FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

General Questions

We specialize in authentic, culturally immersive experiences designed by local experts. Unlike larger operators, we keep our groups small, work directly with communities, and prioritize ethical, sustainable tourism that benefits the people you visit.

We offer tours across Ethiopia, including:

  • Northern Historic Route (Lalibela, Gondar, Axum, Simien Mountains)

  • Omo Valley Tribal Regions

  • Danakil Depression & Erta Ale

  • Bale Mountains & Southern Parks

  • Custom city tours in Addis Ababa

  • October–March: Ideal for most regions (cool, dry weather)

  • June–September: Green season in highlands; great for photography

  • Danakil Depression: Best visited October–March (avoid extreme heat)

Booking & Logistics

All tours include:

  • Accommodation (mid-range to luxury options)

  • Meals as specified in the itinerary

  • Transport (private 4×4, domestic flights where applicable)

  • Professional English-speaking guides

  • Entrance fees to all sites

See individual tour pages for specifics.

We don’t book international flights but can:

  • Provide visa invitation letters for your eVisa application

  • Arrange domestic flights within Ethiopia

  • Advise on flight routes and airlines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Health & Safety

Recommended:

  • Yellow Fever (required if arriving from endemic countries)

  • Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid

  • Malaria prophylaxis for lowland areas (like Omo Valley)
    Consult your doctor 6–8 weeks before travel.

Yes! We:

  • Operate only in safe regions with local partners

  • Avoid border conflict areas

  • Provide 24/7 emergency contacts
    Check your government’s travel advisories for updates.

Addis Ababa is at 2,355m; Simien Mountains exceed 4,000m. We:

  • Acclimatize gradually on trekking tours

  • Carry oxygen for high-altitude hikes

  • Advise hydration and rest

Cultural & Practical Tips

  • Modest clothing (cover shoulders/knees)

  • Neutral colors (avoid military-style camo)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

Yes, but:

  • Always ask permission first (guides will assist)

  • Some tribes charge small photography fees (typically $1–2 per person)

  • Avoid intrusive close-ups without consent

Tipping is appreciated for:

  • Guides: $5–10/day

  • Drivers: $3–5/day

  • Hotel staff: $1–2 for porters

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Custom Tours & Special Requests

  • Absolutely! We specialize in tailor-made itineraries for:

    • Solo travelers

    • Families with children

    • Photography groups

    • Adventure seekers

Yes! Ethiopian cuisine is very plant-friendly (many fasting dishes are vegan). Inform us in advance.

Essential Travel Guide for Your Osher Ethiopian Tour

Osher Ethiopian Tour, where we transform your journey through Ethiopia into an unforgettable adventure. To ensure you’re fully prepared for your trip, we’ve compiled this essential guide covering what to pack, how to get here, key destinations, and required travel documents. Whether you’re exploring the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, trekking the Simien Mountains, or immersing yourself in Omo Valley’s tribal cultures, this guide will help you travel with confidence.

What to pack?

✔ Lightweight, breathable clothing (for daytime heat)
✔ Warm layers (for cool nights in highlands)
✔ Comfortable hiking shoes (for uneven terrain)
✔ Scarf or shawl (for cultural sites & sun protection)
✔ Rain jacket (if traveling in rainy season, June–September)

✔ Passport & copies (keep digital backups)
✔ Visa confirmation (if applying online)
✔ Yellow fever certificate (if arriving from endemic regions)
✔ Travel insurance documents (with medical coverage)
✔ Cash (USD/EUR) & credit cards (ATMs available in cities)

Get directions

✈ Main Airport: Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)

  • Direct flights from Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America

  • Domestic flights to Lalibela, Gondar, Arba Minch, etc., booked through us

Where to go?

Northern Circuit

📍 Lalibela – Rock-hewn churches (UNESCO)
📍 Gondar – Medieval castles & Simien Mountains
📍 Axum – Ancient stelae & Ark of the Covenant

Southern Circuit

📍 Omo Valley – Tribal cultures (Hamar, Mursi, Karo)
📍 Arba Minch – Lake Chamo crocodiles & Dorze villages

Eastern & Danakil

📍 Harar – Walled city & hyena feeding
📍 Danakil Depression – Active volcanoes & salt lakes

Required documents

1. Visa

  • eVisa: Apply online at www.evisa.gov.et (72-hour processing)

  • Visa-on-Arrival: Available at Bole Airport for most nationalities (cash USD)

2. Health Requirements

  • Yellow fever vaccine (mandatory if arriving from endemic regions)

  • COVID-19: Check latest regulations before travel

3. Permits

  • Simien Mountains/Danakil: Included in your tour package

  • Omo Valley tribal visits: Handled by our guides