Ethiopia
UK Foreign Office travel advice · 29 May 2026
Current safety guidance for Ethiopia from UK Foreign Office travel advice. We cover 1 city in Ethiopia, with reported scams for each.
Source: Ethiopia travel advice — UK Foreign Office travel advice
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Mugging (violent theft or theft with the threat of violence) is on the rise. There have been a number of incidents of sexual harassment of women.
There is a risk of bag and jewellery snatching from vehicles at traffic lights and of thefts from parked cars.
When travelling in vehicles:
If threatened, hand over valuables without resistance.
Kidnapping is widespread in parts of Ethiopia, with incidents in the Oromia, Amhara and Somali regions and on the southern border with Kenya.
There have been a number of recent kidnappings in Amhara and Oromia, especially within the Adama special zone south of Addis Ababa, and western areas of Oromia region, particularly West Wollega, East Wollega and Qellem Wollega zones.
Possible targets for criminal kidnap include people engaged in humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors. The motivation for kidnappings is extortion, with criminals demanding high sums for ransom.
When arranging meetings, use a secure location. Avoid regular patterns of travel and aim to only travel during daylight hours. If you go to areas where the FCDO advises against travel, you will be at extreme risk.
Ethiopia is a cash-based society. Banking facilities, including card payments and ATMs are limited, and unreliable, especially outside of cities. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving cities.
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Ethiopia.
There is a threat of terrorism across Ethiopia. Attacks could target westerners, including British nationals. These could occur at any time including at religious events, public holidays or celebrations. Attacks could be indiscriminate and occur in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:
Large crowds are common on key national and religious dates, including:
Parts of the country also have local festivals (often celebrating saints’ days) which can lead to large gatherings.
Terrorist group Al-Shabaab, based in Somalia, poses a threat across East Africa. The group threatens all countries who have military forces in Somalia, including Ethiopia. In 2022, Al-Shabaab attacked the Somali towns of Aato, Yeed and Washaaqo, near the border with Ethiopia. Al-Shabaab has said it intends to commit further attacks in the area.
A nationwide general election is due to be held on 1 June 2026. Stay away from large gatherings and demonstrations and follow advice of the local authorities.
Tensions are high between Ethiopia and Eritrea, the security situation in Northern Ethiopia may deteriorate quickly.
Between November 2020 and November 2022, conflict took place in the northern regions of Ethiopia, in particular in Tigray but also in Amhara and Afar.
Following the end of the conflict there have remained high tensions and occasional clashes between Tigray People’s Liberation Front aligned forces and the Ethiopian military. In 2025 there were increased political and security tensions in some areas with the seizing of administrative offices, checkpoints, the arrest of officials and disruption to goods and services. Since 26 January there have been renewed clashes in Tigray, including reports of drone strikes.
Since spring 2023 there has been significant conflict in Amhara region, between Amhara militia groups (Fano) and the Ethiopian authorities, as well as opportunistic crime and banditry.
There have been increased tensions and violence between armed groups and the security forces across Oromia region.
Unrest can start with no notice. There are ongoing armed clashes between ethnic groups in much of the country. Foreigners have not been targeted. However you should:
Avoid large gatherings and demonstrations. Comply with the law, including in relation to carrying ID cards, and possession of foreign currency and weapons. Avoid confrontation and follow the instructions of the authorities.
Civil unrest, including protests and strikes, may happen with little or no notice. This can cause:
In the past some protests have escalated into serious violence.
Travellers may face increased scrutiny, particularly if they are of Amhara, Tigrayan or Oromo ethnicity. Officials may carry out direct police operations including road checkpoints and door-to-door calls. Security services sometimes conduct house searches without authorisation.
If security officials request access to your accommodation, check the credentials of the officials and then comply with their requests. The authorities have increased security checks at Bole International Airport and there are reports of ethnic Tigrayans being prevented from boarding flights. In all cases, avoid confrontation and follow the instructions of the authorities.
There have been a small number of cases of arbitrary detention of British nationals in Ethiopia. The risk may increase if tensions are heightened around major events, or in locations that are sensitive for security reasons. Carry a paper copy of your passport and contact details of the British Embassy in Addis Ababa (phone: +251 11 617 0100) in case you are questioned or detained.
The Ethiopian authorities do not always notify embassies when they detain foreign nationals. If you are detained, ask family or friends to contact the British Embassy. The authorities may not permit embassy officials adequate access to detainees.
Take care of your belongings when visiting crowded public places, especially at night. There is a risk of petty theft around Bole International Airport, particularly pickpockets and bag-snatchers.
Be vigilant if strangers approach you. Criminal groups, often including children and young people, sometimes attempt to steal phones, wallets or other valuables by jostling and pickpocketing. They may use distraction techniques including begging, spitting, spilling food and drink, and feigning illness.
There has been an increase in reported crime against foreign nationals and Ethiopian nationals in these areas of Addis Ababa:
Attacks have included knifepoint robberies and victims being choked unconscious. Do not travel alone in these areas if possible. Be cautious if travelling on foot. Consider using road transport where possible, especially after dark.
There is a continued risk of landmines and other unexploded ordinances following the end of the 2020-2022 northern Ethiopia conflict.
The main areas of risk are:
Most incidents involve farmers in rural areas but be cautious and avoid traveling off the main roads in the affected areas.
Always carry a copy of the photo page of your passport and your visa and entry stamp. It is not a legal requirement to carry the original.
Ethiopia is religiously diverse and largely tolerant. However, many people are devout in their faith. Take care to not offend local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Dress conservatively and observe local customs. Take particular care if travelling:
Ramadan is individually observed but there are no official regulations imposed.
Health and safety precautions like life jackets in boats or protective railings at historical sites are rarely in place in Ethiopia.
Traditionally Ethiopia has a different calendar and way of expressing time than are widely used internationally.
Most documents issued by hotels and larger organisations, including airline tickets, use the international calendar and clock. However:
Drug offences are treated seriously in Ethiopia. Possession of drugs can lead to prison sentences of 5 to 10 years and potentially large fines.
Khat is legal in Ethiopia, but it is illegal to take it out of the country. If you’re found with it in your baggage, the authorities are likely to prosecute you.
There are no restrictions on buying or possessing alcohol. This includes the predominantly Muslim regions although it may be more difficult to obtain.
Women are expected to dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
Same-sex acts (applying to both sexes) are illegal and carry penalties of between 1 and 15 years in prison. Local authorities intimidate and detain owners and clients of hotels, bars and restaurants in Addis Ababa where same-sex activity is alleged to take place.
The public are not generally accepting of same-sex relationships. Some religious leaders have called for violence against the LGBT+ community. Showing affection in public may receive unwanted attention. It is dangerous to be openly (or covertly) LGBT+ in Ethiopia, and can lead to great personal risk.
Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
It is illegal to take photos:
The use of drones is subject to permission from the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority and Information Network and Security Agency.
Fuel availability is currently limited across Ethiopia, with long queues and shortages at petrol stations reported nationwide. This may cause transport disruption and delays, particularly for travel outside Addis Ababa. If you are planning to travel within Ethiopia, check arrangements carefully with your tour operator or transport provider and allow extra time for journeys.
If you are planning to drive in Ethiopia, see information on driving abroad.
You can use your UK driving licence to drive for up to 2 weeks. To drive for longer, contact the Ethiopian Ministry of Transport and Logistics to apply for an Ethiopian driving licence.
Driving standards and vehicle maintenance are often poor and there are frequent traffic accidents, especially in Addis Ababa and on the Addis Ababa-Djibouti road.
Drivers involved in car accidents can face severe punishments, including custodial sentences and fines. If you’re involved in a traffic accident, stay in your vehicle and call the local police. Avoid confrontation and wait for police to arrive to deal with any issues.
Only use buses or taxis from the airport that have been organised by your hotel or travel company. If you are booking your own taxi, choose yellow or app-based taxis rather than the blue and white ones.
Avoid driving after dark anywhere outside Addis Ababa. Vehicles often have no lights and livestock may stray onto the roads.
Mobile networks are not consistent or reliable. The authorities may close down networks with no notice. You should consider travelling in convoy with at least one other vehicle.
Carry food and water, and ensure your vehicle is properly prepared and equipped. Medical facilities outside the capital are extremely limited so carry a comprehensive medical pack.
Local demonstrations have led to temporary road closures, although not all social media reports of such disruptions are accurate. If unsure, contact local authorities or reputable tour operators in the areas you’re travelling to.
If you come to a roadblock, follow advice of police or army personnel if they are present. If you encounter an unattended roadblock, turn around and do not attempt to pass it.
Always leave details of your travel itinerary with a reliable person.
There have been instances where buses from one region have been attacked when passing through another.
There is a risk of earthquakes and earth tremors. You should:
The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
This section has safety advice for regions of Ethiopia. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice for Ethiopia.
Since 29 January 2026 all civilian flights to and from Tigray region have been suspended. Foreign nationals are currently unable to travel to airports in Afar regional state due to restrictions by the Ethiopian authorities. Check with your operator before travel.
The Ethiopian authorities may implement travel restrictions anywhere in the country at short notice.
FCDO advises against all travel to within:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
FCDO advises against all travel to Tigray region.
Since 26 January, clashes have occurred in Tigray, northern Ethiopia, between Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) aligned forces and the Ethiopian military, reportedly including drone strikes which have killed at least one civilian.
FCDO advises against all travel to all of Amhara regional state.
There have been violent protests and clashes between security forces in Amhara since April 2023, resulting in an unknown number of deaths including of 11 aid workers.
Violence has increased due to conflict between local militia groups (Fano) and the security forces. Since spring 2023 there has been significant conflict in Amhara region, between Amhara militia groups (Fano) and the Ethiopian authorities, as well as opportunistic crime and banditry. Movement is heavily restricted, arbitrary detention is a risk and the security situation is very volatile.
There have been reports of incidents along the Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar (A3) road, including armed men attacking vehicles. Attacks usually take place in the early hours when visibility is poor. Be highly cautious and avoid travelling when visibility is poor. The A3 road can be subject to increased checkpoints and closure by the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF).
Some flights across northern Ethiopia could be suspended or cancelled at short notice. Domestic and international land borders may be closed. Mobile networks and internet connections may be disrupted. You should monitor local media for further information and comply with local authority instructions.
There have been sporadic, violent clashes between armed groups in Amhara and in areas bordering Oromia region, including in urban centres. As these are not contained to specific areas, be cautious when travelling throughout Amhara. Situations can escalate quickly.
Political disputes in the districts (‘woredas’) of Tsegede, Mirab Armacho and Tach Armacho have previously turned violent. Clashes have occurred around Chilga Woreda and Central Gondar zone, with reports of fatalities including civilians. While attacks are mostly related to inter-ethnic disputes and foreigners have not been targeted, attacks can occur at any time with significant risk of being caught up in violence. If you’re travelling in the area, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities and your tour operator.
There has been an increase in roadblocks across Amhara region.
FCDO advises against all travel to the parts of Afar region within 10km of the border with Eritrea.
There are irregular armed clashes between ethnic groups in Afar region and Somali Regional State, in particular along the main Addis Ababa to Djibouti road (A1) and the surrounding areas. Attacks are sporadic and infrequent, but may involve roadblocks and vehicles being targeted.
If you plan to visit the Danakil desert area, be aware of the risk of excessive heat and difficult terrain in some areas, including around the Erta Ale volcano. Facilities are basic, with no running water and limited medical options.
Tourism in the area has been targeted by armed groups in 2007, 2012 and 2017. Only travel to this area with a recognised tour company. When booking, check that your group will be supported by an armed police or military escort.
FCDO advises against all travel to Gambela region.
Large-scale violence, inter-communal clashes and armed attacks occur regularly. While foreigners have not been targeted, there’s a significant risk of being caught up in violence.
FCDO advises against all travel to:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
Violence has increased due to conflict in Oromia, and there may be disruption to travel, and to the operation of businesses and services.
In West and North Shewa zone there have been reports of attacks on vehicles travelling on the A1 road, between Adama and Awash, though not targeting international travellers.
There were reports in October 2023 of air strikes against armed groups in West Shewa. These could take place in a range of locations without notice. You should be extremely cautious when travelling in the West Shewa zone, particularly in rural areas.
There have been repeated and serious instances of violence in West Wollega, East Wollega, Kellem Wollega and Horo Gudru Wollega. This has included clashes between armed groups and security forces, violent crime and roadside attacks.
There are increased tensions and violence between armed groups and the security forces across Oromia region, particularly Shewa, Haraghe and Guji zones. Avoid military, police and security installations. Be extremely cautious and follow advice of local authorities.
Since late 2022, there has been an increase in incidents between armed groups in Oromia. These have mainly been reported in rural areas and areas bordering Amhara region. Incidents are not contained to specific areas. Be cautious when travelling, particularly between urban centres. The situation can escalate quickly.
Some protests have turned violent and resulted in casualties. There has also been severe disruption to road travel including major roads to and from Addis Ababa.
Protests and demonstrations occur periodically in towns across Oromia region. Towns in the Wollega and Shewa zones, and West Arsi zone, including Ambo, Wolissa, Nekemte and Shashemene, have been particularly affected. Demonstrations have also taken place elsewhere including in the Bale zone to the south-east.
In some instances, international investors have been threatened, although the British Embassy is not aware of foreign tourists having been targeted.
FCDO advises against all travel to within:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
There are irregular armed clashes between ethnic groups in Afar Region and Somali Regional State, in particular along the main Addis Ababa to Djibouti road (A1) and the surrounding areas. Attacks are sporadic and infrequent, but may involve roadblocks with vehicles being targeted.
There is local instability, lawlessness, military activity and a general risk of banditry in Somali region. Insurgent groups, some affiliated with terrorist organisations, have clashed with government forces. Foreigners have been caught up in the violence or targeted. There have also been attacks on staff working for international non-governmental organisations.
FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the borders with South Sudan and Kenya including the shores of Lake Turkana.
Due to recent regional cluster changes, there have been instances of civil unrest as zones increasingly demand their own regional statehood. There has been civil unrest in Gurage zone in the newly formed Central region. A number of incidents have turned violent.
FCDO advises against all travel to:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the rest of Benishangul-Gumuz region.
There is risk of armed clashes at near the border with Sudan.
Local tensions have led to frequent and unpredictable violent clashes, including reported abductions and deaths. There have been instances of civil unrest in and around Assosa.
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