Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
» If the service has been good at the end of the trek, a rule of thumb for tipping
guides/scouts/mule handlers might be an extra day's pay for every three days' work.
» A good tip for professional English-/German-/Italian-speaking guides and drivers
hired from Addis Ababa travel agencies for multiday 4WD tours is around US$10 per
day from each person if you're a group of two or three. Less per person per day for a
larger group.
Travellers Cheques
Like in many countries travellers cheques are increasingly hard to cash - often impos-
sible. You're much better off relying on plastic and a bit of cash. If you do choose to use
cheques then bring US-dollar ones and ask at larger Commercial Bank of Ethiopia
branches. Note that most banks ask to see your passport and the cheque's proof-of-pur-
chase receipt (which most travellers-cheque companies advise you to leave at home!).
Photography & Video
»In general most Ethiopians love having their photos taken, though in remote areas people
are still suspicious of cameras and many feel seriously threatened or compromised, espe-
cially women. Be sensitive. Always ask permission, even if it is only using basic sign lan-
guage. Best of all, use a local as an interpreter or go-between. Never take a photo if per-
mission is declined.
»In other areas, where people are starting to depend on tourists for income, the opposite is
true. In the Lower Omo Valley, you'll be chased by people demanding their photo be
taken! However, their eagerness has to do with the fee they'll claim for each snap of the
shutter (around Birr2 to Birr5 per person per picture). Always agree to an amount first.
The whole mercenary and almost voyeuristic affair can be rather off-putting for many
travellers, but the reality is that for these people modelling is a business and they certainly
don't regard it as either wrong or 'corrupting of their culture' as some travellers do.
