Filming in Ethiopia

Ethiopia

Filming in Ethiopia

Discover the untapped potential of Ethiopia as a filming destination, and with the assistance of African Fixer, unlock the rich storytelling opportunities and cultural experiences this African gem has to offer when organising your film production in Ethiopia.

Capital City

Addis Ababa
Main Languages

Amharic (official language), English (widely spoken), Oromo, Tigrinya, and more
Currency

Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
Weather

Ethiopia enjoys a diverse climate due to its varying landscapes, from highlands to lowlands. The best time for filming depends on your location and desired weather conditions, as Ethiopia has regions with different climates.
Ethiopia Film Locations

Ethiopia is a filmmaker's paradise with its scenic landscapes, urban settings, historical sites, and natural beauty. From the lush Rift Valley to the majestic Simien Heights and the ancient streets of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia offers a wide range of filming locations.
Ethiopia Film Infrastructure

Ethiopia offers accessible international airports, particularly in the capital, Addis Ababa. Check visa requirements and explore the infrastructure for international travel to facilitate your production's logistics.
Film Permits and Accreditation

Navigating the legal aspects of filming in Ethiopia is crucial. Ensure you obtain the necessary permits and adhere to local regulations. The Ministry Of Tourism can provide guidelines for filming in the country.
Ethiopia Film Incentives

Ethiopia does not currently offer specific tax incentives or rebates for filmmakers. However, it remains an attractive destination for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and cultural experiences.
Film Crew and Equipment

Ethiopia boasts a pool of talented actors and emerging film crews. While it may not have the same extensive talent pool as established film hubs, local film crew and talent agencies can provide essential support to your production.
Film Safety in Ethiopia

Ethiopia prioritises the safety of its visitors. African Fixer will help you familiarise yourself with safety regulations for filming.
Logistics and Transportation

Efficient logistics and transportation networks are essential for seamless production. Our Ethiopian film fixer will organise film transportation services and airport infrastructure to facilitate the movement of equipment and crew.
Local Film Commissions

Ethiopia has film commissions that can provide valuable information and assistance to producers. Connect with the Ethiopian Film Commission for guidance and support through African Fixer.

filming in Ethiopia

Unveil Ethiopia's Allure as a Filming Location

Immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes of Ethiopia, where ancient history, diverse tribes, and breathtaking geography converge to create a unique canvas for film and television productions. Ethiopia, often referred to as the “African Zion,” beckons filmmakers with its captivating story, rich culture, and awe-inspiring locations.

A Geological Marvel

Ethiopia, nestled at the crossroads of Africa, has a geological tapestry that ranges from deep gorges to jagged mountains. The country features the Blue Nile winding through the lush Rift Valley and towering peaks reaching 4,000 metres above the Red Sea. Discover the remarkable Hadar Caves, where the 3-million-year-old skeleton of Lucy, the first hominid ape, was unearthed, alongside vibrant sulphur fields and volcanic landscapes.

Simien Heights

Explore the age-old wonder of the Simien Heights, a geological marvel adorned with lush tropical vegetation and inhabited by the endangered Walia Ibex. These giant lobelia-adorned mountains are also home to the unique Red fox and the Gelada baboon. With the assistance of local film fixers, venture into this breathtaking terrain to capture its natural beauty and rare wildlife.

Setting the Record Straight

Through compelling film collaborations, Ethiopia dispels myths about the Falasha Jews, ancient settlers in the Gondar region. Stories like “Love and Become,” “Teza,” and “The Red Sea Diving Resort” narrate the recognition of Falasha Jews by Israel, their journey to Israel, and the heroic Mossad rescue operation. Explore Falasha village locations and the Gondar region’s unique heritage, where figurines, obelisks, and Sabean inscriptions dating back to 1,000 B.C. provide an intriguing film set.

Diverse Tribes and Omo National Park

Ethiopia’s rich tapestry includes a myriad of ethnicities and tribes. Ongoing conflict has displaced many of these tribes to the Omo National Park. Filmmakers can capture the cultural richness and traditional influences through body paintings and religious art. The indigenous Hamar people host an annual bull-jumping contest, an African rodeo, showcasing their unique way of life, combining agriculture with a fierce warrior spirit.

Unscripted Cultural Heritage

Ethiopia, uncolonized and proud of its ancient lineage, preserves diverse cultures and traditions. Experience the renowned Coffee Ceremony, a sensory delight for coffee and food lovers. Uncover a culture unscathed by modernization, where preservation of heritage is paramount.

Safe and Easy Travel with African Fixer

Travelling within Ethiopia is generally safe. The Bole Airport in the capital, Addis Ababa, connects you to various destinations in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. However, the mountainous landscape may necessitate logistics support for transporting film equipment, with African Fixer ensuring a seamless experience. Obtain filming permits from the Ministry Of Tourism, and navigate local authorities with the assistance of African Fixer. In remote locations, police escorts may be required, primarily due to the instability in Eritrea.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Ethiopia, guided by African Fixer, and weave captivating stories against a backdrop of ancient history, cultural diversity, and awe-inspiring landscapes.