Ethiopia Visa

Home to several volcanic peaks, national reserves and wildlife, Ethiopia is engulfed in biodiversity. Coffee production here is a longstanding tradition which dates back to dozens of centuries. Factually, Ethiopia accounts for around 3% of the global coffee market.

The ideal time to visit the country is during the dry season starting October onwards and ending early June when nature is the liveliest and a perfect setting for trekkers. A paradise for photographers, the wild animals are spotted in regularity. To witness the festivals, travel during January and be one with the local traditions.

Compared to other African countries, Ethiopia is remarkably safe. 'Always look as if you know where you’re going' is a tip to memorise. Overall, travellers should face no problem during their stay in the country. Amharic and Omoro are the native dialects of more than 40 per cent of the population. Since English is mandatory in schools and higher educational institutes, it is spoken in by a large number of people, thus benefiting visitors.

International airlines such as Emirates, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines and Air India operate routes between India and Ethiopia consistently.

What to see in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital and commercial heart, has tourist hotspots sprawled all over the city. If you are a coffee lover, get your hands on the local Arabica coffee, considered the finest in the world.

Ethiopia's National Museum and Ethnological Museum is a must-visit to look into Ethiopia’s past. Head to the historic Holy Trinity Cathedral, built along with a copper dome, murals & many ornate features.

The Blue Nile River branches off the Nile and is worth seeing.

For the bravehearts, trek through Siemen and the Bale Mountains, its rugged terrain includes slopes, deep valleys and a glimpse of rare wildlife, not to be seen anywhere else in the world. Enjoy panoramic views from cliffs. Many tourists often set up camps and spend a few nights in the wilderness.

The Danakil Depression is worth a visit. Boasting sulphur springs, acidic pools, mineral-filled lakes and even volcanoes, this is an awe-inspiring example of nature’s bounty.

A paradise for photographers, the Aledeghi Wildlife Reserve and Chelbi Wildlife Reserve offers a close-up tour where travellers can witness a range of animals in their natural habitat.

Ethiopian cuisine is characterised by a variety of vegetables, fresh bread and meat. For the spice geeks, it is gastronomical heaven. Some of the must-try foods are; Injera (sour and spongy gluten-free pancake), Tibs (Small cubes of beef flavoured with onions, garlic, chilli, and rosemary), Doro Wat (chicken stew) and Sambusas (similar to Samosas in India).

Vegetarians can enjoy as well; many restaurants have an extensive vegetarian menu to cater to Orthodox Christians who do not eat animal products on Wednesdays and Fridays. 

Ethiopia is bustling with local markets full of artistic and cultural artefacts. The Sholla Market and Merkato are popular shopping centres. If you are a shopaholic, embroidered toys, hand-painted scriptures and dolls, Arabica coffee are products you must purchase. If you don't mind spending a little extra, head over to Zaaf and try out their exclusive bags and accessories.