Ethiopia: when to go?
tropical des hautes terres climate
Ethiopia offers a unique high altitude tropical climate, tempered by its elevated terrain. The country experiences three distinct seasons: the dry season from November to May with pleasant temperatures and clear skies, the short rainy season from March to May with light showers, and the long rainy season from June to September marked by heavy rainfall. The Ethiopian highlands benefit from a particularly mild climate year-round, with temperatures rarely reaching extreme heat thanks to the altitude. The ideal period to discover Ethiopia extends from October to March, when rains cease and lush landscapes offer perfect conditions for exploring the churches of Lalibela, the Simien Mountains, or the Rift Valley. Absolutely avoid the long rainy season, which makes roads impassable and significantly limits tourist activities.
- Best period
- October to March
- Good alternatives
- April to May, September
- Rainy season
- June to August
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
Ethiopian Highlands
FavorableThe Ethiopian highlands, situated between 1,500 and 3,000 meters in altitude, concentrate the majority of tourist sites....
Historic Triangle of the North
FavorableOmo Valley and Southern Peoples
FairDanakil Depression
FairSimien and Bale Mountains
FavorableAddis Ababa and central highlands
FavorableMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
2° — 36°C
Precipitation
11 mm
Average temperature
2.4°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Perfect conditions for trekking and visiting historical sites. Cool nights, sunny days.
Temperature
2° — 38°C
Precipitation
17 mm
Average temperature
2.7°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Excellent for wildlife observation and excursions. Ideal daytime temperatures.
Temperature
4° — 40°C
Precipitation
48 mm
Average temperature
2.9°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Light rains beginning but conditions still favorable. Landscapes turning green.
Temperature
5° — 42°C
Precipitation
84 mm
Average temperature
3°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Short but frequent showers. Great period for photography of lush green landscapes.
Temperature
6° — 45°C
Precipitation
95 mm
Average temperature
3°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
End of the light rains, preparation for the main monsoon season. Still suitable for tourism.
Temperature
6° — 46°C
Precipitation
124 mm
Average temperature
2.8°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Beginning of heavy rainfall. Difficult road conditions, outdoor activities limited.
Temperature
6° — 45°C
Precipitation
196 mm
Average temperature
2.7°C
Rating
Not recommended
By climate zone
Daily torrential rainfall. Travel extremely difficult, many sites inaccessible.
Temperature
6° — 44°C
Precipitation
212 mm
Average temperature
2.7°C
Rating
Not recommended
By climate zone
Wettest period of the year. Transport and accommodation challenging.
Temperature
6° — 42°C
Precipitation
119 mm
Average temperature
2.7°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Rainfall is gradually decreasing. Conditions remain challenging for tourism.
Temperature
5° — 40°C
Precipitation
38 mm
Average temperature
2.6°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Favorable weather returns. Lush landscapes after the rains.
Temperature
3° — 37°C
Precipitation
15 mm
Average temperature
2.4°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Excellent conditions to start a trip. Perfect visibility on the mountains.
Temperature
2° — 35°C
Precipitation
10 mm
Average temperature
2.3°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Exceptional conditions for tourism. Pure air and maximum brightness.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit Ethiopia
The best months to visit Ethiopia are October, November, December, January, February, March. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
Yes, the tropical climate of Ethiopia remains warm and humid year-round (average temperature 16.5°C). Seasonal variations mainly concern rainfall rather than temperatures.
The rainy season in Ethiopia mainly affects June, July, August. Showers are generally short and intense, often occurring late in the day, followed by beautiful sunny spells.
Absolutely. Traveling in Ethiopia during the rainy season even has its advantages: lush landscapes, fewer tourists, more favorable rates. Our local agency adapts itineraries based on actual weather conditions.
Underwater visibility in Ethiopia is optimal during the dry season, between October, November, December, January, February, March. Water temperature remains pleasant year-round (around 28-30°C). Our agency guides you to the best spots according to the season.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in Ethiopia, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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