Addis Ababa guide
🏳 Packing List
What to pack for Addis Ababa
In May, Addis Ababa is typically mild, light rain possible (14–22°C). This list adapts to those conditions; adjust for your exact travel dates.
Addis Ababa essentials
- Modest outfits that cover shoulders and knees for town and religious sites
Documents
- Photo ID
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa / e-visa printout
- Return / onward flight tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Passport-size photographs (2-4)
- Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately
Clothing
- Casual day outfits
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A light jacket for evenings
- Compact umbrella
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type C/L plugs, 220V. Power outages common - bring power bank.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
- Ethiopian Birr (ETB) cash primarily. Cards at major hotels only. ATMs available.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: Ethio Telecom only (monopoly). Buy at airport. Internet can be slow.
- Pocket tissues: some island toilets are squat-style or limited
- Pickpockets at Merkato
- May highlights: Festivals