The climate of Ethiopia
Ethiopia, a landlocked country in the eastern part of Africa, offers a varied geography, making the climate in this country equally diverse. Its terrain ranges from the hot and arid Afar Depression, which is below sea level, to the chilly heights of the Semien Mountains, which go beyond 4,500 meters above sea level. The three primary climatic zones in Ethiopia are the Dega (Alpine vegetated zones), Weyna Dega (Temperate zone), and Qola (Hot zone). Dega, the coldest region, sits over 2,600 meters above sea level with temperatures around 16°C (60.8°F). The temperate Weyna Dega lies between 1,500 and 2,500 meters above sea level with temperatures between 16°C (60.8°F) and 30°C (86°F), and the hot Qola zone features temperatures from 27°C (80.6°F) to 50°C (122°F). The country follows a distinct seasonal pattern of Bega (
October to
January), Belg (
February to
May), and Kiremt (
June to
September).
The best time to visit Ethiopia
The best time to visit
Ethiopia is usually from
October to
January, during the Bega season. This is when the country experiences its driest conditions, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring Ethiopia's natural and cultural heritage. During this period, daytime temperatures in the highlands range between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F), providing pleasant weather for treks in the Simien and Bale Mountains. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that temperatures can fall at night, especially in higher-altitude regions. This period also coincides with many traditional festivals, allowing visitors to experience the country's rich culture.
The worst time to visit Ethiopia
The most challenging time to visit
Ethiopia is during the rainy season, known as Kiremt, which runs from
June to
September. Heavy rainfall during this time can make certain roads impassable, particularly in the highlands where landslides can occur. The rain also creates challenging conditions for trekking and other outdoor activities. In the lowland and hot regions, temperatures during this period can rise from 27°C (80.6°F) to 50°C (122°F), making these areas uncomfortable for visitors not accustomed to such heat. Despite these conditions, some travelers still venture to Ethiopia during the rainy season to witness the landscapes in their lush green state.
Spring weather in Ethiopia
Ethiopia's spring, or Belg season, runs from
February to
May. This is a short rainy season that primarily affects the highland areas. Temperatures in the highland regions typically remain cool, from 16°C (60.8°F) to 20°C (68°F), whereas in the lowlands, they can range between 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). Rainfall tends to be more moderate than in the Kiremt season, typically falling in short, heavy showers in the afternoon or evening. The countryside begins to transform during this season, with a noticeable greening of the landscapes.
Summer weather in Ethiopia
Ethiopia's summer, also known as the Kiremt season, extends from
June to
September. This is the main rainy season, with the most precipitation recorded in
July and
August. During this time, heavy and often relentless rainfall affects the highlands, while lowland areas experience fewer showers. Temperatures in the highlands during this season are cool to mild, generally between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F). Meanwhile, the lowland areas experience much warmer temperatures, ranging from 30°C (86°F) to 50°C (122°F).
Autumn weather in Ethiopia
The autumn season, corresponding to the early part of the Bega season, starts in
October and continues through to
November. It is generally a dry period throughout the country, with cooler temperatures in the highlands, between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F), and warmer conditions in the lowlands, where temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). This is an excellent time to visit
Ethiopia, as the landscapes are still green from the rains, and the cooler temperatures provide comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
Winter weather in Ethiopia
Ethiopia's winter season falls in the Bega period, extending from
December to
January. This season is the driest part of the year, with minimal rainfall throughout the country. In the highlands, temperatures can range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), while in the lowlands, the thermometer often shows readings between 25°C (77°F) and 35°C (95°F). This time of the year is ideal for visitors who want to explore Ethiopia's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage without the hindrance of heavy rains.
Weather in January
January falls within
Ethiopia's Bega season, which is known as the driest period of the year. During this month, rainfall is minimal throughout the country, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities. In the capital city, Addis Ababa, which sits at an altitude of 2,355 meters, temperatures are typically mild with highs averaging 23°C (73.4°F) and lows hovering near 7°C (44.6°F).
Weather in January » Weather in February
February in
Ethiopia is characterized by generally dry and sunny weather, as the country continues through the Bega season. The lack of rainfall during this month provides suitable conditions for outdoor exploration and sightseeing. In Addis Ababa, the capital, the climate remains relatively cool, with average high temperatures around 23°C (73.4°F) and lows around 9°C (48.2°F).
Weather in February » Weather in March
In
Ethiopia,
March ushers in a transition period, as the country starts to move from the Bega (dry season) towards the Belg (short rainy season). In Addis Ababa, the temperatures remain mild and pleasant, with averages ranging between 11°C (51.8°F) and 25°C (77°F).
Weather in March »Weather in April
April in
Ethiopia marks the heart of the Belg (short rainy season), especially in the highlands. However, the showers are usually brief and typically occur in the late afternoon, leaving plenty of time for sightseeing. In Addis Ababa, temperatures are comfortable, averaging between 11°C (51.8°F) and 25°C (77°F).
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Ethiopia signifies the end of the Belg (short rainy season) and the transition towards the Kiremt (main rainy season). Addis Ababa, during May, experiences temperatures that average between 11°C (51.8°F) and 25°C (77°F).
Weather in May » Weather in June
June signifies the onset of the Kiremt, the main rainy season, in
Ethiopia. The rains during this season are heavier and more frequent than during the Belg, particularly in the highland regions. In Addis Ababa, the temperature stays fairly steady with averages ranging from 11°C (51.8°F) to 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in June » Weather in July
July in
Ethiopia marks the height of the Kiremt season, the country's primary rainy season, particularly in the highland areas. Addis Ababa sees average temperatures fluctuating between 11°C (51.8°F) and 21°C (69.8°F).
Weather in July » Weather in August
August is deep within the Kiremt season in
Ethiopia, characterized by substantial rainfall, especially in the highland areas. In Addis Ababa, temperatures stay relatively stable, averaging between 11°C (51.8°F) and 21°C (69.8°F).
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Ethiopia signifies the end of the Kiremt season, the country's primary rainy season. Rainfall begins to taper off, especially towards the end of the month. In Addis Ababa, temperatures average between 11°C (51.8°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in September » Weather in October
October in
Ethiopia marks the transition into the Bega season, known as the dry season. Rainfall decreases significantly across the country, paving the way for more predictable weather conditions. In Addis Ababa, temperatures range between 11°C (51.8°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Ethiopia is part of the Bega season, also known as the dry season. The weather is characterized by a significant reduction in rainfall and relatively stable temperatures. In Addis Ababa, temperatures average between 11°C (51.8°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Ethiopia falls within the Bega season, the dry period of the year. The country experiences little to no rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration. In Addis Ababa, the temperatures are quite steady, with averages between 11°C (51.8°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in December »