Staying connected with family, friends, and business partners in Ethiopia is important for many people living abroad. Whether you’re cheap calls to Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, Mekelle, or other regions, international calling costs can quickly become expensive without the right service.
In 2026, there are many apps that offer affordable international calling options. In this guide, we compare the best apps for cheap calls to Ethiopia, their features, benefits, and which option may be right for you.
What to Look for in an International Calling App
Before choosing an app, consider:
- Per-minute rates to Ethiopia
- Call quality and network stability
- Hidden fees or connection charges
- Ability to call landlines and mobile numbers
- Internet dependency
If the person you’re calling does not have strong internet access, you’ll need an app or service that can call real mobile or landline numbers.
1. WhatsApp – Best for Free App-to-App Calls
WhatsApp is one of the most widely used communication apps worldwide. It allows free voice and video calls if both users have the app and internet access.
Pros:
- Free calls and texts
- Easy to use
- Good call quality on Wi-Fi
Cons:
- Cannot call Ethiopian landlines directly
- Requires stable internet on both sides
Best for: Families where both sides use smartphones and Wi-Fi.
2. Skype – Reliable for Landlines & Mobiles
Skype remains a strong choice for international calls. It offers affordable rates to Ethiopian mobile and landline numbers.
Pros:
- all real phone numbers
- Subscription and pay-as-you-go options
- Good reliability
Cons:
- Requires credits
- Internet dependent
- Best for: Users who want flexible pricing options.
3. Viber (Viber Out)
Viber offers free calls between users and paid “Viber Out” services to call mobile and landline numbers internationally.
Pros:
- Low per-minute rates
- Simple interface
- Global availability
Cons:
- Rates vary
- Internet quality affects call clarity
4. Rebtel – Good for Low Internet Areas
Rebtel is known for connecting calls through local lines in some cases, which improves quality even when internet is weak.
Pros:
- More stable connections
- Call real numbers
- Simple pricing
Cons:
- Subscription may be required
Best for: Areas with unstable internet.
5. Google Voice
Google Voice offers competitive cheap international calls rates Ethiopia, especially for U.S.-based users.
Pros:
- Clear pricing
- Reliable quality
- Easy account management
Cons:
- Limited availability in some countries
Best for: U.S. residents cheap calls to Ethiopia.
6. Amantel International Calling Services
If you prefer a prepaid calling solution instead of fully internet-based apps, Amantel provides affordable international calling rates to Ethiopia.
Why choose Amantel?
- Competitive per-minute pricing
- No hidden fees
- Works 24/7
- Clear call quality
- No long-term contracts
Amantel is ideal if you want to call Ethiopia landlines and mobile numbers directly without worrying about internet issues.
Best for: Frequent callers who want stable, low-cost connections.
How to Cheap Calls to Ethiopia from Abroad
To call Ethiopia:
- Dial your country’s exit code (e.g., 011 from USA)
- Dial Ethiopia’s country code: +251
- Enter area code (without leading zero)
- Dial local number
Example: 011 + 251 + Area Code + Phone Number
Tips to Save Money on Cheap Calls to Ethiopia
- Compare per-minute rates before choosing an app
- Use Wi-Fi instead of mobile data
- Avoid apps with hidden connection fees
- Look for promotional offers
- Consider prepaid packages for regular calls
Conclusion: –
The best app for cheap calls to Ethiopia in 2026 depends on your needs:
- For free app-to-app calls → WhatsApp
- For calling landlines/mobile numbers → Skype or Viber
- For stable prepaid international calling → Amantel
Choosing the right service can significantly reduce your international calling costs while ensuring clear and reliable communication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Calling Ethiopia
1. What is the country code for Ethiopia?
The country code for Ethiopia is +251. When calling from the USA, dial 011 + 251 + area code + local number.
2. What is the cheapest way to cheap calls to Ethiopia?
The cheapest way depends on your situation. If both users have internet access, apps like WhatsApp offer free calls. For calling landlines or mobiles, prepaid calling services or apps with low per-minute rates are usually more affordable.
3. Can I call Ethiopian mobile numbers using calling apps?
Yes, apps like Skype, Viber, and prepaid calling services allow you to call Ethiopian mobile numbers. However, you may need to purchase credits.
4. Do I need internet to cheap calls to Ethiopia?
If you use internet-based apps like WhatsApp or Skype, you need Wi-Fi or mobile data. Prepaid calling card services may not require strong internet, depending on how they operate.
5. Are there hidden charges in international calling apps?
Some apps may include connection fees, subscription costs, or rate differences for mobile vs. landline calls. Always check pricing details before purchasing credits.
6. Which option is best for frequent cheap calls to Ethiopia?
For regular long conversations, prepaid calling services with competitive per-minute rates are often the most cost-effective and reliable option.