The 867-kilometer border between Ethiopia and Kenya is a remote and rugged frontier, a journey into a fascinating and culturally rich part of East Africa. For decades, this was one of the most challenging overland routes on the continent, but a newly paved highway has transformed it into an accessible, if still adventurous, journey.
The one and only official crossing is at the town of Moyale, which is split in two by the border. The “Great North Road” from Nairobi to Moyale is now paved, making the long journey much faster and more comfortable than in the past.
Moyale is a fascinating melting pot of cultures, where the diverse peoples of southern Ethiopia meet the pastoralist communities of northern Kenya. The border operates as a One-Stop Border Post, with a large, modern facility that streamlines the immigration and customs process for both countries in a single building.
Despite the new road, this remains a journey for the prepared. The distances are vast, and the region is still remote. You should be self-sufficient with supplies and aware of the local security situation, which can be affected by inter-communal tensions. It is a rewarding route that offers a look at a rapidly changing corner of Africa.