Ethiopia is a country in East Africa. It was one of the few countries in Africa to resist colonization for a long time. The country is home to many relics from ancient and medieval times. The country has the second-highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Africa, and many of its monuments date back to the 15th century. It was one of the first countries where Prophet Muhammad’s teachings began to spread.
There are mountains, deserts, and lakes, making it a great country to explore despite the political disturbances from time to time. But before you arrive, be sure to purchase travel medical insurance to protect yourself from any unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries.
Ethiopia Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
Ethiopia travel medical insurance helps in covering all expenses of treatment should you fall sick or if you are injured during your stay in Ethiopia.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Ethiopia?
Buying travel medical insurance is not compulsory before you arrive in Ethiopia. However, to avoid being stuck with an expensive medical bill, all visitors should purchase an Ethiopia health insurance policy for international travelers.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Ethiopia?
Travel medical insurance in Ethiopia will safeguard your costs if you fall sick or you are injured during your stay.
Ethiopia travel medical insurance will cover the cost of treatment for sickness and injuries, as well as hospital stays and ambulance services. It will also cover the cost of evacuation should that become necessary, as medical facilities in Ethiopia are not the same as in western countries.
Things to Do for Travelers in Ethiopia:
Here are some of the sites you should not miss during your visit.
- Trip to Bahir Dar: Bahir Dar is one of the most beautiful cities in the country, and you have to come here to visit the mesmerizing Lake Tana and the Blue Nile Falls. The water of the falls is now restricted with the construction of a dam, but the surroundings are still pristine and offer some trails for a lazy hike. Lake Tana is huge and there are smaller islands here, home to many old monasteries and churches, which are a pleasure to explore.
- Head to Bale Mountains National Park: If you want some adventure, then head for this national park. There are several hiking trails here, and the wildlife of the Harenna Mountains will offer you some majestic sights. The rock formations will take your breath away, and do not forget to wait around a little while to catch a glimpse of the Ethiopian wolves in their natural habitat.
- Exploring Gondar: Gondar is famous for its royal complex, and there are stunning churches, courtyards, and castles inside. You can visit the complex on your way to Lake Tana. The city dates back to the 17th century, and many remnants from the bygone era are still to be found here. If you plan your trip well in advance, you can attend the famous Timkat celebrations here in January.
- Visiting ancient Lalibela: You cannot leave the country without visiting the 13th-century, rock-cut churches of Lalibela. The churches have been built by chiseling out huge rocks and smaller hills, each carved out from a single piece of rock. There are balconies, courtyards, and windows, all carved out from a single rock formation. The churches are home to priests and nuns, and various religious festivals are celebrated here regularly.
- Hike to Simien Mountains: The Simien Mountains are stunning and house several national parks within the range. The mountains are home to exotic wildlife like Walia ibex, lammergeyer, and gelada baboons. The formations here have been formed through thousands of years of wind erosion and you can enjoy guided treks to the “roof of Africa”, at a height of 3,600 meters (about 11,800 feet).
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Ethiopia
Traveling to Ethiopia is safe, but there are certain things you need to careful of:
- When you're close to border areas: Trouble often crops up near the borders of Ethiopia. Since it is a landlocked country, refugees often try to get in without proper papers. Infiltration from neighboring countries is also common, and at times, the army has to use force to keep them in check. The Ogaden region is fairly volatile. Avoid these areas.
- The Faranzi Frenzy: Ethiopia is known for the faranzi-frenzy, in which locals often mob tourists with chants of “You, you, you!” Although this is becoming rare, it is still prevalent in some parts of the country, with children throwing stones at tourists, as well. Be careful not to be aggressive; simply brush them off with a sense of good humor.
- Scams: Like in many African countries, minor scams are pretty common in Ethiopia, as well. Hotels will try to charge you more, and car rentals will take the longer route to charge higher fares. Do your research properly to avoid these scams. Do not go into crowded places, and keep an eye out for pickpockets.
- Hiking Trips: There are several hiking trails in Ethiopia, some through the national parks and some straight into the mountains, but they can be treacherous. Be careful not to trip. Always go out with a registered guide, and avoid following anyone promising to show you something spectacular at very low rates. Do not wander off on your own, and it would be helpful to have a GPS device, as well.
- Diseases: While traveling to Ethiopia, you should also get yourself tested immediately if you have a fever and it does not subside within three consecutive days. Treat rashes and allergies immediately.
Before You Travel to Ethiopia…
- Try to stay updated with the local news, and do not rely too much on public transport when traveling long distances. Opt for licensed rentals whenever possible, and make your bookings in advance.
- Invest in good boots and protective gear. Do not go hiking in Ethiopia without them, because the trails are difficult and often dangerous in some places. Do not risk a hiking accident.
- Double-check your documentation before you land.
- Get immunized for yellow fever, dengue, malaria, hepatitis A and B, and chickenpox among others.