FAQ

Ethiopia is a year-round destination, thanks to its diverse climate and landscapes.

  • June to September– The main rainy season in most of Ethiopia.
  • April to July & September to December– The rainy seasons in southern Ethiopia.
  • Bale Mountains– Expect snow at higher elevations!
  • Danakil Depression– Can reach 49°C, one of the hottest places on Earth.

Plan your trip based on weather, festivals, and trekking conditions to make the most of your visit!

At Hoya Tour Ethiopia, our English-speaking guides are highly trained, knowledgeable, and passionate about Ethiopia. Whether exploring historic landmarks or venturing into remote landscapes, our guides treat travelers like friends, offering both major highlights and local hidden gems.

Malaria is present in lowland areas but is rare in high-altitude regions like Addis Ababa, Lalibela, and the Simien Mountains.

Precautions: Consult your doctor for advice on vaccinations and anti-malarial medication before traveling.

Tipping is not required, but small, appropriate tips for guides or drivers are always welcomed as a gesture of appreciation. Excessive tipping can disrupt local work culture, so moderation is advised.

The local currency is Ethiopian Birr (ETB).

Birr denominations: 5, 10, 50, 100, and 200 ETB.
Foreign currency: USD, Euros, and Pounds can be exchanged at banks.

Should I bring cash or traveler’s checks? Are ATMs available?

Credit cards (Visa & sometimes MasterCard) are accepted in major hotels and malls in Addis Ababa.
ATMs are available in urban areas but less reliable in rural regions.
Cash is preferred in most places, especially local markets and smaller towns.
Traveler’s checks are not widely used in Ethiopia.

Credit cards (Visa & sometimes MasterCard) are accepted in major hotels and malls in Addis Ababa.
ATMs are available in urban areas but less reliable in rural regions.
Cash is preferred in most places, especially local markets and smaller towns.
Traveler’s checks are not widely used in Ethiopia.

Mobile coverage is available in major towns but can be limited in remote areas.
Wi-Fi is offered in hotels, but internet speeds may be slower than what you’re used to.
Local SIM cards can be purchased in Addis Ababa for better connectivity.

Tip: Check international roaming rates with your provider before traveling!

Yes! All travelers must purchase travel insurance before starting their trip.

Essential for: Medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
Government travel advisories: Some regions may require additional precautions—check before traveling.

Ethiopia is relatively safe, but pickpocketing can occur in crowded places.
Basic precautions: Use money belts and carry small amounts of cash in outer pockets.
Border regions: Some areas may be restricted due to travel advisories—check before visiting.

Some souvenirs require permits, such as animal skins and antiques.
Check customs regulations before purchasing goods for export.

Trekking in the Ethiopian Highlands can range from moderate to challenging, depending on the route and duration. Short treks are generally manageable for people with a basic level of fitness, but longer treks (4–5 days or more) require experience in long-distance hiking.

Key Challenges:

  • Altitude: Many trekking routes go above 3,000–4,500 meters, so acclimatization is crucial.
  • Terrain: The trails can be steep, rocky, and remote, requiring good stamina.

Consult your doctor if traveling to high-altitude destinations for extended periods.
Precautionary medications may be helpful—check with your doctor before traveling.
Slow acclimatization is recommended to avoid altitude sickness.

Ethiopian Airlines offers domestic flights to all major tourist destinations.
Public transport includes buses, taxis, and pack animals in rural areas.
Private tours with Hoya Tour Ethiopia ensure comfortable, efficient travel.

Tip: Fly with Ethiopian Airlines for discounted domestic flight rates!

Variety: Addis Ababa offers Italian, Indian, Chinese, and traditional Ethiopian cuisine.
Main staple: Injera (sourdough flatbread) made from Teff grain, eaten with stews.
Coffee ceremony: A must-experience tradition—roasted, ground, brewed, and served in a ceremonial ritual.
Vegetarian options: Widely available, especially during Orthodox fasting periods.

No—international flights must be booked separately.
Flexibility: Travelers can choose their preferred airline and route.

Festival tours (Timkat, Meskel, Genna) require early booking for accommodation.
Last-minute bookings are possible, but hotel choices may be limited.
The sooner you book, the better your chances at securing great deals!

Luggage weight restrictions: 20 kg for international flights, 15 kg for domestic flights.
Light clothing for warmer areas, layers for high-altitude regions.
Mosquito protection: Cover your skin and bring repellent.
Comfortable walking shoes for treks and city exploration.
Laundry services available—except for underwear, which should be packed for your entire trip.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Hoya Tour Ethiopia – Terms & Conditions

We at Hoya Tour Ethiopia take every possible care to ensure that your travel arrangements run efficiently and successfully. The following terms outline the responsibilities between you and us once a reservation is made.

Booking Confirmation

✔ Clients must agree to the itinerary, tour price, and Terms & Conditions before confirming a booking.
✔ Bookings are only valid after confirmation from Hoya Tour Ethiopia via email or letter.
Advance payment is required to secure reservations—failure to pay may result in cancellation.

 

Hoya Tour Ethiopia is not responsible for:

  • Delays or schedule changesby airlines, trains, or boats.
  • Over-bookingsby third parties (hotels, airlines, etc.), unless the error is proven to be ours.

If an accommodation or service becomes unavailable due to third-party errors, we will offer the best possible alternative at an equal or higher standard.

Responsibility & Liability

✔ All vehicles used for transport are fully insured.
Claims & disputes will be handled under Ethiopian laws and courts.
Safety & protection of travelers and belongings is a priority.

Hoya Tour Ethiopia is not responsible for:

  • Cancellations due to war, natural disasters, or unrest.
  • Lost or damaged personal belongings(including baggage during flights).
  • Flight schedule changes, delays, or cancellationscaused by third parties.

We will always assist travelers in resolving issues with airlines, hotels, and transport providers but cannot guarantee compensation from third parties.

Force Majeure Policy

✔ “Force Majeure” includes events beyond our control, such as:

  • War, riots, or civil unrest.
  • Epidemics or health crises.
  • Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, etc.).

✔ In case of Force Majeure, Hoya Tour Ethiopia will try to adjust your itinerary, but we cannot be held responsible for unexpected cancellations, costs, or missed opportunities.

Traveler Responsibility & Liability

Documents Required:

  • Valid passportwith enough pages.
  • Correct visas, permits, and vaccinations(check with your doctor before traveling).
    Travel Insurance:
  • Travelers must have adequate insuranceto cover health, trip cancellations, and personal risks.

Hoya Tour Ethiopia is not liable for:

  • Issues caused by incorrect travel documents(expired passports, missing visas, etc.).
  • Additional costs due to failure to obtain proper travel permits.

Payment Terms

Deposit Required: 30% of the total tour price at the time of booking confirmation.
Final Payment: Remaining 70% due before or upon arrival.
✔ Payments can be made via:

  • Bank transfer
  • Cash
  • Other methods (to be discussed in advance).

If full payment is not received by the due date, Hoya Tour Ethiopia is not obligated to conduct the tour.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation fees apply based on the timing of the request:

  • Up to 30 days before tour start5% of total cost (administration & handling fees).
  • 30–15 days before tour start30% of total tour cost.
  • 14–3 days before tour start50% of total tour cost.
  • Less than 7 days before tour start100% of total tour cost (no refund).

No refunds are provided if a traveler cancels any part of the tour after arrival. Trip cancellation insurance is highly recommended!

Tour Prices & Packages

✔ Prices are based on various factors, including:

  • Accommodation level
  • Meal preferences
  • Transportation type
  • Fuel costs & currency rates

✔ Prices are subject to adjustments up to 30 days before tour start.
✔ After full payment is made, no price adjustments will occur.

 Transportation Options

Private and group tours use:

  • Minibuses & buses
  • 4X4 Land Cruisersfor rugged routes
    Domestic flights available via Ethiopian Airlines (discounts apply if flying internationally with Ethiopian Airlines).

Flexibility & Amendments

At Hoya Tour Ethiopia, we understand that travel plans can change, and we are committed to providing flexible itinerary options to accommodate our clients’ needs. We strive to ensure every journey aligns with our travelers’ preferences while maintaining the highest standards of service.

Adjustments to Tour Packages & Transportation:

  • We welcome reasonable modificationsto the itinerary, accommodation, or mode of transport free of charge, provided they do not incur additional third-party costs.
  • Any requested changesmust be communicated in advance for availability confirmation.

Limitations Due to Local Circumstances:

  • Some modifications may be subject to external factors such as:
  • Flight cancellations
  • Overbooking during peak seasons
  • Mechanical breakdowns
  • Political disputes (strikes, protests, etc.)
  • Unpredictable events like extreme weather conditions

Alternative Arrangements in Case of Transport Issues:

  • In the unlikely event of a vehicle breakdown, Hoya Tour Ethiopia will arrange swift alternative transportto minimize inconvenience.
  • If time is lost due to an unforeseen delay, the itinerary may be adjusted accordinglyto maximize your experience.

Client-Initiated Amendments:

  • We will accommodate reasonable last-minute itinerary changesat no extra cost, as long as third-party providers do not impose additional fees.
  • Any external costs arising from amendments (e.g., hotel or flight changes)will be the responsibility of the traveler.

At Hoya Tour Ethiopia, we prioritize your comfort and satisfaction, ensuring a seamless journey while handling adjustments with care and efficiency.

This refined version keeps the policy clear, professional, and engaging, while ensuring travelers fully understand how flexibility and amendments are handled.

Hoya Tour Ethiopia – Creating Unforgettable Journeys

By booking with us, you agree to these Terms & Conditions, ensuring a smooth, professional, and enjoyable experience in Ethiopia.

Have questions? Contact us anytime—we’re here to help!

 

Hoya