Geography
Ethiopia is located in the Horn of Africa. It is the second most populous country in Africa, bordered by Eritrea to the north, Djibouti to the northeast, Somalia to the east, Kenya to the south, and Sudan and South Sudan to the west.
Climate
Ethiopia has a predominantly tropical monsoon climate. Due to its high elevation, much of the country — especially the Ethiopian Highlands — enjoys cooler temperatures than other regions at similar latitudes. Lowland areas can be significantly hotter.
Languages
Amharic is the federal working language, while Oromo and Tigrinya are widely spoken. Ethiopia has many other languages across Semitic, Cushitic, Omotic and Nilotic language families. Ge’ez remains a liturgical language in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Time and Calendar
Ethiopia uses East Africa Time (UTC+03:00) and does not observe daylight savings. Ethiopians traditionally use a 12‑hour clock system starting at dawn (6:00 AM local time) and dusk (6:00 PM local time). :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Enkutatash (Ethiopian New Year) – September 11
- Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) – September 27
- Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) – January 7
- Epiphany (Timket) – January 19
- Adwa Victory Day – March 2
- Ethiopian Good Friday (Siklet) – variable
- Ethiopian Easter Sunday (Fasika) – variable
- International Labour Day – May 1
- Patriot’s Victory Day – May 28
Currency
The currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB). Common banknotes are 5, 10, 50, 100 and 200 birr. Foreign currency exchange services are available at banks and licensed exchange bureaus.
Traveler Visa
Most visitors require a visa to enter Ethiopia. A **30‑day tourist e‑Visa** can be applied for online before travel; it is typically valid for single entry and must be used within a set period after issuance. Tourism visas may also be available on arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for eligible nationalities, but pre‑arrival e‑Visas are recommended to avoid delays. A passport valid for at least six months beyond your entry date is required. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Electricity
Ethiopia uses **220 V, 50 Hz** electrical supply. Plugs are typically types C and F, so bring a suitable adapter if needed.
Hotel Standards
Accommodation in Ethiopia ranges from luxury international hotels to budget options. Facilities vary by rating:
- Five‑star: Luxury services, stylish rooms, full amenities.
- Four‑star: High quality and comfort with good services.
- Three‑star: Comfortable stays with essential services.
- Two‑star: Functional, affordable rooms with basic amenities.
- One‑star: Simple, no‑frills lodging with minimal facilities.