# Canada Updates Ethiopia Travel Advisory: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know
If you’re planning a trip to Ethiopia from Ottawa, recent changes to Canada’s travel advisory demand your immediate attention. On March 10, 2026, the Government of Canada reaffirmed its **Level 3 advisory — Avoid Non-Essential Travel** for most of Ethiopia, with several regions elevated to “Avoid All Travel” status due to escalating security concerns.
Understanding what this means for your travel plans—and your health—is essential before you book your flight or step on Ethiopian soil.
## What This Advisory Really Means
A Level 3 advisory is serious. It signals that Canadian authorities believe the risks in Ethiopia are significant enough that only essential travel should proceed. The advisory cites civil unrest, armed conflict, violent crime, and kidnapping as ongoing threats. Northern regions including Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz, and Tigray are under “Avoid All Travel” warnings due to active armed conflict. Central zones in Oromia and Gambella face similar restrictions.
Even Addis Ababa, the capital where many Ottawa travellers transit or stay, carries a heightened caution level due to crime and the potential for demonstrations to turn violent without warning.
Border areas with Eritrea, Somalia, and Kenya remain particularly dangerous due to military activity, terrorism risk, and landmines.
## Health Risks Beyond Security Concerns
While security dominates this advisory, health preparedness remains critical for anyone still travelling to Ethiopia for essential reasons. The country presents several infectious disease risks including yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and malaria in certain regions. Altitude sickness is a concern in Addis Ababa and highland areas. Limited medical infrastructure in conflict-affected zones means evacuation may be necessary for serious illness or injury.
Civil unrest can also disrupt access to healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and medical supplies—making pre-travel health preparation even more vital.
## Preparing for Essential Travel
If your travel to Ethiopia cannot be postponed, comprehensive preparation is non-negotiable. This includes:
– **Travel health consultation**: Speak with a certified travel medicine specialist who understands Ethiopia’s current health landscape
– **Vaccinations**: Ensure routine vaccines are current and obtain recommended travel vaccines well in advance
– **Malaria prophylaxis**: Discuss antimalarial medications appropriate for your itinerary
– **Medical kit**: Pack prescription medications, first aid supplies, and medications for travellers’ diarrhea
– **Travel insurance**: Verify your policy covers medical evacuation from conflict zones
Ottawa travellers should also register with the Canadian government’s Registration of Canadians Abroad service and maintain copies of essential documents.
Your health and safety abroad begin with informed decisions at home. Don’t leave your wellbeing to chance in a high-risk destination.
Travelling to Ethiopia? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.