In Ethiopia, they use Type C and F power plugs and outlets. The voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz.
⚠️ So, you’ll need a travel adapter in Ethiopia. Their plugs and outlets are different from the Type A and B ones we use back in the States.
Quick Overview of the Plugs in Ethiopia:
- Plug type in Ethiopia: C and F
- Standard voltage: 220V
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Need a travel adapter? Yes, you do need a travel adapter
- Need a voltage converter? Don’t assume — check the power specs
- Recommended plug adapter: Vintar Universal Travel Adapter Kit
We rely on official power regulations, international IEC standards, and real-world traveler feedback to keep our information accurate and trustworthy.
Power Outlets in Ethiopia
In Ethiopia, they use Type C and F power plugs and outlets.
Type C
Type C outlets have two round prongs and no grounding pin. Type E and F plugs usually fit too, but grounded plugs will need an adapter.
Type F
Type F outlets have two round prongs and grounding clips on the sides. Type C and E plugs will also fit.
The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Need in Ethiopia
I’ve been there—arriving in a new country and realizing my charger is useless. We don’t sell travel adapters, but we’ve done the hard work to find the best one for Ethiopia. Safe, reliable, and built for the trip. Here it is:
If you’ve already left and don’t have a power adapter, no big deal—airports and shops usually have them. That said, packing one before you leave makes your arrival easier and gives you one less thing to think about.
Travelers visiting Ethiopia often continue into Eritrea, Sudan, and Kenya. Always check plug compatibility when crossing borders.
Do You Need a Voltage Converter?
If you’re traveling to Ethiopia, you’ll probably need a voltage converter. The U.S. uses 120V, but the voltage in Ethiopia is different, meaning your electronics won’t work safely without one.
Always check your device’s voltage rating before packing for an international trip. If the label says “100-240V, 50/60 Hz”, it can safely run on both 120V and 220-240V power sources without a converter. This applies to most laptops, tablets, smartphones, and electric razors.
Which Travel Devices May Need a Converter?
Not sure which voltage converter to get? Take a look at the best-rated ones right here.
| Device | Need Converter? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | ❌ No (usually) | Most modern phone chargers are dual voltage (100–240V) |
| Laptop | ❌ No (usually) | Check the power brick label for 100–240V |
| Hairdryer | ✅ Yes (often) | High wattage; many models are not dual voltage |
| Electric toothbrush | ⚠️ Check voltage | Some models are 110V only |
| Camera / DSLR | ❌ No (usually) | Most chargers are dual voltage |
| Power bank | ❌ No | Charges via USB, adapter is enough |
| Electric shaver / trimmer | ⚠️ Check voltage | Older or cheaper models may not support 230V |
| Tablet / iPad | ❌ No | All models are dual voltage |
| Portable fan | ✅ Yes (sometimes) | Many models are not compatible with 230V |
| Game console | ⚠️ Check voltage | Newer consoles like PS5 and Xbox are often dual voltage — check to be sure |
| Bluetooth speaker | ❌ No (usually) | Charges via USB |
| E-reader (Kindle, etc.) | ❌ No | USB charging only, no converter needed |
Top Travel Essentials to Pack
Once you’ve got power covered, these are the extras that help everything else run smoother. Think of them as your travel sidekicks.
Power Bank
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More About Ethiopia
Ethiopia is a land of extremes—soaring mountains, vast deserts, lush valleys, and one of the oldest continuous cultures in the world. It’s where humanity began, and it still carries that deep sense of time. You’ll find fossils, ancient cities, and rituals that go back thousands of years.
This is a country that runs on its own calendar, with its own alphabet, and its own sense of time. Ethiopian Orthodox traditions shape daily life, and festivals like Timkat or Meskel are vibrant, moving, and unforgettable. Coffee ceremonies are a daily ritual, and bread is often still baked on hot stones.
Ethiopia isn’t just about what you see—it’s what you feel. The people are proud, welcoming, and full of stories. From ancient ruins to lava lakes, street music to sacred chants, this place hits every sense. If you’re looking for a destination that’s deep, real, and full of heart—this is it.
Top places to visit in Ethiopia: Addis Ababa, Lalibela, Gondar, Bahir Dar, and Axum.