Is Ethiopia Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Ethiopia's safety levels at night vary across different regions. Major cities like Addis Ababa have busy nightlife and are generally safer, but it's advisable to stay cautious. Remote areas could be more unsafe due to lesser police presence. It's also recommended to avoid desolate streets and stick to well-lit, populous areas while walking alone at night.

Public transportation in Ethiopia, specifically in the capital city Addis Ababa, is widely used and generally reliable. This includes minibuses, larger city buses, and the light rail transit. However, they can often be crowded and may not meet all safety standards, so attention and vigilance are necessary. The taxis (both contract and shared) present a more flexible though costlier option. Also, in rural areas, public transportation is less frequent and can be particularly crowded. It is recommended to avoid travel after dark and always keep an eye on personal belongings.

Ethiopia exhibits a generally respectful culture towards women. However, you may sometimes encounter occasional comments, hissing or harmless gawping mainly within the big cities. Harassment is not widespread; instead, friendly curiosity is more common. However, it is advisable to maintain a cautious attitude and dress modestly in public.

In Ethiopia, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching are known to occur particularly in crowded areas and major tourist destinations. While generally safe, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, and stay vigilant, especially in crowded places such as markets, bus stations or festivals.