Some people get through their whole time in Ethiopia without walking anywhere, preferring instead to take cabs wherever they go. I've really enjoyed the independence of doing at least some walking around Addis on my own, at least around the area of my hotel or guesthouse. But there are some things to watch out for.

WHO HAS THE RIGHT OF WAY?

First of all, it is up to the walker to avoid the cars, and not the other way around. Drivers prefer not to hit pedestrians, but driving is pretty crazy there, and given the choice between hitting a car and crowding someone walking alongside the road, most drivers will tend to veer towards the walkers.

The concept of lanes is much more fluid in Addis than it is in America. At any given time, a two-lane road could be turned into a 3-lane road, or a car could drive up onto the sidewalk. A driver will usually notify walkers within the impact zone via a friendly horn-toot-- he doesn't really want to hit you. But walkers would be wise to be alert and pay attention to the sound of car horns coming up on them.

WHAT ABOUT BEGGARS?

If you want to avoid being surrounded by beggars, which definitely will happen in many areas of town, first of all you’d be wise to avoid handing out money while on foot. The only time I felt slightly unsafe while in Addis was when I foolishly handed out money in front of a grocery store, and immediately was swarmed with people. The people driving with me weren’t even out of the store yet. I found it to be very disconcerting. I've read this is a situation where you are vulnerable to being pick-pocketed. If you are feeling charitable, it may be better to hand things out at a car window at an intersection or right before you drive off.

When you are walking anywhere, be sure you have a clear idea of where you're going when you head out, or failing that, at least pretend you know where you're going until you can walk into a large store or someplace where someone can help you with directions. Beggars and troublesome people will approach you if you stop to look at a map while out on the street.

Anyone else have tips for staying safe while walking around in Addis?




Related Links
Cris in Ethiopia: A Usual Morning
Driving in Addis
Beggars, Tipping and Bargaining