If you’re planning a trip to Ethiopia’s capital, you’ll want to think about the weather. Addis Ababa sits high up, so temperatures stay mild all year, but the rain makes a big difference in when it’s nicest to visit.
Mid-October through February usually brings the best weather—dry, sunny, and just really pleasant.
During the dry season, you get clear skies that make it easy to explore landmarks, cultural sites, and outdoor markets. You won’t have to worry about heavy rain ruining your plans.
July and August are the main rainy months. The air feels cooler, but you’ll run into frequent showers that can mess with outdoor activities.
Every season in Addis Ababa has its own vibe. Understanding how the climate shifts through the year helps you plan better.
If you want to catch festivals, do some sightseeing, or take day trips into the highlands, timing your visit with the weather just makes everything easier.
Overview of Addis Ababa’s Climate
Addis Ababa’s climate feels mild and subtropical, mostly because of its high elevation. Temperatures don’t swing much, but rainfall and humidity change with the seasons. That really shapes your travel experience.
Location and Altitude Effects
Addis Ababa sits right in the center of Ethiopia, about 9° north of the equator. Even though it’s close to the tropics, the city’s at 2,300 meters (7,500 feet), so it never gets all that hot.
The altitude keeps extreme heat away. Even on the warmest days, highs rarely go above 30 °C (86 °F).
Nights can get pretty cool, especially in the dry season when the air is clearer.
Because the city’s on a plateau, the sun feels stronger than you’d expect. You’ll need sun protection during the day, and light layers for those cooler evenings.
Annual Temperature Patterns
Temperatures in Addis Ababa don’t really jump around much. The annual average sits at about 17 °C (63 °F).
- Coldest month: December, around 15.5 °C (60 °F)
- Warmest month: April, roughly 18.8 °C (66 °F)
Daytime highs usually stay between 20–25 °C (68–77 °F). Nights drop to about 8–12 °C (46–54 °F).
That difference between day and night is noticeable, so mornings and evenings, especially from November to February, can feel chilly. Sometimes, rare nights dip as low as 5 °C (41 °F).
Rainfall and Humidity Trends
Rainfall in Addis Ababa follows a pretty clear pattern. There’s a long wet season and a dry one. On average, you get about 1,165 mm (46 in) of rain a year, and most of it falls between June and September.
- Wettest month: August, nearly 290 mm
- Driest months: November and December, about 7 mm each
July and August are the most humid months, often above 75%. The skies stay cloudy, and you might only see 3–5 hours of sun each day.
Dry months bring lower humidity and clearer skies. You get more than 8 hours of sun, which is great for getting out and about.
You’ll want waterproof clothing and some flexibility in your plans during the rainy months. The dry months are much easier for sightseeing.
Dry Season: October to February
From October to February, you get the most stable weather. Days are mild, nights are cool, and rain is rare.
You can explore comfortably, enjoy outdoor activities, and catch some of the city’s biggest cultural festivals.
Weather Characteristics During the Dry Season
Between October and February, Addis Ababa enjoys sunny days. Daytime highs hit 15°C to 25°C (59°F–77°F).
Nights cool down, often around 10°C (50°F), so you’ll want light layers for the evenings.
Rainfall stays minimal, making it easy to get around the city. Humidity is low, and the skies are usually clear, which is perfect for sightseeing and taking photos.
Since the city’s over 2,300 meters (7,500 feet) up, the sun feels strong even when it’s not that hot. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses aren’t optional. Evenings cool off quickly, so pack breathable clothes and a warm jacket.
Advantages of Visiting in the Dry Season
If you visit Addis Ababa between October and February, you’ll get the best chance to enjoy the outdoors without weather hassles.
Roads stay dry, walking tours are more comfortable, and day trips into the highlands feel safer and more fun.
Tourist services run smoothly, and there are fewer weather delays. Top spots like the National Museum of Ethiopia, Merkato market, and the Entoto Mountains are much easier to explore in these conditions.
Moderate temperatures make both daytime adventures and evening meals pleasant. Sure, it’s peak season, so prices and crowds go up, but honestly, the comfort is worth it.
Key Festivals and Events
Several big cultural events happen during the dry season. Timkat (Epiphany) in January stands out, with colorful processions, music, and religious ceremonies that fill the streets.
In late September or October, depending on the year, the Meskel Festival lights up the city with bonfires and public gatherings. If your trip lines up, it’s a real treat.
November brings the Addis Ababa International Film Festival, which showcases both Ethiopian and international films. These events let you dive into the city’s cultural scene, not just its famous landmarks.
Rainy Season: June to September
June through September brings the heaviest rains, cooler days, and not much sunshine.
Roads can get muddy, but the city and surrounding hills turn a lush, vibrant green. It’s a totally different side of Addis Ababa.
Typical Weather Conditions
From June to September, expect rain—especially in July and August.
Monthly rainfall ranges from 140 mm in June to nearly 290 mm in August.
Thanks to the altitude, temperatures stay mild. Daytime highs usually land between 20–23°C (68–73°F). Nights drop to about 10–12°C (50–54°F).
The air feels damp, and humidity often tops 70%. Sunshine is rare, just 3–5 hours a day. Overcast skies and long stretches of drizzle or downpours are common.
Rain usually falls in the afternoon or evening, but sometimes it just keeps going all day.
Travel Experience During the Rainy Season
You’ll need to prepare if you visit in the rainy season. Streets and unpaved roads get muddy, slowing down travel and making walking tricky.
Expect occasional traffic jams, especially in busy parts of the city.
On the bright side, the city looks amazing—parks and hills explode with green. If you like cooler weather and smaller crowds, you might actually prefer this season.
You can still get out and about, but you’ll need to plan around the rain. An umbrella or light raincoat is a must.
Indoor attractions like museums, cafes, and cultural centers are great options when the rain gets heavy.
Pros and Cons for Tourists
Pros:
- Hotels are cheaper and fewer tourists are around
- The scenery is lush and the air feels fresh after rain
- Comfortable daytime temperatures
Cons:
- Frequent showers and not much sun
- Muddy roads and possible travel delays
- Outdoor sightseeing isn’t as convenient
If you’re traveling on a budget and don’t mind adjusting your plans, this season has its perks. If you want dry weather and non-stop outdoor activities, though, it’s probably not your best bet.
Shoulder Seasons: March to May and September
These months come with changing weather patterns that can shape your trip. The weather mixes dry and wet spells, and you’ll see fewer tourists, so you get more flexibility.
Transitional Weather Patterns
From March to May, Addis Ababa transitions from dry to early rains. Temperatures stay mild, usually between 10°C (50°F) at night and 23°C (73°F) during the day.
Rain picks up gradually, but showers are often short and not constant.
September follows the heavy summer rains. The city dries out, skies clear, and the air feels fresh. Daytime temperatures stay comfortable.
Weather can be unpredictable. You might start the day with sun and end it with clouds or a quick shower.
Roads and paths may still be damp in September, but things improve quickly as the month goes on.
You’ll want both light clothes for warm days and a waterproof jacket for surprise showers. Good walking shoes help, since puddles and mud can stick around.
Benefits of Visiting During Shoulder Months
Visiting in these months feels quieter. There are fewer tourists, so hotels are easier to book and prices can be better.
Outdoor spots like Entoto Hills or city walking tours are still doable, especially in September as the rains let up. March to May is greener, thanks to the seasonal rains.
Festivals can make your trip more interesting. Meskel Square stays lively in September as the city shakes off the rainy season. You get to enjoy local events without the big crowds.
These in-between months balance cost, comfort, and cultural experiences. If you like flexible plans and less hustle, they’re worth considering.
Outdoor Activities and Sightseeing by Season
Addis Ababa’s weather really shapes what you can do. Dry months are perfect for walking tours and hiking. When it’s wet, you might stick to cultural visits or indoor spots.
Best Months for Outdoor Activities
The dry season—October to February—is the sweet spot for outdoor fun. You get mild temperatures and almost no rain, so you can plan full days outside.
If you’re into hiking, Mount Entoto is a favorite. Trails are easy to walk when it’s dry, and the city views are awesome.
Walking through neighborhoods is way more pleasant when the streets aren’t muddy.
From March to May, you might get some light showers, but mornings are usually clear. Shorter outdoor trips work well before clouds roll in.
The main rainy season, June to September, brings heavier rain, so you’ll probably shift to indoor activities.
Recommended Attractions
During the dry months, Mount Entoto is a must. You get panoramic views and can visit historic churches. It’s a nice break from the city center, and the cool air feels great.
In town, the National Museum of Ethiopia is always a highlight. Since it’s indoors, it’s good year-round, but many travelers pair it with outdoor stops like Meskel Square or the open-air markets. Doing both in one day works best when it’s dry.
You can also wander Addis Ababa’s wide streets, check out local cafés, and relax in public parks. The dry season is ideal for guided city walks, since you don’t have to worry about sudden rain.
Festivals and Cultural Highlights
Cultural events follow the Ethiopian calendar, and a lot happen during the dry season. Meskel in late September takes over Meskel Square with big gatherings and traditional ceremonies. Clear skies help you enjoy the festivities.
Timkat in January marks Epiphany with outdoor processions and ceremonies. The cool, dry weather makes it easy to join in or just watch.
Even in the rainy season, smaller cultural events still happen indoors. The biggest and most colorful festivals, though, usually match up with the best outdoor weather.
Travel Tips for Visiting Addis Ababa Based on Weather
Addis Ababa’s weather swings between dry, sunny months and a long rainy season. Your travel experience really depends on how you prepare.
Temperatures stay mild, but the rain and altitude affect what you’ll want to pack, how you look after your health, and even how you connect with locals.
Packing and Preparation
Addis Ababa sits at over 2,300 meters (7,500 feet), so afternoons can feel warm, but evenings? They’re usually cool. I’d suggest packing layers—maybe light shirts for daytime and a sweater or jacket for when the sun drops.
If you’re coming during the rainy season, which runs from June to September, you’ll want waterproof shoes. Toss in a compact umbrella, too, just in case.
Sun exposure gets pretty intense up here. Don’t forget sunscreen, a decent hat (wide-brimmed is best), and sunglasses. Even when it feels cooler, the UV index surprises you.
A reusable water bottle is handy, but only fill it with filtered or bottled water. Trust me, you don’t want to risk it.
For shoes, go with something sturdy for walking. Many streets are uneven, and rain turns them slippery fast.
A small daypack makes a big difference for city walks or day trips—you can stash your rain gear, snacks, and water without fuss.
Health and Safety Considerations
The altitude hits some people hard at first. You might feel short of breath or just worn out. Take it slow for the first couple of days and let your body catch up.
Drink plenty of water and steer clear of too much alcohol, since that only makes altitude symptoms worse.
Weather flips fast here. Sudden rain showers can show up even if your day starts with blue skies, so keep a light rain jacket in your bag.
During the dry season, dust gets everywhere and can bother your throat or eyes. Carrying lozenges or eye drops isn’t a bad idea.
You won’t see as many mosquitoes in Addis Ababa as in the lowlands, but I’d still use insect repellent, especially if you’re heading out of town.
Stick to bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach trouble, and always wash fruit before eating.
Cultural Etiquette
Weather shapes how people dress and come together. On cooler evenings, locals usually throw on shawls or light coats. If you go with this style, you’ll blend in more easily.
Try not to wear clothes that are too casual or revealing, especially if you’re heading into churches or public events.
When you step into a home during the rainy season, people appreciate it if you wipe or take off muddy shoes. Most folks carry umbrellas, and honestly, no one minds if you use one in a crowd.
Rain sometimes slows down traffic or puts events on hold. People expect patience in these moments. If you can show some understanding about weather delays, locals tend to respect that. It just makes your whole trip feel a bit smoother.