Cheap flights to Ethiopia

Whilst there are several times of the year to choose from, April is seen as the time to fly to Ethiopia, however, it is possible to get good deals throughout the year. If weather is an important factor for you when considering when to fly to Ethiopia, the warmest period tends to be May, with the wettest being August.

Ethiopia is one of the newest tourist destinations in Africa, only considered a holiday destination since the end of the war in 2001. But the ancient country has a history and landscape that will impress any traveller from the moment they step off the flight to Ethiopia.

Referred to as the “lap of civilisation,” Ethiopia has the longest history of any country on Earth. It was here that the bones of Lucy, the oldest human fossil, were found, dating back more than three million years. Today, the country is home to nearly 100 different tribes and, due to the relative lack of developed tourism, its rich culture can easily be explored by visitors.

The natural scenery is another attraction. Look out of the plane window on the flight to get a sense of the vastness and diversity of the country: its landscape includes the Simien Mountains, lakes, waterfalls, the lunar landscape of the Danakil Depression and huge expanses of desert.

This is a country gradually overthrowing its image as a place of poverty and war; instead travellers are starting to explore all it has to offer. Tours are opening up, from Addis Ababa to the churches of Lalibela. Book a flight to Ethiopia now, before the rest of the world catches on…

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How long is the flight to Ethiopia from the UK?

The flight from the UK to Ethiopia will take between 11h 10m and 23h 20m depending on your point of origin, the number of stopovers on your route, and your destination within the nation. The most common departure point in the UK is London Heathrow Airport, which is the largest and busiest airport in the UK. There are other options, as well, including London Stanstead, which is smaller and quieter, London Gatwick Airport, which is the second largest airport in the UK, and numerous others. Flying into the nation, you will most likely arrive at Addis Ababa International Airport, which is located not far from the heart of the city. However, there are other airports available, including in Makale, Jijiga, Arba Mintch, and Dire Dawa to name just a few.

Which cities offer direct flights to Ethiopia from the UK?

Unfortunately, there no direct flights from the UK to Ethiopia at this time. However, there are quite a few options that offer either one or two stopovers. London is the most common departure point, but you can also leave from Birmingham, Glasgow, Newcastle, Exeter, Edinburgh, and many other cities. Some of the most common stopover points along the route include Dubai, Istanbul, and Cairo. For airlines, you can choose between Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Emirates Airlines.

What is the best way to get around Ethiopia?

The best way to get around during a stay in Ethiopia is by air. However, the only airline is Ethiopia Airlines. The prices are at least affordable, though, and you are able to avoid ground travel. If you do not take a plane, the bus system is your next best option. Most of the country’s major cities are connected by bus, but they can be somewhat crowded. Cycling is an interesting way to see the country, at least in and around the major cities. You can also rent a vehicle, but most will be four-wheel drive. You are allowed to drive for up to three months on an international driving license.

What are some things to do in Ethiopia?

During a stay in Ethiopia, you will be able to enjoy a number of attractions and activities. The Church of St. George is one of the more popular choices, as are the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela. The Bale Mountains offer stunning scenery, and the Omo National Park and River are worth exploring. Of course, there is a little bit of everything within Addis Ababa, from shopping and dining to nightlife and museums.

Do I need a passport to fly to Ethiopia from the UK?

For UK citizens traveling to Ethiopia, a visa and a passport are required. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your point of entry into the country, and you will need at least a 90-day visa. It is usually easier to apply for an eVisa, but physical visas can also be used.

Ethiopia climate

Ethiopia usually has rain from June to September and no rain from October to May. The temperature ranges with the altitude, with hot and humid conditions in the lowlands and mild, cool temperatures in the highlands.

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When is the best time to fly to Ethiopia?

Peak Season:

October through May is the dry season and is most popular with visitors. Though there is never a real stampede of tourists stepping off flights to Ethiopia, the dry season is the time when hotels are more likely to be booked and attractions will be busier.

Off Season:

June to September is when the country receives the most rain, however, this can still be a good time to visit as there is plenty of sunshine.

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Getting around Ethiopia

Ethiopian Airlines has an excellent network, with domestic Ethiopia flights to more than 40 destinations in the country. Prices are reasonable. Ethiopia is a big country and this is by far the quickest way to travel. Be aware that there is a US$10 tax on departure for each flight.

There is a good bus and inexpensive bus system, but services can be very slow and tickets may be sold out a day in advance. Book ahead if possible. Buses are regulated and drivers can’t continue past a certain hour in the evening, so if you haven’t reached your destination on time, you may just get dropped where you are for the night.

Car hire is possible in Addis Ababa. It is necessary to get a 4WD due to the poor conditions of the roads.

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What is good to know if travelling to Ethiopia?

• Addis Ababa is a fascinating, and huge, city. There is plenty here to see: the National Museum tells the history of the country, Africa Hall is the seat of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and Trinity Church is the largest in the country. However, a particular favourite with tourists is the huge mercacto – the largest outdoor market in the whole of Africa. The market is so large it is extremely easy to get lost inside; if you want to make sure you don’t miss anything – and that you get back out again – you may want to take a guide.
• The Royal Enclosure, with picturesque ruins from the time of the Emperors, is the first place most tourists visit in Gondar. Fasilades Bath is a focal point during Timkat, the festival of epiphany, in January. This is a very important festival in Ethiopia and is celebrated throughout the country. In Gondar, the Fasilades Bath is filled with water and the people of the town jump in, symbolising Christ’s baptism.
• When visiting the churches at Lalibela, make sure you remove your shoes before entering. If you’re worried about keeping them safe – or simply feeling lazy – you can pay a small amount to one the “shoe watchers” who will arrive. Not only will they keep an eye on your shoes, they will also carry them to the next church for you if it’s easier than putting them back on your feet.
• There are two drinks of importance in Ethiopia: coffee, called buna, and tej. After every meal a big ritual occurs around the preparation of the coffee. The ceremony can last a few hours and an invitation to join is a sign of respect. The coffee itself is always taken black, though with plenty of sugar.
• Tej is an alcoholic drink, like a honey wine. It is drunk from a glass flask and is served in tejbetis (tej houses). Locals, especially older men, often gather round these tejbetis in the evening.

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