Travel
Airports
Addis Ababa's Bole International Airport is the gateway to the rest of Ethiopia. The airport also serves many destinations in Africa, Middle East, Asia, Europe and North America. The country's national carrier Ethiopian Airlines has an extensive domestic network and many other airlines service the country.
Ground transport
International highways link Addis Ababa (and other Ethiopian cities and towns) with neighbouring countries such as Kenya, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia and South Sudan. Public transport is not reliable and for business it is recommended to use either car hire or reputable cab companies.
Austrade can suggest reputable car hire companies and taxi services for visiting Australian business people.
It is recommended that you pre-arrange your transport. Your hotel may have a shuttle service and, if not, can refer you to a reputable one.
Hotels
Addis Ababa has hotels that cater to all budgets, from the luxurious Sheraton and Hilton to less expensive options.
Tipping
Tipping is left to your discretion although the norm is around 10 per cent of a restaurant bill.
Tourist attractions
Ethiopia has much to offer international tourists. It has a unique historical and cultural heritage, impressive scenery, a cool climate, rich flora and fauna, important archaeological sites and hospitable people. The northern tourist circuit known as the ‘Historic Route’ comprises the most important tourist sites in country. Conference tourism is common, long aided by the presence of a number of international organisations in Addis Ababa including the African Union (AU) and the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
For further information please see the Ethiopian Ministry of Culture and Tourism website.