , accusing the government there of a failure to cooperate in taking back citizens found to be living illegally in the 27-nation bloc.

EU headquarters said the time it takes to process visas for Ethiopian nationals will triple from 15 to 45 days. EU countries will no longer be permitted to waive requirements for certain paperwork or issue multiple-entry visas. Ethiopian diplomats and officials will now have to pay for travel visas.

The EU’s executive arm, the European Commission, has vowed to use visa rules as a way of applying pressure on countries to cooperate in deportation procedures. Only around one in three people ordered to depart the EU ever actually leave.

The Commission says the action is being taken due to “a lack of response from the Ethiopian authorities with regard to readmission requests,” as well as shortcomings with “the organization of both voluntary and non-voluntary return operations,” which is the way the EU describes deportation.

Most people staying illegally in the EU arrive without breaking any rules via airports or ports but never go home once their visas expire, outnumbering those who arrive on unseaworthy boats or travel overland in search of refuge, jobs or better lives in Europe.

Ethiopia is mired in conflict and a humanitarian crisis. The two-year conflict in the northern Tigray region, which ended with a peace deal in November 2022, left most of the region’s population of 6 million relying on international help.

The country is both a major place of origin and transit for migrants and refugees in the Horn of Africa region, often serving as a hub for people from Eritrea and Somalia aiming to reach Europe or other northern parts of the African continent.

Top Stories

Michael Cohen is cashing in on the Trump trial with TikTok livestreams

• 3 hours ago

Hunter Biden threatens to sue Fox News for airing 'revenge porn'

• 2 hours ago

'Numerous' law enforcement officers struck by gunfire in Charlotte: Police

• 15 minutes ago

Mother who went missing on bike ride died by homicide, autopsy shows

• Apr 29, 1:23 PM

College protests live updates: Columbia protesters defy 2 p.m. deadline to disperse

• 8 minutes ago

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

EU tightens visa requirements for Ethiopians over a lack of government cooperation on deportations

BRUSSELS — The European Union announced on Monday that it is tightening visa requirements for people from Ethiopia, accusing the government there of a failure to cooperate in taking back citizens found to be living illegally in the 27-nation bloc.

EU headquarters said the time it takes to process visas for Ethiopian nationals will triple from 15 to 45 days. EU countries will no longer be permitted to waive requirements for certain paperwork or issue multiple-entry visas. Ethiopian diplomats and officials will now have to pay for travel visas.

The EU’s executive arm, the European Commission, has vowed to use visa rules as a way of applying pressure on countries to cooperate in deportation procedures. Only around one in three people ordered to depart the EU ever actually leave.

The Commission says the action is being taken due to “a lack of response from the Ethiopian authorities with regard to readmission requests,” as well as shortcomings with “the organization of both voluntary and non-voluntary return operations,” which is the way the EU describes deportation.

Most people staying illegally in the EU arrive without breaking any rules via airports or ports but never go home once their visas expire, outnumbering those who arrive on unseaworthy boats or travel overland in search of refuge, jobs or better lives in Europe.

Ethiopia is mired in conflict and a humanitarian crisis. The two-year conflict in the northern Tigray region , which ended with a peace deal in November 2022, left most of the region’s population of 6 million relying on international help.

The country is both a major place of origin and transit for migrants and refugees in the Horn of Africa region, often serving as a hub for people from Eritrea and Somalia aiming to reach Europe or other northern parts of the African continent.

EU tightens visa requirements for Ethiopians over a lack of government cooperation on deportations

Cameron Indoor Stadium to get new videoboard

Nfl draftees, signees from nc state, unc, duke, other local schools, 'severe alert:' multiple law enforcement officers shot in active scene in charlotte, nfl to allow players to wear protective soft-shell helmet covers during games, hurricanes host islanders in game 5 on tuesday with 3-1 series lead.

WRAL Late News

WRAL WeatherCenter Forecast

Daytime Pick 3 and Pick 4 Drawing

Live look: Multiple officers shot in east Charlotte

Sky 5 flies over Moore County home

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

EU tightens visa requirements for Ethiopians over a lack of government cooperation on deportations

FILE - A passport of an Ethiopian fighter pilot on display at a residence, in Tok Mok, Kyrgyzstan, on Monday Aug. 16, 2010. The European Union is tightening visa requirements for people from Ethiopia, it was reported on Monday, April 29, 2024. It says the government there is not cooperating on the deportation of citizens found to be living illegally in the bloc. (AP Photo/Dalton Bennett, File)

• Copy Link copied

BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Union announced on Monday that it is tightening visa requirements for people from Ethiopia, accusing the government there of a failure to cooperate in taking back citizens found to be living illegally in the 27-nation bloc.

EU headquarters said the time it takes to process visas for Ethiopian nationals will triple from 15 to 45 days. EU countries will no longer be permitted to waive requirements for certain paperwork or issue multiple-entry visas. Ethiopian diplomats and officials will now have to pay for travel visas.

The EU’s executive arm, the European Commission, has vowed to use visa rules as a way of applying pressure on countries to cooperate in deportation procedures. Only around one in three people ordered to depart the EU ever actually leave.

The Commission says the action is being taken due to “a lack of response from the Ethiopian authorities with regard to readmission requests,” as well as shortcomings with “the organization of both voluntary and non-voluntary return operations,” which is the way the EU describes deportation.

Most people staying illegally in the EU arrive without breaking any rules via airports or ports but never go home once their visas expire, outnumbering those who arrive on unseaworthy boats or travel overland in search of refuge, jobs or better lives in Europe.

Ethiopia is mired in conflict and a humanitarian crisis. The two-year conflict in the northern Tigray region , which ended with a peace deal in November 2022, left most of the region’s population of 6 million relying on international help.

The country is both a major place of origin and transit for migrants and refugees in the Horn of Africa region, often serving as a hub for people from Eritrea and Somalia aiming to reach Europe or other northern parts of the African continent.

Overland Park police investigating after remains of missing man found

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (KCTV) - Police are investigating after someone found the remains of a missing man Monday morning.

The police department responded to an area near West 167th Street and Flint Street at Arthur & Betty Verhaeghe Park.

The skeletal remains were identified as a man who disappeared in 2023. Investigators said the person’s mother identified clothing found at the scene.

Police are working to identify the man’s family before releasing his identity.

This is a breaking news story. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.

Copyright 2024 KCTV. All rights reserved.

Kansas City can experience Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras Tour’ again all summer

Train derailment in Unity Village leaves conductor, engineer with minor injuries

Multiple tornadoes confirmed to have touched down during weekend storm

1 dead, 1 seriously injured after wrong-way collision on I-35

Kansas City Chiefs considering new stadium following failed tax vote

Latest news.

Severe weather leaves homeless outreach group in ‘dire’ need of sleeping bags, blankets

'No timeline' for service restoration of KC Scout says MoDOT, KDOT

Veto session underway in Kansas

Family of Ralph Yarl files civil lawsuit against Andrew Lester, homeowners association

Chiefs GM Brett Veach addresses pay raise for tight end Travis Kelce

• Ethiopia Travel Facts

• Solo Travelers

Put your mind at ease and join us on our unforgettable private touring experiences which allow you to immerse yourself in our unique destinations. Our historical, cultural and natural tours in Ethiopia take you on a journey tailored specifically to meet your needs and desires.

Request This Tour

- Country - Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas, The Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burma Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Costa Rica Cote d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curacao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor (see Timor-Leste) Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Fiji Finland France Gabon Gambia, The Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, North Korea, South Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Netherlands Antilles New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Korea Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territories Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States of America Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

Tailor-Made Tours

• Budget Holidays
• Family Holidays
• Group Adventure in Ethiopia
• Luxury Holidays
• Student Vacations

Tour Packages

• Bird Watching
• Combination
• Fixed Departures
• Festivals & Holidays
• Historic Route
• Bale Mountains
• Trekking & Hiking