ADDUpdated March 29, 2025

Getting to and from Addis Ababa Bole airport

Addis Ababa · Ethiopia

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Departures Arrivals
ADD · Transportation

Ground transportation options

Public transportation, licensed taxis and ride-hailing apps, private transfers and car rental at Addis Ababa Bole airport (ADD), 6 km from Addis Ababa. See also the airport guide for general information.

Ride-sharing

There are several ride-sharing service providers in Addis Ababa, such as RIDE, ZayRide and ETTA. Download one of these companies' apps on your mobile phone to request a ride and then follow the instructions to meet your driver.

Bus

There is an Anbessa City Bus service (Tel +251 11 629 3379) to the city, departing from the Bole Dildiy station located opposite the airport. Stops along the route include Piassa Arada, Addisu Gebeya, Tikur Anbesa, and Black Lion. Departures start at 5:00 am, with a travel time of approximately 20 minutes.

Taxi

A counter in the Arrivals Hall provides fixed rates for destinations within the city. There are two types of vehicles: blue and white vans, and cars operated by NTO (Tel +251 11 515 9274), which are more expensive. The former have fixed routes, functioning like small buses, and are located in front of the International Arrivals area. The two main destinations are Piazza and Meskel (15–30 minutes' travel time).

Book ahead

Private transfer from ADD Rent a car at ADD

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Tips for getting to and from ADD

Going to the airport

  1. Leave earlier than you think you need to: Addis Ababa Bole airport is 6 km from Addis Ababa. Allow for rush-hour traffic, strikes or events, and check the local news before you go.
  2. On public transportation, check the schedule (weekends and holidays usually have fewer services), whether you need to change lines and how to pay: transit card, contactless or cash.
  3. If you booked a shared shuttle, keep the company's phone number at hand in case the pickup is late.
  4. Returning a rental car? Follow the signs to the rental car return area. If you drive your own car, check parking at ADD.

Leaving the airport

  1. After baggage claim and customs, follow the ground transportation signs. The arrivals page has a step-by-step guide.
  2. Arriving late at night? Not every bus or train runs 24 hours: check the last departure in advance. Ride-hailing apps usually pick up at a designated zone, not at the curb.
  3. With a private transfer, the driver usually waits in the arrivals hall with a sign with your name.
  4. Renting a car? Booking ahead gives you better rates; see car rental at ADD.
  5. Staying near the airport? See hotels and overnight stay or hotels near ADD.
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