Best time to visit Ethiopia

Visiting Ethiopia in February & March

The hot weather continues in to February, with long, clear days. This is the best time to visit the cultural north of Ethiopia, in particular the rock-hewn churches at Lalibela.

In March, the temperature begins to cool slightly, but there is still little rain. Visit the Bale Mountains in the south to see Ethiopian wolf on the Sanetti Plateau.

Visiting Ethiopia in April & May

The climate remains cooler, making this a great time to visit the rock-hewn churches and archaeological sites in the north.

Don’t miss the Palm Sunday celebrations in Aksum, or the Easter Celebrations at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa.

Visiting Ethiopia in June

The rains begin in Ethiopia’s north. Now is a good time to visit the southern tribes, where the rainy season tends to run from March to the end of May.

Visiting Ethiopia in July & August

This is the best time to visit the Omo Valley tribes in Ethiopia’s south west region. Here, the climate remains dry and hot throughout July and August.

Visiting Ethiopia in September

After the long rains, Ethiopia’s landscape becomes green and lush. This is a great time of year to see endemic flora in the Simien Mountains. As this is the end of the wet season, some rain should be expected.

Don’t miss Ethiopian New Year on 11 September, or the Meskel celebrations in Lalibela on 26 September.

Visiting Ethiopia in October

The rains have ended, and the landscapes remain lush. This is a good time to visit Bahir Dar – Lake Tana and the Blue Nile Falls are in full flow.

Visiting Ethiopia in November

November brings sunny skies with cool nights and mornings. This is without doubt the best time for bird-watching in the Simien and Bale Mountains.

Don’t miss the Hidar Tsion Festival (the celebration of St Mary) in Aksum at the end of November.

Visiting Ethiopia in December

This is arguably the best time of year to visit the Ethiopia’s cultural north. We also recommend a visit to the Danakil Depression now – a contender for the world’s hottest place.