Ethiopia

• Aggressive touts near tourist sites.
• Overcharging at markets — bargain firmly.
• Fake guides at Lalibela rock churches.

• Altitude sickness in highlands.
• Drink only bottled water.
• Limited medical facilities outside Addis Ababa.

• Yellow Fever recommended.
• Hepatitis A, Typhoid recommended.
• Malaria prophylaxis for lower elevations.
• Routine vaccines up to date.

• Visit Lalibela's rock-hewn churches — one of Africa's most extraordinary sites.
• Try injera with wot (spongy bread with stew) — it's eaten communally with your hands.
• Attend a traditional coffee ceremony — Ethiopia is where coffee originated.

• Don't eat with your left hand — use your right.
• Don't refuse coffee if offered — it's a deep cultural ritual.
• Don't photograph people without permission.

Tip 10% at restaurants. ETB 50–100 for local guides. Tour drivers: ETB 200–300 per day.

Modest and conservative. Cover shoulders and knees at churches. Ethiopian Orthodox churches require head covering for women and shoe removal for everyone.

Ethiopian Orthodox Christian in highlands, Muslim in lowlands. Ancient Christian traditions unique to Ethiopia. Churches are active worship sites — behave respectfully.