Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
International business district near the airport with the best infrastructure for foreigners. English-speaking staff, modern setup, decent security. Lacks Ethiopian character and charges premium prices.
Bole is the international district - embassies, airline offices, hotels with English-speaking staff. The stretch from the airport along Bole Road has the most upscale hotels, chain restaurants, and cafes. You'll see foreign businesspeople and tourists, so you blend in. Street lighting is good, there are security guards outside hotels and restaurants, and it stays fairly busy into the evening. Eating alone is normal - lots of cafes have people on laptops. The downside is it doesn't feel particularly Ethiopian, and everything costs tourist prices. But if you want English speakers and less cultural adjustment while you get used to the altitude, this is where to start.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
Excellent"Felt safe walking here in the evening, good lighting"
"Lots of hotels and restaurants with English menus"
"Expensive but worth it for the security"
"Easy to get RIDE taxis, area stays busy late"
"Doesn't feel very Ethiopian but good for adjusting"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Diplomatic district with the best security in the city. High-end restaurants, English-speaking staff, international standards. Expensive.
University and government district with a historic monument. Safe during the day, student atmosphere, budget food. A sightseeing stop, not a base. Skip it for evening.
Transport hub with light rail station. Named after Mexico for supporting Ethiopia during Italian occupation. Commuter area, good for connections, not a destination. Fine to pass through during the day, skip at night.
Help other women stay safe in Bole
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.