Find Cheap Flights to Ethiopia: How to Book the Best Tickets to Ethiopia

This period is the best time during Ethiopia's dry season. The weather is pleasant, and major religious festivals take place, offering excellent cultural experiences.

The weather remains dry and warm, suitable for outdoor activities. As the high season winds down, opportunities for cheap flights to Ethiopia increase.

This is Ethiopia's main rainy season. Although there is heavy rainfall, there are fewer tourists, and it's the cheapest time for flight tickets to Ethiopia. Focus on visiting cultural sites.

The rain stops, and the landscape is at its greenest. The weather is pleasant, and major holidays like Meskel and Timkat occur, making it ideal for cultural travel.

South Korean nationals require a visa to enter Ethiopia. While a Visa on Arrival is available for tourism purposes, applying for an electronic visa (e-Visa) online beforehand is the most convenient and secure option. The e-Visa can be applied for through the Ethiopian Immigration website, and pre-approval before your trip will speed up the immigration process upon arrival. Visa requirements and fees are subject to change, so be sure to check the latest information before departure. A passport valid for at least six months is also mandatory.

In Addis Ababa, the Light Rail and minibuses (local taxis) are the main modes of transport. The Light Rail is cheap and efficient along major routes, but minibuses have complex routes and often require knowledge of the local language (Amharic). For long-distance travel, Ethiopian Airlines domestic flights are the fastest and safest option, and there are significant discounts if you have an international ticket with them. Intercity buses are available but take a long time and offer less comfort. Using taxis or ride-hailing apps like Bolt is convenient, but you may need to negotiate the price.

Accommodation options in Ethiopia are diverse, especially centered in Addis Ababa. Choices range from international chain hotels to local boutique hotels and affordable guesthouses. Accommodation near major tourist sites or business districts is generally well-equipped with security and amenities. When booking, it is essential to use reputable international booking platforms and carefully check recent guest reviews. Since power supply can be unstable, choosing accommodation with its own generator can ensure a more comfortable stay. Price negotiation might also be possible at local accommodations.

Ethiopia is relatively safe, but be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas of large cities like Addis Ababa. Keep valuables out of sight, especially in tourist areas or markets, and avoid walking alone late at night. Common local scams include fake guides or approaches disguised as help. If a stranger approaches you with excessive friendliness or offers to guide you, politely decline. Use guides recommended by official venues or hotels, and always remain aware of your surroundings.

Ethiopia is a country with deep religious and cultural traditions. It is polite to ask for permission before taking photos of people. It is customary to use your right hand for eating and exchanging objects, as the left hand is considered unclean. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes. Locals are very friendly, but it is best to avoid asking overly personal questions immediately. Especially during meals, there is a traditional custom of hospitality called 'Gursha,' where people share 'Injera'; show understanding and respect for this tradition.

Ethiopian cuisine is characterized by various stews (Wot) eaten with 'Injera,' a fermented flatbread. Injera has a sour taste and serves as the staple food. Popular dishes include 'Key Wot,' a spicy beef stew, and 'Alicha Wot,' a mild vegetable stew. Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and experiencing a local coffee ceremony is a must. During fasting periods (usually Wednesdays and Fridays), vegetarian dishes avoiding meat are common, offering many excellent choices for vegetarians. Eating with your hands is typical in local restaurants.

Ethiopia is located on a high plateau, leading to large temperature differences between day and night, so it is best to pack layers of clothing. It can be quite chilly at night. You will also need clothing that covers your shoulders and knees for visiting religious sites. Since the power situation can be unstable, bring a portable charger and a flashlight. Tap water is not recommended for drinking, so you should buy bottled water. It is also wise to prepare motion sickness medication or a basic first-aid kit for long journeys. Since it can be dusty, a mask or scarf is helpful, and insect repellent is useful.

Venture beyond the main tourist spots to visit local markets (like Mercato) or small neighborhood restaurants. Locals place great importance on the coffee ceremony, so if invited, participate willingly. Take your time, engage with locals, and make an effort to understand their lives and culture. Ethiopia is a place where Christian and Islamic cultures coexist, so maintain an attitude that respects religious diversity. TICKETS.CO.KR recommends travelers experience the true aroma of Ethiopia by drinking traditional coffee at a local coffee house in Addis Ababa. This is where you can capture your best photos.