Ethiopia
Money in Ethiopia: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use Ethiopian birr (ETB) for most purchases; carry cash for daily needs, withdraw from ATMs in Addis and major cities, and tip 5–10 % of the bill or round up modestly.
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GuideEthiopia
Key facts
- Currency
- Ethiopian birr (ETB)
- ATMscheck
- Available in Addis Ababa and regional cities; limited in small towns
- Card acceptancecheck
- Visa works more often than Mastercard; expect cash‑only in many places
- Typical tip
- 5–10 % of the bill or round up
- Exchange receipts
- Keep bank receipts to convert birr back when you leave
- Mobile walletscheck
- Telebirr and M‑Pesa exist; visitor setup is limited
Currency and cash
Ethiopia uses the Ethiopian birr (ETB). The birr has floated since July 2024, so check the current rate before you travel.
Cash is the norm outside large hotels. Carry enough for daily meals, transport and small‑town purchases. Keep exchange receipts – you’ll need them to convert birr back when you leave.
- Budget meals: US$2–4 (≈ ETB 100–200)
- City taxi: US$3–10 (≈ ETB 150–500)
- Domestic flight: US$60–200 (≈ ETB 3,000–10,000)
Cards and ATMs
ATMs operate in Addis Ababa and other regional hubs (Dire Dawa, Bahir Dar, Gondar). They are scarce in small towns and may be out of service.
Visa cards are accepted more often than Mastercard; still, most shops, markets and restaurants prefer cash.
Mobile wallets such as Telebirr and M‑Pay (M‑Pesa) can be opened with a local SIM and passport, but usage by tourists is limited.
| Location | ATM availability | Card acceptance |
|---|---|---|
| Addis Ababa | Good | Visa ✓, Mastercard ✗ (check) |
| Regional cities (e.g., Dire Dawa, Bahir Dar) | Limited | Visa ✓ |
| Small towns | Rare | Cash ✓ |
Check local updates before travel.
Tipping
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. In restaurants, round up the bill or leave 5–10 % for good service.
For guides, drivers and hotel staff, a tip of US$2–5 per day is typical, adjusted for the level of service.
- Restaurant: 5–10 % of total
- Guide/driver: US$2–5 per day
- Hotel porter: US$1 per bag
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Ethiopia?
The Ethiopian birr (ETB) is the official currency; cash is needed for most purchases.
Should I use cash or a card in Ethiopia?
Carry cash for daily expenses; use Visa cards at larger hotels and some city shops, but expect cash‑only in most venues.
How much should I tip in Ethiopia?
Tip 5–10 % in restaurants or round up modestly; US$2–5 per day for guides, drivers and hotel staff.
Can I use my phone to pay in Ethiopia?
Mobile wallets like Telebirr and M‑Pesa exist, but setting them up as a tourist is limited and most transactions are cash‑based.
Where can I exchange foreign currency in Ethiopia?
Banks and licensed exchange offices in Addis Ababa and regional cities; keep the receipt to convert birr back when you leave.
Check live
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Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialEthiopia Tourism Authority
Ask about Ethiopia
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