✈ Transfer Options from Addis Ababa Airport to the City

Addis Ababa Bole Airport (ADD) is located in the Bole district of Ethiopia, approximately 8 km from the city center (Meskel Square). There are three main ways to travel from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center: taxi, private transfer, or bus. The fastest and most comfortable option is to take a taxi or private Addis Ababa Airport transfer.

On the other hand, the cheapest travel option is to take the bus from Addis Ababa Airport. We recommend keeping an eye on bus schedules and luggage capacities as they are limited.

However, because of the currency rate, an Addis Ababa Airport taxi to the city costs a mere €2.10 more and is unlikely to make a dent in your vacation 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.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€5.10	20min	24/7
Bus	€0.20	25+min	24/7
Welcome Airport Transfer	€33	20min	24/7

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

Taking an Abbas Ababa Airport taxi from Addis Ababa to the city center is the most convenient and comfortable way to travel. You can get to the city center in approximately 20 minutes and taxis are available 24/7 outside of the airport.

Addis Ababa Airport to city taxi cost

Taxis in Addis Ababa are frequently adopting the use of taximeters to determine their prices, but not all cabs are fitted with one. Some drivers use their phones like a taximeter, and others will use neither.

From Addis Ababa Airport to the city center, the average local taxi cost will be around €2.30 (ETB 300).

Government-operated yellow/cream taxis have fixed rates for scheduled routes. Typically, you’ll need to pay for your ride upfront, though it might be possible to negotiate with the driver. If you opt for an unofficial blue and white taxi, it’s recommended to check average fares online or consult your hotel concierge. To avoid unexpected costs, agree on the approximate fare with the driver before starting your trip, and keep an eye on the taximeter, if available, during the ride.

Cost

€2.30 (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.

You can find two types of taxis at the Addis Ababa Bole Airport: Ethiopian private taxis, which are blue and white, and official government taxis, which are yellow-cream taxis run by the National Tour Operation (NTO).

Convenience

A taxi or private transfer can take you from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center in the most timely, direct, and comfortable manner.

However, all rates are rough estimates, and there will be nighttime tariffs and extra charges, depending on the operator, as the service is unregulated.

Editor’s Note

To skip the hassle at the airport and taxi waiting times, it's best to book a private transfer in advance.

Useful Tips

Ask for a cost estimation before beginning your ride and keep an eye on the taximeter.

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.

How to travel by bus from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center

You can travel from Addis Ababa Airport to the city by bus if you’re looking for the cheapest way to get around. This journey will be slightly longer than a direct taxi or private transfer service, but is a fraction of the local currency due to the exchange rate.

How much is a bus from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center?

Though not as comfortable as a taxi, the cost of a bus from the airport to the city is €0.10 for a single ticket.

Cost

€0.10 (ETB 5)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

We recommend inquiring inside the airport, depending on where you want to go.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The bus schedule varies significantly, and wait times can be long.

Where do I get the bus from?

To get a bus from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center, you will have to walk outside of the airport, turn left, and head to the Skylight Hotel across the road. There is no public bus stop at the airport.

Convenience

While getting a bus from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center is the cheapest way to travel, travel times can be considerably longer depending on the route and stops your bus driver makes and the vehicles can be overcrowded. Along with the walk to the bus stop which is impractical with lots of luggage, passengers are cautioned that there is not much space for luggage on the airport minibusses.

Editor’s Note

Traveling by bus is always the cheapest option, however, if you don't want to have to walk with your luggage or are hasty to arrive to the center, it may be worth looking into taking a taxi or private transfer.

Useful Tips

We recommend inquiring at the airport services desk to indicate clearly where you want to go by bus to ensure that your driver will be able to take you there.

Keep in mind that the bus is not temperature controlled.

Because this is a common transport option for locals, it can become rather crowded.

How to get from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center by private transfer

If you want to skip the taxi rank queue and enjoy reliable, prompt pickups and door-to-door service, then a private Addis Ababa Airport transfer to the city center is the way to go for you. Private airport transfers, such as Welcome Pickups’ service, let you prebook your transportation in advance, so you can rest easy knowing that everything is sorted. With 24/7 customer support and a friendly driver to get you a mini tour of the city, you can make the most of your stay.

How much is a private transfer from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center?

One of the key benefits of pre-booking your taxi from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center is the fixed fare you will receive upfront, with no hidden costs! Rather than rely on the uncertainty of the taximeter, you can have a personalized experience waiting for you when you land, with peace of mind that you won’t be overcharged.

The Addis Ababa Airport to city center taxi cost with Welcome Pickups is €33 for one of our spacious and modern sedans which seat up to 3 passengers. If you are traveling in a larger group, a vehicle for 4 to 7 will cost €63, and our largest vehicle seating 9 to 12 passengers will cost €98.

You can book via our website or app within minutes. Simply enter your details, flight number, and the pick-up time you want. The quote you receive is fixed, includes all surcharges, and is not subject to change. So even if your flight is delayed or you get stuck in traffic, the final fare remains the same.

Cost

€33 (ETB 4,303)

Trip Duration

20 Min.

*Booking your private transfer in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

Private taxis are available 24/7 at Addis Ababa Airport.

Where do I get my private transfer from?

Our friendly drivers will be waiting for you outside the Arrivals gate with a sign bearing your name. After a warm greeting, they will help you with your luggage and take you to your pre-selected vehicle so you can begin your vacation with a bang. No waiting times, no hassle, and no unwanted surprises!

Convenience

A private transfer is the most convenient way to get from Addis Ababa Airport to the city. Though local taxis are efficient, private transfers offer the most reliable and customizable journeys, offering services such as:

Meet and greets
Trained English-speaking drivers
Flight monitoring
Guaranteed fixed fares
24/7 customer support

You will be relaxed and ready to explore Addis Ababa when you book your airport taxi in advance with Welcome Pickups.

Editor’s Note

We recommend setting the pickup time to 20-30 minutes after the landing time to leave enough time to clear passport control and baggage claim.

Useful Tips

Sedans can seat up to 3 passengers and minivans can take up to 8.

You will receive an email including your driver's name, details, and vehicle information so that you know what to expect on the day.

If you require wheelchair accessibility or a child's booster/baby seat, you can request one during the booking process online or using the app.

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 Addis Ababa Airport to the city?

You can get from Addis Ababa Airport to the city by taxi, private transfer, and bus. However, the bus station is not directly outside of the airport, so taking an airport private taxi is your best option. It is a convenient, speedy, and direct way to get to the city center.

How far is Addis Ababa Airport from the city center?

Addis Ababa Bole Airport (ADD) is situated 8.8 km southeast of the city of Addis Ababa. The quickest way to get to the city center is by taxi, which will take approximately 20 minutes in normal traffic conditions.

How much is a taxi in Addis Ababa?

Usually, the Addis Ababa Airport to the city taxi cost is €2.30 (ETB 300) with a metered taxi. However, as fares can vary, it’s best to negotiate the price before getting in. If you’re not 100% comfortable with this, we recommend booking your taxi from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center 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 center by taxi

Addis Ababa Airport to city taxi cost

Cost

€2.30 (ETB 300)

Trip Duration

20 Min.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Addis Ababa Airport.

Where do I get the taxi from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to travel by bus from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center

How much is a bus from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center?

Cost

€0.10 (ETB 5)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The bus schedule varies significantly, and wait times can be long.

Where do I get the bus from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center by private transfer

How much is a private transfer from Addis Ababa Airport to the city center?

Cost

€33 (ETB 4,303)

Trip Duration

20 Min.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

Private taxis are available 24/7 at Addis Ababa Airport.

Where do I get my private transfer from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

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

Prices

DAYTIME

NIGHTTIME

Sedan Car

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from Addis Ababa Airport to the city?

How far is Addis Ababa Airport from the city center?

How much is a taxi in Addis Ababa?

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The best way to arrive in Addis Ababa

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