Packing for Ethiopia requires more forethought than many destinations — not because of elaborate gear requirements, but because the country spans such dramatically different environments. A trip that includes the 4,550m Simien Mountains and the below-sea-level Danakil Depression in the same week needs both a warm layer and extreme sun protection. Here is a comprehensive Ethiopia packing list for the standard tourist circuit.
Clothing
Layering is the system. Ethiopian days at highland altitudes (Addis Ababa, Lalibela, Gondar, Simien) can swing 15°C between morning and afternoon. A base layer, mid layer, and light wind/rain shell covers all conditions without overpacking.
For the highlands (Addis, Lalibela, Gondar, Simien Mountains):
3–4 pairs of lightweight, quick-dry travel trousers or hiking pants. Long trousers are preferable to shorts — they’re more culturally appropriate at Orthodox sites and protect against sun and insects at lower altitudes. 3–4 long-sleeve shirts or tops — moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool. A fleece or down mid-layer (essential for Simien Mountains nights, where temperatures drop to near zero at 3,600m camps). A lightweight waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots if you plan to trek Simien. Sandals for evenings.
For the Danakil Depression:
This environment needs specific additions: UV-protective long-sleeve shirts (not tank tops — you need skin covered despite the heat), a wide-brim hat, a neck gaiter or buff for dust on the Erta Ale approach, a dust mask (available at pharmacies or outdoor shops), sturdy closed-toe shoes for the lava field trek, and a warm layer for Erta Ale summit nights (it drops significantly at altitude even in the Danakil).
For Orthodox sites (Lalibela, Gondar, Axum):
Modest dress is expected and respected. Women should carry a lightweight scarf or shawl that covers the shoulders and can wrap around a skirt if needed. Men should have long trousers (no shorts in churches). Shoes are removed at church entrances — slip-on shoes or sandals make this easy.
For the Omo Valley:
Light, breathable clothing. The valley is hot and humid in parts. Long trousers and long sleeves for sun and insect protection. A hat. Good sandals or shoes that work in dust. Less is more — leave expensive clothing at home.
Health and pharmacy
See a travel medicine clinic at least 6 weeks before departure for personalised advice. Standard items for most Ethiopia itineraries:
Malaria prophylaxis: Recommended for lower-altitude areas (below 2,000m) — Omo Valley, Awash, Danakil. Not generally required for Addis Ababa, Lalibela (2,630m), or the Simien Mountains. Mefloquine, doxycycline, or atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone) are all used — your travel doctor will advise based on your health profile and itinerary.
Water purification: Bottled water is widely available in cities. In remote areas (Danakil camps, Simien camping), carry water purification tablets or a filtered water bottle (Lifestraw, Sawyer) as backup. Drink at least 3–4 litres daily in the Danakil heat.
Sun protection: High-SPF sunscreen (50+), UV-protective sunglasses (essential at high altitude — UV intensity increases significantly above 3,000m), and lip balm with SPF.
First aid: Blister plasters (essential for Simien trekkers), antihistamine, diarrhoea treatment (oral rehydration salts + loperamide), antiseptic wipes, and any prescription medications you take regularly. Carry enough medication for your entire trip plus a week’s buffer — your specific prescription may not be available in Ethiopian pharmacies.
Altitude medication: If you’re going to the Simien Mountains, discuss acetazolamide (Diamox) with your travel doctor — it can reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Not everyone needs or wants it, but it’s worth discussing.
Documents and money
Print your eVisa confirmation and carry a hard copy. Immigration checks printed documents at Bole Airport — a phone screen is not always accepted. Also print: your travel insurance certificate, tour booking confirmations, hotel addresses for each destination (useful at immigration if asked).
Cash in Ethiopian Birr. ATMs are available in Addis Ababa, Lalibela (limited), and Gondar. Outside major towns — particularly in the Danakil and Omo Valley — cash is the only option. Carry USD as a backup — it’s widely accepted for larger transactions and can be exchanged at banks. The official exchange rate is given at commercial banks; avoid unofficial exchangers.
Two passport photos (useful for any permits or forms required in the field). Carry a photocopy of your passport bio page stored separately from your actual passport.
Electronics and photography
Power adapters: Ethiopia uses Type C, E, F, and L plugs (European-style round 2-pin is most common). A universal travel adapter is the safest choice.
Power banks: In remote areas (Danakil, Simien camps) there is no reliable electricity for charging. A high-capacity power bank (20,000+ mAh) keeps your devices running over multi-day field stays.
Camera protection: The Danakil’s salt and sulphur environment is hard on camera equipment. Use a dust-proof bag or a ziploc bag inside your camera bag for the Erta Ale and Dallol sections. Sensor dust from basalt lava fields is a real issue.
Headtorch: Essential for the Erta Ale night trek. Bring spare batteries. The path across basalt fields is dark and uneven.
What NOT to bring
Drone: Drones are restricted in Ethiopia and require a complex permit process. Customs may confiscate a drone without a permit on arrival. Leave it at home unless you have secured formal permission in advance.
Single-use plastic bags: Ethiopia banned plastic bags in 2019. Do not bring bags, and don’t expect to get them in shops.
Expensive jewellery or watches: Visible wealth items attract attention in crowded markets. Leave valuables at home.
Questions about what to bring for a specific itinerary? Contact our team — we send a detailed pre-departure packing guide to all guests after booking. Or check our FAQ page for other common pre-travel questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in Ethiopia?
Lightweight, modest clothing that layers. Long trousers and long-sleeve tops work in all environments — they’re culturally appropriate at religious sites, protect against sun and insects at lower altitudes, and can be layered under a fleece in highland cold. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops at Orthodox churches. For the Danakil specifically, cover all skin to limit sun exposure rather than wearing minimal clothing.
Can I drink tap water in Ethiopia?
No. Drink only bottled or properly purified water throughout Ethiopia, including in Addis Ababa. Bottled water is inexpensive and widely available in cities and towns. In remote areas, carry purification tablets or a filter bottle. Avoid ice in drinks unless you know it’s made from purified water.
What currency should I carry for Ethiopia?
Ethiopian Birr (ETB) is the local currency and required for most daily transactions. USD is accepted at larger hotels and for major purchases and can be exchanged at commercial banks at the official rate. Carry a mix: Birr for markets, transport, and tips; USD as backup. ATMs are available in Addis Ababa and some larger towns but are unreliable in remote areas.
Do I need special gear for the Simien Mountains trek?
You don’t need specialist mountaineering gear for the standard 5-day Simien trek. You do need: sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with ankle support (the terrain is rocky and uneven), a warm mid-layer and windproof jacket (temperatures drop near zero at camp, around 3,600m), a sleeping bag liner (camping equipment is provided by Ethiosinia but a liner adds warmth), a headtorch, and trekking poles if you prefer them on uneven terrain. Walking sticks reduce knee strain on descents.
