Ethiopian Tour Operators Association ETOA

14/08/2024

Ethiopian Tour Operators Association (ETOA) delighted to invite you to a landmark event celebrating the launch of our new website and brand, and to announce our membership with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This significant occasion will take place at the Dreamline Hotel on August 19, 2024, beginning at 4:00 PM.
Please register to attend the event using the link below.

Ethiopian Tour Operators Association

12/06/2024

ETOA Becomes Newest Affiliate Member of UNWTO

The Ethiopian Tour Operators Association (ETOA) achieved a historic milestone by becoming an Affiliate Member of the UNWTO during the organization's 121st Executive Council meeting in Barcelona. ETOA's membership elevates Ethiopia's representation in global tourism and creates avenues for promoting the country's cultural attractions and spurring inclusive economic development through the tourism sector.

BARCELONA (EFE) - The Ethiopian Tour Operators Association (ETOA) achieved a major milestone by being accepted as the newest Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) during the 121st UNWTO Executive Council meeting held June 10-11 in Barcelona, Spain.

ETOA's inclusion marks the first time an Ethiopian private sector tourism body has joined the UNWTO, signifying an important step in raising the country's profile in the global tourism industry. As an Affiliate Member, ETOA will be able to engage directly with UNWTO leadership and promote Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage and natural attractions.

"This is a proud day for Ethiopian tourism," said ETOA President Fitsum Gezahegne Lakew, who headed the delegation attending the Barcelona meeting along with board members Bogale Abey Mesfin and Yared Mulugeta Endale. "UNWTO membership allows our voice to be heard on the world stage as we showcase all that our country has to offer", added Fitsum.

ETOA's membership application was approved alongside other key decisions aimed at accelerating sustainable tourism growth worldwide. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili welcomed Ethiopia's participation, stating the organization looks forward to collaborating with ETOA.

For the East African nation, ETOA's UNWTO affiliation represents an opportunity to access expert resources, share best practices with industry leaders, and promote Ethiopia as a top destination. It also aligns with national economic development goals and initiatives.

During the council meeting, Pololikashvili emphasized the UNWTO's focus on promoting peace through tourism, building resilience against global challenges, ensuring sustainability, and making tourism an inclusive force for economic development.

16/04/2024

የኢትዮጵያ ቱር ኦፕሬተርስ አሶስየሽን መልካም የሸዋል ዒድ በዓል እንዲሆንላችሁ ይመኛል፡፡

28/03/2024

Successful B2B Tourism Event in China Highlights Ethiopia's Potential

The Ethiopian Tour Operators Association (ETOA) participated in a highly productive B2B tourism event in China alongside the Ethiopian Embassy and Ethiopian Airlines. The event aimed to showcase Ethiopia's immense potential as a travel destination to Chinese tour operators.

The event was organized by the Ethiopian Embassy in China in collaboration with ETOA. H.E. Ambassador Tefera Deribew - Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to China, delivered an insightful speech highlighting the rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and untapped opportunities that Ethiopia offers to visitors.

Ambassador Dawano Kedir, Deputy Head of Mission at the Ethiopian Embassy, and Ms. Xianli Audrey, Ethiopian Airlines China Marketing Manager, professionally conducted the moderation and introduction.

Mr. Fitsum Gezahegne, President of ETOA, also took the stage to provide an overview of Ethiopia's thriving tourism industry and the professionalism of the country's tour operators. He emphasized ETOA's commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences that immerse guests in the authentic local cultures.

Representatives from prominent Ethiopian tour companies had the chance to engage directly with Chinese operators, fostering valuable business connections. Discussions centered around potential partnership opportunities, customized tour packages, and strategies to cater to the growing interest from Chinese travelers.

Ethiopian Airlines, the flag carrier of Ethiopia, plays a crucial role in facilitating travel between the two countries. Their extensive flight network and excellent service ensure seamless connectivity for Chinese tourists visiting Ethiopia.

The B2B event served as a powerful platform for strengthening tourism ties between Ethiopia and China. As a result, both nations anticipate a surge in cultural exchange and economic growth fueled by increased travel and exploration.

ETOA extends its gratitude to the Ethiopian Embassy in China, Ethiopian Airlines, and all participants for their contributions towards promoting Ethiopia as an exceptional travel destination in the Chinese market.

28/03/2024

Russian and Ethiopian Tour Operators Team Up

In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - A delegation from a prominent Russian tour agency visited the Ethiopian capital this week to meet with local tour operators. Their objective was to discuss ways of increasing tourist exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.

Aleksi Pliushchev, the CEO of INRUSSIA TRAVEL, highlighted the opportunities for Russian tourists in Ethiopia, including its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and historical sites. Similarly, he expressed that Ethiopian tourists would find Russia's architectural wonders and top-notch museums fascinating.

The talks included planning tour packages that would showcase each country’s highlights. For Russians visiting Ethiopia, suggested plans featured visits to the ancient churches of Lalibela, the breathtaking Simien Mountains, and the historic sites in Aksum. For Ethiopians heading to Russia, the focus was on Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the historically significant cities of the Golden Ring.

In a move to boost tourism, both sides agreed on joint marketing initiatives and 'familiarization' trips for tour operators to sample each other’s tourism offerings. They also planned to take advantage of the different peak seasons between the two countries.

Ato Fitsum Gezahagne, president of the Ethiopian Tour Operators Association (ETOA), welcomed the prospect of increased Russian visitors and the chance for Ethiopians to explore Russia's rich heritage. He emphasized that stronger collaboration would benefit both tourism sectors. They decided to share more details about Russia's tourism attractions with ETOA members and to provide contact information of the Russian tour operators for those interested.

07/02/2024

It is with great pleasure that we introduce Ato Tegene Hailegiyorgis, who has been appointed as the new manager of ETOA. Following an extensive and meticulous selection process, Ato Tegene assumes this pivotal role, effective from 1st February 2024. We extend our warmest congratulations to Ato Tegene and wish him every success in his new position. Please welcome him.

28/12/2023

ETOA MEETING WITH KEY STAKEHOLDERS IN LALIBELA

ETOA had a substantial meeting last Saturday with key stakeholders in Lalibela, including the newly appointed administrator of St. Lalibela Monastery, Aba Hiriyakos, Lalibela's Mayor, Ato Wondimu, and Lasta’s representative at FDRE House of Representatives (Parliament), Wzo. Kidist, in Addis. We addressed critical issues such as entrance fees, service standards, local guides, town "harassments", Lidet (Christmas), Timket celebrations, and security concerns.

We are pleased to announce consensus on three pivotal points:

1. Acknowledging the untimeliness of the fee increase and recognizing areas for improvement in local guiding and
"harassment" issues, we commit to regular meetings to collaboratively elevate Lalibela into a premier tourist destination.

2. ETOA will take the lead in orchestrating comprehensive training sessions for both the church community and other key stakeholders in the town. The primary goal is to augment their understanding of tourism intricacies and elevate their service standards. This collaborative effort underscores our commitment to fostering an environment of continuous improvement, ensuring that all involved parties contribute to an enriched and elevated experience for visitors.

3. In harmony with the church and local government's efforts to ensure peaceful Lidet and Timket celebrations, we unite to attract visitors during this short timeframe.

Rest assured, the security situation in the area has been guaranteed for the upcoming holidays. We urge you to maintain travel plans to Lalibela and encourage both groups and individual visitors. To those promoting domestic tours, please actively support and inspire locals to explore this culturally rich destination. Your cooperation is pivotal in realizing our shared vision for Lalibela's tourism development.

16/11/2023

ETOA has posted job openings in the Reporter Amharic for General Manager and Airport Agent positions

10/11/2023

Tourism and Hospitality exhibition closing day

30/10/2023

🌟 ETOA's New Endeavors: Honoring Pioneers of Ethiopian Tourism 🌟

In commemoration of World Tourism Day, ETOA is embarking on a mission to pay tribute to those who have been instrumental in the growth of Ethiopian tourism. In partnership with FBC FM Addis 97.1, we presented a special discussion dedicated to the late Ato Habtesilassie Tafesse, often regarded as the father of Ethiopian Tourism.

Legends Ato Timket Wodajo and Ato Mathewos GebreMariam regale us with their cherished memories of this visionary figure.

Below, you'll find a glimpse of the captivating moments captured during their interview. 📸👇

19/10/2023

ETOA and ATTA networking event
Inaugural ETOA and ATTA meeting was held on October 16, 2023, at the Ministry of Tourism in Addis Ababa. The distinguished heads of ATTA grace the occasion, culminated in the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Ethiopian Tour Operators Association (ETOA) and African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA). It provided a unique opportunity for ETOA members to establish direct connections with ATTA member outbound tour operators.
ATTA, the African Travel & Tourism Association, is a dynamic trade association dedicated to promoting tourism to Africa on a global scale. Serving as the recognized Voice of African Tourism, ATTA actively supports businesses across 21 African countries, representing both buyers and suppliers of tourism products. Boasting a membership exceeding 630, ATTA stands as the largest network of tourism products in Pan-Africa.