Ethiopia

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial +251-011-111-0111 or 991 for Addis Ababa police. 
• Dial 907 for ambulance (Ethiopian Red Cross Society in Addis Ababa).
• Dial 7711 for toll-free sexual and gender-based violence hotline.  

Terrorism

Terrorist groups, and those inspired by them, threaten U.S. citizens abroad. They use knives, firearms, and vehicles to target crowds, including:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools 
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Terrorist groups

Somali-based Al-Qa’ida affiliate nal-Shabaab, maintains a presence throughout East Africa. 

• Regional terror groups continue to threaten Western interests and other potential targets in Ethiopia, including in Addis Ababa. 
• Domestic terror groups are a high threat in some regions of Ethiopia.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are not common, but may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.  
• In the past, demonstrations have turned violent. 
• The Ethiopian government often limits mobile telecommunications, internet access, and social media during civil unrest. If this happens, you may be unable to contact family and friends or emergency services. The U.S. embassy does not provide internet access.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Crimes of opportunity such as theft of money and personal property are common. 

• Sometimes theft can lead to violent assault. 
• Criminals often target foreigners and residents they think have large sums of cash or valuables. 
• Kidnappings for ransom have occurred in different parts of the country and near the capital city. 

Crime in Addis Ababa

Pickpocketing, purse snatching, theft from vehicles, and other petty crimes are common in Addis Ababa. 

• Theft of passports is common in Bole International Airport, including inside the airport terminal and during airport transfers. 
• Thieves are always active throughout the city, particularly on Bole Road, in the Piazza, the Merkato, and other tourist areas. 
• Violent robberies have also occurred in these areas, with victims stabbed or beaten. 
• Many violent robberies have been reported by hikers in Entoto Park, Yeka Park (behind the British Embassy), and the Gulele Botanical Gardens in Addis Ababa.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.   

Financial and internet romance scams are common in Ethiopia. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. 

Common scams include: 

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Grandparent and relative targeting 

Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.  If using dating apps or websites in Ethiopia: 

• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.  
• Meet in a popular public place. 
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing  +251-011-111-0111 or 991 from your local cell phone and may call the U.S. Embassy at 011-130-6000 or 011-130-6909. 

You should report crimes occurring outside of Addis Ababa to the Ethiopian Federal Police at 0111-551200 or 861. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can: 

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.  
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact local law enforcement for assistance and then the U.S. embassy at 0111-30-6000 or 0111-30-6909. 
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to first contact local law enforcement for assistance and then the U.S. embassy. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
•  Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Illegal devices

It is illegal to bring unlicensed communications devices and personal optical instruments into the country without prior approval from Ethiopian authorities.  You must have prior approval from the Information Network Security Administration to bring the following:

• satellite phones
• binoculars
• night vision goggles
• Walkie-talkies
• VHF or UHF radios
• GPS devices
• radio transmitters
• drones

Get advice from your travel provider on any required permissions.

Authorities can confiscate unapproved items or detain you.  You may be able to collect them on departure from Ethiopia after paying storage fees, but this is not guaranteed.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Tour operators may fail to mention the physical exertion required, difficulty of terrain, or proper gear to bring.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws.

• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detaine. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.

Before you start a business or a profession in Ethiopia seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  

Photography

It is illegal to take pictures of government buildings, military installations, police or military personnel.

• It is illegal to photograph roads, bridges, dams, and airfields.
• If you are caught photographing prohibited sites, you could be fined, your photographic equipment could be confiscated, and you could be detained or arrested.
• As a general practice, avoid taking pictures of people without their clear consent.

Access to refugee camps

• All access to refugee camps must be preapproved by the UNHCR and Ethiopian government. You may be detained and deported if you attempt to gain access without proper permission.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

• Ethiopian officials rarely contact the U.S. embassy regarding arrests on their own.
• Ethiopia does not recognize dual citizenship. Once you are a citizen of another country, the Ethiopian government no longer considers you an Ethiopian citizen.

Detention conditions

A detention facility may not provide you with essential medications or medical care.

• You may not be able to obtain hygiene items or funds regularly in detention facilities.
• The quality and quantity of food in detention facilities likely will not be comparable to that found in the United States.
• Detainees in detention facilities may not have access to phones, consular services, or family visits.
• Detainees in detention facilities may endure human rights abuses.
• Detainees in Ethiopia often cannot get their prescribed or over the counter medications because the medication might not be available in Ethiopia. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Several religious groups, including followers of the (Christian) Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and Islam, have made claims of religious-based persecution and violence across the country, particularly in and around the Tigray region.

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Consensual same-sex sexual activity between adults is illegal and punishable by imprisonment under the law.

• There have been some detentions and interrogations of some lesbian and gay people, and alleged physical abuse.
• Ethiopians do not generally publicly identify themselves as lesbian and gay due to severe societal stigma.
• There are some reports of violence against lesbian and gay individuals. Reporting is limited due to fear of retribution, discrimination, or stigmatization.
• There is no law prohibiting discrimination against lesbian and gay persons. Some lesbian and gay activists have reported being followed and at times fearing for their safety.
• Outside the major international hotels, same-sex couples may be unable to share a room.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Ethiopia prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities. However, the law is not enforced.
• The most common types of available accessibility include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.
• Accessibility is common in major cities and newer buildings.
• General public sentiment around disability is to be helpful. 
• Review the Ethiopian Center for Disability and Development guidebook with information on accessible hotel accommodations and transportation, including the Addis Ababa metro.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers 

Domestic violence, including spousal abuse, occurs, but is not commonly reported or prosecuted.

• Domestic violence and rape cases often are delayed and given low priority.
• Women travelers, particularly those traveling solo, may encounter discrimination, harassment, and violence (including trafficking). This is due to social views, religious attitudes, or criminal intentions towards women.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.
• Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is illegal, but the prohibition is not actively enforced. The situation has improved in some parts of the country.
• Many women and girls have undergone FGM/C. It is much less common in urban areas. Review our information on Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage. 

Human rights

There have been reports of widespread government violations of human rights, including extrajudicial killings and arbitrary detentions. 

There have also been significant crackdowns on fundamental freedoms of speech and peaceful assembly throughout the country. There are many reports of intimidation and restrictions on journalists, civil society members, human rights defenders, and opposition members, as well as several suspensions of independent human rights organizations.

Significant human rights issues included credible reports of:

• arbitrary or unlawful killings
• disappearances
• torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment
• arbitrary arrest or detention
• transnational repression against individuals in another country
• serious abuse in a conflict
• serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom, including violence or threats of violence against journalists, unjustified arrests of journalists and censorship.
• widespread killings of civilians
• mass forced displacement
• ethnic cleansing
• rape and other forms of violence against women and girls
• looting, and destruction of property by Amhara militias and affiliated groups in western Tigray. 
• widespread unlawful killings of civilians and government officials in the Amhara and Oromia regions and elsewhere, including by the Oromo Liberation Army and Amhara Fano militia.

Local militia groups in the Afar, Amhara, Oromia, Gambella, and Somali regions reportedly carried out attacks and killings of civilians, displacing thousands. The government has taken limited steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses. 

The government reportedly has engaged in dialogue with some groups and prosecuted some nonstate actors.

Journalists are at high risk of expulsion, harassment, unlawful detention, violence, and human rights abuses.  Information about journalist travel

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Ethiopia Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 991 for emergency assistance.
• Dial 907 for an ambulance in major cities.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are not present or unreliable outside the major cities.  They are not equipped with advanced medical equipment.  

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not. 

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Ethiopia. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Ethiopia.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Public and private hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.  
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities 

Health facilities are available in major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.  
• Hospitals and doctors require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals may be easy to buy with few controls. 
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

 Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Ethiopia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 
• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Ethiopia.   

Water quality and food safety 

•  Tap water in Ethiopia is not safe to drink. 
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water. 
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling. 
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Altitude 

Many cities in Ethiopia, such as Addis Ababa, are at high altitude. 

• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude cities like Addis Ababa. 
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Common diseases

The following diseases are prevalent in Ethiopia:

• Diarrheal diseases 
• Cholera 
• Hepatitis A 
• Malaria 
• Measles 
• Meningitis 
• Polio 
• Rabies 
• Schistosomiasis 
• Tuberculosis 
• Typhoid
• Yellow Fever

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. 

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast.  It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Ethiopia. 
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page 
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Travel and transportation

Travel Advisory

U.S. government employees and their families are advised to travel between major cities by air. They are prohibited from using bus transportation or traveling by road outside urban areas at night. U.S. citizens are advised to do the same. 

Road conditions and safety

Use caution when traveling in Ethiopia by road. Highway robberies and carjackings by armed bandits have occurred outside urban areas and can turn violent. 

• Choose air travel when possible to avoid potential issues on the roads.
• Driving standards, vehicle maintenance, and road conditions are often poor throughout the country. 
• Traffic accidents occur regularly in Addis Ababa and throughout the country. 
• Roads are ill maintained, inadequately marked, and poorly lit, even in urban areas. 
• Excessive speed, erratic driving habits and disrespect of traffic laws, pedestrians, stray animals, and lack of vehicle maintenance pose other hazards. 

If you are traveling by road, do so during daylight hours only. Be sure to carry additional fuel, spare tires, and provisions. Professional roadside assistance service is not available.

Traffic laws  

You will need an Ethiopian driver’s license to drive in Ethiopia. 

• To obtain an Ethiopian’s driver’s license, you will need an authenticated copy of your U.S. driver’s license. 
• For more information on authentication, visit the Department of State’s Office of Authentications. The U.S. embassy does not authenticate U.S. driver’s licenses. 
• Use of cell phones while driving is prohibited. 
• Use of seat belts is required. 
• It is illegal to give money to beggars who approach vehicles stopped in traffic.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis are available but do not meet U.S. safety standards. 

• In Addis Ababa, green and yellow metered taxis are generally newer and in better condition than other taxis. 
• Consider hiring private transportation from a reliable source or use hotel transportation.
• U.S. government employees stationed in Ethiopia are not allowed to drive outside urban areas at night. They are not allowed to use blue taxis, minivans, or bajajs (3-wheel motorized rickshaws). 
• U.S. government employes are discouraged from using other forms of public transportation due to safety and security concerns.  
• Do not accept ride or taxi offers from strangers.  
• Do not use ride-sharing taxis, such as Ride Addis and Feres.  

Public and commercial transportation 

Public transport is unregulated and unsafe. Avoid all travel by public transportation and hire private transport from a reliable source.  Buses are in poor mechanical condition and are often filled beyond capacity.

• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight 

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Ethiopia’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions 

Monitor local media for updates, follow local authorities' guidance, and be ready to change your travel plans. Services may be limited during weather events, especially outside cities. The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission leads disaster response and works with UN agencies and NGOs.

Weather and natural disasters

Earthquakes

Ethiopia sits in an active earthquake zone. High-risk areas include Afar, Amhara, Oromia, and Tigray. 

• Earthquakes can happen at any time of year, damage buildings, and block roads. 
• Many buildings — especially in rural areas — are not built to withstand earthquakes.

Volcanoes

Ethiopia has several active volcanoes, mostly in the Afar region. 

• Volcanic ash can disrupt flights and cause breathing problems.
• Follow all warnings and evacuation orders.
• The most recent eruption was November 23, 2025, when the Hayli Gubbi volcano sent ash as far as India and northern China, disrupting air travel.

Flooding

Flooding and landslides are common during rainy seasons:

• Short rainy season: March to May
• Main rainy season: June to September

Timing varies in Somali, Afar, and parts of Oromia.

Floods can block roads and cut off services. Avoid flooded areas and follow local authorities' instructions.

U.S citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates