Is Addis Ababa Safe for Tourists in 2026?

Scammers create fake websites mimicking legitimate hotel booking sites and target budget travelers searching for accommodation in Addis Ababa. Victims pay deposits for non-existent rooms and receive fake confirmation emails. The scammers often disappear after payment.

How to avoid: Book directly through official hotel websites or verified OTA platforms (Booking.com, Agoda). Always verify the URL and check reviews on independent sites. Contact the hotel directly to confirm any reservation before arrival.

Where: Online targeting tourists booking hotels across all Addis Ababa neighborhoods

At Bole International Airport and along Churchill Avenue in the city center, individuals posing as "tourist police" or "official guides" approach arriving passengers and insist on escorting them to their hotel or a nearby attraction. They wear unofficial lanyards or plain clothes and speak authoritative English to appear legitimate. The "service" concludes with a demand for $20–50 USD, and refusal is met with threats of reporting the traveler to real authorities. This scam is especially effective on first-time arrivals who are disoriented after a long-haul flight.

How to avoid: Ignore unsolicited offers of escort or guidance at the airport arrivals hall. Legitimate government tourist assistance desks are staffed at fixed counters and never approach travelers proactively. Pre-arrange airport pickup with your hotel and look for a driver holding a name sign. If approached, state firmly that you have arranged transport and walk away.

Where: Bole International Airport arrivals hall, Churchill Avenue between Meskel Square and the National Museum

A friendly stranger approaches tourists and invites them to a "gathering" — often framed as a cultural experience involving khat (a local leaf stimulant) or a guided walk around the city. After their "free" hospitality, they present a large bill for services rendered.

How to avoid: Never accept invitations from strangers on the street to join any gathering, especially if they insist it is free. There is always a hidden charge at the end. Book cultural experiences through your hotel or a licensed tour operator only.

Where: Around Meskel Square and the streets near the National Museum, in the Churchill Avenue area, and near the Piazza district in northern Addis Ababa

Scammers approach tourists at ATMs near major hotels (Sheraton, Hilton, Hyatt Regency) claiming to help them avoid local bank fees. Their actual goal is to skim the card with a hidden device and memorize the PIN for later use.

How to avoid: Never accept help from strangers at ATMs. Cover the keypad with your other hand when entering your PIN. Use ATMs inside bank branches rather than standalone machines on the street. Check your account statements regularly for unauthorized charges.

Where: Near ATMs outside the Sheraton Addis, Hilton, and Radisson Blu hotels in the Kazanchis and Bole neighborhoods, and at standalone ATM kiosks along Bole Road