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Weather
Addis Ababa sits at 2,355 m, so it's mild all year: warm, sunny days around 20 to 25°C and cool nights. The big rains fall from June to September; October to February is dry and bright.
Next 7 days in Addis
The year in Addis
Average rain (bars) with the day's high and the night's low.
Rain in mm per month. Long-term averages, rounded.
- Dry seasonBegaOctober to FebruarySunny and dry, cold nights. The best time to visit, with Meskel and Timkat.
- Short rainsBelgMarch to MayWarmest months, with afternoon showers now and then.
- Main rainsKiremtJune to SeptemberHeavy rain most afternoons, cool and green. Some rural roads close.
Outside Addis
Ethiopia's altitude changes everything: the lowlands are hot, the mountains cold.
- Danakil DepressionOne of the hottest places on Earth: often above 40°C by day. Go between November and March.
- Simien and Bale MountainsAbove 3,000 m. Nights can drop to around freezing, so bring a warm jacket and hat.
- Lalibela and GondarHighlands like Addis: mild days and cold nights.
- Omo Valley and the southLow and hot, often 30°C or more. Rain from March to May can close dirt roads.
- Dire Dawa and the eastHot and dry, with hot winds from May to September.
Good to know
- Bring a warm coat or fleece, even in the dry season: mornings and evenings in Addis can drop below 10°C, and the mountains are colder.
- Pack light clothes too. Ethiopia has very different climates: the lowlands, the Rift Valley lakes and the east are hot, and even parts of Addis feel warm at midday.
- Forecasts here are often off, so don't rely on them. Pack layers you can add or take off, and you'll be ready for anything from 5°C to 35°C.
- The sun is strong at this altitude even when it feels cool. Wear sunscreen and a hat.
- From June to September, carry an umbrella or rain jacket; showers usually come in the afternoon.
- The altitude can leave you breathless or with a headache on day one. Drink plenty of water and take it slow.