​Safety & Security – Ethiopia

Philip Briggs
Expert
By Philip Briggs

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Bradt guide to Ethiopia.

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Bradt guidebook to Ethiopia.

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Ethiopia.

Due to ongoing armed clashes, travel in the Tigray region and several other areas of Ethiopia is not recommended. Please read your government’s travel advisory listed below for the latest situation.

Below are general tips on staying safe in Ethiopia.

Staying Safe on Wildlife Viewing Activities

Even if you’re traveling independently in Ethiopia, you will be accompanied by a guide and/or park ranger while visiting the parks. They will help to ensure your safety – all you have to do is follow their guidance. For additional tips:

Staying Safe in Cities & Towns

Although there is some crime in Ethiopia’s cities and towns, most issues are minor, such as petty theft and pickpocketing. You are unlikely to encounter any trouble while on guided activities.

When exploring cities unguided (especially Addis Ababa), you should follow some simple safety precautions: seek advice from your hotel before taking a walk; don’t wear valuables; only take the money you need with you; and don’t walk after dark, take a taxi instead. For more safety tips that apply to African cities in general:

Other Tips on Staying Safe

Please read the pages below regarding malaria and vaccination information for Ethiopia and general travel safety precautions.

Governments' Travel Advice

Please use the links below for government travel advice regarding Ethiopia.

Want To Visit Ethiopia?

157 Ethiopia Tours