Ethiopia Among 23 Countries Listed as High-Risk Travel Destinations by the US Government

The U.S. Department of State has issued an updated travel advisory for Ethiopia, maintaining a Level 3 status—”Reconsider Travel.” This level indicates that the country presents significant risks that travelers should carefully consider before making travel plans. The U.S. government uses a tiered system to categorize countries based on their safety for U.S. citizens, with the advisory levels ranging from 1 to 4.

Level 1, “Exercise Normal Precautions,” is assigned to countries considered generally safe for travel. In these countries, U.S. citizens are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and take basic safety precautions. Countries with a Level 1 status typically experience stable political situations, low crime rates, and minimal health risks.

Level 2, “Exercise Increased Caution,” is issued when there are specific concerns in a country, such as political instability or heightened crime rates, but these factors do not pose an immediate threat to travelers. While these countries are still generally safe, travelers are encouraged to remain informed and avoid specific regions where risks may be present.

Ethiopia’s travel advisory falls under Level 3, “Reconsider Travel,” due to ongoing security risks. The U.S. Department of State highlights concerns over armed conflict and civil unrest in regions like Amhara and parts of Oromia, where clashes between government forces and local militias have caused instability. There are also concerns about crime, including kidnappings, in areas such as Gambela and Benishangul Gumuz. Additionally, border areas with Eritrea, Sudan, and Somalia are flagged due to potential threats from terrorism and landmines.

Countries placed under Level 4, “Do Not Travel,” are considered extremely dangerous, and the U.S. government advises against all travel to these locations. This level is reserved for countries experiencing active armed conflict, widespread violence, or serious health crises that pose significant risks to travelers.

While Ethiopia remains under a Level 3 advisory, officials have repeatedly criticized these warnings, arguing that they misrepresent the current situation and harm the country’s tourism industry.