Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
rather than just taking a taxi), you must have a valid international driver's licence and be
between 25 and 70 years old. Vehicles cost from US$120 per day with 50km to 70km free
kilometres.
»Motorcycles are not currently rented.
Insurance
Third-party vehicle insurance is required by law.
»Thankfully, unlike some other African countries, which demand that vehicles are
covered by an insurance company based in that country, Ethiopia only requires your insur-
ance from elsewhere is also valid in Ethiopia.
»Although not mandatory, we'd also recommend comprehensive coverage.
»If you don't have either, the numerous offices of
Ethiopian Insurance Corporation
(
www.eic.com.et
)
sell third-party and comprehensive insurance.
Road Conditions
Ethiopian roads continue to improve at a rapid rate, but even so plenty remain unpaved.
»Roads in the south have generally improved hugely in recent years and even many parts
of the Omo Valley are now accessible year-round even without a 4WD. However, there
are still plenty of patches where potholes add a little bounce to your journey.
»Sealed roads head west from Addis Ababa, reaching Ambo and Jimma. The lowland
roads can be diabolical in the rains (though the road from Metu to Gambela is excellent).
The rest of the western highlands were undergoing extensive road-upgrading programs at
the time of research, though this in itself was causing considerable delays in journeys.
»Decent sealed roads all but link Addis Ababa with most of the main towns on the north-
ern circuit, but there are still some potholed sections.
»Harar and Dire Dawa, both 525km east of Addis Ababa, are connected to the capital with
good sealed roads.
Road Hazards
»On the outskirts of the towns or villages, look out for people, particularly children play-
ing on the road or kerbside. Unmarked speed bumps can also be an unpleasant surprise.
»Night driving is not recommended.
Shiftas
(bandits) still operate in the more remote
areas. Additionally, some trucks park overnight in the middle of the road - without lights.
