Ethiopia Tours 2010

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Essential Travel Information for Ethiopia

Visa and Immigration 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 charge.
The list includes:Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greek, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russian Federation, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, citizens of United Kingdom and United States.For China including passports issued in Hong Kong (SAR China) and MACAO (SAR China), Visa is available on arrival.
The application form is available online from the Ethiopian Embassy website. More information is available at www.ethiopianembassy.org/services/visa.shtml
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. Please check with your doctor for any other recommended inoculations.
Although we have comprehensive insurance for our vehicles and passengers, in the case of an accident it is advised that you obtain MEDEX Insurance for medical evacuation to better/specialized hospital facilities outside of the country. More information is available at www.medexassist.com
We also recommend a few medical/health items to bring with you. These items include mosquito/insect repellant, anti-bacterial hand lotion, sun block, allergy medication (if necessary), bee sting kit (if allergic), and medicine for indeigestion/diarhea. If you are on any regular medication, PLEASE REMEMBER TO BRING THE PROPER DOSES.
Electric Supply
Ethiopia uses 220 volts running at 50Hz AC. The most common type of plug is Type C (European 2-pin). Adapters for this style will be supplied. They are also available in most universal socket adapter kits.
Climate/Clothing
There are two major seasons: the dry season prevails from October through May; the wet season runs from June to September. We recommend that you bring a variety of light, medium, and heavy wieght clothing. The weather ranges from cool and chilly in the evenings and nights to warm and hot during the day and afternoon. Please bring comfortable walking and/or hiking shoes. A hat or other head gear is also recommended for protection from the sun. Binoculars are good idea for wildlife/bird watching. Women are advised to bring scarves, and long dresses/pants for entry into places of worship and sacred sites.
Currency
Travelers are advised to bring traveler’s cheques and cash. Travelers cheques are best taken in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling and cash is best taken in US Dollars. Euros can also be exchanged. Most merchants and businesses, such as shops and restaurants, do not accept credit cards. However, some major credit cards are accepted at major hotels.
The local currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB), made up of 100 cents. Birr notes are available in denominations of 1, 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. Currency exchange on the black market is highly discouraged. Visitors may change back any surplus Ethiopian Birr to cash at the airport before departure.

Online Resources for Travel Information Regarding Ethiopia

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