Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
»Cyclists should show the usual caution when travelling around the country: never travel
after dark, be wary of thieves and keep the bicycle well maintained. Brakes need to be in
good working order for the mountainous highland roads.
»Be particularly wary of dogs; sometimes it's best to dismount and walk slowly away.
Cycling in the rainy season can be very hard going.
»Punctures are easily repaired: just head for any
gommista
(tyre repairer) or garage. Many
mechanics are also more than happy to help with cycle problems, and often turn out to be
ingenious improvisers.
»Note the customs regulation regarding the importation of a bicycle. A deposit must usu-
ally be left (amounting to the cycle's worth) at customs at the port of entry on arrival.
When you leave, this will be returned. This is to deter black-market trading.
»Cycles are accepted aboard Ethiopian Airlines international flights. On domestic flights
you'll need to check first in advance as it depends on what type of plane is covering the
route on that given day.
»Finally, a few tips from a seasoned African cyclist: check and tighten screws and nuts
regularly; take a spare chain; take a front as well as rear pannier rack; and pack a water
filter in case you get stuck somewhere remote.
Bus
A good network of long-distance buses connects most major towns of Ethiopia.
»One government bus association and around a dozen private ones operate, though you'll
rarely be able to tell the difference between any of them. The biggest differentiating trait
between government and private buses is the predeparture rituals.
»Government buses sell seat-specific tickets in advance and passengers must wait in line
while the bus is loaded. After that's completed, the queue is paraded around the bus before
tickets are checked and the boarding barrage occurs. Private buses simply open the doors
and start selling tickets to the flood of passengers as they cram in. Needless to say, private
buses are usually the first to leave. They also tend to be slightly more comfortable than
government ones.
»Unlike most African countries, standing in the aisles of long-distance buses is illegal in
Ethiopia, making them more comfortable (note that we've said 'more comfortable', which
is a far cry from saying comfortable!) and safer. On the longer journeys, there are usually
scheduled 20-minute stops for meals.
