Travel to Ethiopia
Traveling to Ethiopia will be a wonderful experience. The country is an 18 hour flight from the United States, is a great place to bring other family members, and experience the culture.
Flights:
Suggested Airlines:
• Emirates
• Ethiopian Airlines
• Families are welcome to use any airlines that fly to Addis Ababa. However, it is important to note that some countries where there could be a layover do not allow Ethiopians to enter that country without a visa, and this could pose travel difficulties for families traveling to pick-up children. It is best to travel through countries that allow Ethiopians to enter without a visa as your child will have an Ethiopian passport on his/her journey to the United States.
Approximate Cost:
• Flights cost anywhere from $1200 - $2400+
• Be prepared to book in advance if possible
Travel Time:
• A flight from Washington D.C. is usually around 14-18 hours of flight time
Currency:
Exchange Rate:
1 U.S. Dollar Exchange is equals about 16 Ethiopian Birr. This changes over time. Please visit a currency converter site, such as this one, for more up-to-date exchange rates.
Traveling with Children:
Ethiopia is a wonderful country to travel with your family. Addis Ababa is relatively safe for a large urban area. However, one must consider the country presents a level of poverty that might be overwhelming to someone who has not traveled in a developing country. Along with the market the visually stimulating cities, the countryside presents wonderful natural habitats and rural life that is distinctly African.
Travel Documents:
What is needed to enter Ethiopia?
North Americans and citizens of most European countries will need to get a travel visa as well as bring their passport.
Medical Clinic:
What is inoculations or preventions one must consider when traveling to Ethiopia?
CCI encourages you to discuss vaccinations/immunizations with our physician and to consult the Center for Disease Control website for information specific to Ethiopia, http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/ethiopia.aspx.
The CDC does urge adoptive parents, family members and caregivers of children from certain countries, including Ethiopia, to obtain the Hepatitis A vaccine. The notice can be found here: http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/HAV/PDFs/HAHealthAdvisory.pdf
Traveling with Children:
The Ethiopian officials have asked adoptive families to stay at the local guests houses instead of the large hotels during their stay in country. Families should remain low-key during their stay. CCI asks our families to stay at either the Addis Flower Guest House or the Grace Guest House. Families who have medical needs that require consistent and reliable power or a more controlled environment can contact CCI about alternatives if necessary.