Ethiopia

Addis Ababa is a sprawling, high-altitude metropolis that serves as the perfect introduction to Ethiopia’s unique heritage. To navigate the city’s bustling streets and find hidden gems like the historic Tomoca Coffee, you’ll want to stay connected. Activating a Hello eSIM before you land ensures you have instant access to maps and ride-hailing apps like Ride or Feres, which are essential for getting around safely and affordably.

No visit is complete without experiencing a traditional coffee ceremony. You’ll see frankincense burning and grass strewn on the floor as the beans are roasted and ground by hand. A cup of buna (coffee) in a local neighborhood spot typically costs between 20 ETB and 50 ETB (approx. $0.17–$0.42). While exploring, head to the National Museum to meet 'Lucy,' our 3.2-million-year-old ancestor. Entry is roughly 100 ETB ($0.85). Remember that Ethiopia follows its own calendar and time system (starting at dawn), so use the Hello app’s trip planning feature to keep your itinerary organized and avoid any confusion with local tour operators regarding meeting times.

Lalibela is often referred to as the 'Eighth Wonder of the World,' and for good reason. The eleven monolithic churches, carved directly into the volcanic rock in the 12th and 13th centuries, remain active places of worship. The most iconic is Biete Giyorgis (Church of St. George), shaped like a cross. Entry for international visitors is approximately 2,850 ETB (about $50) for a five-day pass.

Because these sites are remote, logistics can be tricky. Use the Hello app to track your budget in the local Birr, as many smaller guesthouses and guides prefer cash. When hiring a local guide—which is highly recommended to understand the deep theological symbolism—you can expect to pay around 1,500 ETB to 2,000 ETB ($13–$17) per day. To capture those incredible photos and share them instantly with friends, your Hello eSIM will provide the necessary data even in the highland regions. Pro tip: Wear slip-on shoes, as you’ll need to remove them before entering every church, and bring a pair of thick socks for the stone floors.

Ethiopian cuisine is a sensory explosion designed to be shared. The staple is Injera, a sour, fermented flatbread made from ancient Teff grain, which serves as both your plate and your cutlery. You must try Shiro Wat (chickpea stew) or the spicy Doro Wat (chicken stew). Dining is a communal affair, often culminating in a Gursha—a gesture of friendship where you place a rolled morsel of food into someone else's mouth.

Since meals are almost always shared from a single large platter, the Hello app’s expense splitting feature is incredibly useful for groups. You can easily divide the cost of a massive Beyaynetu (veggie platter), which usually costs around 300 ETB to 500 ETB ($2.50–$4.25) at a mid-range restaurant like Habesha 2000. If you're feeling adventurous, visit a Tej Bet to try the local honey wine, Tej. Just keep an eye on your spending with the Hello budget tracker, as those delicious honey-wine refills can add up! Most traditional restaurants also feature live Azmari singers and dancers in the evenings, offering a vibrant look at the country's diverse ethnic traditions.