How much does food cost in Ethiopia?

An average meal costs €3-8. Beer costs €1-2. Coffee costs €0.50-1.50. 10% appreciated in restaurants; round up for taxis

Which side of the road do they drive on in Ethiopia?

In Ethiopia, people drive on the right side. The best navigation apps are Google Maps, Maps.me.

eSIM for Ethiopia

Q: What are the emergency numbers in Ethiopia?

Police: 991, Ambulance: 907, Fire: 939.

From Addis Ababa to the rock churches of Lalibela, stay connected across Ethiopia.

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Mobile internet in Ethiopia

An eSIM for Ethiopia lets you sort your mobile internet before you even leave home. You can choose from 24 data bundles from €19.99, with sizes ranging from 1 GB to 20 GB. Need a lot of data? Unlimited bundles are available too.

In Ethiopia your eSIM connects to local networks such as Ethio Telecom, with fast 4G where available.

How much data you need depends mostly on what you do while travelling. For navigation, WhatsApp and the occasional scroll through social media, 1 to 3 GB is usually plenty for a short trip. The smallest bundle for Ethiopia starts at 1 GB, so you never pay for more than you need. If you stream a lot of video or share photos every day, pick a larger bundle or an unlimited option.

With an eSIM you pay a fixed price up front and avoid nasty surprises on your phone bill. There is no shop to find for a local SIM, and you keep your own number for messaging. The installation QR code lands in your inbox within minutes.

Data Plans

Choose Your Ethiopia eSIM Plan

1 GB Data

Valid for 7 days

€27.99

€4.00/dag

2 GB Data

Valid for 15 days

€51.99

€3.47/dag

3 GB Data

Valid for 30 days

€71.99

€2.40/dag

5 GB Data

Valid for 30 days

€103.99

€3.47/dag

10 GB Data

Valid for 30 days

€147.99

€4.93/dag

20 GB Data

Valid for 30 days

€224.99

€7.50/dag

Not sure how many GB you need? Work it out in half a minute →

Travel Tips

Travel Tips for Ethiopia

Getting Around

Use Google Maps for navigation in Addis Ababa and major cities. Altitude sickness can be a concern. Download offline maps for remote areas. Be respectful of religious sites.

Public Transport

Public transport is limited. Buses connect major cities. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are recommended. Domestic flights connect cities efficiently.

Payments

ETB (Ethiopian birr) is the local currency. Cash is widely used. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. ATMs available in cities.

Essential Apps

Download Google Maps for navigation and local transport apps. Limited local apps available. WhatsApp for communication. Download offline maps for remote areas.

Electrical Plug Type

Type C220-240V50Hz

Two round pins

You need a travel adapter for your devices.

Currency Information

Local Currency:

Br1.00(ETB)

Ethiopian Birr

Exchange Rate:

💡 Tip: Check current exchange rates before exchanging money

💳 Credit cards often offer better exchange rates than cash exchange

Time Zone

Coverage

Network Information

Network Partners

Ethio Telecom

2G3G4G

Network coverage and speeds may vary by location.

Easy Installation

Install your eSIM in minutes. Scan the QR code or use the manual details provided after purchase. Activate upon arrival at your destination.

View Installation Guide

Connectivity

WiFiLimited

WiFi in hotels in Addis Ababa. Very limited elsewhere. Internet can be restricted

Mobile networkLimited

Coverage in Addis Ababa. Very limited in Simien Mountains and rural areas

Travel Advice

Security risks(varies by region)

De kleurcode van het reisadvies is rood voor grote delen van het noorden en westen van Ethiopië en de zone Guji in het zuiden. Wat uw situatie ook is: reis er niet heen...

Source: Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs · 1 July 2026Read full advice →

Practical Travel Information

Costs & Money

Average meal:€3-8

Beer:€1-2

Coffee:€0.50-1.50

Tipping:10% appreciated in restaurants; round up for taxis

Cash vs Card:Cash only (birr); cards rarely work outside top hotels

Emergency Numbers

Police:991

Ambulance:907

Fire:939

Driving & Navigation

Drive on:Right side

Best apps:Google Maps, Maps.me

Language & Communication

Main languages:Amharic

English level:Medium

Key phrase:Selam (Hello)

Local Insider Tips

•Coffee originated here; a traditional coffee ceremony is a must
•Ethiopia uses its own 13-month calendar and a clock offset by six hours
•Bring plenty of birr in cash; cards are rarely accepted

Important Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only. Prices, emergency numbers, and other details may change. Always verify critical information, especially emergency numbers, from official government sources. Information current as of 2026-06.

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