How to get from Addis Ababa Airport to the City Centre

Amy Psycha

Creative Writer & Strategic Copywriter

April 16, 2024

Addis Ababa, the bustling capital of Ethiopia and one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities, offers travellers a multitude of experiences. From the National Museum of Ethiopia, where the country’s most significant discoveries are housed, to its most famous landmark, Meskel Square, Merkato – the largest African open-air market, and the Entoto Hills, this city is sure to surprise you!

The only direct option for getting from Addis Ababa Airport to downtown is by taxi or private transfer. An airport taxi from Addis Ababa Airport to the city takes approximately 20 minutes to cover the 8.8 km distance, and the cost of a local taxi is estimated to be around €5.10 (ETB 300).

Public transportation is not available, but you may be able to find privately-run shared minibuses at the airport that charge per person. Having said that, the Addis Ababa taxi service is super affordable, so taking a private means of transport to your exact accommodation will provide a relaxing experience without throwing you off budget.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Addis Ababa at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€5.10	20min	24/7

How to get from Addis Ababa Airport to the city centre by taxi

Taking an airport taxi is the most comfortable and the only direct way to go from the airport to downtown, regardless of your arrival time. The distance from Addis Ababa Airport to the city is approximately 8.8 km and the drive takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi fare from Addis Ababa Airport to city centre

Addis Ababa taxis usually calculate their fares through the driver’s phone, mirroring a taximeter service. To ensure a reliable taxi, use the official stand at the airport, ask for an estimation or negotiate your fare for a local taxi in advance, and show your exact destination, and maybe even the route, on your smartphone to avoid potential misunderstandings due to language barriers.

The average ride takes around 20 minutes in normal traffic conditions, and the cost of a local cab from Addis Ababa Airport to the city is about €5.10 (ETB 300). To secure a competitive fixed fare and a personalised transfer, we recommend pre-booking with a top-tier provider like Welcome Pickups.

Cost

€5.10 (ETB 300)

Trip Duration

20 Min.

*Prices may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Addis Ababa Airport.

Where do I get the taxi from?

You can find taxis at the official airport taxi stand, located outside the terminal. You should be able to spot the taxis easily, and you can also keep an eye out for staff wearing “Meter Taxi” jackets.

Convenience

A taxi or private transfer can take you from Addis Ababa Airport to the city centre in the most timely, direct, and comfortable manner. As there is no public transport available, a taxi is the only way to go straight to your accommodation downtown after a long flight.

Editor’s Note

A taxi or private transfer is the only direct transportation option available from Addis Ababa Airport to downtown.

Useful Tips

Ask for a cost estimation before beginning your ride and keep an eye on the ‘taximeter’ on the driver’s phone to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Tipping taxi drivers in Addis Ababa is not obligatory but is appreciated. Tourists tend to simply round up the fare.

For your safety and to avoid being overcharged, stay away from any random individuals who may approach you on your way out providing taxi services.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Addis ababa. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€25.0

NIGHTTIME

€30.0

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from the airport to Addis Ababa?

You can get from Addis Ababa Airport to the city by taxi. There is no public transportation so taking an airport taxi is your best option. It is a convenient, speedy, and direct way to reach your hotel or apartment downtown. The ride to the city centre typically takes 20 minutes and a local cab ride costs about €5.10 (ETB 300).

How far is Addis Ababa Airport from the city centre?

Addis Ababa Bole Airport (ADD) is situated 8.8 km southeast of the city of Addis Ababa. The quickest and most direct way to reach the city centre is by aiport taxi, which takes approximately 20 minutes in normal traffic conditions.

What's the taxi fare from Addis Ababa Airport to the city?

Metered taxis are an option in Addis Ababa, but in most cases, they do not actually use a taximeter. The fare is calculated on the driver’s mobile phone and is based on the end destination. Usually, the transfer from Addis Ababa Airport to the city costs €5.10 (ETB 300).

As fares can vary, it’s best to negotiate the price before getting in. If you’re not 100% comfortable with that, we recommend booking your airport to city transfer in advance to secure a fixed rate and a comfortable journey with a professional English-speaking driver.

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How to get from Addis Ababa Airport to the City Centre

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

How to get from Addis Ababa Airport to the city centre by taxi