Introduction to Ethiopia

Quick Overview

Essentially made up of high plateaus, stretching from the Danakil Depression (-125 m) to the summit of Ras Dejen (4,550 m), the country boasts a highly diverse environment.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: in the "Horn of Africa", in the east of the continent, between Kenya and Somalia.

• Latitude/longitude: 9°01' N, 38°44' E.

• Local time: Heure : 6569

• Capital: Addis Ababa.

• Nature of the state: federal republic.

• Official language: none (but Amharic - used by the administration - and Oromo are the most widely spoken).

• Currency: birr.

• Population: 108,386,391 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 1,127,127 km².

• Density: 96 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Ras Dejen (4,550 m).

• Lowest point: Danakil Depression (-125 m).

• Coastline: 0 km; no maritime access.

• Driving: on the right.

Tourism

Ethiopia is undoubtedly the richest and most varied country in all of East Africa, with a millennia-old history, local populations whose traditions remain vibrant and sometimes timeless, landscapes often rugged and wild, a substantial wildlife population, and a terrain for adventure for those who enjoy going "off the beaten track". In short, it has plenty to offer and has seen its popularity grow steadily, now attracting nearly a million visitors (933,000 in 2017)—more than double the number just a few years ago.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for somewhat experienced travelers, or seasoned ones.

• By air: France-Addis Ababa

• Entry requirements: passport valid at least 6 months after the planned return date + visa.

• Currency to bring:

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks:

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices:

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★★; Adventure ★★★★; Culture ★★★; Relaxation/holidays ⊘

Useful Addresses

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 173/188 (rank in 2018)

• GDP per capita: $2,200 (2017)

• Average monthly income: ()

• Inflation: +9.9% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: 17.5% (2012)

• Population below the poverty line: 29.6% (2014)

• Life expectancy: 63 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: -0.2 (2017)

• Population growth: +2.83% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 49.1% (2015)

• Urban population: 20.8% (2017)

• Press freedom: 150/180 (rank in 2018)

• Political regime: authoritarian regime (128/167 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook