General information on Addis Ababa

Currency and credit cards: The local currency is Ethiopia Birr (ETB), made up of 100 cents and available in denominations of 5, 10, 50 and 100. All foreign exchange transactions must be made at a bank or large hotel and receipt must be obtained. Credit cards are not accepted in Ethiopia except at Ethiopian Airlines and one or two larger hotels in town. There are three ATMs in Addis (Dembel Shopping center, Hilton and Sheraton Hotel) and there is usually a service charge of 5% to use them. Major foreign currencies can be easily changed in any bank, US dollars being the most widely used.

Electricity supply: The electric supply operates on 220 volts, 50 cycles.

Exchange rates: The most up-to-date exchange rate estimate can be obtained from here.

Security: Addis is generally safe and people are friendly and polite. As in any major city, be aware of pick pockets (be careful with your mobile phones and portable computers) when using public transportation or near large gathering places.

Time zones: Addis Ababa is UTC/GMT +3 hours. For details on time zones see Worldclock.

Water: Tap water is adequate for personal hygiene needs.

Weather: The most pleasant time to travel to Addis Ababa is during the dry season, between October and May. Addis Ababa’s average temperature in October is 15 °C (the average minimum temperature is 8 °C and the average maximum temperature is 22 °C).

For more information, please visit: http://ilri-ethiopia.wikispaces.com/