ATM's and getting visas at the airport

Hi,

I am flying into Ethiopia from Mumbai in June as was wondering if anyone knows if I would have any problems getting a visa at the airport (I am British). I know you can get a visa if you fly in from England but the embassy website is unclear about whether this still applies if you fly from other destinations. My emails and phone calls to the embassy have gone unanswered so any advice would be welcome.

Also my Ethiopia travel guide which was written in 2005 says that there are no ATM's in Ethiopia that accept foreign cards. Is this still the case? Is it possible to change travelers cheques in the capital.

Thanks in advance

Helen

Hi Helen. Yes, you can still get your visa at Bole Airport.

There are now ATMs in Addis, and you can exchange travelers checks. The new Bradt Ethiopia guide should be available in time for your trip.

Peace,

BB

The visa is very easy to get at bole airport you will have no problems.

ATM's are still not common in Ethiopia but do exist to my knowledge in Addis, Bahir Dar and Mekelle (probably other towns as well) most are at branches of Dashen bank although there is one at the Addis Hilton and at a couple of the big shopping complexes on the Bole road in Addis.

Travellers Cheques are changed with minimum fuss in most larger towns and cities in the country, some banks ask for the original purchase receipt but not all.

Jeraboa