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.
Questions people ask
What is the weather like in Addis Ababa?
Addis Ababa is mild by day (about 18 to 25 °C) and cool at night (about 5 to 12 °C) all year, because it sits at about 2,350 m. The sun is strong, and rain falls from June to September.
What should I wear in Addis Ababa?
Wear layers, long trousers and comfortable shoes, with a light jacket or fleece for cool evenings. Add a rain jacket or umbrella from June to September.
How cold does it get in Ethiopia's mountains?
In the Bale and Simien mountains and on Entoto, expect 0 to 15 °C, and freezing nights above 3,500 m. Pack a warm fleece or down jacket, hat, gloves, waterproof hiking boots and a thermal layer.
How hot is it in Ethiopia's lowlands?
Hot lowlands such as Dire Dawa, Afar, Omo and the Rift Valley reach 30 to 45 °C. Wear light, loose, long-sleeved cotton or linen, a wide-brimmed hat and sandals, and bring insect repellent.
Should I bring a scarf to Ethiopia?
Yes, a scarf is useful for sun, dust, cold evenings and church visits, where women cover their hair.