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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Addis Ababa
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Addis Ababa
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Addis Ababa
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Addis Ababa?
Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, offers a unique blend of bustling city life and historical sites. While public transportation is available, renting a car provides the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. Discover hidden gems and travel comfortably without being bound by fixed schedules.
Explore Historical Sites: Addis Ababa is home to numerous historical landmarks, museums, and cultural sites. With a rental car, you can easily visit places like the National Museum of Ethiopia, the Ethnological Museum, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Discover the Outskirts: Driving allows you to explore the scenic Entoto Hills or visit nearby attractions like the Debre Libanos Monastery, offering a glimpse into Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage.
Convenience and Flexibility: Renting a car provides unparalleled convenience, allowing you to travel at your own pace and create your own itinerary. You won't have to rely on public transportation or expensive taxi services.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Addis Ababa
Before renting a car in Addis Ababa, be aware of the local regulations and rental terms. Understanding the age requirements, license policies, insurance, and other conditions will ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Area
527 square kilometres (203 square miles)
Population
Approximately 5 million residents
Time Zone
EAT (UTC+3)
Ideal for
City and countryside trips
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Rating
4.0/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have a higher minimum age or charge extra fees for younger drivers.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license from your country of residence is generally accepted for short-term rentals. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, especially if your license is not in English or Amharic.
3. Insurance & DepositsEnsure you have adequate insurance coverage. A security deposit is usually required and will be held on your credit card until the car is returned undamaged.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the rental agreement for mileage limits. Fuel policies vary, so clarify whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Addis Ababa – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £16 / $20 / €19
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9
Executive:
from £25 / $32 / €30
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35
Automatic:
from £16 / $20 / €19
SUV:
from £8.50 / $11 / €10
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (September to January): Sees higher demand due to festivals like Meskel and Ethiopian Christmas, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (June to August): Often come with discounts as it coincides with the rainy season
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Addis Ababa?
Booking a rental car in Addis Ababa involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs.
1. Compare Prices - Use online car rental comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, considering factors like passenger capacity and road conditions.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the rental agreement carefully, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your car rental in advance, especially if you're travelling during peak season, to secure lower prices and better availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When picking up your rental car, bring your driver’s license, passport, and the credit card used for booking.
General Information About Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Navigating the city requires an understanding of local traffic conditions, parking regulations, and fuel availability.
As the political and economic hub of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern and traditional elements. While exploring the city, be prepared for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Renting a car can be advantageous for reaching attractions outside the city centre, but driving within Addis Ababa requires patience and awareness of local customs.
Top Attractions to Discover
National Museum of Ethiopia
Home to Lucy, one of the oldest hominid fossils ever discovered.
Ethnological Museum
Located within Addis Ababa University, showcasing Ethiopia's diverse cultures.
Holy Trinity Cathedral
An impressive Orthodox Christian cathedral with beautiful architecture and artwork.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several parking garages are available in the city centre, providing secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Limited on-street parking is available, but be aware of parking restrictions and fees.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities located on the outskirts of the city to avoid traffic congestion.
Gas Stations in Addis Ababa
Major Brands
Look for gas stations from major brands like Total, Oil Libya, and National Oil Company (NOC).
Availability
Gas stations are generally available throughout the city, but it's advisable to refuel before embarking on long journeys.
Payment
Most gas stations accept cash payments in Ethiopian Birr. Some may accept credit cards, but it's best to confirm beforehand.
Useful Tips for Visiting Addis Ababa
Allow Extra Time
Traffic congestion can be heavy, especially during rush hours, so allow extra time for your journeys.
Hire a Driver
Consider hiring a local driver who is familiar with the city's roads and traffic patterns.
Bargain Fares
If using taxis, negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Respect Customs
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be mindful of local customs and traditions.
Key Transportation Hubs in Addis Ababa
Major Bus Stations
Autogar Terminal
The primary bus terminal for long-distance travel, connecting Addis Ababa to various regions of Ethiopia.
Railway Stations
Legehar Railway Station
The main railway station in Addis Ababa, serving the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway.
Airports
Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)
The largest airport in Ethiopia, serving both international and domestic flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Addis Ababa?
Renting a car in Addis Ababa requires meeting certain requirements to ensure a smooth and compliant rental experience.
A valid driver's license from your country of residence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or Amharic.
The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21 years old, but this can vary by rental company. Some companies may charge a surcharge for drivers under 25.
A valid credit or debit card in the renter's name is required for the security deposit and rental fees.
A passport is required as proof of identity, especially for international visitors.
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Addis Ababa as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Exploring Addis Ababa with a rental car was fantastic! So convenient to visit the markets, museums, and stunning scenery outside the city. Highly recommend!
Sarah Chen
Reviewed: 03.12.2024
Pretty decent, really.
David Lee
Reviewed: 11.11.2024
Pretty laid-back, yeah.
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 22.10.2024
Addis Ababa was amazing! Getting around with a car was so easy, it really enhanced the trip. I loved exploring the city at my own pace.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 25.02.2025
Pretty good, honestly.
Maria Rodriguez
Reviewed: 10.11.2024
Addis Ababa was vibrant, but the food was a bit underwhelming compared to what I'd read. Having a car made sightseeing easy though.
Anna Wilson
Reviewed: 04.04.2025
Addis Ababa was incredible! Having a car made exploring so much easier, a truly unforgettable trip.
Benjamin Taylor
Reviewed: 16.03.2025
Addis Ababa exceeded expectations! Easy to navigate with a car.
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 15.08.2025
Pretty relaxed vibe.
Kevin Nguyen
Reviewed: 28.04.2025
Addis Ababa was a revelation! Having my own transport made exploring its vibrant culture effortless.
Oliver Peterson
Reviewed: 26.02.2025
Addis Ababa was a wonderful surprise! Having a car made exploring so easy, and the coastal relaxation afterwards was perfect. Highly recommend!
Isabelle Dupont
Reviewed: 17.01.2025
Pretty chill, actually.
Mike Jones
Reviewed: 03.03.2025