Book Cheap Flights to Addis Ababa

Home to the headquarters of the AU and UNECA, Addis Ababa is a city on a rapid rise out of the ashes of its nation’s troubled earlier years, steadily building itself up into a renowned international hub without compromising the unique essence of its local culture.

This bustling capital offers its visitors an enrapturing array of pursuits. Its rich museums, striking monuments and gorgeous churches reflect the nation’s long, complex history; its sprawling open-air markets allow one to peruse some distinctly local works of art and craft; and its eating establishments offer the opportunity to sample the unique local flavours, as well as some of the finest coffee on the planet.

In 2015, the European Council on Tourism and Trade named Ethiopia the World’s Best Tourist Destination of the year. Immerse yourself in the singular wonder that is Addis Ababa, and you’ll quickly see why.

Compare and book your cheap flights to Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Airlines online at Travelstart!

Holders of a South African passport may apply for an on-arrival visa at their airport upon their arrival in Ethiopia; said visa will be valid for up to three months, depending on what fee the applicant is willing to pay. Applicants will require an application, available for free online, and a passport valid for at least six months, with at least three blank pages available for entry stamps.

Alternatively, South Africans may apply for a visa prior to their departure; enquiries may be made at the local Ethiopian embassy, located at 47 Justice Mohamed Street in Pretoria.

The South African embassy in Ethiopia is located in Addis Ababa, on Nifasilk Lafto, Subcity Kebele 03, South Africa Avenue. Tel: (+251) 11 371 1002.

Health in Ethiopia has improved markedly in recent years. Nevertheless, the Centres for Disease Control recommends that travellers ensure that their routine vaccinations are up to date, and that, additionally, they receive vaccinations against Hepatitis A and typhoid. In addition, while Addis Ababa itself has few recorded cases of malarial transmission, those planning a trek into Ethiopia’s more rural regions may wish to consider bringing anti-malarial medication.

Addis Ababa is widely considered one of Africa’s safest cities, at least in terms of violent crime. However, travellers are still advised to exercise common caution, particularly in busy areas, as pickpockets and bag-snatchers, while usually not violent, still pose a risk.

Being such an international hub, Addis Ababa, unsurprisingly, boasts a broad variety of well-regarded accommodation establishments, with prices varying anywhere from under 500 to over 7,000 Birr. Wherever you may choose to stay, however, Addis Ababa will be an experience unlike any other.

Addis Ababa currently boasts the only light rail transport system in sub-Saharan Africa. First opened in 2015, it operates on two main lines, moving east to west and north to south, with considerable future expansions planned. Rail tickets are extremely affordable, costing only 2-6 Birr depending on distance.

Taxis, however, remain a widely popular form of transport in Addis. Minibuses are particularly affordable, though they are often crowded, and it is best to ensure that they pass through your stop before boarding.

Many car rental companies, too, offer their services in Addis Ababa; and while they are generally pricier, the high affordability of petrol in Addis, along with the relative freedom of movement they offer, may well make them a worthy investment, especially for a more lengthy stay.