The Ultimate Jijiga Travel Cheat Sheet for 2025: An Insider's Guide to Ethiopia's Somali Region - Xplrverse

Introduction: Why Jijiga Deserves Your Attention

The first time I stepped off the bus in Jijiga back in 2018, I was completely unprepared. The dusty streets, the curious stares, and the blend of Ethiopian and Somali cultures overwhelmed my senses. I remember standing there, clutching my oversized backpack, wondering if I’d made a terrible mistake. Fast forward seven years and countless visits later, Jijiga has become one of my favorite destinations in Ethiopia—a place where genuine connections happen and where tourism hasn’t yet disturbed the authentic rhythm of daily life.

Located in eastern Ethiopia and serving as the capital of the Somali Region, Jijiga offers a fascinating glimpse into a part of Ethiopia that most travelers overlook. It’s where Orthodox Christianity meets Islam, where camel markets bustle with activity, and where the hospitality will leave you speechless. This guide is everything I wish someone had told me before my first visit—all the hard-earned lessons, discoveries, and insider tips that have made my subsequent trips so much more enjoyable.

Getting to Jijiga: Transportation Options

Reaching Jijiga has become significantly easier in 2025, but it still requires some planning. Most international travelers fly into Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) and then connect to Jijiga.

By Air

Ethiopian Airlines now offers three weekly flights from Addis Ababa to Jijiga. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and costs between 2,500-3,200 ETB (≈$75-95) each way. Book well in advance as these flights fill quickly, especially during holiday seasons.

Insider Tip: Ethiopian Airlines has recently introduced a domestic flight pass that allows multiple domestic flights within a set timeframe—a fantastic deal if you’re planning to visit several Ethiopian destinations.

By Road

The overland journey from Addis to Jijiga takes approximately 8-10 hours and offers breathtaking scenery of the Ethiopian highlands before descending into the semi-arid landscape of the Somali Region.

Public Bus: Selam Bus and Sky Bus are the most reliable companies, with daily departures from Addis Ababa. A one-way ticket costs around 600-800 ETB (≈$18-24). Buses leave early morning (around 6 AM) from the Meskel Square area in Addis.
Shared Minivans (“Bajaj”): These depart when full from Dire Dawa if you’re coming from that direction. Less comfortable but more frequent, costing around 400 ETB (≈$12).
Private Hire: For groups, consider hiring a 4WD vehicle with a driver from Addis. Expect to pay 4,000-5,000 ETB (≈$120-150) per day, including driver’s accommodations.

A word of caution from my own mistake: I once tried to save money by taking multiple local buses with transfers. The journey ended up taking nearly 15 hours, and I arrived exhausted after midnight with nowhere to stay. The extra $10 for the direct bus is worth every cent!

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options in Jijiga

Jijiga’s accommodation scene has improved dramatically since 2020, though it’s still modest compared to major tourist destinations. Here’s what you can expect in 2025:

Mid-Range Hotels

Samrat Hotel: My go-to place in Jijiga. Centrally located with reliable WiFi, hot water, and a decent restaurant. Rooms start at 1,200 ETB (≈$35) per night. Ask for a room facing away from the street to avoid morning noise.
Garad Hotel: Newer property with better amenities but slightly pricier at 1,800 ETB (≈$55) per night. Their restaurant serves excellent local dishes with some international options.
Kaah Hotel: Popular with business travelers and NGO workers. Clean rooms starting at 1,500 ETB (≈$45), including breakfast.

Budget Options

Ethiopia Hotel: Basic but clean rooms from 500 ETB (≈$15). Shared bathrooms. Popular with local travelers.
Berhane Pension: Simple rooms from 400 ETB (≈$12). No frills, but safe and centrally located.

Long-Term Stays

If you’re staying longer than a week, consider negotiating a weekly or monthly rate. I once bargained my month-long stay at Ethiopia Hotel down to 9,000 ETB (≈$270) for the entire month—a significant discount from the daily rate.

Sustainability tip: Many hotels in Jijiga now offer a discount if you decline daily room cleaning and towel changes. Just ask at reception—this small choice saves water in a region where it’s scarce and puts money back in your pocket.

Navigating Jijiga: Getting Around

Jijiga is relatively compact, and much of the central area can be explored on foot. However, for longer distances or during the hottest parts of the day, you’ll want other options.

Local Transportation

Transport Type	Cost (2025)	Best For	Notes
Bajaj (three-wheeled tuk-tuk)	50-100 ETB per ride	Short distances within city	Negotiate price before boarding
Motorcycle taxi	30-80 ETB per ride	Quick trips, beating traffic	Less comfortable but faster
Shared minibus	15-25 ETB per person	Fixed routes through the city	Crowded but authentic experience
Private taxi	500-700 ETB per day	Full-day excursions	Arrange through your hotel

One of my biggest money-saving discoveries was learning the local phrase “meeqa” (how much?) and “qiimo jaban” (cheaper price) in Somali. Just these two phrases helped me negotiate better rates for transportation and saved me hundreds of birr during my stays.

The local minibuses follow set routes but don’t have formal stops—just wave them down and hop on. To get off, say “waad mahadsantahay” (thank you) loudly enough for the driver to hear.

Walking Safety

Walking during daylight hours is generally safe in Jijiga, but:

Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying expensive cameras openly
Keep valuables in a money belt under your clothing
Have small bills ready in an accessible pocket for small purchases
After 8 PM, take a bajaj rather than walking alone

I learned this last point the hard way when I decided to walk back to my hotel after dinner one evening. While nothing happened, the completely dark streets and lack of other pedestrians made for an unnecessarily stressful 20-minute walk that could have been a 5-minute bajaj ride for less than $2.

Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs

Jijiga sits at a fascinating cultural crossroads, with strong Somali influence alongside Ethiopian traditions. Respecting local customs will dramatically improve your experience.

Dress Code

Jijiga is predominantly Muslim, and conservative dress is expected, especially for women:

Women should cover shoulders, chest, and knees at minimum. Many foreign women opt for long skirts or loose pants and shirts with sleeves.
Men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts in public areas.
During Ramadan, be particularly mindful about modest dress and public eating.

I packed all wrong my first trip—shorts and tank tops that stayed in my bag the entire time. Now I bring lightweight long-sleeved shirts and long pants or skirts that keep me cool while respecting local norms.

Religious Considerations

Friday is the main prayer day, and many businesses close from approximately 12-2 PM. Plan your activities accordingly. During the five daily prayer times, you may hear the call to prayer from local mosques—a beautiful sound that becomes part of your rhythmic experience of the city.

Greetings and Language

Learning a few basic Somali phrases goes an incredibly long way in Jijiga:

“Iska waran” – Hello/How are you?
“Waan fiicnahay, mahadsanid” – I’m fine, thank you
“Magacaygu waa…” – My name is…

The standard Ethiopian greeting involves a handshake and touching right shoulders. Between men, handshakes are common. Between women, a kiss on each cheek may be appropriate after introductions. Between men and women, follow the woman’s lead—some may shake hands, others may simply nod.

Photography Etiquette

Always ask before photographing people. In Somali, you can say “Ma sawir qaadi karaa?” (May I take a photo?). Be prepared for some people to decline—this should always be respected.

I once thoughtlessly snapped a photo of a beautiful doorway, not realizing a family was sitting in the shadows. The father was understandably upset until I apologized, deleted the photo in front of him, and took time to properly introduce myself. What started as an awkward moment ended with an invitation for tea and one of my most memorable conversations in Jijiga.

Money Matters: Currency and Budgeting

Currency and ATMs

Ethiopia uses the Ethiopian Birr (ETB). As of 2025, 1 USD equals approximately 33-34 ETB, though this rate fluctuates.

Jijiga has several banks with ATMs in the city center, including:

Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (most reliable for international cards)
Dashen Bank
Awash International Bank

Insider Tip #1: ATMs frequently run out of cash, especially on weekends and holidays. Always withdraw money when you have the chance, rather than waiting until you’re completely out.

Daily Budget Recommendations

Budget Level	Daily Amount (ETB)	Daily Amount (USD)	What It Covers
Budget	800-1,200 ETB	$24-36	Basic guesthouse, local meals, public transportation
Mid-range	1,500-2,500 ETB	$45-75	Decent hotel, mix of local and international meals, occasional private transport
Higher-end	3,000+ ETB	$90+	Best available accommodation, any restaurant, private driver

Insider Tip #2: The most significant money drain for travelers in Jijiga is bottled water. Invest in a good water purifier like the SteriPen or LifeStraw. My water purification bottle saved me approximately 15,000 ETB ($450) over six months of travel throughout Ethiopia, paying for itself many times over while reducing plastic waste.

Tipping Practices

Tipping culture in Jijiga is not as established as in Addis Ababa, but it’s becoming more common:

Restaurants: 10% for good service in tourist-oriented places; not expected in local eateries
Drivers: 100-200 ETB per day for a full day’s service
Hotel staff: 50-100 ETB when someone assists with bags or provides special service

Insider Tip #3: Want to save money on souvenirs? Skip the few tourist shops and head to the Jijiga Central Market. I found stunning traditional Somali fabric for 200 ETB per meter (compared to 500 ETB in the tourist shop) and had a local tailor make it into cushion covers for another 150 ETB—unique, handmade souvenirs that support local craftspeople directly.

Must-Visit Places in and around Jijiga

Within Jijiga City

1. Jijiga Central Market

The heartbeat of the city and my favorite morning activity. Come early (7-9 AM) to watch the market come alive as vendors set up their colorful displays of fruits, vegetables, spices, textiles, and household goods. The spice section fills the air with intoxicating aromas that I can still conjure years later.

Look for the women selling traditional Somali fabrics in vibrant patterns—these make excellent souvenirs and can be tailored locally into clothing or home items.

2. Jijiga University

Established in 2007, the university has beautiful grounds and a small museum displaying cultural artifacts from the Somali Region. Visitors are generally welcome, but it’s polite to check at the main gate first. The campus coffee shop is an excellent place to meet local students who are often eager to practice English.

3. Sheikh Bashir Cultural Center

A relatively new addition to Jijiga’s cultural landscape, this center hosts exhibitions on Somali history, poetry readings, and occasional music performances. Check their Facebook page for current events.

Day Trips from Jijiga

1. Karamara Mountain

Just 15 km outside Jijiga, this mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A moderate 2-3 hour hike brings you to the summit, where on clear days, you can see all the way to Somalia. Hire a local guide (200-300 ETB) through your hotel for safety and to learn about the area’s history.

The mountain was strategically important during the 1977-78 Ogaden War, and your guide can point out remaining trenches and bunkers—a sobering reminder of the region’s complex past.

2. Babile Elephant Sanctuary

Located about 50 km west of Jijiga (closer to Harar), this sanctuary is home to a unique population of African elephants adapted to semi-desert conditions. These elephants, with their distinctive smaller body size and larger feet, were once believed to be extinct until rediscovered in the 1990s.

Visits require advance arrangement with the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority and a 4WD vehicle. Expect to pay 800 ETB (≈$24) park entry fee plus 1,000 ETB (≈$30) for a mandatory scout. The best viewing times are early morning (6-8 AM) when elephants visit water holes.

My visit here was both incredible and challenging—we got stuck in mud during a surprise rain shower and spent three hours digging out with the help of local pastoralists. Pack extra water, snacks, and prepare for adventure!

3. Harar Old Town

Though technically a longer day trip (2.5 hours each way), the UNESCO World Heritage site of Harar is manageable as a very long day from Jijiga. The walled city contains 368 alleyways within just one square kilometer and is considered Islam’s fourth holiest city.

Don’t miss the famous hyena feeding that happens nightly outside the walls. For 200 ETB, you can even feed them yourself using a stick held in your mouth—terrifying but unforgettable!

Food and Drink: What to Try in Jijiga

Jijiga’s cuisine reflects its position at the crossroads of Ethiopian and Somali cultures, with influences from both traditions creating a unique local palette.

Must-Try Local Dishes

Somali-style Camel Meat Stew (Hilib geel) – Rich, tender camel meat slow-cooked with onions, garlic, and spices. Best tried at Restaurant Kaah for about 180 ETB.
Somali Rice (Bariis) – Fragrant rice cooked with cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and sometimes raisins. A staple accompaniment to meat dishes.
Sambusa – Similar to samosas, these triangular pastries are filled with spiced meat or lentils and are perfect street food snacks for 10-15 ETB each.
Injera with Tibs – The Ethiopian staple injera (sourdough flatbread) served with sautéed meat and vegetables. Jijiga’s version tends to be spicier than in other parts of Ethiopia.
Somali Tea (Shaah) – Strong black tea with cardamom, cinnamon, and lots of sugar. Often served with milk and offered as a welcome drink almost everywhere.

Where to Eat

Local Favorites

Kaah Restaurant – Best for authentic Somali dishes. Try their camel meat and rice combo for 200 ETB. Located near the main roundabout.
Habesha Restaurant – Excellent Ethiopian cuisine. Their kitfo (minced raw beef with spiced butter) is outstanding. Meals average 150-200 ETB.
New York Café – Despite the name, this place serves wonderful local food in a more upscale setting. Good for when you need reliable WiFi with your meal. Expect to pay 250-300 ETB per person.

Street Food

The area around Jijiga Central Market teems with street food vendors in the evenings. Look for:

Fresh fruit juices (30-50 ETB)
Sambusas (10-15 ETB each)
Roasted corn (20 ETB)
Fava bean stew (shahan ful) served with bread (40-60 ETB)

During my third visit to Jijiga, I discovered a tiny, unnamed stall near the central market that serves the most incredible shaah cadays (Somali spiced tea) for just 5 ETB. The elderly woman who runs it has been making tea in the same spot for over 25 years. Look for a small blue awning about 50 meters west of the main market entrance—the line of locals will guide you.

Food Safety Tips

While I’ve rarely had issues with food in Jijiga, it’s wise to follow some basic precautions:

Stick to freshly cooked, hot foods when eating from street vendors
Peel fruits yourself rather than buying pre-cut pieces
Avoid raw vegetables unless you’re at a higher-end restaurant that treats its water
Bottled water or purified water is essential (remember that sustainability tip about bringing a water purifier!)

Safety and Health Considerations

Jijiga is generally safer than many travelers expect, but smart precautions are still essential.

Safety Tips

Register with your embassy upon arrival in Ethiopia
Keep photocopies of your passport and visa separate from the originals
Use hotel safes when available for valuables and excess cash
Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in unlit areas
Be discreet with expensive electronics and cameras
Monitor the political situation, as tensions can occasionally flare in the region

During my 2022 visit, I made the mistake of using my phone to navigate while walking alone at dusk. This immediately marked me as an obvious tourist and attracted unwanted attention. Now I always plan my route before heading out and keep my phone tucked away.

Health Preparations

Before You Go

Visit a travel health clinic 4-8 weeks before departure
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date
Consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever (required if coming from certain countries)
Discuss malaria prophylaxis with your healthcare provider
Pack a comprehensive medical kit including:

Prescription medications (with original packaging)
Anti-diarrheal medication
Rehydration salts
Bandages and antiseptic
Insect repellent (at least 20% DEET)
Sunscreen (the Ethiopian sun is intense, even when it feels cool)

Medical Facilities in Jijiga

Medical facilities in Jijiga are limited. For serious issues, evacuation to Addis Ababa or even international evacuation may be necessary.

Jijiga Referral Hospital – The main public hospital, adequate for basic care only
Karamara Hospital – Slightly better equipped private facility
Ethiopian Red Cross Clinic – Can provide basic care and advice

Always purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation coverage before traveling to Ethiopia.

Managing Altitude and Climate

Jijiga sits at approximately 1,600 meters (5,250 feet) above sea level—high enough that some visitors notice mild altitude symptoms. The semi-arid climate means:

Days can be hot (25-30°C/77-86°F) while nights cool significantly
Humidity is generally low
Sun intensity is high due to the altitude
Dehydration is a common issue for travelers

I underestimated how quickly I would dehydrate during my first visit and developed a terrible headache by my second day. Now I drink at least 3 liters of purified water daily while in Jijiga, regardless of whether I feel thirsty.

Connectivity and Communication

Internet Access

Internet connectivity in Jijiga has improved dramatically since 2020, but remains less reliable than in Addis Ababa:

Most mid-range hotels offer WiFi, though speeds vary considerably
New York Café and Eden Café provide the most reliable WiFi for customers
Mobile data is often more reliable than hotel WiFi

Be aware that during periods of political tension, internet services may be restricted or completely shut down across the region with little warning.

Mobile Service

Ethio Telecom is the primary provider in Ethiopia. As of 2025, a new provider (Safaricom Ethiopia) has also entered the market, improving competition and service.

To get a SIM card:

Visit an Ethio Telecom shop with your passport
Purchase a SIM card (100 ETB in 2025)
Register the SIM to your passport
Purchase data packages according to your needs

Current data packages cost approximately:

1GB valid for 30 days: 100 ETB (≈$3)
3GB valid for 30 days: 230 ETB (≈$7)
10GB valid for 30 days: 650 ETB (≈$19)

Power and Electricity

Ethiopia uses 220V electricity with Type C and F plugs (European style). Power outages are common in Jijiga—sometimes lasting several hours. Prepare accordingly:

Carry a headlamp or small flashlight
Bring a portable power bank for charging devices
Consider a universal plug adapter with surge protection

Many hotels have generators, but they typically only power essential areas rather than guest room outlets during outages.

Cultural Experiences and Activities

Cultural Immersion Opportunities

Attend a Traditional Somali Wedding

If you’re fortunate enough to receive an invitation to a Somali wedding (often through hotel staff or local friends), accept it! These celebrations are colorful multi-day affairs with distinctive music, dance, and epic feasting. Women and men celebrate separately, so be prepared for gender-segregated events.

During my 2023 visit, the hotel manager invited me to his cousin’s wedding, where I experienced the most incredible hospitality—being treated as an honored guest despite knowing no one. I still keep in touch with several people I met that night.

Visit a Nomadic Settlement

Many Somali families maintain semi-nomadic lifestyles in the areas surrounding Jijiga. With proper arrangements through a local guide (your hotel can help), you can visit a settlement to learn about traditional animal husbandry and nomadic life.

Bring appropriate gifts if visiting: tea, sugar, and coffee are always appreciated. Expect to pay your guide about 600 ETB (≈$18) for arrangement and translation services.

Experience a Traditional Coffee Ceremony

While the elaborate Ethiopian coffee ceremony is more associated with the highlands, you can still find it in Jijiga. The ritual involves roasting green coffee beans, grinding them by hand, and brewing in a traditional clay pot called a jebena. The ceremony typically includes three rounds of coffee and can last over an hour—it’s about the socializing as much as the coffee itself.

The Habesha Restaurant offers a traditional ceremony for 150 ETB, though the most authentic experience will be if you’re invited into someone’s home.

Learning Opportunities

Language Exchange: The American Corner at Jijiga University hosts informal language exchange meetups where you can learn some Somali while helping locals practice English.
Cooking Classes: New York Café occasionally offers cooking classes teaching traditional Somali dishes. Check their bulletin board or ask at the counter.
Traditional Craft Demonstrations: The cultural center sometimes hosts demonstrations of traditional weaving and leatherwork. These are announced on their Facebook page.

Practical Information and Resources

Important Contacts

Tourist Police: +251-25-775-5299
Ethiopian Tourism Organization (Jijiga Office): +251-25-775-3211
Karamara Hospital: +251-25-775-4100
U.S. Embassy (Addis Ababa): +251-11-130-6000
British Embassy (Addis Ababa): +251-11-617-0100
Ethiopian Immigration Office (Jijiga): +251-25-775-2133

Local Holidays and Festivals

Planning your visit around these events can enhance your experience:

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha – The most important Islamic holidays, dates vary yearly based on the lunar calendar. Businesses close and festive celebrations occur throughout the city.
Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash) – September 11 (or September 12 in leap years). While less prominently celebrated in Jijiga than in other parts of Ethiopia, you’ll still find special meals and ceremonies.
Somali Independence Day – June 26. Celebrated with cultural performances and events highlighting Somali heritage.
Jijiga Peace Festival – A newer celebration typically held in late October, featuring music, traditional sports, and cultural exhibitions.

Visa and Documentation

As of 2025, most visitors can obtain an Ethiopian e-visa before arrival through the official government portal. The process typically takes 3-5 business days. Current costs are:

Tourist visa (up to 30 days): $52
Tourist visa (up to 90 days): $72
Business visa (up to 30 days): $72

Visa-on-arrival is available at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for many nationalities, but the lines can be long, and the process more expensive and time-consuming than the e-visa.

When to Visit

The best times to visit Jijiga are:

October to February – Dry season with pleasant temperatures (18-25°C/64-77°F during the day). Ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.
March to May – Temperatures rise (25-30°C/77-86°F), but conditions remain mostly dry. Good for visiting if you prefer warmer weather.
June to September – The main rainy season. While rainfall is less intense than in other parts of Ethiopia, occasional heavy showers can disrupt travel, especially on unpaved roads.

I’ve visited during all seasons, and while the October-February period is objectively “best,” there’s something magical about the landscape after the rains in September when everything briefly turns green.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Jijiga Experience

After seven years of regular visits to Jijiga, I’ve come to appreciate this city not for grand tourist attractions, but for the genuine human connections and cultural insights it offers. Jijiga provides a window into a side of Ethiopia that few travelers experience—where Somali and Ethiopian cultures blend, creating something uniquely beautiful.

5-Step Action Plan for Your Jijiga Trip

Prepare properly: Secure your e-visa, arrange accommodations in advance, and purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes evacuation coverage.
Pack thoughtfully: Bring modest, lightweight clothing, a quality water purifier, a headlamp for power outages, and all necessary medications. Don’t forget a universal power adapter.
Learn basic phrases: Commit to memory at least 5-10 basic Somali phrases—this small effort will dramatically enhance your experience and the welcome you receive.
Connect with locals: Visit the university café, attend community events at the cultural center, and accept invitations when offered. The relationships you build will be the highlight of your journey.
Slow down: Resist the urge to rush through Jijiga. Build in unscheduled days for spontaneous invitations, unexpected discoveries, and the rhythm of daily life that makes this region special.

My most treasured memories of Jijiga aren’t the sights I saw but the conversations I had—drinking tea with elders who shared stories of the region’s history, learning traditional recipes from women at the market, discussing literature with university students eager to practice English. These connections happened because I slowed down enough to be present.

As Ethiopia continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, Jijiga remains refreshingly authentic. Visit now, before it changes, and you’ll discover not just a destination but a place that might change how you think about travel itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jijiga safe for foreign travelers?

Yes, Jijiga is generally safe for travelers who exercise basic precautions. The city has become significantly more stable since 2020. However, it’s important to stay informed about current conditions, as the wider Somali Region can experience periodic political tensions. Register with your embassy upon arrival in Ethiopia, avoid walking alone after dark, and maintain a low profile with valuable electronics and cameras.

Do I need a special permit to visit Jijiga?

As of 2025, no special permit is required beyond your Ethiopian visa to visit Jijiga city itself. However, if you plan to travel extensively throughout the Somali Region or visit more remote areas, you may need additional permissions from local authorities. Your hotel can help arrange these if necessary.

How many days should I spend in Jijiga?

I recommend 3-4 days minimum to appreciate Jijiga properly. This allows time to explore the city itself, take a day trip to nearby attractions like Karamara Mountain, and experience local life without rushing. If you want to include Harar in your itinerary (highly recommended), add at least 2 more days.

Is it possible to travel from Jijiga to Somaliland?

Yes, it’s possible to travel from Jijiga to Hargeisa, Somaliland, though the border procedures can be complicated. You’ll need a Somaliland visa (available online or from their diplomatic mission in Addis Ababa) and should arrange private transportation as public buses don’t regularly cross the border. The journey takes about 3-4 hours once you’re at the border. This route is not recommended for first-time visitors to the region without proper preparation.

What’s the best way to get from Addis Ababa to Jijiga?

For convenience and time-saving, flying is the best option, with Ethiopian Airlines offering three weekly flights (approximately 1 hour). For budget travelers or those wanting to see the countryside, the direct bus is reliable and affordable, though the journey takes 8-10 hours. I don’t recommend self-driving unless you have previous experience driving in Ethiopia.

Can I find ATMs and banks in Jijiga?

Yes, Jijiga has several banks with ATMs that accept international cards, including Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, Dashen Bank, and Awash International Bank. However, ATMs can run out of cash or experience technical problems, especially on weekends. It’s wise to withdraw money when you have the opportunity rather than waiting until you’re completely out.

What type of clothing should I pack for Jijiga?

Pack modest, lightweight clothing that covers shoulders, chest, and knees. Women should bring long skirts or loose pants and shirts with sleeves. Men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts. A light jacket or sweater is necessary for cool evenings, especially from October to February. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as are a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.

Is English widely spoken in Jijiga?

English is not widely spoken outside of educational institutions and larger hotels. At Jijiga University and among educated youth, you’ll find English speakers, but in markets, local restaurants, and on the streets, Somali and Amharic predominate. Learning a few basic phrases in Somali will significantly enhance your experience.

What unique souvenirs can I buy in Jijiga?

Look for traditional Somali fabrics with distinctive geometric patterns, handcrafted leather items (particularly camel leather goods), traditional woven baskets, and local spices like berbere and various tea blends. The central market is the best place for authentic, reasonably priced souvenirs.

How reliable is the internet in Jijiga?

Internet reliability has improved significantly since 2020 but remains inconsistent compared to major cities. Most mid-range hotels offer WiFi, though speeds vary. Mobile data through Ethio Telecom or Safaricom Ethiopia is often more reliable than hotel WiFi. Be prepared for occasional internet shutdowns during periods of political sensitivity.

References

Lonely Planet: Ethiopia Travel Guide – Comprehensive background information on Ethiopian travel.
Ethiopian Airlines – Official site for booking domestic flights to Jijiga.
Ethiopia eVisa Portal – Official government site for visa applications.
U.S. Department of State: Ethiopia Travel Advisory – Current safety information.
CDC: Health Information for Travelers to Ethiopia – Updated health recommendations.
Ethiopian Tourism Organization – Official tourism information.
Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority – Information on wildlife areas including Babile Elephant Sanctuary.
Addis Fortune – Ethiopian business newspaper with updates on developments in the Somali Region.
UNESCO: Harar Jugol, the Fortified Historic Town – Information on the nearby World Heritage site.
National Meteorological Agency of Ethiopia – Weather forecasts and climate information.
Somali Face – Website covering Somali culture, traditions, and current events.
Sheikh Bashir Cultural Center – Updates on cultural events in Jijiga.
Jijiga University – Information about the university and its programs.