Canada Issues Strong Warning: Avoid Non-Essential Travel to Ethiopia

The Government of Canada is urging its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Ethiopia due to escalating security risks, particularly in several regions where violence and instability remain high. The advisory, last updated on November 14, 2025, highlights armed conflict, civil unrest, and crime as major concerns.

Heightened Risks Across Multiple Regions

While Addis Ababa is excluded from a blanket travel ban, Canadians are advised to travel there only with a “high degree of caution.” Even in the capital, there is concern about violent crime, spontaneous demonstrations, and rapid shifts in the security environment.

More troubling, however, are the conditions in Ethiopia’s northern and central regions, where the Government of Canada calls for avoiding all travel:

• Northern regions: The Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz, and Tigray regions are marked by armed conflict, civil unrest, and unpredictable security dynamics.
• Central regions: Particularly hazardous areas include Gambella, Sidama, and several zones in Oromia (e.g., West Wollega, East Wollega, Kellem Wollega, North Shewa), where there are reports of violent crime, kidnapping, and airstrikes.
• Border zones: The advisory also warns against travel within 10 km of the Eritrea border, 30 km of the Somali border in some areas, and 100 km of other volatile border areas due to ongoing security threats.

Crime, Kidnapping, and Terrorism Threats

Canadians planning to visit must be aware of the following risks:

• Kidnapping is a significant risk in some regions — especially in the Somali, Gambella, and Oromia regions, and near volatile border zones.
• Petty crime, including pickpocketing and mugging, is common in Addis Ababa, particularly around markets and popular public spaces.
• There is also a terrorism threat: both regional and domestic groups may target Westerners in places such as public areas, transport hubs, and government buildings.
• Interactions with security forces may escalate; travellers are strongly urged to carry identification and remain calm and compliant if stopped.

Transport, Infrastructure, and Communication Challenges

• Road transport is particularly risky: many roads are poorly maintained, unpaved, and have limited lighting. Traffic accidents are frequent.
• Public transportation (buses, trains, taxis) poses considerable dangers. Minibuses and buses are often overcrowded and old; trains are poorly maintained; taxis may be unsafe.
• Power outages are common nationwide, especially during the dry season, affecting street lighting, food storage, and more.
• Communication networks are unreliable. Cellular coverage may be interrupted, and during civil unrest, internet and phone service can be shut down without notice.

Health Concerns

Travelers face a number of health risks:

• There is a risk of cholera, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.
• Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease, is present in freshwater bodies. There is no vaccine, so travellers should avoid untreated water and contact with freshwater.
• Insect-borne illnesses are also a concern; precautionary measures like covering up and using insect repellent are strongly recommended.
• Medical infrastructure is very limited outside Addis Ababa’s private hospitals. Ambulance services are unreliable, and severe cases may require medical evacuation.
• A Marburg virus disease outbreak is being monitored, although the risk to most travellers is reported to be very low.

Legal and Cultural Considerations

• Same-sex relations are criminalized under Ethiopian law, and those convicted may face lengthy prison sentences.
• Drug policies are strict, with severe penalties for possession or trafficking.
• If you’re bringing electronics — especially items like drones, binoculars, or satellite phones — these may be subject to confiscation or require special permits.
• Currency use: Ethiopian birr is the local currency, credit cards are rarely accepted outside major cities, and ATMs may run dry.
• There are strict rules on entering and leaving the country with cash. Unofficial currency exchange (“black market”) is illegal and dangerous.

Natural Hazards

• Since January 2025, seismic activity has increased in some regions (notably Afar and Oromia). Evacuation orders have been issued in affected zones.
• Ongoing drought in parts of Ethiopia has disrupted access to water and basic services.
• The rainy season (usually June to September) often brings flooding, which can hamper overland travel and critical infrastructure.

Advice for Canadian Travellers

In light of the evolving situation, the Government of Canada recommends:

1. Reconsider travel: Unless absolutely necessary, avoid travelling to Ethiopia, especially in the regions under advisory.
2. If already in Ethiopia:
   • Stay informed by following local media and official advice.
   • Register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) to receive updates and improve the ability to receive consular assistance.
   • Follow instructions from local authorities, especially during unrest.
3. Prepare for emergencies:
   • Always carry official ID.
   • Have plans and supplies for limited communication and transportation.
   • Secure comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation coverage.
4. Practice health safety:
   • Update routine vaccinations.
   • Avoid unsafe food and untreated water.
   • Avoid contact with freshwater where schistosomiasis risk is present.
5. Respect local laws and customs:
   • Understand Ethiopian legal restrictions (e.g., on LGBTQ+ relations, drug possession).
   • Be careful with what electronics you bring; some items may be restricted or require permits. Travel.gc.ca

Conclusion

With rising tensions, security threats, and fragile infrastructure in many parts of Ethiopia, the Canadian government’s advisory underscores serious risks for travellers. While Ethiopia has a rich history and cultural beauty, current conditions demand extreme caution and a careful weighing of the need to travel.

If you plan to visit, keep in close contact with Canadian consular services, follow local guidance, and consider postponing non-urgent trips until stability improves.

Editor’s Note: This article is based on the latest travel advisory from the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories website. Travel.gc.ca