Are you heading to Ethiopia?

Get the best rates for Ethiopian birr online

Gear up for your adventure and order Ethiopian birr at Manor FX today.

Our fantastic exchange rates mean you’ll get more Ethiopian birr currency for your money. 

We can send your Ethiopian birr notes straight to your home or office. Or you can collect them from our Manor FX bureau near Heathrow.

Manor FX makes exchanging pounds to Ethiopian birr easy and hassle-free with speedy delivery and straightforward online ordering.

Ethiopian travel money

Are you getting ready for your journey to the stunning Simien Mountains or the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela? Here’s what you need to know about using cash and cards in Ethiopia.

Where can I exchange Ethiopian birr?

Finding where to buy Ethiopian birr in the UK might not be straightforward, as it’s considered an exotic currency. 

However, Manor FX offers competitive rates for those looking to exchange UK pounds to Ethiopian birr. Enjoy free home delivery for orders over £750, or pick up your Ethiopian birr banknotes in-store.

Can you buy Ethiopian birr in the UK?

Absolutely! You can buy Ethiopian birr right here in the UK. 

Remember, the Ethiopian birr is less commonly traded, so organising your travel money in advance is wise.

Avoid the bureau de change rush and order Ethiopian birr online now. Get the best Ethiopian birr exchange rate and use our secure home delivery service. Ensuring your Ethiopian birr arrives safely via Royal Mail Special Delivery.

What’s the currency symbol for Ethiopia?

The currency symbol for the Ethiopian birr is “Br”. 

The currency code for the Ethiopian birr is “ETB”. This code is used in international finance and trading to represent the national currency of Ethiopia.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Ethiopia?

Yes! It’s wise to have Ethiopian birr ready for your trip. Exchanging money beforehand means you’re all set for initial expenses like transport and snacks.

What is the best currency to take to Ethiopia?

Taking a combination of Ethiopian birr and US dollars is your best bet. 

The Ethiopian birr is the official currency, but US dollars are also widely used. Especially for significant expenses like tours.

Confirming payment methods with your tour operator in Ethiopia is always good. And remember, crisp, new US dollar bills are preferred.

Euros and British pounds may be accepted in larger hotels and tourist spots, but US dollars are more commonly used. 

Having both Ethiopian birr for everyday purchases and US dollars for more significant expenses is a good idea.

Can I use my bank card in Ethiopia?

Yes, you can use your bank card in Ethiopia, especially in larger cities where Visa and Mastercard are accepted. But remember, Ethiopia also relies a lot on cash. It’s best to carry Ethiopian birr for smaller towns and safaris.

Before you go, let your bank know about your travel plans to avoid any issues. Check for any international card usage fees, too.

Do you need cash in Ethiopia?

While cards are accepted in some places, cash in Ethiopian birr or US dollars is widely preferred. 

You might be able to use euros or pounds in tourist areas in Addis Ababa or near Lake Tana. But expect a less favourable exchange rate than US dollars.

Carrying Ethiopian birr is handy for local markets and remote areas. It’s a good idea to have small Ethiopian birr notes, as change can be hard to come by.

Once back home, change any leftover Ethiopian birr to GBP with Manor FX

Is it better to use cash or a credit card in Ethiopia?

Having both cash and credit cards is helpful in Ethiopia. Cards are great for bigger cities and tourist areas, covering hotel stays and restaurant meals.

But for market shopping, tips, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Ethiopian birr cash is essential. 

Balance is key; use cards for convenience and cash for local experiences.

How much money do you need per day in Ethiopia?

Budget traveller

If you’re keeping things simple, you’ll need about £25 to £40 a day (1,300 – 2,600 ETB). This covers basic meals, bus rides, and staying in simple guesthouses or hostels.

Mid-range traveller

For a bit more comfort, plan on spending around £85 a day (5,500 ETB). This gives you nicer meals, better transport options, and comfy hotel rooms.

Luxury traveller

Looking for top-notch experiences? A luxury day could cost £200 or more (13,000 ETB). Think fancy dinners, private tours, and staying in the best hotels.

These are just estimates. Your spending might vary, so having a bit extra for surprises is good.

How can I avoid ATM fees in Ethiopia?

Here are some tips to dodge ATM charges in Ethiopia:

• Use ATMs at major national banks of Ethiopia for better rates.
• Withdraw larger amounts to reduce transaction fees.
• Check if your bank has partnerships with Ethiopian banks to avoid fees.
• Inform your bank of your travel plans.
• Look for cashback options when shopping.
• Know your bank’s fees for international withdrawals beforehand.

How much does a meal in Ethiopia cost?

Meal prices vary in Ethiopia. Street food might cost about 150 ETB, just £3, for a hearty meal.

A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant could be around 1,300 ETB, about £25, offering diverse and delicious options.

These are rough figures, and prices can differ based on your choices and location. But Ethiopia offers plenty of affordable, tasty food options!

How does tipping work in Ethiopia?

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Ethiopia but is appreciated for good service. Here’s a quick tipping guide:

• 5-10% of the bill in restaurants is a kind gesture.
• For tour guides and drivers, $5 to $10 per day is standard.
• Small tips for hotel staff and porters, around $1 to $2, show appreciation.
• Tipping taxi drivers isn’t expected, but rounding up the fare is nice.

Is Ethiopia a cheap country to visit?

Yes, Ethiopia is budget-friendly. Its living and travel costs are lower than many Western countries. You’ll find good deals on accommodations, meals, and activities, making your trip enjoyable without overspending.

Ethiopia offers excellent value at a reasonable price, combining breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and wildlife.

Currency in Ethiopia

Banknotes in Ethiopia

Ethiopian birr bank notes come in various denominations. These include 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 Ethiopian birr bills. Each is distinctively designed to reflect Ethiopia’s rich cultural and historical heritage. 

The artwork on these notes encompasses significant landmarks and notable figures, serving as a testament to the country’s diverse legacy. 

Ethiopian coins

Ethiopian birr coins serve as the smaller denominations of the country’s currency. Facilitating everyday transactions with values that complement the larger banknotes. 

These coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents, as well as 1 birr. 

Each coin is meticulously designed, often featuring symbolic representations that pay homage to Ethiopia’s extensive history and rich cultural tapestry.

The designs might include emblematic flora, fauna, and national symbols articulating the country’s identity and heritage. 

Ethiopia’s currency import and export regulations

Ethiopia has specific rules for bringing money into and taking it out of the country. When you arrive or leave Ethiopia, you can carry Ethiopian birr or foreign currency, but there are limits to keep in mind. 

If you carry foreign currency worth more than $3,000, you must declare it at customs when entering the country. 

If you’re leaving Ethiopia and have more than 1,000 Ethiopian birr with you, you must also declare this. 

Knowing these regulations is essential to avoid any trouble at the airport. Always check the most recent rules before you travel, as these can change.

Order Ethiopian birr online

Ethiopian birr exchange is straightforward at Manor FX. We ensure fast, secure delivery of your Ethiopian currency to your home or office. Or collect from our bureau near Heathrow.

Get the best GBP Ethiopian birr exchange rate and convert your GBP to Ethiopian birr today.

Selling back Ethiopian birr

If you have leftover travel money, we offer great rates to help you convert Ethiopian birr to pounds. Click this link to convert your leftover Ethiopian birr to pounds sterling now. 

FAQs