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Addis Ababa Bole International Airport

If you're looking for car rental in Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, look no further. We offer low CO2 vehicles that are at the cutting edge of environmental technology, with a choice of hire vehicles right across the range, from small city cars to luxury limousines all of which give our customers the opportunity to reduce their CO2 emissions.

Ethiopia, often referred to as the "Cradle of Humanity," is a country rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the ancient city of Axum to the vast Simien Mountains and the Great Rift Valley, Ethiopia offers an unparalleled experience for travelers. Its capital, Addis Ababa, is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant markets, world-class coffee culture, and the National Museum, home to the famous fossil, Lucy.

Bole International Airport is the main gateway to Ethiopia and one of Africa’s busiest hubs. It serves as a key transit point for both regional and international flights, offering modern facilities such as duty-free shopping, lounges, and multiple dining options. The airport is located just 6 km southeast of Addis Ababa’s city center, making it a convenient arrival point for travelers looking to explore the city and beyond.

Tips for renting a car in Addis Ababa Bole International Airport

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

Why choose Green Motion for car rental?

Our pricing is transparent

With Green Motion, you always easily see the total final price. Car rental insurance can sometimes be difficult to understand - by booking with us, you always get the right insurance easily.

Get your car with ease

Our car rental points are located within easy distances from central locations - near airports and train stations, as well as in the heart of cities.

We are eco-friendly

We strive to minimize our environmental impact. We invest in, among other things, biodegradable chemicals and less water-consuming methods to clean our cars, such as steam cleaning.

We are always happy to help

You can get answers to frequently asked questions, and get in touch with us from the Contact-page: https://greenmotion.com/contact/ or contact us at [email protected].

Ethiopia banner

Driving in Ethiopia – Tips for a smooth car hire

 

Once you have landed at Bole International Airport and picked up your rental car from the designated office, we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey.

For those navigating Ethiopian roads for the first time, take a moment to get acquainted with the vehicle, understand Ethiopia’s traffic regulations, and plan your routes using GPS or maps.

In Ethiopia, driving is on the right-hand side. A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home country’s driving license is required. We ensure your rental car is equipped with a warning triangle, a fire extinguisher, and reflective safety vests, as these are mandatory by law.

Ethiopia’s road network is varied, with well-maintained highways connecting major cities but rougher roads in rural areas. Traffic in Addis Ababa can be heavy during peak hours (7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM), and road conditions can change rapidly due to weather or ongoing construction.

The speed limits in Ethiopia are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h on expressways.

Speed enforcement is in place, and police checkpoints are common, particularly on major routes.

When parking in Addis Ababa, look for designated parking areas. Avoid parking on the streets in busy districts, as unauthorized parking can result in fines.

Fuel stations are widely available in cities and on highways, but if you’re traveling to remote areas, always refuel in advance.

If you plan to visit popular destinations such as Lalibela, Gondar, or the Danakil Depression, make sure to check road conditions in advance. Some roads require a 4x4 vehicle due to their rugged nature.

If you need assistance while in Ethiopia, don’t hesitate to contact us. In case of emergencies, dial 991 for police, 907 for medical assistance, or 9393 for road emergencies.

Enjoy your journey and explore Ethiopia’s breathtaking landscapes, historical wonders, and diverse cultural sites!

Useful Information about renting a car in Ethiopia

Where do you pick up your car?

Green Motion Bole Addis Ababa International Airport is conveniently situated on Bole Airport Road, at TBAM Real Estate PLC, Office Number M01, just a 3-minute drive from the airport.

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Local currency

Ethiopian Birr (ETB)

Nearest gas station

TotalEnergies Addis Ababa Bole, 2 km from the airport

Nearest train station

Lebu Train Station, 8 km from the airport

Nearest bus station

Merkato Bus Terminal, 9 km from the airport

Average temperatures

15–30°C (59–86°F)

Car hire in Ethiopia – Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to rent a car in Ethiopia?

Yes, renting a car is a great option if you want to explore areas outside Addis Ababa, as public transport can be unreliable.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Ethiopia?

Yes, an IDP is required along with your original driver's license.

Are Ethiopian roads in good condition?

Major highways and roads in Addis Ababa are well-maintained, but rural roads can be rough, requiring a 4x4 vehicle.

Are fuel stations available outside Addis Ababa?

Yes, but they can be scarce in remote areas, so plan ahead and refuel when possible.

Can I drive to tourist attractions like Lalibela or Simien Mountains?

Yes, but many roads to tourist sites are rough, making a 4x4 vehicle the best option.