service production in ethiopia

Filming in Ethiopia

Here’s How Fixer in Ethiopia Can Help

Love your morning cup of Joe? You’ve got Ethiopia to thank for that. It’s believed a mountain goat herder noticed his animals had a bigger bounce in their step after chomping down on a certain bush. Deciding to have a taste himself, the magic of coffee beans was discovered! In a country known for its warm, story-loving people, you’ll surely hear this fact and many more from your fixer in Ethiopia! But here are some more film-related details you’ll need to be aware of when filming in Ethiopia:

Visa for Ethiopia

To start shooting here, you must first get a visa. All foreign production staff will need to apply for an Ethiopian visa. These are relatively easy to obtain, though there will be a fee depending on the country you’re applying from. It’s best to rely on an expert from Fixer in Ethiopia to ensure that visa applications are correctly filled out with all necessary documentation attached.  The Ethiopian Embassy in your own country will have the most up-to-date information on how to apply, so keep an eye on their website. 

Film Permits in Ethiopia

The best way for you to obtain film permits to shoot in this stunning East African country is by working with a specialist fixer in Ethiopia. Any foreign production company wishing to film in the country must submit a written application to the Ministry of Information. This application has to include full company and production details highlighting the purpose, duration, and costs of the production. A copy of the script or production synopsis along with equipment lists must be included. 

Special equipment
renting info

Our film fixer in Ethiopia has extensive contacts with local film rental companies in the country. Because it’s not always easy to find the right equipment on time and within budget, they can take care of all the details to ensure you get what you need whether it’s a full camera kit, lights, or sound equipment. Additionally, the fact that we regularly do business with these companies means that we’re able to secure low costs and deals on rental fees. 

Cultural facts

Ethiopia has over 80 different ethnic groups with distinct cultural practices and languages. Luckily, English is the most widely understood foreign language with many local people speaking it. If you are chatting to Ethiopian locals, however, it’s a good idea to stay away from sensitive political conversations. 

You may also notice a strong community spirit within the small villages and crowded urban settlements most people live in. This is known as mahiberawi nuro’, or ‘collective life’, wherein relatives and neighbors share, support, and watch over each other. 

Weather when filming in Ethiopia

The rainy season in Ethiopia runs from April to September, while the dry season is from October to May. However, the best time for filming in Ethiopia is from January to March, when you can expect clear, sunny days that aren’t too hot. That said, it’s important to be aware that if you’re filming in the south and south-east, both experience scorching heat throughout the year. Bring plenty of sun cream, protect your skin, and keep hydrated at all times.

Tax rebate in Ethiopia

Currently, there are no tax rebates or cash incentives for film productions in this African country. However, filming in Ethiopia may be a lot cheaper than in many other foreign locations. Certainly, your fixer in Ethiopia can ensure that you get the best deals on equipment and other rentals, as well as securing comfortable accommodation and transport at lower costs. This comes down to the great reputation and strong relationships we have with others in the Ethiopian film sector.

Filming in Ethiopia

Filming in Ethiopia is a thrilling experience. The different terrains, climates, and unique history offer extraordinary locations and backdrops. Managing visas and getting film permits so that you can film in the country is relatively easy but we would still recommend better using an in-the-know fixer in Ethiopia to ensure you fill out the applications correctly.  

Additionally, once you’re in the country, using a company such as Fixer in Ethiopia will make the logistics of filming so much easier and stress-free.

Our guys on the ground know how to find the best film gear and negotiate good deals. They also understand how to deal with local communities, especially when accessing those hard-to-get-to areas that make the perfect location for your film project. 

filming in ethiopia
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