Transportation in Ethiopia

Visiting Ethiopia is a life changing experience. A suitable means of transportation must be arranged in advance to avoid hassles. Go Visit Ethiopia will advise you in your transport arrangements from where ever you are.Our website offers valuable information on traveling from oversees as well as within the country so that you get the most out of your travel experience. Transportation costs will vary. Information is provided for your convenience only.

Domestic Transportation

A variety of means of transportation is available for travelers to experience the culture and diversity of the country, both in the city as well as in the country side. Tourist destinations can be visited within the area by a variety of means.

Travel by Bus

In Ethiopia there are a variety of bus companies that cover all major towns. Bus companies offer seating on a first come, first service basis, with the exception of one. The Government busing service allows tourists to book seats ahead of time. Also, long destination route services allow for prior seat booking.

Private buses are available which leave at different times of the day. Each bus company provides transportation to various destinations. Traveling by bus occurs during the day time hours, ensuring the safety of the occupants.

Minibuses provide services for shorter distance travel, usually within the bigger cities, as well as between local towns. Prices for minibus services are generally negotiable. Most tourists prefer to use the minibuses due to reasonable cost, efficiency, and for faster and flexible journey to various destinations.

Travel by Car

If you decide to travel by car, you will need to hire a driver, and rent a designated vehicle. Car travel allows individuals to view the country at your leisure. You will be able to soak in beautiful scenery.

Four-wheel drive vehicles are popular for self-hire, generally available within the capital of Ethiopia. It is also possible to hire a chauffeured four-wheel drive which has benefits. Although it can be more costly, there are fewer limits on where the vehicle can go within the area.

Travel by Train

Traveling Ethiopia by train is a unique experience which allows travelers to see the country side and the desert to experience beautiful landscaping.La-Gare is the main train station in Addis Ababa, also known asChemin de FerDjibouto-Ethiopien. One railway offers travel between Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, and Djibouti City.

Travel departures occur every few days and the travel time varies approximately 15-18 hours.The train runs on different days and during different times of the year.Usually operation is available three times during the weeks: on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are available to purchase two hours ahead of departure time. First class, second class, and third class seats are available.

Many people use the train service when they are offered, and therefore it is very busy. Border points are train stops during the railway travel. Passengers are allowed to get off the train and get food along with drinks.

Currently the railway operates on meter-gauge tracks. Restoration of the railway is underway. If booking by rail, it is recommended to confirm travel times before departure to the train station, due to possible schedule changes.

From the rest of the world

Traveling to Ethiopia occurs from various destinations around the world. Most airlines require travelers to check –in at the airport at least three hours before departure time. This is essential to confirm and hold reservations made for your flights. Later arrivals do not hold guaranteed departure. As each flight trip is unique by origination traveling arrangements may have different departure guidelines. Departure and arrival times will also differ due to different stop-overs.

Most flights coming into Ethiopia are usually handled by Ethiopian Airlines. The airline’s schedules change frequently, so it is recommended to check for updates closer to the date of your flight arrangements.

Ethiopian Airlines offers a variety of direct flights, and is one of the best African airlines providing a large number of destinations. The Airline is the national carrier which offers international flight services from Europe, Africa, the Middle East, the Far East, and the United States. It also offers an extensive domestic network undertaking passenger and cargo charter flights.

Normally air travelers arrive at Bole International Airport which is located near the center of the city. The duration of each flight may differ depending on departure, stopovers, and landing. Security and safety within the airport is given top priority. Ethiopian Airline offices are open from daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Several offices are located throughout the city of Addis Ababa.

Upon your arrival to Addis Ababa, short distance and long distance buses are available for your convenience in the city.

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