Ethiopia Car Hire

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car supplier logos

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car hire
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car hire
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top destinations to hire a car in Ethiopia

A cityscape with a prominent building with a dome, surrounded by various other buildings and a bridge in the foreground.
CarsCars

Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa

What you need to know for your Ethiopia car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in Ethiopia

Renting a car in Ethiopia offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the country at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for tourists. With a rental vehicle, you can manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. Ethiopia is home to numerous attractions, such as the Medhane Alem Church, which provides a rich cultural experience, and Lake Bishoftu, perfect for those seeking beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Additionally, you can visit Meskel Square, an important city and cultural hub in Addis Ababa. The convenience of a rental car allows you to navigate these key sites seamlessly. You can explore vibrant cities like Addis Ababa, where you can find the Medhane Alem Church and Meskel Square, or venture to Bishoftu to enjoy Lake Bishoftu and the Debre Zeyit Mosque. If you prefer a more tranquil setting, Awassa offers the lovely Lake Awasa. With a rental car, you will have the opportunity to appreciate the diverse experiences Ethiopia has to offer, whether you're interested in culture, nature, or city life.

Where to stay in Ethiopia

  • Addis Ababa: As the bustling metropolis of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa offers a range of accommodation options suitable for business, family, and city-themed experiences. You can explore local markets and shopping centres while staying near attractions such as the Medhane Alem Church, Lake Bishoftu, and Meskel Square. The city also boasts numerous cafes and coffee shops, making it an ideal base for travellers looking to immerse themselves in Ethiopian culture and urban life.
  • Lalibela: Renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures, Lalibela is a city that should not be missed. With a focus on hiking and tours, the area is home to significant architectural wonders. Consider staying close to the Church of St. George and the Rock-Hewn Churches to fully appreciate the rich history and culture. This destination is particularly popular for those seeking adventure and a deeper understanding of Ethiopian heritage.
  • Bahir Dar: For a romantic getaway, Bahir Dar is an excellent choice, offering stunning lake views and opportunities for boating and tours. You can explore the historic Blue Nile Bridge and the Bezawit Royal Palace while enjoying the serene atmosphere. The Church of St. George adds to the cultural significance of the area, making Bahir Dar a picturesque and enriching place to stay for those looking to connect with nature and history.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Ethiopia

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a favourable balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable too; just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected arise during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Renting a car in Ethiopia will give you the freedom to really get to the heart of this incredible part of the world. Use your hire car to discover the best that Ethiopia has to offer, from its natural beauty to its bustling towns and cities.

With Expedia, booking you Ethiopia car hire is easy. Each hire car in Ethiopia option offers you competitive rates and a variety of pick-up and drop-off locations around the country to make your life easier. Book your rental car in in Ethiopia with confidence through Expedia.

At Expedia, our goal is to offer you a great variety of Ethiopia car rental discounts at the best price. When hiring a car in Ethiopia with Expedia, you can compare a massive range of vehicles, from compact economy cars with low fuel consumption to luxury or off-road solutions, depending on your preference. Every Ethiopia hire car we feature will come fully equipped with the latest amenities and safety features to ensure your trips will be safe and comfortable.

It has never been easier to find a rental car in Ethiopia. We offer you competitive prices and up-to-date information, ensuring quality and efficiency for all our visitors, at all times. Rent a car in Ethiopia today and enjoy your holiday, or get anywhere in time for your business meetings. At Expedia, we understand that travelling can be a hassle if you are not well organized, which is why we provide a variety of car types to compare and choose from for all types of travellers. In just a few clicks you can hire a car in Ethiopia with Expedia.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Ethiopia car reservation?
Good news! You should be eligible for all of your money back if you let us know more than six hours prior to pick-up time. Your itinerary contains details about this, and so does our Customer Service Portal. Not all prepaid bookings result in a refund though, so you may want to check the policy.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Ethiopia with Expedia?
Check customer ratings, choose your favourite ride and compare prices from top suppliers. Expedia makes it a cinch to track down the best deal on your rental wheels. Bundle your Ethiopia car rental with hotel or flight bookings and hit the road with extra savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Ethiopia?
You need to be 18 and over to take the wheel of a rental car in Ethiopia. Be aware that young drivers may only be able to hire from a few car categories, such as compact and medium size. Higher age limits generally apply for specialty and luxury vehicles. Many companies will also charge an additional fee for young renters. Read through the rules carefully before hitting the book button and factor any surcharge into your budget.
What do you need to rent a car in Ethiopia?
Before you can hit the road in Ethiopia, you'll need a valid driver's license and a credit card. If you prefer not to take out the company's insurance policy, you may also have to provide proof of alternative coverage. Requirements can vary, so read the policy terms and conditions before you choose a hire provider.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Ethiopia?
Yes. Expedia partners with reputable suppliers that offer long-term hires for many car categories. Reserve one of our long-term car rental deals and explore every inch of Ethiopia — or far beyond!
Where can I find an Ethiopia hire car if I am younger than 25?
Whether you can hire a car under the age of 25 in Ethiopia often depends on the hire company you choose. Some outlets apply a surcharge for drivers aged between 21 and 24 years, but others may not apply any additional costs for this age range. It'd be smart to go through the terms and conditions of your prospective hire company to escape extra charges when picking up your keys.
Why should I rent an Ethiopia car with Expedia?
From quick work trips to weeks-long road trips, Expedia has vehicles to suit every adventure and style. Take your pick of multiple trusted hire companies in Ethiopia. And with our competitive offers and discounts, you'll always get a fantastic deal on your wheels. Did you know you can combine your bookings into a holiday package? Add a hotel or flight to your hire car and watch the savings add up! Plus, when you're a member of our free One Key™ rewards programme, you can earn OneKeyCash™* and redeem it on eligible hotels, car rentals, activities and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation