When to Visit Ethiopia?

The Best Time to Go: October to March

For an unforgettable Ethiopian adventure, plan your trip between October and March. During these months, the extreme north and south regions experience less rainfall, and the heat becomes more bearable. It's an ideal time to explore the mesmerizing historical sites, hike through scenic mountains, and immerse yourself in the unique traditions of Ethiopia.

Off-Season Delights: June to September

For an unforgettable Ethiopian adventure, plan your trip between October and March. During these months, the extreme north and south regions experience less rainfall, and the heat becomes more bearable. It's an ideal time to explore the mesmerizing historical sites, hike through scenic mountains, and immerse yourself in the unique traditions of Ethiopia.

Annual Temperature and Rainfall: A Pleasant Surprise

Despite its equatorial position, Ethiopia offers a mild climate due to its high-altitude regions. With much of the country situated above 2,000 meters, temperatures remain comfortable throughout the year, ranging from 20°C to 25°C during the day.

Unlike neighboring East African countries with multiple rainy seasons, Ethiopia experiences a single long rainy season from June to early September. While trekking in the highland regions may be challenging during this time, there's still much to explore and enjoy beyond the mountains.

Festivals: Adding Color to Your Journey

Ethiopia boasts a vibrant festival calendar that adds an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) and Timkat in January, Enkutatash (New Year) in September, and Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) in September are just a few of the incredible celebrations you can witness. These festivals showcase the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Ethiopia, providing a unique and immersive experience.

Ethiopian Christmas (Leddet/Genna)

Ethiopian Christmas (Leddet/Genna) is celebrated on the 7th of January, and it's a joyous occasion marked by a night-long vigil following 40 days of fasting. The festive atmosphere fills the air as families come together, and traditional dishes like Doro Wote, a spicy chicken stew, are savored. The celebrations in Axum and Lalibela are particularly renowned, offering a glimpse into the deeply-rooted traditions of Ethiopia.

Timket

Timket, the Epiphany festival, takes place on the 19th of January and commemorates the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. It's a vibrant and colorful celebration where the Tabot, a replica of the Ark of the Covenant, is paraded through the streets. Gondar and Addis Ababa are perfect places to witness the grandeur of Timket, with the iconic Fasilides' Bath in Gondar attracting crowds for an unforgettable experience.

Enkutatash

Enkutatash, the Ethiopian New Year, falls on the 11th of September and is celebrated with much joy and excitement. It marks the return of the Queen of Sheba to Axum and is a time of dancing, singing, and exchanging blessings. The traditional practice of jumping over ash signifies bidding farewell to the old year and embracing the new.

Meskel

Meskel, the Finding of the True Cross, is celebrated on the 27th of September and holds immense religious significance. It commemorates the discovery of the True Cross by Empress Helena in the 4th century. Meskel festivities feature the lighting of a massive conical bonfire called a Damera, accompanied by prayers, dancing, and feasting. Addis Ababa, Axum, and Gondar offer captivating Meskel celebrations that bring communities together in joyful reverence.

Sheikh Hussein

Sheikh Hussein, an important pilgrimage site in the Oromo region, draws over 50,000 pilgrims during the Muslim months of Hajj and Rabi' al-Awwal. This sacred place holds great significance for Ethiopia's Muslim population, honoring Sheikh Hussein's miraculous legacy.