General Information

Arrivals:
Ethiopia has one point of entry by air – Bole international airport in Addis Ababa.

Capital city:

Addis Ababa

Official Language:

Amharic   

Government:

Federal parliamentary republic

Legislature:

Federal Parliamentary Assembly

Upper House: House of Federation.

Lower House: House of Peoples’ Representatives

Land:

1,104, 300 km²

426, 371 sq mile.

Topography and Climate:

Ethiopia has an elevated plateau ranging in height between 2,000 to 3000 meters. In the north and south east part of the country there are high mountains whose picks rise to above 4,543 M. One of the biggest lake which is the source of famous Nile river is also found in the northern part of the country. Ethiopia also has two major favorable seasons’ wet and Dry seasons. Wet season runs from June to September and dry prevails October through May.

Populations:
The population is estimated at 83.1 million (UN 2007)

 Power supply:

Ethiopia uses 220 volts 50 cycles AC.

 Populations: 

The population is estimated at 83.1 million (UN 2007)

Time Zone:

Ethiopia is in the GMT + 3 hours time zone. Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar

Main product Exports:

Ethiopian main exports are based on agricultural products such as: Coffee, oil seeds, beeswax, hides, meat, sugarcane, and flowers.

Banking Hours:

Banking hours are usually from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm from Monday to Saturdays. Closing times may be an hour longer in some private banks.

Couriers and Money transfer services:

Money transfers can be made through Western Union and Money Gram. Both have representative branches in Addis Ababa and also make their services available from private and national banks.
Five courier service providers DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT and EMS have offices in Addis Ababa.

Currency and currency regulations:

The local currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB), made up of 100 cents. Birr notes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 50 and 100. Visitors may import an unlimited amount of foreign currency but this must be declared on arrival to the customs authorities on the appropriate blue-colored form.
Foreign currency may only be exchanged at authorized banks and hotels, and a receipt must be obtained. The currency declaration form must be retained as this will be required by customs on departure. Visitors may change back any surplus Ethiopian Birr to cash at the airport before departure.
In addition to any Ethiopian Birr, along with the currency exchange form you must bring with you all receipts for exchange transaction

Hotels:
Ethiopia has hotels that cater for all pockets, from the luxurious hotels to the tourist-class hotels.

Clothing :

In general between seasons clothes are appropriate. At higher altitudes, woolen clothes or a coat are needed in the evenings. Travelers should take rain coat or other rainwear, particularly when visiting the country during the period from February to October. It is usually possible to have clothes laundered at or near hotels within a short period of time (frequently services are offered 24 hours a day).

Visa and immigrations requirements:

Visa applications may be obtained at Ethiopia’s diplomatic missions overseas. However, nationals of 33 countries are now allowed to receive their tourist visas on arrival in Ethiopia at the regular charges. List includes:

1.    Australia
2.    Austria
3.    Argentina
4.    Belgium
5.    Brazil
6.    Canada
7.    China
8.    Denmark
9.    Finland
10.    France
11.    Germany
12.    Greece
13.    India
14.    Ireland
15.    Israel
16.    Italy
17.    Japan
18.    Korea
19.    Kuwait
20.    Luxemburg
21.    Mexico
22.    Netherlands
23.    Newzeland
24.    Norway
25.    Poland
26.    Portugal
27.    Russian federation
28.    South Africa
29.    Spain
30.    Sweden
31.    Switzerland
32.    Thailand
33.    United kingdom
34.    United states of America

Health Requirements: 

Prior to entry, visitors should be in possession of a valid health certificate for yellow fever. Vaccination against cholera is also required for any person who has visited or transited a cholera-infected area within six days prior to arrival in Ethiopia.

Custom:

Duty-free imports are permitted for up to:
A. 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 1/2 lb of tobacco
B. Two liters of alcoholic beverages
C. Half-liter or two bottles of perfume.

Visitors may export souvenirs, although some articles (such as animal skin and antiques) require an export permits.

Public holidays:

Public holidays are celebrated according to the Ethiopian (Julian) Calendar which consists of twelve months of thirty days each and a thirteenth month of five days (six days in leap year). The calendar is seven years behind the Western or Gregorian Calendar, with New Year falling in the month of September. Sunday is the weekly day of rest.

•    September 11 Ethiopian New Year
•    September 26 The finding of the True Cross (Meskal)
•    October 2 EID Al Fitr (Ramadan)
•    December 9 EId al Adha (Sacrifice)
•    January 8 Ethiopian Christmas
•    January 20 Ethiopian Epiphany
•    March 2 Victory of Adwa
•    March 20 Birth of Prophet Mohammed (Mauwlid)
•    April 25 Ethiopian Good Friday
•    April 27 Ethiopian Easter
•    May 1 International Labour Day
•    May 5 Ethiopian patriots’ victory day
•    May 28 Downfall of the Dergue Regime
•    The holidays of EId al Fater and EId al Adaha and the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W  are subject to moon    sighting.      

FAQs

Health

Most travelers to Ethiopia will experience little more than an upset stomach – but taking a few sensible precautions before and during your trip will help you to avoid anything worse. For the most up-to-date travel health information, visit the World Health Organization – www.who.int

• Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, yellow fever (a certificate may be required on entry), typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, and tuberculosis. Depending on the nature and duration of the trip, meningitis, hepatitis B, and rabies may also be advisable. Some have to be taken over several weeks – so be sure to visit your doctor well in advance.
• A cholera vaccination may be required if you are traveling from a country where the disease is prevalent.
• Malaria is present in many regions outside Addis Ababa and below 2,000m. It is chloroquine resistant; check with your doctor for the best medication. You should also avoid bites by using DEET-based sprays, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and sleeping under treated nets.
• Other medications you may wish to bring include antibiotics for stomach issues (such as ciprofloxacin); loperamide or similar for diarrhea; rehydration sachets, basic painkillers such as paracetamol or aspirin; band aids/sticking plasters and antihistamines. Those traveling to more remote areas may also wish to bring sterile needles, water purification tablets, and a general First Aid kit.
• Drink only bottled water, avoid raw vegetables or fruits without a peel outside of Addis Ababa, and do not have ice in drinks.
• If you require medication for pre-existing medical conditions, be sure to bring this with you, as it may be unavailable or less reliable in Ethiopia.
• Do not swim in the lakes as bilharzia (schistosomiasis) – a parasitic disease - is present. Lake Langano is an exception as it is bilharzia-free.
• Addis Ababa is around 2,400m above sea level – some visitors may experience mild altitude sickness.

Money

• The Ethiopian Birr is a closed currency and cannot be purchased outside the country. You are also forbidden from taking more than 200 Birr out of the country.
• Be careful how much you withdraw – Birr many be converted back into US dollars or Euros only for those holding onward plane tickets and with the original receipt for the conversion of Euros or US dollars into Birr.
• There are many ATMs in Addis Ababa. Typically, they accept only Visa cards.
• MasterCard may be accepted at some hotels in Addis Ababa, expect to use cash outside the capital.
• In other cities, cash may be withdrawn at banks with a Visa debit or credit card– though this is not guaranteed (and depends on temperamental internet and electricity supplies).
• Travelers’ Checks are not always accepted. US dollars are the most reliable currency to convert.
• In some restaurants a service charge will be included; otherwise it is polite to leave a small tip.

Climate

• The rainy season varies according to the location but usually begins sometime between late April and June and continues until mid September.
• Temperatures in Addis Ababa range from around 10 – 25 °C (55 - 75 °F). The highlands are much cooler, especially at night, than the lowlands.
• Due to the altitude, the sun is very strong and temperatures can vary greatly between the sun and shade. Be sure to bring layers to keep you warm and to protect your skin from the sun. A high SPF sunscreen is recommended, even for those not usually prone to sunburns.

Local customs

• Ethiopia is fairly conservative, especially outside of Addis Ababa. Avoid clothing which reveals your knees, shoulders, or midriff.
• Visitors will normally be greeted with a handshake, and sometimes men will lean forward, shoulder to shoulder. Ethiopians may greet female friends with three kisses on alternate cheeks.

Safety

• Ethiopia is generally a safe country, and visitors should feel comfortable in both cities and rural areas.
• The most common crime is minor pickpocketing – especially from children who may be pretending to sell tissues or gum. Move away if they get too close or walk alongside you.
• Avoid traveling outside of Addis Ababa at night – dark roads and animals cause serious accidents.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance before your trip begins, including medical evacuation in case of an emergency. Bring photocopies of your passport in case of loss.
• See the FCO website for current safety issues

Ethiopian Calendar and Clock

• Ethiopians use their own calendar (the Coptic or Julian calendar) – a 13 month calendar with the date approximately seven days behind the standard calendar. It is also seven and a half years behind the Western calendar and the millennium was celebrated in 2007!
• The clock is also different. The day begins at dawn (6am) which is 12 o’clock to Ethiopians. One hour after sunrise is 1 o’clock, and noon is 6 o’clock. The system resets at sunset (6pm), so 7pm is 1 o’clock for Ethiopians and so on. Because of this you must be careful to specify Western dates and times when making plans!

Relationships

• Homosexuality is illegal for men and carries a penalty of up to 15 years imprisonment; couples should be extremely discreet.
• Prostitution is fairly widespread and HIV rates, especially amongst sex workers, are extremely high. Hiring prostitutes is strongly discouraged.

What to Pack

GENERAL

• Daypack
• High SPF sunscreen
• Flashlight
• Insect repellent
• Spare or rechargeable batteries
• Waterproof bags to protect equipment
• Electric plug adaptors for 200 volts, 50 Hz. Northern European-style rounded two-prong plugs (type F) are most common; three pronged plugs can also be found.
• Some people find contact lenses uncomfortable in Ethiopia because of the dust – you may find it more comfortable to wear glasses while on the road.
• Antiseptic handwash
• An International Driving License if you are thinking of hiring a vehicle

CLOTHING

• Good walking boots/shoes
• Sandals or other light shoes
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
• Lighter clothing for the lowlands, with layers for the cooler evenings
• Warm clothing for the highlands and early morning boat rides, including a fleece
• Sun hat/cap
• Sunglasses
• Avoid clothing which shows your shoulders, knees or midriff, especially outside Addis Ababa

Terms & Conditions

Please read these terms and conditions carefully. They apply to all the holiday that you make with Fidel Tours and they deal with your rights and obligations to us and ours to you. We are committed to a policy of fair trading and make every effort to ensure you will have a holiday with us.

A) Rates:

Tour prices are available on request & it include all expenses in respect of vehicle (either 4x4, Mini Bus or Coach) and driver as per program/itinerary, Professional & Local Guide, meals (as per the preference of respective clients), Accommodation (single, double, triple or other per the request of each client), entrance fee, Boat trips, scout services where necessary, camel or mule rent, camping gears, cook services and Government taxes.

Excludes: any international air ticket and visa fees, domestic flight (if not agreed in the including part), alcohol drinks, and meals (if not agreed in the including part), tipping, video or camera fees at certain sites, telephone, laundry and other person expenses.

B) LIABILITY:

The Tours Company and its agents act only as agents of the passenger in all matters relating to Lodge/Hotel/Camp accommodation, safari, climbing, Walking, Transport, etc; and shall not be liable for injury, Visa, delays, Loss, or damage in any manner. The Tours Company's liability to passengers carried in its own vehicle is governed by the laws of the country in which the tour takes place. All claims are subject to the jurisdiction of the Courts of the Country in which the action arises. The Tour Company reserves the right to employ subcontractors for all or part of the services.

NOTE:

We are not liable for any loss, damage, injury, expense, delay, or any inconvenience caused to you or your luggage as a result, whether direct or indirectly, or any matters of whatever nature which is out of our Company control.

 C) Payments:

Payment of the price of your holiday is due:

1. 25% of the total tour costs must be paid two weeks after signing of Tour Agreement by both parties.
2. The remaining amount of the total costs must be paid 30 days before the commencement of the Tour.
3. If at that time complete payment has not been received, Fidel Tours is not indebted to conduct the Tour.

Please note: - Payment can be made through bank transfer or in cash. Other methods of payment can be discussed in advance your holiday may be cancelled if you fail to make payment on time and you would then owe us the cancellation charges.

 D) CANCELLATIONS:

All cancellations must be received in writing. As all suppliers charge cancellation fees, they are in turn passed on to us. Reservations that are cancelled, reduced in length of stay or reduced in number of occupancy are subject to cancellation and no-show fees. Following is the scale for cancellation charges:

1. 25% if cancelled between 25 and 16 prior to arrival
2. 50% if cancelled between 15 and 11 days prior to arrival.
3. 100% if cancelled 10 days and 24hours prior to arrival

E) TRANSPORTATION:

Nissan Patrol, Land Rover, Land Cruiser, Four Wheel Minibus, Saloon car, Coaches and Boat will be provided according to the route and number of clients. For different legal reasons of the country, luck of proper signs and also due to high traffic accident rates in the country, we do not provide rented vehicles for self-drive.

F) ACCOMMODATION:

Most of our package prices are given assuming room accommodation consisting of two people sharing as twin or double, in most cases rooms with private bath are provided. Single tent/room is available at an additional cost (single room supplement). Lodges/Hotels/Campsites for the proposed tour are named as indicated in the itinerary but confirmation about availability will be written after booking is sent to the respected properties. In case of absence of room, we shall notify optional accommodation facilities.

G) INSURANCE:

All clients are advised to take an insurance policy to cover personal accident and medical expenses. We strongly advise secure travel insurance at the starts of any tour, trekking or hiking. Fidel Tours is not liable to any of these or other acts of nature.

H) AIR TRAVEL

1 Air transportation costs and categories will be client’s responsibility as Fidel Tours does not handle her clients from the ground unless otherwise stated. Please note that fares may increase between time of booking, time of payment and the ticket being issued. Fidel Tours is not responsible for the client’s air travel.

2 Fidel Tours cannot be held responsible should airlines discontinue flights on certain routings or change scheduled timetables resulting in missed connections. Should an amendment itinerary be necessary, any additional costs incurred will be borne by the client and shall be payable to Fidel Tours on demand.

3 Due to recent international events, many airlines / airports have extended the check in times of both domestic and international flights. Fidel Tours cannot be held responsible for any delays or circumstances that may result in a client missing their flight or subsequent transfers. Throughout the entire booking process, it is the responsibility of the client to ensure that enough time has been calculated in order not to miss connecting flights and transfers.

I) PASSPORTS, VISAS AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS

The client shall ensure that prior to embarking on the travels his passport and visas, and those of his dependants and travelling companions are valid for the countries to be visited. Such responsibility shall also extend to vaccinations and other medical certificates, and all other travel documents, including traveller’s cheques where applicable.

Fidel Tours does not accept any responsibility for changes in medical requirements or regulations for visas or any particular visa requirements. Should the Client be refused entry to any country, due to incorrect or incomplete documentation or failure to comply with that country’s medical requirements, Fidel Tours shall not be liable for any costs of whatsoever nature occasioned thereby.

J) JURISDICTION

J.1 Any legal proceedings arising out of or in connection with these standard terms and conditions, or any agreement entered into pursuant thereto, shall be instituted in the Federal supreme Court of Ethiopia or any lower level courts where the case could be adjourned, which shall have exclusive jurisdiction to hear and determine such legal proceedings. Generally should any legal dispute arise it must be settled in Addis Ababa – Ethiopia, where Fidel Tours office base is located and this website is created, maintained and controlled in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and as such, the laws of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the jurisdiction of the Ethiopian Courts govern this user agreement and the use or inability to use this site.

J.2 To the extent as may be necessary; the client hereby consents and submits to the jurisdiction of the said court, as referred to in clause J.1 above.

K) VARIATION OF THESE CONTRACTS

No variation or alteration of these standard terms and conditions of contract shall be binding on Fidel Tours unless embodied in a written document signed by a member of Fidel Tours. Any purported variation or alteration of these standard terms and conditions of contract otherwise than as set out above shall be of no force or effect, whether such purported variation is written or oral, or a combination of both.