Health Tips for Tourists in Ethiopia
Stay Safe and Healthy During Your Ethiopian Adventure
Exploring Ethiopia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. To make the most of your trip, it’s important to take basic health precautions. Here are essential health and safety tips to help you stay healthy and enjoy your journey:
1. Vaccinations & Medical Precautions
✔ Yellow Fever: Mandatory for travelers arriving from countries where Yellow Fever is present.
✔ Recommended Vaccines:
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Polio
- Meningitis (especially during the dry season, December to June)
💡 Travel Tip: Visit a healthcare provider 4–6 weeks before your trip for personalized advice and malaria prevention options.
2. Food & Water Safety
✔ Always drink bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water to reduce the risk of illness.
✔ Avoid ice in drinks unless you are certain it’s made from purified water.
✔ Exercise caution with street food. Choose hot, freshly prepared meals when possible.
3. Common Health Risks
✔ Altitude Sickness: Ethiopia’s high-altitude destinations like Addis Ababa and Lalibela can cause discomfort. Take it slow for the first 24–48 hours to acclimatize.
✔ Traveler’s Diarrhea: Carry oral rehydration salts and avoid unfamiliar or unclean food and water sources.

4. Healthcare & Medical Facilities
✔ Major cities such as Addis Ababa offer reliable healthcare services.
✔ Tikur Anbessa Hospital is a recommended facility for emergencies.
✔ Pharmacies are readily available in urban areas. It’s advisable to bring personal medications and basic supplies with you.
5. Insect Protection & Animal Safety
✔ Use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets in malaria-risk areas.
✔ If bitten by an animal, seek immediate medical attention for rabies prevention.
6. Emergency Contacts & First Aid
✔ Emergency Numbers:
- Ambulance: 911
- Police: 991
- Fire: 997
✔ Carry a personal first aid kit with essentials like antiseptics, pain relievers, and any required medications.

7. General Hygiene & Prevention
✔ Wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizer, especially before meals.
✔ Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of bottled water, especially in hotter regions.
Final Advice for a Safe Trip
- Get vaccinated and consult a doctor before traveling.
- Drink only bottled water and eat wisely.
- Be prepared with essential medications and emergency contacts.
By taking these simple precautions, you can explore Ethiopia with confidence and peace of mind. For any questions or to plan your Ethiopian tour, contact Abyssinian Tour Operator at +251 91 140 1864.
Stay safe — enjoy Ethiopia to the fullest!