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Guide
Gonder, Ethiopia πͺπΉ
#1823
,
Nomad Score:
48%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Gonder is a historic city in northern Ethiopia, known for its ancient castles and rich cultural heritage. |
π₯ Population | Approximate population is around 200,000. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is about 10-15 Mbps depending on the provider. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 48 Ethiopian Birr. Local banks include Dashen Bank and Awash International Bank. |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable. Bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | 220V, 50Hz, π Type C/E sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Ethio Telecom is the main provider offering prepaid SIM options for locals and expats. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Visa and Mastercard are accepted in major banks and some shops. |
π Accommodation | Airbnb and local guesthouses are available. Average nightly rates range from $20 to $50. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Limited cashless options, cash is primarily used. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses offer short-term options, starting from $20 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options like Goha Hotel provide budget lodging starting at $15 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The city center near the Royal Enclosure is recommended for tourists. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The area near Fasil Ghebbi offers more amenities suitable for longer stays. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | There arenβt established coworking spaces, but shared spaces like cafes are available for work. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Gondar CafΓ© offers a peaceful setting and decent Wi-Fi for remote work. |
πΌ Networking Events | Social media groups often organize informal meetups. Check local Facebook groups for updates. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Look for expat meetups or events at local cafes or hotels. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available, and you can use the ride-hailing service 'Safaricom' for convenience. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Limited options for rentals; consider local bike shops for short term needs. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Around 2 hours drive to Lake Tana, which offers scenic views and beaches. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Ethiopian Airlines offers domestic flights to nearby locations. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Ethiopian Airlines operates flights from Gonder to Addis Ababa and international destinations. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | The main highway connects Gonder with Addis Ababa and other major cities. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Gonder does not have a train station; bus services are the main transit option. |
π Public Transport Passes | No specific transit pass system, but local buses operate regularly. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses and minivans (called 'Higer buses') frequently travel between cities. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Chorlee Hospital is a recommended facility for health services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited options, but some hotels offer basic wellness services. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness centers are available at major hotels, such as the Goha Hotel. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Many guesthouses offer laundry services for a fee. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Locally, food delivery services are minimal; using phone orders and local restaurants is common. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try Doro Wat, a spicy chicken stew served with injera. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Local restaurants serve vegetarian dishes, typical of Ethiopian cuisine. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Try local sweets at cafΓ©s like the Gondar CafΓ©. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Visit the central market for affordable local ingredients and produce. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Limited; local online marketplaces are emerging but still developing. |
π Grocery Delivery | Few grocery stores; delivery is not common, buy directly in local markets. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The area around the city center offers local bars like the Florida Bar. |
π» Local Brewery | Beverage factories in the area offer local beers; try St. George's Beer. |
π· Wine Bars | Local bars occasionally feature Ethiopian wines; try Anwar Wine. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street vendors sell injera and various local fast food items throughout the market area. |
π Popular International Cuisine | There are a few restaurants serving Italian and Asian cuisine, particularly in the city center. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Fasil Ghebbi - a UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic castles. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Gonder Museum showcases local history and artifacts. |
π° Historical Sites | The Royal Enclosure contains several castles from the 17th century. |
π Religious Sites | St. George's Church is notable for its stunning architecture. |
π Annual Events | Timkat (Epiphany) is celebrated with vibrant processions every January. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Explore the old town for a mix of historical architecture and local culture. |
π Theater Venues | Local performances sometimes occur in community centers. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The Gonder Market is vibrant and showcases local crafts and foods. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music is found in local bars, especially traditional Ethiopian music. |
π¨ Street Art | Emerging street art in urban areas reflects local culture. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Limited options; inquire locally for traditional Ethiopian cooking classes. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Few galleries exist; you may find local artists selling work in the market. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Notable buildings include the Falasha Village and the historical castles. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Gonderβs heritage is showcased in its language, Amharic, and in its unique traditions. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Simien Mountains National Park, about a 2-hour drive away, offers stunning landscapes. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Simien Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking views. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Walking and cycling paths are found around Lake Tana, perfect for outdoor activities. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Kahsay's viewpoint offers picturesque views of the city and surrounding landscape. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching is popular in Simien Mountains National Park, home to endemic species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain areas along Lake Tana are suitable for picnics and bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Local post office offers parcel delivery services, but limited international options. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Basic tech repair services are available in local shops. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Some community centers have table tennis facilities. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language schools are sparse; private tutors may be available. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Few public libraries exist; cafes are common places to study. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Community centers often host local events and gatherings. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Find local gaming spots at youth clubs, but options are limited. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Gonder does not have casinos; local games for entertainment are played. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $20,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $400 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $16,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $600 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $36,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $450 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $27,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $550 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $44,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $400 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $32,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 25%. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 10%. |
π¦ Tax System | Ethiopia has a progressive tax system based on income. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 35%. |
π§Ύ VAT | 15%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No specific rules targeting foreign companies. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax based on assessed property value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | 2% when purchasing property. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Ethiopia offers a visa for business, but tax obligations remain according to local laws. |