Ethiopia is the only African country which has for over three
thousand years enjoyed cultural and political independence.
Fossil remains of Lucy discovered at a site on the Lower Awash
in North-eastern Ethiopia in 1974 have been identified as the
earliest example of an upright walking hominid. Dated at 3.2
million years old, these remains constitute our oldest known
ancestors, and many now consider this region of Ethiopia to be
the true cradle of mankind.
The early history of Ethiopia begins with the glorious but
still only partly understood Axumite Kingdom, which grew up
around Axum in the Northern highlands in the 3rd Century BC
and endured until the 10th Century AD. Legend records claim
that Menelik I, the child born to the union of King Solomon
and The Queen of Sheba, settled in Axum, bringing with him the
Ark of the Covenant from the Temple in Jerusalem and
established a dynasty which ruled-with only brief interruption
until the fall of Emperor Haile Selassie in 1974. The imperial
regime was replaced by the provisional military administrative
council known as the Derg. The Ethiopian Peoples’ Republic
Democratic Front (EPRDF) disposed the communist dictatorship
and established an interim government in May 1991. In 1995, a
new constitution that ensured democratic rule was adopted. The
EPRDF has governed the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
(FDRE) ever since. It now is a democratic national comprising
of 11 semi-autonomous administrative regions organized loosely
along major ethnic lines.
Geography
Ethiopia is located in the north-eastern part of Africa
commonly known as the Horn of Africa, and is bordered by
Djibouti and Somalia in the east, by Kenya in the south, by
Sudan in the west and south west, and by Eretria in the north
east. The country covers 1,112,000sq.km (472,000sq.miles)
making it as large as France and Spain combined or roughly
five times the size of the UK. It is the tenth largest country
in Africa.
A volcanically formed central plateau, isolated on three sides
by low- lying desert dominates the Ethiopian landscape. The
central plateau, often referred to as the Ethiopian highlands,
has an average altitude of above 2,000m and includes 20 peaks
of 4,000m or higher. The Ethiopia highlands are dramatically
mountainous, no more than where they are bisected by the Rift
valley, which starts at the Red sea, then continues through
the Denakil depression and through southern Ethiopia to
Mozambique in Southern Africa. The part of the Rift valley,
south of Addis Ababa, is notable for its string of eight
lakes. The most extensive mountain ranges on the highlands are
the Semien, which lie directly north of Gondar, and Bale,
which lies in the southern highlands to the east of the Rift
Valley. Mount Ras Dashen in the Semien is at 4,620m, the
fourth highest peak in Africa. The highlands also form the
source of four major river systems. The most known of these is
the Blue Nile or Abbay, which starts at Lake Tana in the
northwest and supplies nine- tenths of the Nile's water, which
eventually reaches Egypt's Nile valley.
Population
Ethiopia’s population is about 72 million with 8o% working on
peasant farms and one in five (20%) working in industry and
commerce. The population is highly diverse, made up of more
than 80 different ethnic groups, each with their own language,
some having as few as 10,000 members.
Language
Most Ethiopians speak Semitic or Cushitic languages but some
ethnic groups in the south and southwest speak Omotic and Nilo
Saharan. Amharic is one of the most developed languages in
Africa. It has its own alphabets, sharing them with the
Tigrigna language as they both inherited these highly
expressive alphabets from their ancient mother language ‘Ge’ez’.
Amharic is the official language of the Federal States and of
Region 3.
The other widely spoken and major Ethiopian languages such as
Oromigna, Tigrigna, Harari, Somali etc, are also official
languages in their respective Regions. English is the most
widely spoken foreign language, and is taught almost in all
schools. English is also widely used in major hotels, in the
banking and travel industries, in up-scale shops, and in
medical facilities. The other major foreign languages are
French, Italian and Arabic.
Currency
The local currency is the Ethiopian Birr, made up of 100
cents. Visitors may import an unlimited amount of foreign
currency, provided that declaration of such currency is made
to customs on arrival. Foreign currency may only be changed at
authorized banks and hotels. The currency declaration form
must be retained as this will be required by customs on
departure. Visitors will be able to change back any excess
Ethiopian Birr to foreign currency at the airport before
departure.
Culture
Ethiopia is considered to be the' mosaic of cultural
diversity. 'The population of Ethiopia is estimated to be
about 72 million. It is the home of more than 80 ethnic
groups. Based on the language they speak, they can be divided
into Semitic, cushetic, Nilotic and Omotic stocks. Despite
their diversity, Ethiopians are characterized with peace,
hospitality and struggle for development. The Ethiopians,
often called the 'Habesha' are generally sociable and
friendly, not at all hostile to tourists. Ethiopians are proud
of their culture and civilization, which pre-date those of
Europe. They are known for their unforgettable hospitality and
well-deserved cultures.
Climate
Ethiopia shows a wide climatic variation, ranging from the
peaks of the Semien and Bale, which receive periodic snowfall,
to regular daytime temperatures of over 500C in the Denakil
Desert As a rule, the highland has a temperate climate and
average day time temperature of 160C. Due to their proximity
to the Equator, the eastern lowlands and far south is dray and
hot. The western lowlands are moist and hot, making them one
part of the country that feels truly tropical. The southern
rift valley, much of which is at the relatively high altitude
of 1.500m, is temperate to hot and seasonally moist. The
general precipitation pattern is that the bulk of the rain in
the highlands and Rift valley falls between mid-June and early
October. The rainy season in the Rift Valley generally starts
and ends a few weeks earlier than in the highlands. The
northeastern highlands have a less reliable rainy season than
other highland parts of Ethiopia. In normal rainy season the
highlands receive an average rainfall of 1,000mm. From a
tourist's point of view, rain tends to fall in dramatic
storms, which end as suddenly as they start a situation that
is infinitely easier for travel than are days of protracted
drizzle.
Economy
Ethiopia's economy is predominantly agricultural. The
highlands are very fertile, which contain many large rivers
with enormous untapped potential for irrigation projects.
About 90 per cent of the population earns their living from
the land, mainly as subsistence farmers. Agriculture is the
backbone of the national economy and the principal exports
from this sector are coffee, oil seeds, pulses, flowers,
vegetables, sugar and foodstuffs for animals. There is also a
thriving livestock sector, exporting carrel on the hoof and
hides and skins. 25% of the populations grow coffee and it
accounts for 55% of Ethiopia's exports. About 65 per cent of
the land is presently cultivated.
Communications
Telephone, telex, fax and postal services are available in
Addis Ababa as well as in all big and small towns in the
country. The IDD code for Ethiopia is +251. The internet is
also available in the capital and in all major towns.
Photography
While the scenic beauty of Ethiopia and its mosaic of cultures
make it a photographer’s paradise, photographs should not be
taken in sensitive areas like airport, military camps and
around other strategic buildings.
Visitors can take photographs of any person as long as they
ask for permission. Generally, there will not be any objection
but in some areas, particularly among the Afar and among the
ethnic groups living by the Omo River, people will often ask
for money. Photography in most churches is allowed, but in
many areas of tourist interests, particularly in the north,
there is a charge for video photography.
Commercial photographers and film makers require a permit from
the ministry of information. We are very delighted to provide
logistic arrangements for filming and areal photography. We
will provide accurate prices for all services up on request.;
Time
Ethiopia has a different time calculating system and three
hours ahead of Green witch Mean time (GMT). The Ethiopian day
is calculated in a manner similar to that in many equatorial
countries, where day and night is always the same length. Time
remains constant through the year counting starts from western
6 and 6 Western 7 is there fore one o'clock, noon is 6 o'
clock and 6 is 12 o'clock. In Addis Ababa, then sunrise and
sunset at around 6:30 occur and 18.45 respectively.
Calendar
Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar, which consists of twelve
months of thirty days each and a thirteenth month of five days
(six days on leap year). You can see the sun every day of the
year. That is why we call our country- a country where the sun
shines thirteen months. You will be seven years younger when
you arrive in Ethiopia because the calendar is seven years and
eight months behind the western calendar.
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Why should I travel with Noble Conference and Tours?
The question we appreciate most...Whilst there is plenty of
general competition, we feel that Noble Conference and Tours
is truly unique in offering a very professional service,
working diligently at every stage to meet the interests and
needs of our clients.
We provide highly proficient services in the travel industry,
yet our offer is affordable. Our service provision targets
individuals, groups, specialized groups, corporate incentives,
conferences and events. We organize historic and cultural
heritage tours, soft and high calibre adventure tours,
wildlife safaris, Ethiopian birding, trekking and other
tours of especial interest.
We are in mission of tourism for sustainable development in
preserving natural, historical and cultural heritages,
contributing a percentage of our profit to the local
communities in various forms. For instance, we actively
participate in the Ethiopia Traveller’s Philanthropy
initiative which is aimed at enhancing the natural environment
and supporting communities in a way that also improves their
appeal as a destination. The project also gives tourists an
opportunity for hands on tree planting experience
What makes us different?
Using highly qualified operators, multi-lingual guides,
experienced drivers and diligent administrative staffs, we are
able to provide unique and original itineraries that allow our
clients to take a journey to the most thrilling destinations
in Ethiopia. What really makes us different is that all our
itineraries are well rafted to have their present form after
intensive field study and research. Go to many Ethiopian
inbound travel websites and what you will find are homogenised
travel packages lacking both originality and imagination.
Besides, the company has various latest and very comfortable
vehicles of high standard, which are appropriate to the
Ethiopian climate and road conditions.
Using passionate and knowledgeable guides, as well as a
dedicated and experienced office staff, we are able to provide
unique and original itineraries that allow our clients to take
a journey beneath the surface of the region, into those
special and secret places. Go to many Ethiopian inbound travel
websites and what you will find are homogenised travel
packages lacking both originality and imagination. Most of
these itineraries have simply been sourced from other websites
of other agencies and being sold around the world with little
trace to their originality and authenticity. We have
discovered ourselves tours like coffee harvesting, the Ark of
the Covenant Biblical tour, archaeological tour as well as
other city and villages highlights and reality tours.
With Noble Conference and Tours, visitors truly experience an
authentic unforgettable adventure, enjoy the equatorial
brightness and taste the waters of Ethiopia … and also vow to
return again one day!
Are you bonded?
Yes! We are a registered Ethiopian tour operator and hold
official licences from the Ethiopian Ministry of Trade and
Industry as well as from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
We are a member of the Ethiopian Tour Operators Association (ETOA),
the Japan Association of Travel Agencies (JATA), the African
Tour Association (ATA), the Ethiopian Sustainable Tourism
Alliance (ESTA) and the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce and
Sectoral Associations (AACCSA). All these mean that all your
money is fully protected if you book with us.
Do I need special travel insurance for your trips?
All clients are advised to have good standard travel insurance
for their trips to Ethiopia with us. We can provide more
details on this up on request. In our long term plan, we will
provide clients with our own bespoke policy that covers for
all our destinations and all our activities.
I'm travelling on my own - will everyone else on your group
tours be in couples?
Although we get a fair amount of single travellers, the
majority of our clients are group travellers and couples.
While travelling in group, if you would like to avoid single
supplements, we are happy to pair you with a same sex room
companion for the trip. If there is no one available of the
same sex as you, we will arrange a single room for you at no
extra cost.
On your group tours, what is the maximum group size?
The maximum group size in our tours is 12. Although 6 is the
ideal group size we often need to have, we are able to
organize (as we have done numerous times in the past)
enjoyable tours for group size more than 12. By taking really
small groups we make less of an impact, can get more involved
in the communities and sites we visit and be more flexible
with itineraries.
What do I need to bring with me?
First look into our website, examine details and have an
interest in our tours and start communicating with us. Upon
booking we will send you a fact file containing information
about the region plus an equipment list, recommended clothing
list and any items that might be hard to find at the various
destinations in Ethiopia.
How far in advance do I need to book my trip?
There is no hard and fast guide, although some trips are
popular and book up quickly. To ensure a place, you can simply
pay a deposit at any time, and then pay the balance 6 weeks
prior to departure. Also, be sure to allow yourself enough
time to read some facts about Ethiopia and to take some health
care pre-cautions. The visa process may not take much time and
read more the session on visa application.
What if I am old but physically fit to join some of your
adventure tours?
At Noble Conference and Tours we believe that having an
adventurous spirit and a love of travel is far more important
then physical age, so we don’t impose age restrictions. In
terms of fitness levels you certainly don’t need to be able to
run the marathon like Ethiopian athletes. However, we will
send fact information particularly for trekking in the Simien
Mountains National Park and in the Danakil Depression for you
to decide with health care advisors.
What do I wear during my holiday in Ethiopia?
This depends on the season and part of the country to be
visited. In the warm lowlands, light cotton clothing with
sunglasses and a hat are suggested while in the highlands
light or medium weight clothing is appropriate. During the
rainy season a light raincoat and umbrella are essential and a
sweater is best for chilly evenings. The sun can be very
strong so a sunscreen is important.
Trekkers in the Simien and Bale mountains will need warm
clothes, water proofs and 3-4 season sleeping bags and hiking
boots.
When is the ideal time to plan my holiday to Ethiopia?
When winter begins in Europe, Ethiopia is in the middle of its
dry season and is enjoying clear blue sky and equatorial
brightness. This period extends from October through to May
and is certainly convenient for tourists from most Western
countries to come to Ethiopia. It is now possible to visit the
northern part of Ethiopia during the rainy season from June to
September as the airports along the Historic Route have been
upgraded. It may not be very easy to travel to the south
western part of the country during the region’s rainy season
(from March to May). However, visitors who do not mind waiting
out a downpour (usually followed by brilliant sunshine), they
will be rewarded by the very captivating and beautiful
landscape full of crops and flower, clean stream, green hills
and mountains.
Is it safe to travel to Ethiopia?
As far as the security situation is concerned in Ethiopia, we
are confident to assure you that Ethiopia is one of the safest
tourist destinations in Africa. The southern tribal ring is
wilderness of peace and tranquillity where we shouldn’t raise
security issues at all. Like wise, the northern historic
route, the south western and western coffee route as well as
the eastern pleasing destinations in Ethiopia have long been
reputed for their security record for the peoples’ unparallel
hospitality and courtesy. The capital Addis Ababa is often
described as the safest city in the unsafe world, where you
receive a thousand smiles at every corner and street. However,
a few security concerns are still there in the north eastern
frontier of the country. Even this area has always been
flooded by adventurous souls, of course, with the companion of
armed scouts who stand on guard 24 hours each day, to make
sure nothing at all happens to our honoured visitors to the
region. Ethiopian armed force and the region’s police are more
than willing to help when the need arises.
What if I change my mind after I have booked my trip?
If you want us to amend the itineraries, we will try without
causing any inconvenience to the other group members. If you
have initially booked on your own, it won’t be a problem as we
can make any arrangement, discussing with you. In the unlikely
event that we are forced to cancel a trip due to any major
incident from your side, refund will be applicable as per
terms and conditions of booking. Read the session on terms and
conditions.
What is included in the price of our tours?
At Noble Conference and Tours we believe our clients are savvy
enough to see through heavily discounted ‘first price’ holiday
offers and would rather know before they leave home exactly
what their tour is going to cost. NCT tour prices include
airport transfer, ground transportation, hotel accommodations
( bed & breakfast basis, double room occupancy), entrance fees
to attractions, camping and safari accommodation (full board
basis), picnic lunch, mule/horse rentals, fees for rangers and
packers during trekking, and guide services. We may not be
held responsible for the amendment of rates that occur beyond
the control of our agency.
Have we won any travel awards?
Yes, in 2012 we won the 2012 International Arch of Europe
Award in the Gold category.
Is it possible to extend our holiday?
We are very happy for you to arrive early for your tour or
take an extension at the end, and have quoted prices for our
group tours on both a land only basis and inclusive of local
and international flights. We are very happy to accommodate
and organise whatever additions you would like to make as this
can get you onto the right time zone before your tour starts
or give you a pleasant rest in Ethiopia after the tour has
finished.
What standard of accommodation do you generally use?
Addis Ababa has hotels that cater for all pockets. We will be
holding rooms for visitors on ready occupancy basis, ranging
from the luxurious five- star Sheraton, Hilton and Continental
Hotels to the tourist- class hotels, which are always growing
in number and standard.
Standards vary outside the capital but apart from the Southern
Omo areas where camping is available, it is generally possible
to get relatively clean rooms with en suite toilet and shower.
All hotels on our tours are the best available with excellent
standards of service, facilities and hospitality.
I have travelled independently in the past – how much freedom/
independence will this trip will allow me?
We like to think of our group tours as suitable trips for
independently minded people and you will be able to do as much
or as little as you want! By limiting the group sizes to 12 we
can offer the benefits of group travel, whilst still catering
to the individual needs of each client. This degree of
flexibility that we employ while managing the tour will
undoubtedly treat both group and individual interests equally.
What standard of rider do I have to be to participate in your
mule, horse or camel trekking trips?
Mule and horse riding takes place in some of our tours where
necessary to get to the target destination. This will be a
slow gentle ride and will take place with a close supervision
and support with companion helpers. Camel trekking also takes
place similarly and no need to professionals or super riders.
If we arrange a more serious horse back riding trips, they
will be designed for people with a passion for horses and a
certain amount of experience is required.
What if I want to travel in a low tourist flow season in
Ethiopia?
Do not worry at all. Noble Conference and Tours offers a
tailor-made holiday service for all of the destinations
featured on our websites and a few more besides. We can
arrange the tour in high collaboration with you. If you want
to devise your own itinerary, we can help you do so.
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As we focus exclusively on researching, producing holiday
routes and destinations as well as marketing them to special
holiday makers, we are unfortunately no longer able to provide
air ticketing for the international flights. We will suggest
flight routings and carriers, but you will need to make the
reservations directly with the airlines in question or via the
internet. Our Arrival & Departure Logistics sheet, included
with your confirmation packet, will have further information.
Once you have booked your flights, please fax or mail us a
copy so that we can inform the Trip Leader of your flight
times.
Addis Ababa is the meeting point for all our trips. The Trip
Leader will meet the recommended Lufthansa or Ethiopian or any
other flights at the airport. At the end of the trip you will
be transferred to the airport in Addis Ababa for departure on
the recommended flight. Our Arrival & Departure Logistics
sheet will have further information.
All internal flights take place using Ethiopian Airlines. The
cheapest and the quickest way to get around Ethiopia’s
historic sites in the north is by air. Most of Ethiopia’s
major towns and sites of tourist interest are accessible by
air, and fares are still cheap by international standards.
Although the domestic air service is efficient in many ways,
cancellations and delays can occur.
Ethiopian Airlines, which has been providing excellent service
for more than half a century, has a wonderful safety record.
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Travellers to Ethiopia are advised to contact their Doctor
about the vaccination requirements and about any precautions
they have to take.
Health facilities are inadequate outside the city. Travellers
should bring their own prescription drugs accompanied by a
doctor's note. The high altitude and low oxygen level of much
of Ethiopia need time to be acclimatised to. Anyone who
suffers from heart ailments or high blood pressure should
consult a doctor before travelling.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from
travellers aged over one year travelling from an infected
area. Ethiopia is listed in the endemic zone for yellow fever
and travellers arriving from non-endemic zones should note
that vaccination is strongly recommended for travel outside
the urban areas, even if an outbreak of the disease has not
been reported and they would normally not require a
vaccination certificate to enter the country.
To be on the safe side, we will supply you only bottled water.
It is worth carrying some antiseptic cream, for minor cuts.
Anti-diarrhoea tablets, Immodium or Lomatil, should be carried
as a precautionary measure. The temperatures in the northern
highlands are moderate, rarely exceeding 300 even at the
hottest times of the year. However, the sun is strong and
visitors coming from cooler climates should get a high
protection grade 15 UV barrier cream, particularly for the
face. For the arms and legs, a lower protection grade would be
sufficient. With the dry weather, lip slaves are recommended.
Hats are recommended on boat trips and long mule trips. For
visitors sensitive to insect bites, it is advisable to bring
antihistamine cream or tablets. Some old buildings on the
Historic Route, and some old Churches are prone to flea
infestation. Generally, to have a standard health insurance is
advisable.
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If you need medical care whilst in Ethiopia, it is best to be
aware that medical providers may not accept payment through
your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have
to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your
insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have
access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer.
We assist you to make the process as easy as possible, but for
more severe cases, we will contact your country's local
embassy or representative here.
To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical
personnel and provide your insurance company with proper
documentation and receipts.
It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive
travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to
your home country.
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Registration
Program contracts and service agreements become valid upon NCT
confirmation of the booking by letter, fax, email or
telephone. A deposit of 25% of the total cost is requested at
the time of confirmation. The remainder of the total cost is
payable 30 days before the beginning date of the tour. If
complete payment has not been received, NCT is not obligated
to accept the client or conduct the tour unless prior
arrangements have been made.
Cancellations
Cancellations of confirmed bookings received more than 30 days
prior to departure are subject to a cancellation penalty of
US$50 per person. Cancellations received between 30 and 15
days prior to departure will be subject to a penalty of 50% of
the total tour rate.
Cancellations received less than 15 days prior to departure
will be subject to forfeiture of the entire tour rate. Trip
cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.
Responsibility
NCT’s liability to passengers transported in its own vehicles is
governed by the laws of Ethiopia, and all claims are subject
to the jurisdiction of the court of Ethiopia in which the
cause of action arises. Although every possible care is taken
to safeguard you and your property, NCT accepts no liability
or responsibility for loss or damage of any personal effects.
NCT will use its best efforts to assist as agent for our
clients in dealing with third parties such as hotels, airlines
and other transport companies and travel agents. However, NCT
cannot be held responsible for any loss or harm such as
sickness, injury, death, acts of God, or additional costs
incurred due to denied boarding, overbooking, cancellation or
delay caused by a third party. NCT tour prices include airport
transfer, ground transportation, hotel accommodations ( bed &
breakfast basis, double room occupancy), entrance fees to
attractions, camping and safari accommodation (full board
basis), picnic lunch, mule/horse rentals, fees for rangers and
packers during trekking, and guide services. We may not be h
the control of our agency. On this basis, the undersigned has
agreed to abide by the conditions set by Noble Conference and
Tours and will implement the terms of this contractual
agreement as of this date.
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A certificate of vaccination for yellow fever is no longer
mandatory.
Journalists, film crews and professional photographers need to
contact the Ethiopian Embassy Press office for initial
enquiries on 020 7838 3883 or 020 7838 3880 at least 15 days
in advance of travel.
How to Apply for a Visa
Applications can be made in person at the Visa Section, by
post or on arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
Should you require further advice, please call the Embassy
consular section on 020 7838 3898.
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL APPLICANTS MUST ALSO SUBMIT COPIES OF
THEIR PASSPORT AND APPLICATION FORM WHEN APPLYING
In person
For Europeans, application forms are available from the London
Ethiopian Embassy Consular Office and may be completed or
dropped off in person. Please be aware that the office's
opening hours are 9.00am to 3.00pm, Monday to Friday. Most
straightforward visa applications are processed within two to
three working days. Applications by journalists and
professional photographers may take longer. For Americans, use
the following address to contact-
Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in the
USA
3506 International Drive, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
Tel: (202) 364 1200.
Website: www.ethiopianembassy.org
Or, contact the Main Department for Immigration and
Nationality Affairs in Addis Ababa-
Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs, PO
Box 3741, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Email: mdina@ethionet.et
Fax: 002511 55 32 09 / 002511 56 49 81
By post
Application forms are available free of charge from the
Embassy. You may use the electronic version available on this
website, or the Embassy can post a copy to you, provided you
send a pre-stamped and self-addressed envelope to: The Visa
Department, Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of
Ethiopia, 17 Princes Gate, London SW7 1PZ. Most
straightforward visa applications are processed within two to
three working days, but extra time will be required for post.
On arrival at Addis Ababa airport
Some tourist visas can also be issued on arrival at Addis
Ababa Bole International Airport, for which a different form
is provided. The form available on this website and from the
Ethiopian Embassy in London cannot be used for this purpose.
Tourist visas can only be issued on arrival to:
• foreign nationals who are coming from countries where there
is no Ethiopian Mission
• foreign nationals who are coming from and are permanent
residents in any of the following internationally recognised
tourist-generating countries: Argentina, Australia, Austria,
Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France,
Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea
Republic, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New
Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russian Federation, South
Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United
States.
If applying for a tourist visa on arrival, visitors will need
to bring with them two recent passport-sized photographs and
no less than US $20 before their application can be processed.
Foreign nationals who are coming from countries that are not
listed as tourist generating countries and from those
countries that do not have an agreement with Ethiopia
regarding the issuance of visas on arrival, can enter Ethiopia
by obtaining a visa from a nearby Ethiopian Mission. However,
if tourists from such countries wish to get a visa on arrival
at the airport, they are required to get approval from the
Immigration and Nationality Affairs Main Department in
Ethiopia. Requests for such approval can be sent to:
• Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs, PO
Box 3741, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
• Email: mdina@ethionet.et
• Fax: 002511 55 32 09 / 002511 56 49 81
The Visa Application Form
For Europeans, please e-mail using this address and get the
application form-info@ethioembassy.org.uk or mdina@ethionet.et
Types of Visa
This form may be used when applying for the following types of
visa:
• Tourist
• Business - for individuals undertaking business or any work
(including voluntary work)
• Transit - for individuals who are passing through Ethiopia
on to another destination.*
*If you arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International airport and
have to wait a few hours for a connecting flight, providing
you do not leave the airport or pass the Immigration Desk you
will not require this visa. If you leave the airport for any
length of time between flights you will require a transit
visa.
Length of Visa
For tourist purposes the following are available:
• single entry visas valid for up to 30 days stay
• multiple entry visas valid for 3 months
• multiple entry visas valid for 6 months
For business purposes the following are available:
• single entry visas valid for up to 30 days stay
• multiple entry visas valid for 3 months
• multiple entry visas valid for 6 months
For transit purposes the following are available:
• single transit visas
• double transit visas
When choosing the length of the visa you require, please be
aware that the visa is valid from the date of issue and not
the date of entry into Ethiopia. It is no longer possible to
post-date visas, so please give careful consideration as to
which length of visa will be suitable for your stay. You must
take into account the time taken to process your visa
application as well allow for postage times and the number of
days in advance of your travel you have applied, as your visa
will have be valid from the date it has been processed at the
Embassy.
For example, if you are visiting Ethiopia for 20 days, and you
are applying for a single tourist or business visa more than a
week in advance of your departure, you must take into account
the length of time it takes for post to reach the Embassy, the
time it takes to process the visa, the length of time it takes
for post to reach you from the Embassy and consider exactly
how many days in advance of your journey you have applied. If
the total exceeds the 30 day limit, you must apply for a
multiple entry 3 month visa.
If you wish to stay in Ethiopia for a longer period you will
have to apply to the Ethiopian Main Department for Immigration
Office in Addis Ababa for an extension.
Completing the Visa Application Form
• You will need to complete a visa application form for each
person travelling to Ethiopia.
• Please complete the form writing in BLOCK CAPITALS in either
blue or black ink.
Please ensure that you:
• answer clearly all of the required questions on the form(s)
- your application may not be processed if you fail to provide
all necessary information
• sign and date the form(s) where asked
• include your day-time telephone number in case the Consular
office needs to contact you regarding your application
If you have any questions concerning your application, our
Consular staff can be contacted on 020 7838 3898.
Additional requirements
When submitted, each completed application form must be
accompanied by:
• a passport. This must be valid for a minimum of 6 months. A
visa cannot be issued unless you submit your passport.
• one recent, passport-sized (45mm x 35mm) colour photograph.
This should be attached to the form by paper-clip or another
non-permanent means; DO NOT STAPLE THE PHOTOGRAPH TO THE
APPLICATION FORM. Please write your name on the back of the
photograph in BLOCK CAPITALS. The photograph should be full
face without sunglasses, hat or other head covering unless for
ethnic or religious reasons. Please note that we may not
accept photographs which do not meet these specifications.
• the visa fee - a list of the fees can be found in the Fees &
Payment section.
• a copy of your return ticket if you are travelling on a
tourist or business visa, or a confirmed flight ticket for the
onward destinations from Ethiopia, if you are travelling on a
transit visit. Please do not include the original ticket. The
Embassy cannot take responsibility for any items lost in the
post.
• Evidence of sufficient funds to cover the cost of your
intended stay - eg a copy of a bank statement.
• APPLICANTS MUST ALSO SUBMIT COPIES OF THEIR PASSPORT AND
APPLICATION FORM.
When applying for a business visa, the form should be
accompanied by a signed letter on headed paper from the
sponsoring organisation or company, stating the nature of the
visit and the work that will be conducted. If you are
self-employed, this letter can be from a solicitor, accountant
or company house.
Business visa applicants who are not normally residents of the
UK should apply to the Ethiopian Embassy accredited to their
country or that which is closest to their place of legal
residence. However, business visa applicants who choose to
apply at the Ethiopian Embassy in London, must provide a
letter stating why they are applying in the UK and should be
aware that their application and documentation may be passed
on for verification purposes, to the Ethiopian Embassy
accredited to the country of their origin or whichever Embassy
is closest to their country of origin.
If you are a student, your application should be accompanied
by a letter from your school, college or university or your
letter of invitation from an Ethiopian referee if applicable.
Journalists and professional photographers should also contact
the Ethiopian Embassy Press office on 020 7838 3880 in advance
of travel. If you are taking equipment with you, such as
cameras, sound equipment etc, please attach a list detailing
their description, make, serial numbers and value. If you
intend to film, you will require a permit for which a fee
representing a small percentage of total production costs will
be charged. Please also be aware that processing your visa
application may take two weeks.
Please include an undated special delivery self-addressed
envelope if you require your passport to be returned to you by
post. The Embassy cannot accept responsibility for any items
lost in the post.
Payment and Fees
The following methods of payment are accepted:
• Cash
• Banker's Drafts
• Postal Orders - made payable to The Ethiopian Embassy.
• Payment by cheque or any means other than those stated
above, cannot be accepted.
The correct fee must be enclosed with the application form. If
you are unsure of which is the correct fee for your
application, you may call the consular office to check - 020
7838 3898.
Fees
Business Visa
• Single Entry (valid for up to 30 days stay) £14.00
• Multiple Entry valid for 3 months £22.00
• Multiple Entry valid for 6 months £36.00
Tourist Visa
• Single Entry (valid for up to 30 days stay) £14.00
• Multiple Entry valid for 3 months £22.00
• Multiple Entry valid for 6 months £30.00
Transit Visa
• Single transit visa £14.00
• Double transit visa £22.00
PLEASE NOTE:
The above prices do not apply to American citizens. By special
arrangement with the US government, American citizens receive
a two year multiple entry visa for both business and tourist
purposes, for which the fee is £51.
• Single/Double entry Transit Visas for American Citizens £29
• Two Years Student Visa for American Citizens £29
Check list
Remember...visa applications MUST be accompanied by the
following:
• a valid passport - valid for a minimum of six months
• one passport-sized photograph
• the correct visa fee
• any supporting documents (or copies) requested in the
guidance notes above
• a copy of your passport and application form
• an undated special delivery self-addressed envelope if you
require your passport and visa to be returned by post
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Noble Conference and Tours can organize exceptional
historical, cultural, adventure and safari tours, where
clients feel a real connection with the people, the landscape,
the tradition and the environment. It is to make you enjoy the
tranquillity and excitement of each authentic destination as
much as the people who live there do.
We operate with a mission to uphold our social responsibility
in sustainable tourism. As an active member of Ethiopian
Sustainable Tourism Alliance (ESTA), we take it as our duty to
offer special holiday packages with the lowest possible
attractive pricing to those honoured clients who choose to
come to Ethiopia to spend their money with a heartily
intention to help to create extraordinary things such as
preserving culture, protecting nature and sustaining long-term
growth. ESTA is a USAID-supported project focused upon
developing sustainable tourism as a tool to help communities
generate additional incomes and conserve their natural
resources.
In collaboration with the ESTA, we organize a specific program
as part of your holiday in Ethiopia where your good intentions
to help some community based projects can be effective,
benefiting the natural environment and the society. In the
destinations where some local project partners execute some
noble activities, you will have a double pleasure of enjoying
the stunning destinations as well as involving in the
community based development programs, which will undoubtedly
become the most meaningful and memorable experience of a
life-time. We would thus like you to involve with the
following local NGOs to realize your responsible holiday with
us-
• The Konso Development Association (KDA) is an NGO founded in
2000 with the primary aim of planning and implementing
integrated development activities in order to improve the
livelihood conditions of the Konso People. It currently
operates a nursery that has potential to reforest the highly
degraded land in the Gersalle Village. Along with helping the
natural environment, the project gives tourists an opportunity
for hands on tree planting experience. Their donation (roughly
$20 per tree) will go towards the cost of the raising the
seedling in the nursery and salaries for local village members
to water and maintain the newly planted trees to ensure their
survival.
• Sustainable Environment and Development Action (SEDA)
operates in drought prone districts of Ethiopian Central Rift
Valley and focuses on alleviating environmental degradation,
the effects of climatic change and poverty. The travel
philanthropy program will allow tourists to donate energy
saving stoves to communities in the Lake Ziway area, which are
facing severe deforestation threats. Energy saving stoves
reduce the amount of wood needed to cook, in turn stemming
deforestation and the laborious task of walking long distance
for fuel that many women and girls face.
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