How to Enter Ethiopia with a Foreign Vehicle via Moyale Border Crossing 

Bringing your own vehicle into Ethiopia is an unforgettable way to experience the country’s rugged landscapes and rich cultural heritage. However, due to updated regulations, entering Ethiopia with a foreign-registered car or motorcycle now involves a detailed process, especially at the Moyale border crossing with Kenya and Galafi, Dewale border crossing from Djibouti.

If you’re planning an African overland adventure or completing a transcontinental ride, this guide explains how to get in and out of Ethiopia with your foreign vehicle.

Can You Enter Ethiopia with a Foreign registered Vehicle?

Yes, but a Carnet de Passage is no longer accepted. Ethiopia now requires foreign vehicle owners to partner with a licensed Ethiopian tour operator Like ”our self ” who will act as your local sponsor and handle the customs process.

Guide: How to Enter Ethiopia with a Foreign Vehicle

1. Partner with a Licensed Ethiopian Tour Operator

• • • You must first sign a contract with a recognized tour company in Ethiopia.
    • The tour company serves as your official sponsor and will manage all documentation required for customs clearance.
      

2. Great Ethiopian Tours Gets Approval from the Ministry of Tourism

• • • The operator submits your information (passport, vehicle details, entry date) to the Ethiopian Ministry of Tourism.
    • They issue a permission letter allowing you to enter Ethiopia with your vehicle

3. Visit the Ethiopian Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, Or Djibouti

• • • Bring the permission letter to the Ethiopian Embassy in Nairobi.
    • The embassy issues an official entry letter, addressed to Ethiopian customs authorities.
    • If yo are already at the border, we can communicate with the Ethiopian Embassy in Nirobi on behalf of you.

4. Send the Embassy Letter to Your Tour Company

• • • You must email or hand over a copy of the Nairobi embassy letter to your tour operator in Ethiopia.
    • If yo are already at the border, we can communicate with the Ethiopian Embassy in Nirobi on behalf of you.

5. Tour Operator Applies for a Temporary Import Permit (TIP)

• • • Your sponsor submits all documents to Addis Ababa Customs.
    • Customs then processes your Temporary Import Permit (TIP)

6. Customs Sends Approval to Moyale Border

• • • Once the TIP is granted: You receive a copy of the approval letter. and the customs office in Addis Ababa also sends a notification to Moyale border customs.

7. Crossing at Moyale

• • • When you arrive at the Moyale border, bring printed copies of: All letters (Tourism Ministry, Embassy, Customs), Your passport, visa, and vehicle documents.

    • Customs officials will inspect your vehicle and issue the official TIP, allowing you legal temporary entry.

Exiting Ethiopia Without the Vehicle (e.g., flying out)

• If you plan to leave Ethiopia by air while your vehicle remains, you must notify your tour company and customs in advance.

• You may be required to declare the vehicle’s storage location or hand over the TIP temporarily to avoid penalties.

• Failure to comply may lead to fines or seizure of your bond (if applicable).