Ethiopia travel advice

The Ethiopia-Eritrea border remains closed. Several security incidents have taken place along the border, particularly in the Humera region. The risk of cross-border tensions increasing and the security situation deteriorating very rapidly continues.

With the exception of the main road through Axum and Adigrat, travellers are advised against all travel within 50km (31 miles) of the border areas with Eritrea because of the risk of landmines and banditry.

Travellers are also advised against all travel to areas off the principal roads/towns within 50km (31 miles) of the borders with Sudan and Kenya; to the Danakil desert area bounded by the Dessie-Adigrat road, the Dessie-Djibouti road and to the Gambella region outside of Gambella town itself. This is because armed groups hostile to the Government of Ethiopia operate in several of these border areas.

Avoid crossing the Ethiopia/Somalia or Somaliland border by road. Travellers are also advised against travel to the Fik, Degehabur, Gode, Korahe and Warder zones of the Somali region, where rebels groups are active and the situation remains volatile. This is because of ongoing military activity and lawlessness in the region. We also advise against all but essential travel to Jijiga town.

There is a high threat from terrorism in Ethiopia; attacks could be indiscriminate including places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. As of the beginning of December 2008 the Ethiopian authorities remain on alert following their announcement in November 2008 that they had information about plans to carry out a terrorist attack in Ethiopia. As a result security has been increased around government buildings and major hotels in the capital Addis Ababa and Embassies, including the British Embassy. British nationals are advised to remain extremely vigilant at all times in public places.

There is a low level of crime, but you should avoid any public demonstrations.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel