What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation for this trek will be in hotels and locally owned eco-lodges.

Eco lodges are ethically made by local tribes and situated in national parks, surrounded by rolling hills and rivers. Facilities will include usual amenities; wifi, and private bathrooms/showers. Some will include balconies, optional spa access, and swimming pools.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin/multi-share. When in twin share, you will be paired with a teammate(s) of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms may be available on some evenings at additional cost and subject to availability.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and where possible, we will pair you together.

What is the food like? 

Ethiopian cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, often served on a communal platter called an "injera," with a variety of spicy stews and lentil dishes that tantalize the taste buds.

If this is not to your taste, restaurants also offer a variety of international dishes.

Is the water safe to drink?

Water is not safe to drink in Ethiopia. You will be provided with plastic bottles.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will do our best to arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for.

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure. 

Mobile phone reception will be available during most of the tour. There will be free Wi-Fi available at the hotels and eco lodges.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. 

All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. 

There are also medical facilities and hospitals in all the places we travel.

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. 

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Will the funds raised go directly to Create Impact? 

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to Create Impact. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for Create Impact are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure? 

The total cost to participate in this adventure is $4,780 (inclusive of a $950 non-refundable deposit).

In addition, you are also committing to raising $4,000 (per person) for Create Impact.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

• Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund.
• Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit. 
• Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

What’s included in the travel cost?

The travel cost includes:

• Accommodation based on twin-share
• All meals as per itinerary 
• Transfers as per itinerary 
• Local guides
• Entrance fees, permits and paperwork for Omo Valley, Addis Ababa and Lalibela
• Photo fee in Omo Valley tribal villages
• Domestic flights

What’s not included in the travel cost?

The travel cost does not include: 

• International airfares
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Visas
• Vaccinations
• Spending money 
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities 
• Ceremonial events - Bull Jumping ceremony, Evangadi dancing
• Additional activities undertaken on tour

Are the travel costs subject to change? 

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory for international adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to travel to Ethiopia?

Australian and New Zealand passport holders do not need a visa to Ethiopia for visits less than 3 months. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.