the best time to travel to ethiopia

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The Best Time to Visit Ethiopia

TripSavvy / Ran Zheng

For many people, the best time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season, which runs from October through February. There are exceptions to this rule, however—especially if you're interested in experiencing Ethiopia's cultural festivals, some of which are held during the rainy season. If you're on a budget, traveling during the low season is also a good way to save money. 

The Weather in Ethiopia

Although Ethiopia's climate varies greatly depending on the region you're planning on visiting, the wet season generally lasts from June to September, with light rains beginning as early as March. June and July are the wettest months, particularly in the Northern Highlands.   Weatherwise, therefore, the best time to travel is from October to February, when the climate is both dry and sunny. At this time of year, nighttime temperatures can drop dramatically, so it's important to pack plenty of layers. If you're planning on heading south to the Omo Valley, you need to be aware that there are two distinct rainy seasons in this region. 

Best Time to Visit the Northern Highlands

The October to February dry season is the best time to plan a trip to the ancient rock-cut churches of Ethiopia's stunning Northern Highlands. However, even during the wet season, rains rarely last all day. If you're looking to save money, consider booking a trip in March or April, when the rains are light and prices for accommodation and tours are generally lower. Usually, it's best to avoid traveling in June and July, when the rains in this region are at their most extreme. 

Best Time to Trek the Simien Mountains

The Simien Mountains are a vast mountain range whose highest peak stands at 14,872 feet, making it one of the highest mountains in Africa. Trekking here is fantastic, not only because of the scenery, gorges, and streams but also because you get a chance to look for endemic wildlife like the gelada baboon and the walia ibex. The best time to trek is from September to November, when it's dry, green, and relatively dust-free. October, in particular, can be spectacular because this is when the mountain wildflowers are in full bloom.

Best Time to Visit the Omo Valley

With eight distinct tribes living in the Omo River region of southwestern Ethiopia, it's a fascinating destination for those interested in African culture.   The remote location, which is barely accessible by four-wheel drive, means that traditional customs and beliefs are very much intact for most of these tribes. This region has two rainy seasons, with one lasting from March to June, and a shorter one in November. Access is often impossible during these times, so planning your trip for the dry season is essential.

Best Time to Visit the Danakil Depression

Danakil is one of the hottest places on earth , with daytime temperatures easily reaching 122 degrees Fahrenheit.  It's a fascinating destination where you can witness the age-old tradition of salt caravans, experience Afar culture, and marvel at a myriad of active volcanoes. If you've ever felt the urge to visit another planet, you'll love the extraordinary landscapes of this region. To avoid feeling like you're boiling alive, however, make sure to visit during the cooler months of November to March.

Best Time for Experiencing Ethiopia's Festivals

Ethiopian festivals are certainly worth planning a trip around. Mostly religious, festivals generally last several days. Orthodox Christian festivals are the most prominent and visible in Ethiopia and are celebrated according to the Ethiopian calendar. For example, Ethiopian Christmas (known as Ganna ) is celebrated on January 7, rather than December 25.  Enkutatash , the Ethiopian New Year, is celebrated on September 11. If you're keen to experience Ethiopian festivities at their most colorful, consider planning your trip around Meskel or Timkat, but be prepared to book your domestic flights and hotels well in advance.

Key Festivals & Events

Timkat , the Feast of Epiphany held on January 19, is Ethiopia's biggest festival, celebrating the baptism of Jesus. The festival lasts for three days, and includes a procession of the church's tabot, or consecrated replica of the Arc of the Covenant; and ritual re-enactments of the baptism. When the more solemn aspects of the festival are over, participants enjoy feasting, music, and dancing. The best places to enjoy the festival are Gondar, Lalibela, and Addis Ababa. It is worth joining a tour, just to make sure that you are able to reserve accommodation. It's also good to have a guide who can tell you exactly what is going on during the processions.

Later in the year, the country celebrates Meskel on September 27. Meskel is an old Christian festival that has been celebrated in Ethiopia for over 1,600 years. It commemorates the discovery of the cross upon which Jesus was crucified. Some pieces of the cross are thought to have been brought to Ethiopia. The best place to celebrate the festival is in Addis Ababa's Meskel Square, where a colorful procession of priests, deacons, and choir singers walk around a huge pyre, bearing ceremonial crosses and wooden torches decorated with olive leaves. The torch-bearers set the pyre alight, and the next day people go to the bonfire and use the ash to make the sign of the cross on their foreheads before spending the rest of the day feasting. 

Ethiopia's spring is sometimes known as the harvest season and spans from September through November. Belg , as it's called, also kicks off the country's dry period, making it a great time to visit.

Events to check out:

• Enkutatash, or New Year's Day, takes place every year on September 11.
• Meskel, or Finding of the True Cross, is celebrated on September 27. This festival is among the country's largest, celebrated with a huge procession of priests, deacons, and choirs.

Kiremt is the summer season, which runs from June through August. These months are punctuated by heavy, intense rainfall at times.

• Islamic holidays, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, usually fall during the summer months.

Fall in Ethiopia

Tseday is the name of the season that runs from March through May, and what most would consider fall. There are occasional showers, and May is usually the hottest month in Ethiopia.

• Adwa Victory Day is held in early March, commemorating a battle fought between the Ethiopian empire and Italy.
• Ethiopia's national day is called Derg Downfall Day and takes place on May 28.

Winter in Ethiopia

December through February constitute winter, or Bega , in Ethiopia. These months are very dry and it's not uncommon for mornings to be frosty.

• Ethiopian Christmas is a huge celebration which always takes place on January 7.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Ethiopia is during the country's dry season, from October through February. That is, unless you are interested in Ethiopia's cultural festivals, some of which are held during the rainy season.

Ethiopia is very safe for tourists, with petty crimes against travelers occurring very rarely. Outside of the capital city, crime rates drop even further.

Ethiopia is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, more than any other country in Africa. The country also contains a list of seven tentative sites.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Addis Ababa Ethiopia, Year Round." Retrieved February 5, 2021.

Britannica. "Simien Mountains." Retrieved February 5, 2021.

Survival International. "Omo Valley Tribes." Retrieved February 5, 2021.

The Weather Channel. "Ethiopia's Danakil Depression: One of the Hottest Places on Earth." Retrieved February 5, 2021.

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When to Visit Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a large country and different regions have different seasonal characteristics. The extreme north and east has a desert climate, central Ethiopia is milder and southern Ethiopia is more tropical. High season is October to March, although there are great experiences available in the off-season. 

Contents of our guide

• When is the best time to go to Ethiopia?  
• Average Annual Temperature and Rainfall in Ethiopia
• When to visit Ethiopia by region
• Other Considerations: Festivals, Price, Peak Season, Scenery
• Ethiopia month-by-month breakdown  
• Trips to Ethiopia

A short walk takes you to the top of the falls

When is the best time to go to Ethiopia?

The best time of year to go to Ethiopia is between October and March . During these months, there is less rainfall and the heat is less intense in the extreme north and south.

However, Ethiopia's size means there are plenty of fantastic experiences available from June to September.

Tom on the 'Roof of Africa'.

Annual Temperature and Rainfall in Ethiopia

Ethiopia has a mild climate compared to many East African countries, and this can come as a surprise to many . Despite its equatorial position, Ethiopia is a high altitude region, with much of the country above 2,000 metres . This means temperatures are milder throughout the year, with average day time temperatures of 20°C-25°C throughout the year. 

Unlike many of its East Africa neighbours that experience tropical climates, with multiple rainy seasons throughout the year, Ethiopia experiences just one long rainy season from June to early September. During these months, trekking in the highland regions becomes more difficult as some access roads and hiking trails become impassable. However, there is plenty to see and do outside the mountains, and although hiking can be more challenging, it is still perfectly possible to visit the highlands. 

The rains actually come a little earlier in the Omo Valley , running from April to May. This means that a trip south can be a great option from June to September while the north experiences the rains. 

When to visit Ethiopia, breakdown by region

The northern circuit.

Generally speaking, the historic north circuit in Ethiopia comprises the following destinations: 

• Addis Ababa
• Simien Mountains National Park
• Gheralta Mountains

All of these regions are highland areas, and they follow the usual annual weather patterns with a rainy season from June to September, and mild and pleasant temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit these destinations is between October and March , but you can often get away with much of April and even the beginning of May before the rains really come in. 

If you want to do the northern circuit during the rainy season, it is perfectly possible, but you should be prepared for rains and cloudier skies, and hiking in the Simien Mountains is more limited. Note that Limalimo Lodge is closed from 15th July to 31st August. 

TLDR: the best time to do the northern circuit in Ethiopia is between October and March, but you can usually get away with April and the beginning of May before the rains come.   

You can learn more about the major travel regions in Ethiopia on our ultimate Ethiopia travel guide page. 

The Rift Valley and Bale Mountains

The Rift Valley in Ethiopia is a series of lakes that runs south of Addis, flanked by the Bale Mountains to the east and the Omo Valley to the south. 

The main rift valley lakes are: 

• Lake Langano
• Lakes Abijatta and Shalla
• Lake Awassa

The rift valley follows similar seasonality to the northern circuit, with a long rainy season from June to early September. The Bale Mountains to the east of the rift valley are the largest highland region south of Addis Ababa. The rains here are more extreme than in the rift valley, and more similar to what you'll find in the Simien Mountains in the north of the country. You can learn more on our when to visit the Bale Mountains page.

TLDR: it's very much the same story in the rift valley and Bale Mountains. Both have a long rainy season from June to early September, but the rains are more pronounced in the Bale Mountains due to the high altitude.  

The extreme north and south: Omo Valley and the Danakil Depression

The Omo Valley in the far south of Ethiopia experiences a slightly different climate to the rest of the country. Here, the rains come slightly earlier , kicking off in April and running through to May. From June to September, when the north of the country is experiencing the rains, temperatures are high in the Omo Valley, and it is one of the best times to visit the region . Check out our page on when to visit the Omo Valley for more information.

The Danakil Depression is unlike any other region in Ethiopia, and has a completely different climate. It's one of the most arid, hot, and extreme destinations on the planet. Temperatures here are soaring year-round, averaging around 35°C. In the months of June to September, while the rest of the north is experiencing lower temperatures and more rains, the Danakil is at its hottest - spiking to 40°C+.

You can learn more on our when to visit the Danakil Depression page.  

TLDR: The rains come earlier in the Omo Valley, running from March to early June. There is a short rainy season in October, but generally any months outside of March to May is fine. In the Danakil, you'll want to avoid June to September, otherwise you're good to go. 

Other Considerations

Ethiopia has a vibrant and exciting festival calendar , with wonderful celebrations occurring throughout the year.

Two of the biggest celebrations, Ethiopian Christmas and Timkat , take place in January. If you are travelling in January and want to experience one (or both) of these festivals, you should expect prices to increase. Hotels have been known to triple their rates during the festival period.

Price & Availability

Lodges, guides, and drivers all have seasonal prices.

These rates are reviewed each season, and they follow the peak travel times in the country. Rates are at their highest from November to March, particularly in January. Rates are lower in the off season from June to September.

If you are planning on visiting from November to March, you will need to book well in advance. Many of the best lodges are high-demand, low-capacity lodges that can get booked up a year or more in advance. This is particularly true for the months of December, January, and February . 

Admiring the view en route to Erar, Community Trekking.

Peak Season

The peak travel season in Ethiopia is from December to February , with the highest traveller numbers in January. Conditions in January are perfect for travelling, and you can experience some of the festivals in Ethiopia - it's a magical time to visit.  

However, the increased traveller numbers does bring some challenges. At places like Lalibela , the churches can become very crowded, as the tourism bodies in Ethiopia have not yet implemented staggered visiting rules, meaning everyone wants to visit in the early morning, leading to bottlenecks. 

Generally, this isn't much of a problem in Ethiopia, the country is large and it's rare your experience would be diminished due to the increased visitor numbers, but it's something to keep in mind. Our blog post goes into more detail about some of the challenges increased traveller numbers can bring. 

Scenery and Landmarks

The months immediately after the rainy season are when the country is at its most beautiful. October and November are particularly stunning, as all the flowers are in full bloom following the rains. The countryside is verdant and rich. 

If you're keen on visiting the Blue Nile Falls , and other landmarks like the Jinbar Falls in the Simien Mountains , keep in mind that these are at their most impressive during the rainy season when the through flow is at its greatest. In the months of November to March, the falls are greatly reduced and are therefore less impressive. 

The view on the approach walk to Blue Nile Falls

Ethiopia month by month breakdown

Ethiopia in january.

The country is warm and dry, with average temperatures of 22°C in most parts. January is right in the middle of peak season, so we recommend booking well in advance avoid missing out on top spots. There are a number of fantastic festivals this time of year which are well worth experiencing. 

Check out our full guide on visiting Ethiopia in January . 

Ethiopia in February

This month is considered one of the warmest with an average temperature of 24°C in most of the highland areas. Due to the dry weather, it is easy to explore the length and breadth of the country. February is prime trekking and wildlife watching season. February is typically the most popular year for tourism in Ethiopia so if you're planning on visiting in February, it's advisable to book a fair distance in advance. 

Check out our full guide on visiting Ethiopia in February . 

Ethiopia in March

March signals the end of peak season in Ethiopia and the days remain warm and dry. Trekking and wildlife watching are still great options. If you're heading south, March is a great time to see a bull jumping ceremony in Lower Omo Valley.

Check out our full guide on visiting Ethiopia in March . 

Ethiopia in April

April marks the beginning of the off-season as rains begin to appear along common routes, although nothing too extreme and it's still well worth visiting. April is the perfect time to visit Lalibela, which attracts hundreds of pilgrims from all over the country on account of Fasika (Orthodox Easter), which represents the end of the longest fasting period in Ethiopia (55 days).

Check out our full guide on visiting Ethiopia in April . 

Ethiopia in May

May is the beginning of the rainy season, which makes renders visit to the Lower Omo Valley challenging due to inaccessibility. Classic northern routes are still possible and the country becomes covered by beautiful blooming flowers.

Check out our full guide on visiting Ethiopia in May.  

Ethiopia in June, July, and August

• Temperatures are generally low in the highlands but reach extreme highs in the Danakil (45 degrees Celsius is not uncommon). The heavy rain makes accessibility in many parts of the country very difficult. If possible, plan visits outside of these months. 

You can read our guides on visiting Ethiopia during the summer months: 

Ethiopia in September

Although rain often continues into September, they are less intense (especially towards the end of the month). The flowers are in full bloom and the country is lush. What's more, the colourful Meskel (the finding of the true cross) is celebrated across the country on September 27 or 28th in leap years). The Ethiopian New Year is also celebrated on 11th September. 

September is a great time to visit to avoid the bigger crowds that come in October and the landscape during this time is stunning. 

Check out our full guide on visiting Ethiopia in September.  

Ethiopia in October

October marks the beginning of the high season in Ethiopia, and is often one of the most popular months. Pleasant weather and green landscapes characterise the month. Trekking in the Simien Mountains is particularly spectacular as this is the time when wildflowers are in full bloom. 

Check out our full guide on visiting Ethiopia in October .  

Ethiopia in November

This is a perfect time for visitors to national parks as you will get the chance to see plenty of wildlife. Migratory birds will also begin arriving in huge numbers. November is another great month for the Danakil Depression, as temperatures become more comfortable. 

Check out our full guide on visiting Ethiopia in November.  

Ethiopia in December

The weather is mostly dry with a clear sky in in many parts of Ethiopia. Like November, this is a great time to explore the Danakil Depression and Omo Valley as there will be little or no rain. This is an ideal month for trekking in the Bale or Simien Mountains. 

Check out our full guide on visiting Ethiopia in December . 

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Most of Ethiopia is considerably more temperate than might be expected of a tropical country so widely associated with drought, worth considering when deciding the best time to visit.

Climate across Ethiopia

Travel seasons in ethiopia, festivals and holidays in ethiopia.

The majority of its top tourist sites, including Addis Ababa , the main points along the northern circuit and Harar, have highland locations where daytime temperatures usually peak between 22˚C and 28˚C, and evenings are often so cool as to justify pulling on a jumper or sweatshirt. At higher altitudes such as the Bale or Simien mountains, you may need thicker clothes. The lower-lying southern Rift Valley and South Omo are warmer, but only by a few degrees, and it is only in the northern Rift Valley – in cities such as Dire Dawa – that year-round temperatures can get seriously hot.

In addition, far from being unusually dry, Ethiopia typically has a relatively moist climate, with Addis Ababa, for instance, receiving about double the annual rainfall of London. Most of this precipitation is highly seasonal, however, with most places receiving at least seventy percent of their annual allotment in the space of three to four months. In Addis Ababa and the northern and central highlands, this rainy season falls between June and late September, with the wettest months by far being July and August. Further south, the rainy season tends to start and end a few weeks earlier, and South Omo is wettest between March and June – a period when the region’s rough and muddy roads can be seriously affected and travel is best avoided.

Ethiopia’s peak tourist season, runs from the last week of September to January , with festivals such as Meskel and Timkat being particularly popular with both visitors and the hotels that spike their prices for the occasion. This is also a great time to visit weather-wise, with pleasant temperatures, blue skies and low rainfall in most parts of the country. In practice, however, unless you plan on doing a lot of hiking – the upper slopes of the Bale or Simien mountains can be rather unpleasant in the rains – there is little obstacle to visiting Addis Ababa, the northern highlands and the Rift Valley at any time of year.

Even in July and August , rain tends to fall in short, dramatic storms that interfere with day-to-day travel less than might be expected. Also, at this time of year the countryside is magnificently green, popular sites such as Lalibela are far less busy with other tourists, and most hotels are willing to negotiate generous rates for walk-in clients.

Perhaps the optimum time to explore the northern circuit is September , when the rain has abated slightly, the tourist season has yet to kick off properly, and the green slopes are enhanced with blankets of yellow Meskel flowers.

Wildlife viewing is consistent throughout the year, but resident birds tend to be most colourful during the breeding season, which usually coincides with the rains, while the European winter months attract flocks of migrants from the north.

Ethiopia’s most famous festivals are all annual events on the Christian calendar , the best known being Timkat (often referred to as Ethiopian Epiphany) and Meskel (the Finding of the True Cross). These holidays are celebrated in all Christian areas but attract large numbers of local pilgrims and international tourists to the likes of Lalibela, Aksum and Gondar, meaning that accommodation prices rocket and rooms can be difficult to find.

Jan 20 (Jan 19 in leap years). Countrywide. More important to Orthodox Christians than Christmas (which is celebrated quite sedately 12 days earlier), this three-day festival commemorates Jesus’s baptism in the Jordan River. It is one of the few occasions when the tabot (replica of the Ark of the Covenant) is removed from church altars; it’s then swaddled in colourful cloth and paraded around at the head of a procession. Timkat is a particularly spectacular occasion in Gondar, when Fasil’s Pool is filled with water and hundreds of eager participants leap in to re-enact the baptism. It is also a big event in Lalibela.

Sept 12 (Sept 11 in leap years). Countrywide. The country’s most important secular holiday, Enkutatash, or Ethiopian New Year, is celebrated vigorously throughout Ethiopia, with a similar party atmosphere to New Year festivities anywhere in the world. Traditionally, the date is also associated with the Queen of Sheba’s arrival back in Aksum after her visit to King Solomon in Jerusalem 3000 years ago.

Sept 27 (Sept 28 in leap years). Countrywide. This colourful spring festival, which shares its name with the yellow daisy-like flowers that blanket the highlands in September, commemorates an ancient legend that Empress Helen, the mother of Emperor Constantine, was led to the buried True Cross on which Jesus was crucified in 326 AD. The festival is highly significant to Ethiopian Christians, who claim that a fragment of the cross, given to Emperor Dawit I in the early fifteenth century, is now stored at Gishen Maryam monastery, to the northwest of Dessie. The best place to be for Meskel is Aksum or at Meskel Square in Addis Ababa. The centrepiece of the festival is the burning of a massive pyre as colourful processions of priest and worshippers look on.

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Travel advice for Ethiopia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Ethiopia

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• Getting around Ethiopia: Transportation Tips
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• Travel Tips Ethiopia for planning and on the go
• Culture and Etiquette in Ethiopia
• Eating and drinking in Ethiopia
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written by Andy Turner

updated 16.05.2021

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Travel to Ethiopia: Everything you need to know

By Joan Torres 33 Comments Last updated on September 24, 2024

From visiting the most epic Christian sites to meeting ancient tribes with animistic beliefs, and from roaming around the thickest jungle to crossing the most inhospitable desert; traveling in Ethiopia is the most diverse African experience and this travel guide contains everything you need to know about it

I seriously thought that Ethiopia was a touristic, well-known country in the West but, when I came back from my trip, I was surprised to find out that many people had absolutely no clue about it, like they didn’t even know about its geographical location.

The truth is that traveling can be extremely subjective and, while Ethiopia may be a relatively touristic country as per Against the Compass standards – meaning that this is one of the most visited countries I talk about in this blog – compared to other average destinations, it is a real off the beaten track destination.

Little is known about this African country and, when people ask me what it is like to travel in Ethiopia, I always begin the conversation with the following:

The main reason to visit Ethiopia is that it is an exceptionally diverse experience.

On the one hand, the cultural diversity is huge. In Ethiopia alone, you have 80 distinct ethnic groups who speak more than 80 languages and practice different religions, from different branches of Christianity to Islam and animistic beliefs.

On the other hand, this is a historically rich country and the one with the most impressive historical and archeological sites in sub-Saharan Africa, once the capital of the Aksumite Empire – one of the most powerful ancient empires in the continent that ruled for more than 800 years – and home to endless jaw-dropping millennial rock-hewn churches and European-like medieval castles.

Furthermore, contrary to any Western cliché, Ethiopia is also a land of natural contrasts, composed of fertile tropical forests in the south and vast flat deserts in the east, the Danakil Depression being home to lava pools and the hottest settlement in the world. In the north, Lake Tana is the source of the Blue Nile and Simien Mountains is one of the very few places in Africa with regular snowfall, the highest peak being at 4500m.

And by the way, the scenery in Ethiopia is unconditionally hair-raising, a real blessing to your eyeballs.

And if that wasn’t enough, Ethiopia was recently rebranded the Land of Origins by the Ministry of Tourism because these lands are the origin of humankind – where the oldest hominid was found – the first place to ever produce coffee and they practice one of the rawest and most ancient ways of Christianity.

Trust me, after traveling to so many countries, I am rarely impressed but still, Ethiopia definitely wowed me.

This guide contains everything you need to know to travel to Ethiopia (literally, everything), from how to get a visa to getting in, top experiences, cultural facts, budget and loads of personal travel tips.

In this Ethiopia travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Overlanding
• Best time to visit
• Travel insurance
• Top experiences
• Books on Ethiopia
• Cultural facts
• The country
• People & Language
• Money, budget & costs
• Is it safe?
• Solo female travel
• Moving around
• Where to stay

our recommended travel insurance for Ethiopia

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🪪 How to get a visa for Ethiopia

How to get an e-visa for ethiopia.

Everybody needs a visa for Ethiopia but today, pretty much any nationality can get a tourist e-visa.

And you can easily apply through the official website .

Make sure you do it through the above URL because there are many non-official websites which, even though they do issue valid visas, charge much more money.

Typically, there are 2 types of tourist e-visa:

• 30-day visa, which costs 82USD
• 90-day visa, which costs 102USD

And it takes up to 3 days to process. Mine took less than 24 hours.

It’s a very easy process which has absolutely no secret and very little requirements.

Is the Ethiopian e-visa valid at land borders?

Officially, the tourist e-visa is only valid for those entering via Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa .

My trip to Ethiopia was part of a 3-month journey through the Horn of Africa, traveling from Eritrea to Djibouti, Soma liland and then entering Ethiopia overland, so I intended to apply for it at the embassy in Djibouti.

However, once I got there, they told me that they had run out of visa stickers and that they would not receive more after a couple of weeks at least.

Then, I tried my luck in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland but, unfortunately they weren’t issuing visas anymore, so I was in a situation in which, according to the official information, the only thing I could do was booking a flight from Hargeisa to Addis Ababa, which kind of sucked.

However, I contacted a few travelers who said that in Africa, anything can happen and proof of that is that they managed to travel to Ethiopia overland with an e-visa, so I decided to try my luck as well and successfully managed to cross the border from Somaliland , no questions asked.

Visa on arrival for Ethiopia

If you don’t have time to apply for an e-visa because your flight to Addis Ababa is less than 3 days ahead, you can also get a VOA at Bole International Airport.

Otherwise, I don’t see any good reason why you should get a VOA instead of an e-visa.

How to apply for an Ethiopian tourist visa via embassy

The only reason for applying for your Ethiopia tourist visa at the embassy is because you are entering overland and don’t want to risk a potential denial because you are only in possession of an e-visa.

You can find Ethiopian embassies and consulates in many cities across Europe and North America. Just contact your nearest one to ask about the process, which tends to be very easy.

🛫 How to get to Ethiopia

How to travel to ethiopia by plane.

Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa is one of the most transited airports in the African continent.

I had actually been there twice even before visiting Ethiopia, as Addis Ababa is a common stop for many flights going to other African destinations and the Middle East .

The main airline operating in the country is Ethiopian Airlines , a modern company that flies all over the world , including to and from the American continent.

Moreover, there are many other international airlines that fly to Addis. I actually flew out of the country with Emirates.

Remember that, if you fly in with Ethiopian Airlines, you get a 50% discount on all domestic flights . Check the how to move around section of this post for more information.

How to travel to Ethiopia overland

Ethiopia shares a border with so many countries :

Traveling to Ethiopia from Sudan

Completely open to foreigners. There are regular minivans running from a Sudanese city named Qadarif to the border, and the border formalities are not very complicated.

Read my Sudan travel guide.

Traveling to Ethiopia from Djibouti

An easy border to cross from a bureaucratic point of view but difficult from a logistic point of view, as you need to cross the desert on a 4×4.

Moreover, an easier option would be taking the train that goes from Addis to Djibouti City, but it is a bit unreliable. For more information, check the moving around section.

Traveling to Ethiopia from Kenya

Crossing from the Kenyan town named Moyale should be a simple process.

Traveling to Ethiopia from South Sudan

Not possible. You would have to go through the jungle and go across the most dangerous part of South Sudan, so forget it. There are daily flights connecting both countries though.

Traveling to Ethiopia from Eritrea

This border is closed for foreigners and more often than not, also for locals. The only way of traveling between both countries is by flying in, from Asmara to Addis.

Read my Eritrea travel guide .

Traveling to Ethiopia from Somalia

The one I used. As you may know (or not), Somalia is divided into two regions, actual Somalia and Somaliland.

You can travel to Ethiopia from Somaliland, using the border near the city of Harar. It was very easy and quick to cross. There are normal roads and plenty of public transportation.

Read my Somaliland travel guide

⛅ Best time to visit Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a big country composed of several geographical regions, each having a different optimal season to visit, so it’s a bit difficult to guess the ideal time to come.

Rainy season

Typically, most travelers avoid the rainy season running from mid-June to mid-September, especially because the northern highlands is where it rains the most, the region with the highest concentration of popular destinations, including Gonder, Axum, Tigray churches, Simien Mountains and Lalibela .

In the south, however, which includes the famous Omo Valley , the rainy season runs from March to June, and it’s highly advisable to avoid these months, for the simple reason that the remotest villages, which are only accessible along muddy roads, will be unreachable.

November to January is high season

The weather is ideal and, up to January, the landscapes are beautifully green still. Expect to find big crowds and high prices though.

February and March is a good time too

As the weather is pleasant and most crowds are gone but the main downside is that it is already dry season, so the northern landscapes won’t be as pretty. I visited Ethiopia from February 1st to mid-March.

Therefore, in order to avoid the crowds and still get pretty landscapes, I believe that mid-September and October would be the best time to go backpacking in Ethiopia.

However, bear in mind that the Danakil Depression , one of the country’s highlights, is also one of the hottest places on Earth, and September and October’s heat will be unbearable; it is advised to visit here from mid-November to February.

And last, you may also want to organize your visit so you come during one of their most important cultural festivals :

• Genna – Ethiopian Christmas that takes places on January 7th
• Timkat – Ethiopia’s Orthodox Christian celebration that takes place on January 20th
• Meskel – Ethiopian religious holiday that takes places at the end of September

As you can see, telling you the right time is a bit tricky!

🚑 Travel insurance for Ethiopia

Central Asia is an adventurous destination, so we recommend going there with proper travel insurance.

I recommend IATI Insurance because:

• Their backpacker plan covers all types of adventure activities, including trekking
• Very competitive prices
• Readers of this blog can get a 5% exclusive discount

🛖 Top experiences in your trip to Ethiopia

Trekking among tens of thousands of baboons.

A rugged, mountain range composed of insanely vertiginous cliffs and several peaks above 4000 meters and inhabited by, literally, thousands and thousands of an endemic species of baboon, trekking the Simien Mountains is one of the highlights of any trip to Ethiopia.

Read my experience trekking in the Simien Mountains of Ethiopia

Visiting the hottest (inhabited) place on Earth

Danakil is a vast depression popularly known for being one of the most inhospitable places on Earth, an arid, unwelcoming land filled with volcanoes and insane geological formations, colors and absolutely crazy landscapes, inhabited by a distinct ethnic group named Afar.

Read my experience visiting the Danakil Depression

Exploring ancient churches built over cliffs

Ethiopia was one of the first countries to adopt Christianity and its churches are not only some of the most ancient churches in the world, but they have been carved out from rocks located in the most unbelievable and vertiginous locations, and what is even more incredible is that they are still as functional as they used to be 1200 years ago.

Feeding wild hyenas with your mouth

In the eastern city of Harar, there is a man who has dedicated every day of his life to feeding hyenas. Those hyenas aren’t domestic but they are free, live in the wild and everyday, at around 6-7pm, a bunch of them come nearby his house to get feed some fresh, raw meet. It is possible to assist the peculiar ceremony and feed them with your own mouth.

Assisting an actual bull-jumping ceremony

A traditional ceremony celebrated by the Hamar tribe (one of the many tribes in the Omo Valley) in which a young boy jumps naked over 10 bulls in order to prove that he is ready to be married.

Before the actual ceremony, there is a party in which people from all the nearby settlements gather to drink, dance and do some other cultural stuff.

Read my experience visiting the Omo Valley on a budget

📚 Best books for planning your trip to Ethiopia

If you don’t have one yet, remember to get a Kindle for your journey, so you don’t have to carry along all your books! CLICK HERE TO GET YOURS

Ethiopia travel guide by Bradt

This is the Ethiopian Bible, definitely, the best book guide available for Ethiopia, and probably, the most complete book Bradt has ever written. A complete travel guide filled with endless insights, cultural facts and history. A must-have.

Ethiopia travel guide by Lonely Planet

It is not as complete as Bradt’s but it’s not that bad, it’s easier to read and they have a special chapter dedicated to the tiny, neighboring country of Djibouti.

🕌 Facts about the country, the people and religion

10 facts about ethiopia as a country.

1 – The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia – It is a landlocked country in the Horn of Africa, one of the largest countries in the continent and with a population of 108,000,000.

2 – The capital of Ethiopia – The capital is Addis Ababa, often referred as the political capital of Africa, as this is the African Union Headquarters and has a strong political and diplomatic influence in all the continent.

3 – It’s a very poor country as per Western Standards – Nearly 50% of their total GDP is based on agriculture, mainly coffee. It is however, one of the most powerful and influential countries in Africa. A curious fact is that I met many Somalis from Somaliland and Eritreans whose short-term objective was migrating to Ethiopia and getting an Ethiopian passport, which is apparently better than other African passports.

4 – It’s never been colonized – Italy tried to take it over twice, at the end of the 19th century and in 1936, but they were defeated so, along with Liberia, Ethiopia is the only African country which has never been colonized, one of the reasons why it is so unique and barely has any foreign influence.

5 – Ethiopia has close ties with Eritrea – Neighboring Eritrea is Ethiopia’s little brother, a country with practically the same culture. They have the same food, religion and share a big bunch of ethnic groups. The dominant ethnic group in Eritrea are the Tigrinya, which also turn out to be one of the most influential groups also in Ethiopia, inhabiting the Tigray region, the most touristic destination in Ethiopia. Moreover, they used to be the same country until 1991. For more information, read my Eritrea travel guide .

6 – They are 6 hours ahead of anyone – The funniest fact about Ethiopia is that their time is different than ours, but they are 6 hours ahead. This means that if someone from Ethiopia tells you to meet at 18h, you need to be there at 12h. Well-educated people from Addis Ababa will talk to you in rest-of-the-world-time, so will those in the countryside who are used to dealing with tourists. But the rest of the country will not and, more often than not, if you ask them: are you talking in Ethiopian time, or faranji time? they will not know what you are talking about. You are likely to meet many travelers who missed a certain bus because of this particular fact.

7 – Ethiopia is the origin of mankind – Lucy , the oldest and most complete hominid ever discovered, dating back from more than 3 million years ago, was found in Ethiopia, in the Afar Depression.

8 – Ethiopia is an ethnic Federal state – Given the ethnic complexity, in 1994, Ethiopia was divided into 9 separate autonomous regions, each one ruled by one of the largest and most influential ethnic groups.

9 – Ethiopia was once one of the most powerful Empires – The Aksumite Empire, whose center was in today’s Tigray region and Eritrea and which ruled from 80BC to 825AD, was one of the most important empires in the Ancient World, along with Rome, Persia, and China.

10 – This is former Abyssinia – A few hundred years after the fall of the Aksumite Empire, there was a man who claimed to be a direct descendent from the last Aksumite King and managed to establish a feudalist state that lasted until 1974, when the famous Emperor Haile Selassie was overthrown and modern Ethiopia started to develop.

9 Facts about Ethiopians and their language

1 – There are two types of Ethiopian – On the one hand, you meet lovely, kind-hearted people who are always willing to help, or simply have a chat with you. And on the other hand, there are the people who try to rip you off continuously. During your Ethiopian trip, you will be meeting both types all the time and, by experience, you will be able to differentiate them easily.

(But most people are good 😉 )

Faranji , hey you, you you, faranji , you! Something I found extremely irritating (and most travelers do as well) is that, when you get into a new city or place, many people will start yelling: hey you, faranji, faranji, come here, come here! This also can happen with people you bump into in the street. In response, something very funny you can do is looking at them and say: hey you, habesha, habesha, come here, come here! Habesha means local , or Ethiopian , so you are basically telling them the same thing. Because they don’t expect such a reply from a faranji , in most occasions they will freeze, while others will laugh and probably shake your hand, turning an annoying person into a pleasant one.

2 – There are 80 distinct ethnic groups – The major groups being Oromo, Amhara, Tigray, Sidamo and Somali, which make up nearly 80% of the total population.

3 – The rest of the groups are minorities – And 45 of them live in a region named Southern Nations, Nationalities and People’s region, the vast majority being tribal people.

4 – Amharic is the official language – The lingua franca, the one used by the Government and the one used by the dominant ethnic group, the Amhara people, is Amharic.

5 – It comes from Ge’ez – Which is the language spoken in Ancient Axum and is still used today by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.

6 – The alphabet is so cool – It’s called a syllable alphabet.

7 – But more than 80 languages are spoken – Or 70, depending on the source. Each ethnic group has a distinct language.

8 – And not everybody speaks Amharic – Especially in the tribal areas. It’s funny to think that, if certain tribal people from the south travel to Addis Ababa, they would feel more foreign and different than you do. You would certainly be more able to speak to the people than them.

9 – English is just OK – Not everybody speaks good English but in most towns, it is enough to get by.

6 Facts about religion in Ethiopia

1 – Ethiopia was the second state to officially adopt Christianity – After Armenia, in 330AD.

2 – Many Ethiopians belong to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church – Around 44% of the total population.

3 – They have a very raw way of practicing Christianity – Scholars claim that Christianity evolved directly from Judaism but, while it kept evolving to other forms of Christianity such as Catholicism or Protestantism, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church didn’t, hence it is one of the earliest forms of Christianity that clearly has some Judaic influences.

4 – People in white robes – If you see locals in traditional white robes is because they went to Church on that day. On Sunday, you will see wearing them more than usual.

5 – There are Catholics and Protestants too – Around 20%, and they mainly live in the south.

6 – Muslims make up one third of the total population – Differently to what most travelers who have already been to Ethiopia believe, more than 30% of Ethiopians are Muslim, and many foreign people don’t notice them because they inhabit regions that don’t receive many tourists, Ethiopian Somalia for example.

🍲 Ethiopian food and drinks

I have a love and hate relationship with the food in Ethiopia.

On the one hand, traditional food is healthy, mainly composed of stewed vegetables and a protein bread named injera .

On the other hand, despite the unbelievable geographical and cultural diversity, there isn’t much food variety across the country.

Anyways, injera is the cornerstone of any Ethiopian meal, a flat bread made from a local grain named tef . It is sour and has a peculiar crêpe texture and, basically, an average Ethiopian eats injera 3 times a day.

Some travelers don’t like it at all. I did like it but after 6 weeks of traveling in Ethiopia, I got particularly sick of it.

Fasting days in Ethiopia Ethiopians are very religious and besides the 40 days of Lent, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church also recognizes every Wednesday and Friday as fasting days, meaning that most restaurants will only serve vegetarian dishes.

Most popular food in Ethiopia

This is the most available and traditional dish, consisting of different kinds of stewed vegetables and curries that vary from restaurant to restaurant, but typically being spinach, potatoes, carrots and lentils.

It is very cheap, usually less than a $1, and this is what most Ethiopians eat each and every day.

Also very traditional but not as available as beyanet because this is meat-based, usually goat or sheep, hence more expensive, and many Ethiopians can’t afford to eat meat every day.

Tibs is roasted meat with beriberi, a chilly powder sauce, served, of course, along with injera .

This was my favorite dish, the Ethiopian hummus, I would say. Shiro is chickpea paste mixed with onions, garlic and bean flour. Energetic, healthy and delicious.

Shiro Tegamino

Same as shiro wat but much, much thicker and what I liked about it is that, for some reason, it was always served with normal bread, instead of injera .

This was a pretty fancy dish, typically available in expensive restaurants and consisting of a chicken stew cooked in a complex gravy.

Kita fir fir

Kita fir fir is injera with spices and chilli and it’s typically eaten for breakfast. I didn’t like really like it because it’s 95% just injera .

By the way, for breakfast, besides kita fir fir and its different varieties, ful is also very easy to find, which is small beans in tomato sauce and garlic. In the south, you may get some really tasty avocado as well.

Western food in Ethiopia

Many restaurants will serve pasta, pizza and burgers but don’t expect much of it.

In Addis Ababa, however, you can find good international food. Expensive as per Ethiopian standards, but good.

Pizza with cheese, tuna, chocolate and strawberries One day in Mekele, we went to one of the fanciest restaurants in town, a Western-style café typically frequented by the upper Ethiopian class. I ordered a pizza, one that was called calazori, just because it had tuna in it but, to my surprise, they brought me kind of a crêpe covered with chocolate and strawberries. No, I didn’t order this, but I ordered a calazori pizza . He opened the crêpe, which was made of pizza bread, to show me that the actual pizza ingredients were inside. By default, I don’t like chocolate, but that mix was disgusting anyways, so I told her to just change it for a normal pizza without chocolate. Anyways, my point is that, outside of Addis Ababa, don’t have big expectations of Western food.

Beer in Ethiopia

Beer is a big deal in Ethiopia and they have a lot of brands.

The best part is that Ethiopian beer is so cheap, one bottle never costing more than 17 birr in local places, which is less than 50 cents.

Coffee in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is coffee’s birthplace and, today, it is a very important part of their economy and exports.

Traditional style coffee is called buna and pretty much on any corner all around the country, you will see a lady preparing it in a clay pot named a jebena , and serving it in small cups. It’s good, and so cheap, around 5 birr (like 15 cents), but they may charge you double in touristic areas.

💻 Internet and connectivity in Ethiopia

Wi-Fi is really, really bad all over the country.

Even when hotel owners try to sell you the beautiful idea that their hotel prices include Wi-Fi and breakfast, just assume that most likely, Wi-Fi won’t work and, if it does, it’s terribly slow.

If you want to connect to the internet, you must get a SIM Card and telecommunications in Ethiopia is a monopoly controlled by Ethio Telecom .

Their mobile internet isn’t the fastest ever but it’s decent and if, like me, you have to work online while on the road, it’s good enough for creating a hotspot and do regular browsing.

It wasn’t very expensive but it wasn’t cheap at all as per Ethiopian standards.

Get a VPN for traveling in Ethiopia

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Ethiopia. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 Backpacking in Ethiopia: need to know about money, budget & costs

In Ethiopia, they use the Ethiopian Birr (ETB) and, approximately:

1 USD = 57 ETB

Something I remember is that Ethiopian bank notes are some of the dirtiest I have ever seen, to the extent that when I got back home and finally touched some clean ones, it was a real reverse cultural shock.

Always have some hand sanitizer handy with you. In fact, in Ethiopia I got a small eye infection and I suspect it was because of rubbing my eye after touching some of those notes.

Black market rate in Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, there is a black market rate, which can be sometimes double the bank rate .

This means that, at the bank, if the exchange rate is 53, in the black market you can get it for up to 100, but only in Addis Ababa.

That’s why, in order to take advantage of this rate, it is recommended to come to Ethiopia with all your money in cash.

There is black market all over the country but in Addis Ababa you will get the best rate, especially near Meskel Square.

Just ask around where can you exchange your foreign currency.

However, bear in mind that, at first, they will tell you a very shitty rate, so remember to bargain.

ATMs in Ethiopia

In big cities, you can find ATMs, no problem, and they always accepted my foreign credit card. Sometimes they run out of cash though.

Nonetheless, remember that when withdrawing money, you will always get the bank rate.

Faranji and habesha price

In Ethiopia, there is a dual pricing, like I had never seen before: faranji and habesha .

Faranji means foreigner and habesha local .

In restaurants for example, food and drinks in the English menu may cost up to 3 times the habesha price and, if you believe you can grab the local menu and point out any meal marked with the original price, then you are wrong because they will always charge you the faranji price.

Moving around by local bus is also very frustrating because you know they will charge you double, or triple if they can, and negotiating is always a pain because you need to get angry, or even yelling at them, something they don’t usually expect.

I found this extremely frustrating and one of the worst things about traveling in Ethiopia.

And if you think, however, that this is how things work in their culture, I think you are wrong because I talked about this subject with many Ethiopians and they also agreed that it isn’t the right way to treat foreign tourists.

I can understand they charge double in touristic places but why do you have to pay a faranji price if you take the local bus or eat in a local restaurant?

Independent travel in Ethiopia. How much does it cost?

Traveling in Ethiopia on a backpacking budget is cheap and below is a list of the price of the most typical things.

How much does food & drink cost in Ethiopia?

Please note that, in very touristic areas such as Lalibela, paying these amounts can be very challenging but those are the prices assuming you pay the local price, so take it as a base reference.

• Vegetarian local meal like beyanet or shiro : 30 to 50 birr
• Non-vegetarian local meal like tibs : 50-70 birr
• Meal in a nice restaurant: main dishes from 100 birr
• Beer: 15-20 birr
• 1kg of pretty much any fruit (mango, avocado, etc): 30 birr
• Local coffee (buna): 5 birr
• Coffee (machiato, espresso): 15 birr
• 2l mineral water plastic bottle: 15 birr

How much does accommodation cost in Ethiopia?

• Local hotels (creepy ones): 100 birr
• Nice, decent accommodation: 300-600 birr
• Mid-range hotels: from 700 birr

How much does transportation cost in Ethiopia?

• Short local bus ride: 20 to 40 birr
• Long distance bus ticket (Addis Ababa to Gonder): 300 birr
• Domestic flight: $50-$100 one-way
• Local shared taxi (Lalibela to Mekele): 600 birr (This will highly depend on your negotiations skills. For example, two tourists who were traveling in the same car paid 1500 birr).

How much does a tour cost in Ethiopia?

• Danakil Depression 2-day tour: $250
• Omo Valley: $100-$150 a day
• Simien Mountains 3-day trek: $170
• Entrance fee to Lalibela: $50

Average daily budget for backpacking in Ethiopia (independent travel)

Assuming you don’t take any domestic flights and travel by local bus, the minimum a budget backpacker will spend is:

$35-40 a day

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Ethiopia?

That’s a complicated question.

Overall, I feel Ethiopia is a safe country to visit, but let’s go by parts.

The conflict with the Tigray

The Tigray war was a conflict between the Ethiopian Federal Government and the Tigray People’s Liberation, which lasted from November 2020 to November 2022, causing thousands of casualties and displaced people.

The war isolated completely the whole region of Tigray in the north, home to highlights like Axum, Mekele ( Danakil getaway ) and hundreds of rock-hewn churches.

Today, the war is over and the Tigray region is once again accessible.

Pickpocketing is real

Not bluffing, if you are not careful, you are likely to be pickpocketed in Ethiopia.

I have only been pickpocketed in two countries: in Mexico, and in Ethiopia.

Actually, in Ethiopia it happened to me twice, in 2 different areas of Tigray region. On one occasion they stole my brand-new GoPro, and on the second time they took my wallet with my credit card in it.

This can happen anywhere but in here chances are way higher, so be careful of your belongings.

I strongly recommend you get a money belt ! CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!

By the way, in big cities, especially in Addis Ababa, never walk alone at night. Your physical integrity is unlikely to be threatened but there is a high chance of being mugged.

Terrorism in Ethiopia

According to the FCO, the Ethiopian travel advice is that you should avoid the Somali province and the area or Gambella, which borders a conflict area of South Sudan.

There is an existing terrorism threat in Ethiopia but it is limited to the Ethiopian Somalia region, the province that borders Somalia.

Since I traveled to Ethiopia from Somaliland by land, I did cross that region and you could really feel the tension and threat I am talking about.

The security measures were insane. Every X km, there was a police checkpoint in which everybody from the bus had to get off and the police would check every single bag, one by one. It was very annoying.

Outside of Ethiopian Somalia, however, I never had or saw any issue.

Danakil Depression

You may have heard that Danakil Depression comes with its own issues and for that, I recommend you read my travel guide .

💃 Solo female travel in Ethiopia

Here’s the deal.

I traveled in Ethiopia as a solo man, so I can’t really speak for women, but I’ll just give you a small summary of what some kick-ass female travelers told me.

Most women said that Ethiopia was safe but the level of verbal harassment was insane, to the extent that some claim they’ll never go back to Ethiopia.

Many local men believe Western girls are easy and you may have to deal with occasional sex offers and creepy compliments. In fact, I was once with a girl from London and witnessed how a very disgusting man would just stare at her and do some creepy movements with his tongue.

Despite being predominantly a Christian country, Ethiopia is a conservative, patriarchal society in which men tend to be sexist.

Nevertheless, all women said that harassment was always verbal and, other than that, they had great fun in Ethiopia.

If you are female traveler who has been to Ethiopia and wants to write a guest post for Against the Compass, please get in touch.

Here you can see more solo female travel articles .

🛺 Transportation tips: how to travel around Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a big country and as such, moving around can prove challenging. Here are some travel tips:

Traveling around Ethiopia by coach (long-distance bus)

From Addis Ababa, you can always take a long distance bus to major destinations such as Arba Minch, Harar, Gonder or Meskel. Most buses are quite comfortable, some more than others; it doesn’t depend on the company but on the type of bus.

Selam for example, good reputable company.

Buses leave from Meskel Square and typically, they all leave at 4am, which is very annoying but given the long distances, it does make sense.

Book your tickets one or two days before. Unfortunately, you can’t book them online but you need to go to Meskel Square itself, where all company stalls are.

There is a way of booking them over the phone, but it’s a real headache.

Basically, you need to call the bus company and tell them which coach you want to take. They will give you a bank account number in which you need to deposit the respective amount. For that, you need to go to the bank but, when I got there, it was so crowded and such a mess that I thought it would be easier to take a taxi to the square.

Ethiopia travel tip: At Meskel Square, you will be approached by local men who claim they work for a specific bus company, saying they can take you to the respective office. Well, they don’t actually work for the company but they want to get a tip for helping you book your ticket, so just ignore them.

Traveling around Ethiopia by local bus

If you are backpacking in Ethiopia on a budget, you will take the local bus.

Taking the local bus in Ethiopia isn’t very different from other developing countries, but just bear in mind that distances here are huge. I personally got really tired and decided not to take any during the last 2 weeks of my trip.

Moreover, you will always have to battle to get a decent price, which will never be great because they always end up saying that you have to pay extra for the luggage, which is completely bullshit.

In the end, they always win.

Traveling around Ethiopia by plane

If you are not on backpacking on a budget, I recommend you take a few domestic flights.

From Addis, there are direct flights connecting any major touristic city, including Lalibela, Gonder, Axum, Harar and even the Omo Valley .

There are direct flights between secondary cities too but maybe not everyday and, worst case scenario, you will have to make quick layover in Addis.

Traveling around Ethiopia by air will save you a lot of time and energy.

All flight are operated by Ethiopian Airlines, a modern, reliable company, and any one-way flight ticket averages $100.

One of the best travel tips for Ethiopia is that, If you fly in with Ethiopian Airlines, you get a 50% discount in all domestic flights and, if you only have a few weeks to travel in Ethiopia, you may want to get 1 or 2 at least. However, I didn’t fly in with Ethiopian Airlines but, when I booked my domestic flight via their website, there was a tick box which you could mark claiming you actually did fly with them, so the discount was applied anyways. At the check-in counter, no questions were asked. Nonetheless, I just checked their website, and the tick box is gone (it comes and goes) so in that case, if you still want to get your discount, most people book their tickets directly at the Ethiopian Airlines office, which you can find everywhere.

Traveling around Ethiopia by train

There is one train line connecting Addis Ababa with Djibouti country via Dire Dawa (the closest big city to Harar). It runs every other day, one day towards Addis Ababa and one day towards Djibouti.

A one-way ticket from Dire Dawa to Addis Ababa costs 600 birr (price for foreigners).

The train has been built by the Chinese and it’s funny that, at every station, you see Chinese people telling Ethiopian employees what to do.

Traveling by train is always great but I will never catch the Ethiopian train again, for the following reasons:

• It’s very unreliable. We stopped for around 3 hours due to a bus breakdown. Also, the day I was supposed to catch it, the train never arrived because of another breakdown, so had to wait for one additional day.
• The train station is very far away from the city. Good luck negotiating the price of a taxi ride. When I arrived in Addis, they wanted to charge me 500 birr, and I ended up paying 300.
• Very long queues for getting in and out, as the authorities check each and every bag and, since they don’t have x-ray machines, they basically make everyone empty their bags.
• The train itself isn’t very comfortable, plus they don’t sell any food, only sodas.
• It’s an extremely busy train with loads of kids roaming around.

🏨 Accommodation: where to stay in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is well-sorted for hotels, some of them being very good value for money options.

You can check them all on booking.com .

Most hotels owners will ask you to pay in USD but, as I told you in the money section, better to exchange those USD in the black market, get 20% extra, and then pay your hotel in birr.

Creepy hotels – When I was passing through a city, I had to stay on 1 or 2 occasions in one of those creepy hotels which are OK for 6 hours and cost less than 4USD. They are all over the country

Backpacking Hostels – You can find some in Addis Ababa and also in cities like Gonder.

Guest Houses, nicer hotels – Decent accommodation costs from 400 to 600 birr for a double room, and you can find them everywhere, all over the country.

Mid-range hotels – There is also a wide range of relatively good hotels, all of them starting at 900 birr or so.

❗ More resources for traveling in Ethiopia

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Useful websites for more Ethiopia travel tips

All Addis Around – For everything related to events, restaurants and bars in the capital.

Migrationology – For anything related to Ethiopian food.

All guides and articles for traveling in Ethiopia destination

• Omo Valley Travel Guide
• A City Guide to Lalibela
• Danakil Depression Travel Guide
• Trekking Guide in Simien Mountains

Travel guides to other countries in Africa

• Eritrea Travel Guide
• Somaliland Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Sudan
• Travel Guide to Egypt
• Libya Travel Guide
• Mali Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Mauritania
• Tunisia Travel Guide

This Ethiopia travel blog was a long one, a post in which I put so much effort, and time! I hope you find it useful and if you have any questions or suggestions, leave a comment in the ”comments” section.

33 comments

Hello! Thank you for all of this wonderfully detailed information! I have a few questions: Are toiletries easy to find? Things like shampoo, body soap, sunscreen, mosquito repellant, etc? Are over the counter medicines available? Like Ibuprofen, Pepto-Bismol, etc. What kind of converter for electronics should be used? Thank you in advance!

Hello Maree! Yes, toiletries are very easy to find. Outside of main cities, you may no be able to find international brands but they do have local brands. Counter medicines are available everywhere. About mosquito repellant, is better to bring it from your home country. In my experience in Africa, I have always found it expensive and not the best quality. For electronics, they use regular EU connector.

What was your experience, i intend to go there this december

Hi! Shouldn’t Timkat be 19 January?

If one intends to take a local travel agent, for around 20 days, any tips there on how to save money?

I’ve travelled to Ethiopia six times or so over the last ten years. The first time I carefully brought along a crisp US20 dollar note for my visa on arrival. As more tourists have come, the price has risen, but it’s become even easier to get the visa. I really wouldn’t bother getting the Evisa as very often the queue for the Evisa is longer than the visa on arrival. And no need for pristine US dollars, they take pounds, euros and card as well.

Hello Joan,

Thanks for sharing your vast travel experience in Ethiopia. Would you know if there is any buses going from Lamu in Kenya, all the way to Lalibali? And if crossing that frontier is a hassle? The alternative is flying to Addis but with the layover there I think a bus would be faster. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

I dont think there aren’t direct buses from Kenya to Lalibela. It’s just too remote.

Im interested in traveling to Lilabela but concerned about the current of civil war in Ethiopia. Is it safe for senior age Black Americans to visit? If so could you recommend a tour guy?

Hi there, as far as I know, Lalibela is still within the safe area, but the city is out of electricity and there are no tourists.

correction of email below

Speaking to my in laws who live in Addis, who have relatives in the North- NOT a good idea to be travelling as a tourist outside of AA.

so sorry to bother you but would you please elaborate a little? I am currently in addis ababa and i’ve asked around and have received conflicting answers. (I think also due to language barriers but) some say it is totally fine. Others say I’m crazy to go around.

Would love some first hand info from people who are currently here. Thank you in advance.

Hello, well not being in Addis right now it seems like you’re in a better place to find out:) The UK Foreign Office has got some very detailed advice on its website- says Lalibella is ok. I would read that carefully. And whatever you do, don’t go to Tigray. Good luck.

We will be near Ethiopia in late March 2023 and would love to visit Lalibela holy land churches for 3-4 days. Could you advise how to tour them if we fly from Addis Ababa? We are Black Americans and do not know the local language. Thank you.

hi, there’s a tourist office in Lalibela, in the center of the town, where you can buy the tickets

Actually one and half day is enough to visit all the 11 rock cut churches. You could visit some county side churches combining hike to the highlander farmer village where you see their way of life, even take part in their daily activities… Lalibela based tour agent “Highland Eco trekking tours” is known for organizing authentic experience in the area

To Dr King: We went a couple years ago and used a guide named Alex Aregaw( +251 92 019 0138 on Whatsapp or [email protected] by email). He’s also on TripAdvisor: https://en.tripadvisor.com.hk/ShowUserReviews-g480193-d7033629-r793913298-Lalibela_Local_Tour-Lalibela_Amhara_Region.html he is the guy in the mask and white shawl in the first photo. His English is good and he’s very polite and nice to deal with. I occasionally keep touch with him on Instagram, and apparently a few tourists are trickling back now, and water and electricity are back, after they were destroyed when the TPLF invaded last Christmas.

For the author of the article: I’m amazed you got pickpocketed twice in Tigray! We spent like 15 days in various parts of Tigray and never encountered any crowds or groups of people, even in Axum and Mekele. We even had not been locking our car — I realized after we had been driving it for like 10 days that when closing the driver’s side door, it automatically unlocked the car — and no one ever stole the GoPro out of our windshield. But, I was always parking in hotel parking lots or I had been paying a local guy to watch the car if I parked in the street.

Thanks for your advice EG. Truly appreciate it. Peace

Hi, thanks for the useful information. How long do you suggest for a trip in Ethiopia ? I’m planning to cross the border from Sudan and after Ethiopia move on to the next bordering country. Regards, Suné from South Africa 🇿🇦

difficult to say! I spent there 6 weeks, the country is huge! but from crossing from north to south save at least 3 weeks for all the highlights!

Hello, This is very informative. What about getting sick from drinking the water or eating food, for someone who has not been there before? What precautions should one take?

I’d only drink mineral bottled water and be careful on where to eat meat

We just returned from Ethiopia. We travelled as a family with a 8 y.o. child. We’ve been in the Omo Valley with Lalo Tours. They gave the best price from the beginning. 400 USD for 2 days 2 nights everything included. It was the best part of Ethiopia trip. After this we went in Danakil with ETT after long negotiations we have obtained 900 USD for 3 days 2 nights tour. This part was very adventurous. 2 nights sleeping under the sky. You can have mosquitos, wind and dust. Beautiful and incredible sceneries. Don’t expect more than basic conditions for food and accommodation. You should come preprepared. After this it followed Lalibela where we had the best accommodation in all Ethiopia at Ben Abbeba local guide for 40 USD payable in in Birr.

Some tips and tricks:

1. Don’t use ATMs or official exchange offices. Come with USD in cash and change it in Addis on black market. We managed to change it for 99.5 for 1 USD (We heard about 110 for 1 USD). Go to Meskele sq pick up a restaurant and ask discreetly about changing money. Like this all the prices will drop to almost 50% for you.

2. In Addis specially look up for pickpocketing, snatching of the phone from hand, etc. We didn’t experience but we met people who did. So be very aware. We used money belt for USD transportation. For birr it is impossible because you will get a lot of birrs for your USD. Use a backpack.

3. In Addis use Ride app for ridesharing. Select pay in cash and you will have dirt cheap rides.

4. Everywhere it said that if you use international flight with Ethiopian Airlines you will have almost 50% discount for internal flight. Is nobody checking this. So, I believe if you tick on their website that you have am international ticket with them, it will work even if don’t have in reality. More than this if you want to be sure and you don’t have luggage you can make online check-in and you will not face any question from anyone. Another trick is that if you have international flight with them, once in Addis change your USD in birr on black market and after this go to Ethiopian Airlines Office and buy your domestic tickets with cash. Like this you will have the smallest prices.

5. Political situation. It can become quite instable sudden. During our stay in Amhara started some violent demonstrations, especially Gondar. In Lalibela was peaceful, but we didn’t have mobile internet, and, in some parts, we heard a lot of gun shots, the locals said that people buy weapons and test them… Keep an eye on BBC section for Ethiopia and western embassies. Local guides we will tend to minimize the danger, but it is there.

6. If travelling with children, be aware of the sanitation conditions. Ours got food poisoned and for 3 days it was a nightmare with continuously vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, fatigue In Addis we didn’t find any antidiarrheic medicine, just antibiotics that worked finally. We also faced another problem, that by our mistake, we had all the medications in the luggage and Ethiopian Airlines lost them for 10 days. So, travelling with small children can become difficult.

7. Erta Ale volcano activity. It is totally different from the lava lake that you can see it on YouTube. Now there are 2 small volcanic cones like 3-4m in diameter that spit lava. Guides said that the situation is changing each day. You can see the lava or if unlucky only smoke. Be prepared because the smoke can be quite irritating. A face musk can help but not too much. Especially with children in Dallol area you will fill incredibly hot. Drink plenty of water, otherwise there are chances to faint from heat. The guides and agencies are totally unprepared for something like this. You will not have somebody with you permanently to take care. You must handle it on your own.

I will be happy to answer to other questions if there are any. Safe travel for everybody!

Buf! this is one the best travel report/feedback we’ve ever got in ATC. Thanks a lot Vladimir!

I’ve just been researching the visa situation for Ethiopia, and came across your site. The fees are currently vastly different to what you have here ($82 for a 30 day visa, $202 for 90 days, extension $102 and $302 respectively). Your site is very interesting. I am planning an overland trip from Cairo to Cape Town early 2024. 😀

It seems they increased prices, thanks a lot for the update!

I’ll be a black American solo female traveler in 2024 to AA and this detailed info has me excited and informed instead of intimidated and uncomfortable. Fortunately, I currently live in Washington, DC in an Ethiopian community where these beautiful people are my neighbors and small business owners. Daily I interact with them, learn a word or two of Amharic, and eat their food (which I also have a love/hate relationship with ;)) Safe travels, everyone!

Have a lovely trip Chelsea!

You are out of date on. VISAS. Embassies no longer do them VOA no longer available unless you are from an AU country. So you must use e visa..where prices now 82 and 202 dollars…for 1/3 months.

thanks for the update!

You really are amazing. Thanks for the very interesting and comprehensive info. I have 2 friends who have just come back from travelling in Ethiopia and I am planning a trip there myself.

Hey, thanks for the great post. I’m going there in 4 days so very useful have everything together and in a blog that I know I can trust closed eyes. Don’t know if anyone has told you already, but regarding the discounted domestic flight rate: it’s true one can’t book with it in the website anymore, but you can still do it in the Ethiopian Airlines app – as you said, it’s just a box you tick when searching flights. Cheers!

Excellent and very comprehensive article, Joan, many thanks for sharing! By the way, I just published this Addis Ababa travel guide in case you or your readers would like to take a look: https://marielaaroundtheworld.com/addis-ababa-capital-of-ethiopia/

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Best Time to Visit Ethiopia: A Month-by-Month Guide

• 1 month ago

Ethiopia is a country of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures. Whether you’re planning to trek the Simien Mountains, explore ancient rock-hewn churches, or experience local festivals, knowing the best time to visit is essential for a memorable trip. In this month-by-month guide, we’ll help you decide when to visit Ethiopia based on weather, events, and activities.

January – The Ideal Start to the Year

Weather: January is part of the dry season, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The temperatures are mild, with warm days and cool nights.

• Timkat (Epiphany) : One of Ethiopia’s most important religious festivals, celebrated with colorful processions and ceremonies, particularly in Gondar and Lalibela.
• Exploring Lalibela : With clear skies and pleasant weather, this is a great time to visit the rock-hewn churches.

Insider Tip:

Book accommodations in advance if you plan to attend Timkat, as it attracts many visitors.

February – Continue Your Adventures

Weather: February remains dry and pleasant, perfect for exploring Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes.

• Simien Mountains Trekking : The cool and dry weather is ideal for hiking and spotting wildlife, including the Gelada baboons.
• Historical Tours : Visit Axum, Gondar, and Bahir Dar without the crowds.

Pack layers for trekking in the Simien Mountains, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes.

March – Transition to the Wet Season

Weather: March marks the beginning of the short rains in some parts of Ethiopia, particularly in the south. However, the northern and central regions remain relatively dry.

• Cultural Tours : Visit the Omo Valley to experience the unique traditions of Ethiopia’s tribal communities.
• Harar Exploration : This is a great time to explore the ancient walled city of Harar, where the weather is still comfortable.

Carry a light rain jacket, especially if you’re heading to the southern regions.

April – The Quiet Before the Rain

Weather: April sees an increase in rainfall, particularly in the central and southern parts of Ethiopia. However, it’s still a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds.

• Historical Sites : Continue your exploration of Ethiopia’s ancient sites, including Lalibela and Axum, with fewer tourists around.
• Birdwatching : The Awash National Park and the Rift Valley lakes offer excellent birdwatching opportunities during this period.

Travelers interested in photography will find the landscapes lush and vibrant, thanks to the early rains.

May – Embrace the Green Season

Weather: May brings more rain, especially in the highlands and southern regions. The landscapes are lush and green, providing beautiful scenery for photography.

• Wildlife Viewing : The rainy season can be a good time for wildlife viewing in areas like the Bale Mountains, where animals are more active.
• Cultural Experiences : Visit local markets and communities to experience Ethiopian culture during the quieter tourist season.

Pack waterproof gear and be prepared for occasional downpours, particularly in the highlands.

June – The Heart of the Wet Season

Weather: June is characterized by heavy rains, especially in the central and southern regions. Travel can be more challenging due to muddy roads and disrupted schedules.

• Relaxation in Addis Ababa : Use this time to explore museums, cafes, and cultural centers in the capital.
• Coffee Tours : Visit coffee farms in the southern regions, where the wet season is the beginning of the coffee-growing period.

Focus on indoor activities and cultural experiences during this period to avoid the rain.

July – A Time for Festivals

Weather: The rainy season continues in July, but it’s also the time for one of Ethiopia’s most significant festivals.

• Hidar Tsion : This religious festival in Axum celebrates St. Mary, drawing pilgrims from all over the country.
• City Exploration : Addis Ababa and other major cities remain active with indoor cultural events and activities.

Pack sturdy, waterproof footwear if you plan to venture outside during the rains.

August – The End of the Rains

Weather: The rains begin to subside in late August, especially in the northern regions. The landscapes are lush, and the weather starts to improve.

• Simien Mountains : The scenery is particularly beautiful after the rains, making it a great time for trekking.
• Cultural Festivals : Attend the Ashenda festival in the Tigray and Amhara regions, a celebration of young women with dancing and singing.

This is an excellent time to visit if you want to experience the beauty of Ethiopia’s green season without the peak-season crowds.

September – The Ethiopian New Year

Weather: September marks the beginning of the dry season, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies.

• Enkutatash (Ethiopian New Year) : Celebrated on September 11th, this is a time of festivity and renewal. Addis Ababa is particularly vibrant during this period.
• Danakil Depression : Visit one of the hottest places on earth as the weather begins to cool slightly.

Join the locals in celebrating Enkutatash, and don’t miss the special New Year’s Eve meals.

October – The Perfect Travel Weather

Weather: October is one of the best months to visit Ethiopia, with dry weather and comfortable temperatures across the country.

• Historical Tours : This is an excellent time to visit Axum, Lalibela, and Gondar, with ideal weather for sightseeing.
• Wildlife Safaris : Explore the Bale Mountains or the Omo Valley with excellent chances of wildlife sightings.

Book your travel and accommodations early, as October is a popular month for visitors.

November – The Peak Season Begins

Weather: November continues the trend of dry and pleasant weather, making it a popular time for tourists.

• Danakil Depression : Visit this otherworldly landscape in the cooler weather, where you can explore salt flats, volcanoes, and sulfur springs.
• Simien Mountains : The trekking conditions are perfect, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Be prepared for higher prices and book your tours and accommodations in advance to secure the best options.

December – A Festive End to the Year

Weather: December is one of the best months to visit Ethiopia, with dry weather and plenty of sunshine.

• Christmas Celebrations : Experience Ethiopian Christmas, or Genna , on January 7th, with unique religious ceremonies, particularly in Lalibela.
• City Tours : Explore Addis Ababa, Gondar, and Bahir Dar with perfect weather for sightseeing.

December is a busy travel month, so plan your itinerary early to ensure you don’t miss out on any key experiences.

Final Thoughts

Ethiopia offers something special in every season. Whether you’re drawn to cultural festivals, historical sites, or natural wonders, there’s always a perfect time to visit. Use this month-by-month guide to plan your trip and experience the best of Ethiopia year-round.

Suggested Reads:

• How to Plan a Perfect Two-Week Itinerary in Ethiopia
• Ultimate Travel Guide to Ethiopia: Top 10 Must-See Destinations

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• When to Travel

Home / When to Travel

Ethiopia can be visited at any time of year, but different seasons have different advantages.

Conventional wisdom is that visitors should avoid the rainy season, which usually starts in June, but peaks over July and August in the central and northern highlands. Certainly, highland towns such as Gondar, Lalibela and Addis Ababa can be very damp and cool during the rains. That aside, however, recent improvements in the northern circuit’s road network makes the rains far less of an obstacle to travel than would have been the case few years ago. The countryside is also very green and scenic during the rains, and you’ll encounter fewer tourists at popular sites such as Lalibela.

The late rainy season, from September through to early October, is a lovely time of year. There’s a significant drop in precipitation over this period, but the countryside is very green, and punctuated by yellow meskel wild flowers. On 27 September (a day later in leap years), Ethiopia erupts into festival mode to celebrate Meskel, which commemorates the finding of the True Cross more than 1600 years ago.

Arguably the optimum time to visit Ethiopia is from mid October to January, when the rains are over but the countryside is still quite green. This is also the peak tourist season, so facilities and sites of interest tend to be busier than at other times. It is well worth aiming to be in Lalibela or Gondar for Timkat (Ethiopian Epiphany), another wonderfully colourful celebration held on 19 January (except on leap years).

The late dry season, from February to May, is also a good time to visit, though the scenery tends to become dryer and browner towards the end of this period, except in the far south where the first rains often fall as early as April. 

Wildlife can be observed throughout the year, but the European winter – November to March – is particularly rewarding for birders, as resident species are supplemented by large numbers of Palaearctic migrants.

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The Best Time to Visit Ethiopia

For many people, the best time to visit ethiopia is during the dry season, which runs from october through february. there are exceptions to this rule.

Hiking to the Tigray Churches, Ethiopia

For many people, the best time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season, which runs from October through February. There are exceptions to this rule, however—especially if you’re interested in experiencing Ethiopia’s cultural festivals, some of which are held during the rainy season. If you’re on a budget, traveling during the low season is also a good way to save money.

The Weather in Ethiopia

Although Ethiopia’s climate varies greatly depending on the region you’re planning on visiting, the wet season generally lasts from June to September, with light rains beginning as early as March. June and July are the wettest months, particularly in the Northern Highlands. Weatherwise, therefore, the best time to travel is from October to February, when the climate is both dry and sunny. At this time of year, nighttime temperatures can drop dramatically, so it’s important to pack plenty of layers. If you’re planning on heading south to the Omo Valley, you need to be aware that there are two distinct rainy seasons in this region.

Best Time to Visit Ethiopia: the Northern Highlands

The October to February dry season is the best time to plan a trip to the ancient rock-cut churches of Ethiopia’s stunning Northern Highlands. However, even during the wet season, rains rarely last all day. If you’re looking to save money, consider booking a trip in March or April, when the rains are light and prices for accommodation and tours are generally lower. Usually, it’s best to avoid traveling in June and July, when the rains in this region are at their most extreme.

Best Time to Trek the Simien Mountains

The Simien Mountains are a vast mountain range whose highest peak stands at 14,901 feet, making it one of the highest mountains in Africa. Trekking here is fantastic, not only because of the scenery, gorges, and streams but also because you get a chance to look for endemic wildlife like the gelada baboon and the walia ibex. The best time to trek is from September to November, when it’s dry, green, and relatively dust-free. October, in particular, can be spectacular because this is when the mountain wildflowers are in full bloom.

Best Time to Visit Ethiopia: Omo Valley

With more than 50 tribes living in the Omo River region of southwestern Ethiopia, it’s a fascinating destination for those interested in African culture. The remote location, which is barely accessible by four-wheel drive, means that traditional customs and beliefs are very much intact for most of these tribes. This region has two rainy seasons, with one lasting from March to June, and a shorter one in November. Access is often impossible during these times, so planning your trip for the dry season is essential.

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Danakil is one of the hottest places on earth, with daytime temperatures easily reaching 122 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a fascinating destination where you can witness the age-old tradition of salt caravans, experience Afar culture, and marvel at a myriad of active volcanoes. If you’ve ever felt the urge to visit another planet, you’ll love the extraordinary landscapes of this region. To avoid feeling like you’re boiling alive, however, make sure to visit during the cooler months of November to March.

Best Time for Experiencing Ethiopia’s Festivals

Ethiopian festivals are certainly worth planning a trip around. Mostly religious, festivals generally last several days. Orthodox Christian festivals are the most prominent and visible in Ethiopia and are celebrated according to the Ethiopian calendar. For example, Ethiopian Christmas (known as Ganna) is celebrated on January 7, rather than December 25. Enkutatash, the Ethiopian New Year, is celebrated on September 11. If you’re keen to experience Ethiopian festivities at their most colorful, consider planning your trip around Meskel or Timket, but be prepared to book your domestic flights and hotels well in advance.

Key Festivals & Events

Timket, the Feast of Epiphany held on January 19, is Ethiopia’s biggest festival, celebrating the baptism of Jesus. The festival lasts for three days, and includes a procession of the church’s tabot, or consecrated replica of the Arc of the Covenant; and ritual re-enactments of the baptism. When the more solemn aspects of the festival are over, participants enjoy feasting, music, and dancing. The best places to enjoy the festival are Gondar, Lalibela, and Addis Ababa. It is worth joining a tour, just to make sure that you are able to reserve accommodation. It’s also good to have a guide who can tell you exactly what is going on during the processions.

Later in the year, the country celebrates Meskel on September 27. Meskel is an old Christian festival that has been celebrated in Ethiopia for over 1,600 years. It commemorates the discovery of the cross upon which Jesus was crucified. Some pieces of the cross are thought to have been brought to Ethiopia. The best place to celebrate the festival is in Addis Ababa’s Meskel Square, where a colorful procession of priests, deacons, and choir singers walk around a huge pyre, bearing ceremonial crosses and wooden torches decorated with olive leaves. The torch-bearers set the pyre alight, and the next day people go to the bonfire and use the ash to make the sign of the cross on their foreheads before spending the rest of the day feasting.

Ethiopia’s spring is sometimes known as the harvest season and spans from September through November. Belg, as it’s called, also kicks off the country’s dry period, making it a great time to visit.

Events to check out:

• Enkutatash, or New Year’s Day, takes place every year on September 11.
• Meskel, or Finding of the True Cross, is celebrated on September 27. This festival is among the country’s largest, celebrated with a huge procession of priests, deacons, and choirs.

Kiremt is the summer season, which runs from June through August. These months are punctuated by heavy, intense rainfall at times.

• Islamic holidays, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adah, usually fall during the summer months.7

Fall in Ethiopia

Tseday is the name of the season that runs from March through May, and what most would consider fall. There are occasional showers, and May is usually the hottest month in Ethiopia.

• Adwa Victory Day is held in early March, commemorating a battle fought between the Ethiopian empire and Italy.
• Ethiopia’s national day is called Derg Downfall Day and takes place on May 28.

Winter in Ethiopia

December through February constitute winter, or bega, in Ethiopia. These months are very dry and it’s not uncommon for mornings to be frosty.

• Ethiopian Christmas is a huge celebration which always takes place on January 7.

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Best Time to Go to Ethiopia

When to visit ethiopia.

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Best Time to Visit Danakil Depression

Best time to tour the historic route.

Best Time to Go to the Simien Mountains

Best time to visit the omo valley, best time to go to ethiopia for festivals, want to go, top ethiopia travel destinations, ethiopia trips by departure date.

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Ethiopia Travel Guide

Your ultimate ethiopia travel guide, with tips, things to do, and best things to see in ethiopia. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Located in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia is the second most populated country in Africa.

Other than the fact that this African country was never colonized by a European power (along with Liberia), Ethiopia is known for its rich culture, delicious coffee, unforgettable landscapes, and friendly people.

It is also the only African country that has its own alphabet (an alpha-syllabary) which consists of 209 symbols and 25 letter variants.  

This Ethiopia travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

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Fast Facts about Ehtiopia

• Ethiopia power voltage is 220V 50Hz;  Plug C, E, F & L
• Ethiopian currency is the Ethiopian birr and is around 20.8 ETB to 1 USD
• Proof of an onward or return ticket is frequently asked for upon arrival in Ethiopia.
• If you are planning to enter Ethiopia by land, you will need  tourist visa  in advance from your local Ethiopian Embassy.
• A yellow fever vaccination is not obligatory in order to enter Ethiopia, but if you have recently traveled to a country where it is present then you will need proof of immunization.
• Avoid travel to the border with Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan and Eritrea due to lack of security and a threat of violence and kidnapping
• Several vaccinations are highly recommended including Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Meningitis.
• The water is not potable ; drink only bottled water.
• SIM Cards:  If you are planning on staying in Ethiopia for longer than a week, bring a cellphone to confirm flights, book tickets, call taxis etc.
• Only select stores sell SIM cards but you can buy refill cards almost anywhere!
• SIM Cards : You can get a local sim card from Vodafone or Orange in Cairo. We suggest getting a SIM card at the airport when you arrive.

Things to See and Do in Ethiopia

• Erta Ale:  Come see the most active volcano in Ethiopia. Famed for its persistent lava lake in the crater, it makes a great sight for those ready for the adventure up the volcano.
• Blue Nile Falls:  One of the most popular places in Ethiopia,take a short hike through the countryside to see this magnificent waterfall. Standing at 138 feet, fans of nature will love this. You might get lucky and also see a rainbow.
• See where the Blue and White Nile Meet
• Lalibela Churches:  Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visit these historical 11 churches. Made from a single rock 900 years ago, these churches are a stunning sight, as well as culturally significant for members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. 
• National Museum of Ethiopia:  Learn more about Ethiopia by visiting this museum. Featuring exhibits, Ethiopian art, and fossils from extinct creatures, the museum also includes “Lucy”, a partial skeleton from a human who lived 3 million years ago.
• Simien Mountains National Park:  Featuring rare Gelada baboons and Walia ibex, spend a day at this park. Activities include the Jinbar Waterfall, Ras Dashen (highest mountain in Ethiopia), and hiking through Mount Bwahit.
• Fasil Ghebbi:  Head to Gondar to see these impressive ruins from a 17 th -century fortress city. Once home to Ethiopian emperor Fasilides, it is now a unique journey into the past.

Accommodation

Budget:  You can find budget guest houses and hotels for 325-600 ETB per night. These places come with simple rooms, a lounge area, free breakfast and Wi-Fi, and a hotel restaurant and bar.

Mid-Range:  You can find mid-range hotels for 1,175-1,825 ETB per night.Enjoy private rooms and suites with minibars and tea/coffee, a hotel restaurant and bar, a gym, an indoor or outdoor pool, room service, and airport shuttle. 

High-End:  You can find five-star hotels in the price range of 2,940- 8,250 ETB per night. Amenities include private suites with living rooms, free breakfast, multiple hotel restaurants, a cocktail bar, spa services, a gym, a swimming pool, and hot tub, and room service.

Spicy meat and vegetables are a staple of Ethiopian cuisine. At the same time, members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church abstain from eating animal products every Wednesday and Friday, and so there are many vegetarian dishes/alternatives available as well.

The national dish is Doro Wat (spicy chicken stew). Other popular meals include Tibs (sautéed meat strips), Shiro be Kibbe (legume stew), and wat (stew made from meat, vegetables, spices, and clarified butter). You can also look for Injera, a sour flatbread that’s very popular.

There are sit-down restaurants where you can sample more of Ethiopia’s cuisine. In total, you can expect to pay 1030 ETB per day in major cities like Addis Ababa or 450 ETB for smaller cities.

The Best Ways to Get Around Ethiopia

Getting to ethiopia:.

Flights:   Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, located 3.7 miles from the city center of Addis Ababa, is the main airport to fly into. You can check for the best flights to Ethiopia on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses:  Buses are a cheap way to get around. Minibuses are best for traveling throughout towns, though you can also take them to go between cities.

A trip on a minibus from Gondar to Bahir Dar, for example, will cost about 20 ETB. You can also look for luxury buses that are air-conditioned and travel between cities. Take a luxury bus from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar for 340 ETB. Tickets for luxury buses should be booked at least a day in advance. 

Taxis:  You can find two types of taxis—shared and private.Shared taxis willfollow certain routes and include multiple passengers in a cab (similar to a bus), while private taxis do not have fixed destinations. It is best to negotiate the fare at the start of the trip and check around to make sure you are being given a fair price. 

Car Rental:  You can find car rentals that come with an experienced driver. Self-driving is not possible in Ethiopia due to the conditions of the roads. Prices start at 3,530 ETB per day. 

Uber:  No Uber, but there is ZayRide, a taxi app similar to Uber.

When to go To Ethiopia

The best time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season of October through June. The dry season means there is less of a chance of rainfall, which makes it great for outdoor activities. It is also the period when nature is at its peak beauty, particularly in the highlands.

Where to Stay in Ethiopia

Best Western Plus Addis Ababa:  When in Addis Ababa, stay at this popular hotel. Just a 20-minute ride from the National Museum of Ethiopia and Holy Trinity Cathedral, the hotel comes with free breakfast and Wi-Fi, room service, an indoor pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a hotel restaurant and bar. 

Sora Lodge Lalibela :  Come stay at this well-rated hotel in Lalibela and see great views of the Asheten Mariam Mountain. The Church of Saint George and Bete Maryam are both just 5-6 minutes away by car. If you prefer to stay indoors, the hotel includes three choices of rooms (standard, rock-hewn, and tukul rooms), free breakfast, a hotel restaurant and bar, room service, an airport shuttle, and laundry service. 

Goha Hotel:  Located 1.8 miles from Fasil Ghebbi and Fasilides Palace, this is a great place for seeing some top destinations or just for staying inside. With Goha Hotel being situated on a hill, you can see great views of Gondar from the hotel while enjoying the hotel restaurant that serves European cuisine, live entertainment, an outdoor pool, a café, a hotel bar, and sun loungers.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and VRBO   for the best deals on accommodation.

What to Pack for Ethiopia

Ethiopia is in the tropical zone lying between the Equator and the Tropic of Cancer.

It has three different climate zones according to elevation: tropical, subtropical and cool zone.

The dry season is from September through to March, which is the best time to travel to Ethiopia.

There are two rainy seasons, the belg (short rains) in April and May and the long rains from July through to the end of September.

• Waterproof bag  – the bag has two functions, protecting your stuff from the rain and also from the dust, especially if you’re travelling to drier regions.
• Personal Safety products  – Addis Ababa is a safe city with little violent crime but lots of petty theft. As Jill from  Jack and Jill Travel  explains, “I’d never experience so many attempts at pickpocketing in such a short amount of time before.” Some tips include being extremely careful when leaving/arriving by bus in Meskal Square while also avoiding the use a backpack with anything valuable in it in Merkato.  Before leaving for your trip, make sure to pack some  personal safety products , like money belts and locks, so that you can keep your valuables safe on your trip.
• Protection from the elements –  pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and bug-spray to prevent getting bitten by a mosquito (that might have malaria!).
• Avoid packing dark colored clothes  – tsetse flies are drawn to dark colors, like blue and black clothing, and their bite can give you African Sleeping Sickness. Stick to light, neutral colors but avoid packing white clothes as they will get dirty and dusty pretty quickly.
• Footwear  – Pack a pair of lightweight, durable and comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty!
• Layers  – pack the basic tropical clothes and make sure to include long pants, long-sleeve tops and some warm clothes for those chilly nights.

See our packing tips:  packing list for smart travel  &  How to Pack for a Safari

Ehtiopia Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Ethiopia Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about  Ethiopia click here.

Best Ethiopian Food: 15 Ethiopian Dishes to Try at Home or Abroad

What it is like to Cycle in Ethiopia on the Tour d’Afrique

The Best Time to Visit Ethiopia for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Ethiopia for ideal weather are

October 15th to April 1st

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Ethiopia Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Ethiopia Travel Info

Weather in ethiopia.

Average temperatures in Ethiopia vary very little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel very enjoyable all year with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is more temperate than most — in the 82nd percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Ethiopia, the hottest months are March, April, and then May. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late March where highs are regularly around 84°F (28.9°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 59.7°F (15.4°C) at night.

Ethiopia Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Ethiopia temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Ethiopia Perceived Temperature (F)

Ethiopia perceived temperature (c), average ethiopia temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Ethiopia are January, December, and then February. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around mid December. For example, on the week of December 17th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in late July with an average of 3 days of significant precipitation the week of July 23rd.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Ethiopia.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Ethiopia (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Ethiopia has some humid months, and slightly dry months in the opposite season. The least humid month is February (33.9% relative humidity), and the most humid month is August (64.6%).

Wind in Ethiopia is usually calm . The windiest month is July, followed by March and June. July’s average wind speed of around 5.4 knots (6.2 MPH or 9.9 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early March where average top sustained speeds reach 9.6 knots, which is considered a gentle breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Ethiopia.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to ethiopia.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat unsafe, especially in some areas. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are strong travel warnings and regional advisories for Ethiopia; avoid non-essential travel and all travel to some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 15, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Ethiopia is July, followed by October and February. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Ethiopia in September. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall ethiopia travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 84°F (28.9°C) and 80.8°F (27.1°C) with similar temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 3 to 8 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is fairly slow for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for deals.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see the most precipitation with 8 to 14 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Ethiopia, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 79.3°F (26.3°C) and 76.6°F (24.8°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 3 to 10 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Ethiopia to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 83.9°F (28.8°C) and 78.5°F (25.8°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: consistently 1 times per month. These times of year are the second busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Ethiopia

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When is the Best Time to Visit Ethiopia?

Published on: November 14th, 2017

Last updated: July 27th, 2023

The best time to visit Ethiopia is either before are after the rainy season, which runs from April to September. The heaviest rains fall between June to August, so it's worth keeping that in mind.

Between September and April, the vegetation is lush and you have more chance of spotting the wildlife. If you don’t mind the rains and you won’t be doing much hiking, then you may want to visit between April and September, when there are fewer visitors.

In the highland areas, daytime temperatures are mild with cooler nights and the higher you go into the mountains, the warmer clothes you'll need to pack. The southern Rift Valley and South Omo are warmer, but as you head into the northern Rift Valley you can expect much hotter temperatures. From June to August, Ethiopia experiences its rainiest weather and the temperatures can vary depending on which part of the country you're in. It’s best to avoid travelling during this time.

The Best Time for...

If you are wanting to spend time exploring the Simien Mountains , then aim to visit from September to November when the vegetation is lush after the rains, or from January to March, which is when the temperatures start to rise. But make sure you plan so that you avoid the heaviest rainy season from June to August. Lighter rains do start from around April, which could interfere with hiking plans, so keep an eye on the weather forecast before you head into the mountains. It is very important to note that, no matter what time of year you visit, the high altitude can make hiking difficult and you may find yourself battling with the length and intensity of hiking you are used to doing.

Admiring the Beautiful Landscapes

The rainy season generally stretches from around April into September, and as October rolls around it’s the perfect time to head for the central highlands and the north to make the most of the beautiful green scenery and bright new meskel blossoms. By November and December most of the rains have cleared up and visits to the South Omo Valley and the Danakil Depression will be rewarding.

Timkat Festival

One of the main religious festivals in Ethiopia is Timkat, the Christian celebration marking the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River, which usually falls on January 19. The spiritual importance of the event, coupled with the mild temperatures at this time of year makes for large crowds of visitors. During the festivities there is a ritual re-enactment of baptism and processions with models of the Ark of the Covenant.

Our Top Example Trips

Whatever you want from your trip to Ethiopia, our team of expert travel designers are here to help.

Best Time to Visit Ethiopia

Climate Overview

General Information and Location

Climate in ethiopia.

Beach Vacation in February

Best Time to Visit Ethiopia: Overview

When to travel to ethiopia, best time to visit the regions, climate charts ethiopia.

In the following, you will find climate charts for the regions.

Furthermore, there are some charts you can use for quick comparison of climate between the regions.

Addis Ababa

Day temperatures, night temperatures, average temperatures, precipitation, hours of sunshine per day.

Source of Data: German Weather Service (Offenbach) and Wikipedia

Climate Tables Ethiopia

Temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in addis ababa (ethiopia), temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in gondar (ethiopia), temperatures, precipitation in bahir dar (ethiopia), temperatures, precipitation in mekele (ethiopia), highlights and sights, popular activities, more attractions, current weather and forecast.

Distances to Ethiopia

Where’s ethiopia, continent: africa, share your experience and win.

Mysterious Ethiopia

Destinations in the vicinity ….

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Best Time to Visit Ethiopia: Weather, Seasons, and Travel Tips

Find out the best time to visit Ethiopia. Learn about the climate, tourist seasons, and regional highlights to plan your perfect trip.

When planning a trip to Ethiopia, one of the key factors to consider is the best time to visit this diverse and culturally rich country. The best time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season, which typically runs from October to May. Avoid the rainy season, especially in July and August, to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and historical sites the country has to offer. From exploring the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to witnessing the snowfall in the Simien Mountains, Ethiopia promises a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

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Understanding Ethiopia's Climate

Seasons in ethiopia.

Ethiopia’s climate varies significantly depending on the region, but it can generally be divided into two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which is often considered the best time to visit Ethiopia, spans from October to May. During this period, the weather is mostly sunny and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The rainy season occurs from June to September, bringing heavy rainfall, particularly in the highland areas. While the landscape becomes lush and green during this time, travel can be more challenging due to muddy roads and less predictable weather.

Average Temperature and Weather Patterns

The average temperature in Ethiopia also varies depending on the altitude and the region. In the highland areas, such as Addis Ababa and Lalibela, temperatures are generally mild and pleasant throughout the year, ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). The central highlands, including the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains, can be cooler, especially during the night. In contrast, the lowland regions, such as the Danakil Depression and the Omo Valley, experience hotter temperatures, often exceeding 100°F (38°C) during the peak season.

Understanding these weather patterns can help you plan your trip more effectively. For instance, if you prefer to avoid the scorching heat, visiting the highland regions during the dry season would be ideal. On the other hand, if you are interested in witnessing the vibrant green landscapes and wildflowers that bloom during the rainy season, planning a trip between June and September could be rewarding.

Best Time to Visit Ethiopia

Tourist season.

Ethiopia’s tourist season is generally divided into two main periods: the peak season and the low season. The peak tourist season in Ethiopia runs from October to May, coinciding with the dry season. During these months, the weather is sunny and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing, trekking in the Simien Mountains, and exploring historical sites like Lalibela and Gondar. This period also includes major cultural events such as Timkat (Epiphany) and Meskel (Finding of the True Cross), which are celebrated with vibrant processions and ceremonies.

The low season, from June to September, aligns with the rainy season. While the landscapes become lush and green, heavy rainfall can make travel more challenging, particularly in rural and highland areas. However, the low season is also the best time to visit Ethiopia for budget travelers, as prices for flights and accommodations are generally lower, and tourist sites are less crowded.

Month by Month Guide

October to december.

This period marks the start of the peak tourist season in Ethiopia. The weather is dry and sunny, making it a great time to visit Addis Ababa, explore the historical sites of Lalibela, and trek in the Simien Mountains. October is also a wonderful time to witness the yellow Meskel flowers blooming across the central highlands.

January to February

These months are part of the peak season and are especially popular due to the Timkat festival in January, which celebrates the baptism of Jesus. This is one of the best times to visit Ethiopia to experience the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

March to May

The weather remains dry and pleasant, with temperatures gradually rising. This is an excellent time to visit the Omo Valley to witness the unique cultures of the indigenous tribes. It is also a good period for wildlife viewing in the Bale Mountains and the Rift Valley.

June to August

The rainy season is in full swing, with the wettest months being July and August. While travel can be challenging, the landscapes are at their greenest and most lush. This period is best avoided if you prefer dry weather, but it is ideal for those who enjoy seeing Ethiopia’s natural beauty in full bloom.

As the rainy season begins to taper off, September is a transitional month. The countryside is still green, and the weather starts to improve. This month is also when the Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash) is celebrated, offering a unique cultural experience.

Visiting During the Dry Season

Benefits of the dry season.

Visiting Ethiopia during the dry season, which spans from October to May, offers numerous advantages. The weather is generally sunny and pleasant, making it the best time to visit Ethiopia for outdoor activities and sightseeing. You can explore the bustling streets of Addis Ababa, hike through the breathtaking landscapes of the Simien Mountains, and marvel at the historical sites of Lalibela without the inconvenience of rain. The dry season is also ideal for wildlife viewing in the Bale Mountains and the Rift Valley, as animals are more likely to gather around water sources, making them easier to spot.

Another significant benefit of the dry season is the ease of travel. Roads are more accessible, and trekking paths are less muddy, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable journey. This period also coincides with major cultural events such as Timkat (Epiphany) in January and Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) in September, offering travelers a chance to witness Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage in its full glory.

Addis Ababa

Ethiopia’s vibrant capital city is a great starting point for any Ethiopian adventure. During the dry season, you can enjoy the city’s many attractions, including the National Museum, home to the famous fossil Lucy, and the bustling Merkato market, one of the largest in Africa. The pleasant weather makes it perfect for exploring Addis Ababa’s diverse neighborhoods and sampling traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

Known for its rock-hewn churches, Lalibela is a must-visit destination in the dry season. These ancient structures, carved directly into the mountains, are best explored in dry, sunny weather. Visiting Lalibela during this time allows you to fully appreciate the intricate designs and historical significance of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Simien Mountains

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, the Simien Mountains offer stunning landscapes and unique wildlife, including the endemic Gelada baboons. The dry season provides clear skies and comfortable temperatures, ideal for trekking and enjoying panoramic views of the highland scenery.

The Omo Valley is renowned for its cultural diversity and traditional tribes. The dry season is the best time to visit the Omo Valley, as it is easier to travel between the remote villages and participate in tribal ceremonies and markets. The vibrant culture and traditions of the Omo Valley’s communities are truly a sight to behold during this period.

Often referred to as the “Camelot of Africa,” Gondar is famous for its medieval castles and churches. The dry season is perfect for exploring Gondar’s historical sites, including the Royal Enclosure and the Church of Debre Berhan Selassie, known for its beautiful frescoes.

Bale Mountains

The Bale Mountains National Park is another top destination during the dry season. With its diverse ecosystems ranging from lush forests to alpine meadows, the park is home to many rare species, such as the Ethiopian wolf. The dry season offers optimal conditions for trekking, bird watching, and experiencing the natural beauty of this unique region.

Visiting During the Rainy Season

Advantages and challenges.

Visiting Ethiopia during the rainy season, which spans from June to September, offers a mix of advantages and challenges. One of the primary benefits is the breathtaking transformation of the landscape. The rain brings life to the Ethiopian highlands, making them lush and green, a stark contrast to the dry season. This period is ideal for nature lovers who want to see Ethiopia’s natural beauty at its peak, with vibrant wildflowers blooming across the countryside.

Another advantage is that the rainy season is the low tourist season, meaning fewer crowds at popular attractions such as Lalibela and the Simien Mountains. This can provide a more serene and intimate experience at these historic and natural sites. Additionally, travel costs are often lower during this period, with cheaper flights and accommodation rates, making it the best time to visit Ethiopia for budget-conscious travelers.

However, the rainy season also presents certain challenges. Heavy rainfall can make some roads and trekking paths muddy and difficult to navigate, particularly in rural and highland areas. The frequent rain can also disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities, so it’s essential to be flexible and prepared for potential changes in your itinerary. Despite these challenges, with proper planning and an adventurous spirit, visiting Ethiopia during the rainy season can be a rewarding experience.

Unique Experiences in the Rainy Season

The rainy season in Ethiopia offers unique experiences that you won’t find during the dry months. One such experience is witnessing the stunning waterfalls, such as the Blue Nile Falls, which are at their most powerful and impressive during this time due to the increased rainfall. The lush greenery and the dramatic surge of water make for spectacular views and photo opportunities.

Visiting the Omo Valley during the rainy season provides an opportunity to see the region’s indigenous tribes in their traditional environments, enhanced by the verdant landscapes. The rain brings a freshness and vitality to the valley, enriching the cultural experiences and interactions with the local communities.

Another highlight of the rainy season is the celebration of Ethiopian New Year, or Enkutatash, which falls in September. This festive occasion marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the new year, celebrated with music, dance, and traditional feasts. The countryside is adorned with yellow Meskel flowers, symbolizing renewal and hope, making it a beautiful and culturally rich time to visit Ethiopia.

Hiking in the Bale Mountains during the rainy season can also be a unique and rewarding experience. The rain transforms the landscape into a lush, green paradise, teeming with wildlife. It’s an excellent time for bird watching, as the region is home to many endemic species that are more active and visible during this period.

Regional Highlights

Northern ethiopia (gondar, lalibela, simien mountains).

Northern Ethiopia is home to some of the country’s most famous historical and natural sites. Gondar, often referred to as the “Camelot of Africa,” boasts a collection of medieval castles and churches, including the Royal Enclosure and the Church of Debre Berhan Selassie. Visiting Gondar during the dry season, from October to May, allows you to explore these sites comfortably without the hindrance of rain.

Lalibela is renowned for its rock-hewn churches, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These ancient churches, carved directly into the mountains, are best visited during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and the paths are easily accessible.

The Simien Mountains, with their breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, such as the Gelada baboons, are perfect for trekking and nature enthusiasts. The dry season offers clear skies and moderate temperatures, making it the ideal time for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the highland scenery.

Southern Ethiopia (Omo Valley, Bale Mountains)

Southern Ethiopia offers a rich cultural experience with its diverse indigenous tribes and stunning natural beauty. The Omo Valley is known for its vibrant tribal communities, including the Hamar, Mursi, and Karo tribes. The best time to visit the Omo Valley is during the dry season, when travel between villages is easier and cultural ceremonies and markets are more frequent.

The Bale Mountains National Park is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. Home to the rare Ethiopian wolf and various endemic bird species, the park’s diverse ecosystems range from lush forests to alpine meadows. The dry season provides optimal conditions for trekking, bird watching, and exploring the park’s unique flora and fauna.

Eastern Ethiopia (Danakil Depression, Harar)

Eastern Ethiopia is characterized by its extreme landscapes and historical cities. The Danakil Depression, one of the hottest places on Earth, offers a surreal experience with its active volcanoes, salt flats, and colorful sulfur springs. The best time to visit this harsh yet fascinating region is during the cooler months of November to February, when temperatures are more manageable.

Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient walled city known for its rich Islamic heritage and vibrant markets. Visiting Harar during the dry season allows you to comfortably explore its narrow streets, historical sites, and experience the unique tradition of feeding hyenas, a practice maintained by local Harari people.

Special Considerations

Extreme weather conditions.

Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes mean that weather conditions can vary significantly. The Danakil Depression, for instance, experiences scorching heat, particularly during the summer months, making travel challenging. Conversely, the highland regions, such as the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains, can be quite cold at night, even during the dry season. It’s essential to pack appropriately for these varying conditions to ensure a comfortable trip.

Practical Travel Tips

Book in Advance : Ethiopia’s peak tourist season is from October to May. To secure the best accommodations and flights, it’s advisable to book well in advance.

Pack Accordingly : Depending on the regions you plan to visit, pack suitable clothing for both hot and cold weather. Layering is key for the highland areas, while lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the lowland regions.

Stay Hydrated : Whether you’re trekking in the highlands or exploring the Danakil Depression, staying hydrated is crucial. Carry a reusable water bottle and ensure you have access to clean drinking water.

Respect Local Customs : Ethiopia has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and always ask for permission before taking photographs of people.

Travel Insurance : Given the varying weather conditions and potential for unforeseen events, having comprehensive travel insurance is recommended to cover any medical emergencies or travel disruptions.

Ethiopia is a diverse and captivating destination, best explored with an understanding of its seasonal variations. The dry season from October to May offers ideal weather for sightseeing, trekking, and cultural festivals, while the rainy season from June to September transforms the landscape into a lush, green paradise. Whether you are visiting the historic sites of Northern Ethiopia, the vibrant tribes of the Omo Valley, or the extreme landscapes of the Danakil Depression, planning your trip according to the best time to visit Ethiopia will enhance your experience. By considering practical travel tips and respecting local customs, you can ensure a memorable and enriching journey through this fascinating country.

Frequently asked questions

Best time to visit Ethiopia for weather?

The best time to visit Ethiopia for favorable weather is during the dry season, which runs from October to March. During this period, the weather is more predictable, with sunny days and cooler temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Best time to visit Ethiopia for trekking?

The best time for trekking in Ethiopia, especially in the highland regions such as the Simien and Bale Mountains, is from October to March. The dry season offers clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stable conditions for trekking and hiking.

Best time to visit Omo Valley, Ethiopia?

The best time to visit the Omo Valley in Ethiopia is from September to April. During these months, the region experiences less rainfall, making travel and access to remote areas easier and more enjoyable. This period is also ideal for experiencing cultural festivals and interacting with local tribes.

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Best time to visit africa.

Expert advice on the best time to visit Africa and where to go.

26 Sept 2024

27 sept 2024.

Introduction

A few years ago, I used to have a very enthusiastic North American colleague whose response to the question:

‘When is the best time to go to Africa?’ was to bellow down the phone ‘As soon as you can get there!’

It made us all chuckle in the office but to answer the question is not as straightforward as you might think. The continent of Africa is enormous and comprises 54 countries and measures about 5,000 miles north to south and just shy of 4,600 miles at its widest point east to west making it larger than the land mass of USA, China, India and most of western Europe combined. The weather as you might expect is quite varied, from the hot deserts of the Sahara in the north to the tropical rainforests of equatorial Africa meaning different times of the year offer very different experiences.

Weather is not the only factor affecting when the best time to visit is, a large determinant is whether you will see wildlife in specific areas or vast numbers: after all safari is one of Africa’s greatest USP’s. The animal movement is often determined by the weather patterns and although consistent, nature is not always your friend when planning a trip. Remember, nothing is guaranteed, but having been involved in planning safaris for the last 2 decades, there are plenty of highly satisfied customers out there for whom we have got it right.

For the purposes of this blog, I will focus on the areas that are the main go-to areas for tourism, and focus on East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda), Southern Africa (Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Malawi, Namibia and Mozambique) and then South Africa on its own. It’s a huge country with complex weather patterns. I will also look at Sao Tome and Principe and St Helena , in the Atlantic and touch on the Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius , Seychelles and Madagascar . All of these destinations are either in the southern hemisphere of the tropics, so when it’s our summer it’s their winter but don’t let this put you off, often the best time to visit the majority of these destinations is in July, August or September – temperatures are palatable, rain is scarce and has been for a while so the flora is not as dense and there is less standing water. Generally speaking, these factors combine to make for amazing game experiences. The lack of rain offers a lovely stay on some amazing beaches – on the mainland or on one of the islands in the Atlantic or Indian Oceans.

East Africa

The Equator slices through Uganda and Kenya and sits just north of Rwanda and Tanzania making all these countries qualify for ‘tropical’ status, where temperatures don’t vary enormously. Seasons as we know them exist only as 'wet' and 'dry' and the sun sets predictably at almost the same time every night. As a rule of thumb, most people avoid the ‘long rains’ as it tends to do what it says on the tin and precipitation can be heavy and uninterrupted for a few hours to a few days. A good proportion of camps close during this time, which allows them to do any outstanding maintenance or refurbishments without guests. There is a second rainy season called the ‘short rains’ (Oct-Nov) which (again generally speaking) follow their name and offer shorter sharp showers, generally in the afternoon. Most lodges (aside from some in northern Kenya) are open as usual during this season, it's considered the 'shoulder season' so there are better prices and more availability to be had. I would have no hesitation in travelling in the short rains in the knowledge that there may be the odd shower if it meant a slightly less expensive trip with more variety to choose from and the ability to book a bit later.

The long rains probably start earlier (March) in Uganda and Rwanda as they are two mountainous countries that are covered in dense green flora and home to enormous rainforests. Whilst some rain in either of these countries is commonplace throughout the year we do suggest avoiding the heavier seasons. The star attraction in these two countries are primates, principally Mountain Gorillas, and whilst they are happy to sit in the rain all day it doesn’t make for a pleasant, strictly timed hour with which you are with them, especially for photography. It also makes the trek, which can be moderately steep at times, quite slippy and less enjoyable. The short rains in Rwanda and Uganda are also more intense than their neighbours but we would say that it's not a no-go zone and Gorilla trekking happens year-round regardless of the weather. The best time to visit would be anytime outside of these times: June – September and December to February.

Kenya and Tanzania are both blessed with what is known as ‘black cotton’ soil. A highly fertile dark clay soil which can capture moisture and can make driving whilst in some national parks quite tricky, another reason we suggest avoiding the months of April and May, however, some of our regular clients love this time of the year as places like the Masai Mara and Serengeti are beautifully green, less dusty and you tend to have the place to yourself. You are also likely to see quite a lot of juvenile fauna at this time.

In Kenya the rest of the year is fine, temperatures under blue skies will be in the early thirties and the heat inland will be dry – so very pleasant. The main talking point in Kenya is the wildebeest and zebra migration which makes its way into The Masai Mara from The Serengeti as early as late July and hangs about in these rich pastures until early October, roughly. At this time you will see huge volumes of game, lots of action and even potentially a river crossing with huge Nile Crocodiles lying in wait. It’s the most popular time to come and as its UK/US school holidays expect to see plenty of others. During this busier time we tend to suggest looking at the conservancies to move away from the traffic, the game is still excellent and the experience a less hectic. My favourite time to travel would probably be late September time – you might get the tail end of the migration, its stunning up in Laikipia at this time of year and schools have gone back so the place is a little quieter. Having said that, early January through to mid to late march offers lovely winter sun, good game and quieter parks. For coastal areas avoid the long rains, Lamu is better in the early part of the year (Jan – Mar) and watch out for heavy seaweed at Watamu in July/August time.

See trips to Kenya

Tanzania’s year revolves around the migration. This phenomenon works its way around the Serengeti from October when the animals cross back south from the Masai Mara until late July/August when they start to take the plunge to cross back into the Masai Mara once again. During that time these vast herds move in a clockwise rotation through the entire park. October to December they make their way down the eastern side of the Serengeti; in January, they are as far south as they will go, enjoying the open pastures of Ndutu and the Ngorongoro Conservation area; they then move around to the Grumeti/Western Corridor area during the rains before heading north again in July . The migration moves throughout the year, so you can see it at any time of the year so long as you are in the right place. The archipelago of Zanzibar follows the long /short rain pattern and there is just a difference in wind patterns between the Kaskazi (Dec-Mar) when the lesser breeze comes from the north and the Kusi which blows stronger from the south.

Southern Africa

Like its neighbours in East Africa, the peak time to visit the parks of southern Africa is in their dry winter season, June through to October. The rains come in earnest from the start of the year and then it dries out and is very pleasant indeed with big blue skies throughout the winter and starts to get warmer in September and can get quite hot in October before the first rains come in November. These tend to start quite sporadically as showers before coming down heavier as you move through the festive period and into New Year. Different countries are affected in diverse ways, a lot of Zambia is closed, less so in Botswana which is not as severely affected, Namibia is open year-round, but it gets stiflingly hot in the summer months and southern Mozambique is good all year apart from cyclone season in February/March time.

This country has the shortest season of all safari destinations. Things open from mid-June and carry on without a drop of rain right through until November. As the groundwater dries up and the flora gets eaten by the herbivores the game viewing gets better and better. Temperatures start rising in September and October can be a little uncomfortable in the afternoon sun. Most camps are seasonal due to rivers bursting banks and flood water moving through the various parks so it's almost impossible, or certainly ill-advised to organise a trip outside of the June to November window. Anytime within that period, you are guaranteed an amazing safari.

See trips to Zambia

Everyone wants to be in Botswana when the Okavango Delta is in full flood, and for good reason. This is the only inland delta big game safari experience you can enjoy in the world, let alone Africa. The sweet spot is (yes you guessed it!) their wintertime – July-August tends to be when the flood is at its greatest. Now this leads to confusion as it’s the dry season but it's in flood. How does that work? Botswana is subject to the same rain pattern that affects Zambia and its neighbour to the north, Angola. The rains come down in the central Angolan highlands towards the start of the year and make its way down as runoff into the Okavango River flowing until it reaches the flat plains of the inland delta and comes to a stop, creating a huge temporary crystal clear and shallow reservoir, surrounding thousands of tiny islands where the cats and other non-water loving animals congregate. It’s at this time of year when game viewing all over Botswana is at its best. Having said all this Botswana is a year-round destination offering some good deals in the ‘Green’ or ‘Emerald’ seasons. The Delta may not be in flood but some camps have access to permanent water and just because the flood waters disappear does not mean the game does too, it’s just a slightly different experience. October or November is an enjoyable time to go, albeit you may get some rain but it’s calving season so the chance of seeing young is good.

See trips to Botswana

A relatively straightforward beast. The summer is hot (I mean that) and can be wet and the winter offers good conditions to explore the landscape. In the winter months of July and August, you are more likely to get a chance to see the desert elephants but if you go to the right spots this can happen year-round.

See trips to Namibia

At this point, the north of Mozambique is off-limits due to violence over the oil and gas reserves located up there. It is a hugely long country, so long that the north and south have different seasons. I would suggest the best time to visit for guaranteed sunshine and the warm Indian Ocean is anytime between April and November when there is little rain, and the enormous skies are blue. Rain starts in and around mid to late November and gets heavier as the year goes on, we suggest avoiding hurricane season in Feb and March. During July and August, it's pretty much guaranteed sunshine but temperatures will not go beyond 30 degrees, so comfortable.

South Africa

This country is huge and offers so much to any visitor, so it's worth getting it right. During the winter months of June/July/August game viewing in the Kruger and Madikwe areas is at its best, on the eastern boundary. It’s the cooler dry season so water is at a premium and flora is less dense, game viewing is comfortable and is truly spectacular. At this time of year, the opposite can be said for the Western Cape which has pretty miserable winter months and gets quite cold and rainy. Think of the UK on a miserable October day and you are not far off. It is, however, peak whale watching season between June and late October not to mention peak flower season in Namaqualand from August to October, so you can have a wonderful experience spotting enormous southern right whales or be amazed by the endless rolling hills of wildflowers.

The Garden Route (Mossel Bay to Jeffreys Bay) which runs along the coast and boasts amazing scenery, fantastic beaches and some superb walks can be a bit of a damp squib at this time. Durban and the Elephant Coast that lies to its north offer warm seas and blue skies, although how warm it is depends on your opinion and if you are looking to head to the Drakensberg Mountains you need to make sure you have read the local forecasts as you can get snow in some parts, especially if considering heading to Lesotho over the Sani pass. Kwa Zulu Natal which is stunning is pleasant and makes for a good time to get to experience the battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift without having to endure the burning summer sun.

The summer months of Dec/Jan/Feb are hot and wet in the east. Humidity is also an issue in places like Durban but also on safari making the experience in the Kruger less comfortable. The animals (especially the big cats) tend to seek shelter from the heat so there is potentially less movement from them. This time of year, in the Western Cape is stunning, especially if escaping a dreary European winter's day. It's hot and dry and Cape Town and the surrounding areas of Franschhoek, Stanford and north up in the Cape are beautifully draped in blue skies, just be aware of the Cape Doctor. This is a dry south-easterly that blows consistently from September to March and December to January can make its presence felt. The time of year is perfect to spend time in Cape Town and the Winelands before moving off east along the garden route to spend time on the marvellous beaches and enjoy the incredible scenery.

Easter comes at a great time to offer a great compromise between the 2 divides of East and West. As does their springtime of October as often you can combine both The Western Cape and The Kruger and get the best of both worlds.

See trips to South Africa

Another huge land mass on the eastern coast of Southern Africa where the best time to visit is from mid-May until mid-October. The sun shines as the rains tail off and the dry season starts in earnest. By October time as temperatures start to creep up and the Jacarandas start to bloom the rains are on their way and generally, you start to get the odd shower. This time is superb for birding as it's breeding season, so plenty of colour and some interesting behaviour. Avoid January and February which is cyclone season and March tends to be very wet too. April is realistically the start of their ‘season’ but we suggest caution as the wet weather can linger.

See trips to Madagascar

Indian Ocean Islands (Mauritius and The Seychelles)

We would recommend the Indian Ocean at any time of the year. It's hotter and wetter from December to March time and cooler and dryer from June to September, with the in-between offering a strong compromise. The trade winds are an issue and can affect resorts on the eastern side of any land mass or an entirely smaller island as you might be in the Seychelles. The Mauritius ‘low’ season (June – September) is considered by some to be too cool and for others, it offers a time when you can grab a great bargain in the sunshine and stay at a lovely hotel for a steal. The Seychelles is best enjoyed during these months as although warmer during the wet season the temperatures don’t vary as much due to its proximity to the equator.

See trips to the Indian Ocean

This tiny nation occupies two specks of the Atlantic in the Gulf of Guinea, both are covered in fertile vegetation and seasons are almost non-existent due to the inconsistency of the weather patterns. But with its consistent equatorial temperatures, we always suggest this as a year-round destination. There is so much to do either in the sea or the lush interior a short sharp shower almost goes unnoticed. The main things to think about here is when the turtles are laying and hatching (November – March) and whale watching season (July – September). If we were to suggest a time to avoid then it would be the wetter month of April as no whales or turtles but probably rain.

See Sao Tome trips

Determining the best time to visit Africa is a nuanced decision that depends on your destination and desired experiences. From witnessing the great wildebeest migration in East Africa to exploring the diverse landscapes of South Africa, each region offers unique opportunities throughout the year. While the dry winter months from June to October generally provide excellent wildlife viewing across much of the continent, other factors such as regional climate patterns, specific animal behaviours, and cultural events should also influence your planning. Africa's vast size and incredible diversity means there's always somewhere spectacular to visit, regardless of the season. By carefully considering your interests and consulting with experienced travel planners, you can craft an unforgettable African adventure that aligns perfectly with your preferences and the optimal conditions for your chosen activities. So if you're dreaming of a classic safari, a tropical beach getaway or a cultural experience, Africa awaits and will not disappoint.

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Ethiopia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 31, 2023, ethiopia - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Reconsider travel to Ethiopia due to  sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, crime, communications disruptions, terrorism and kidnapping in border areas .

Do Not Travel To:

• Tigray Region and border with Eritrea due to  sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and crime .
• Afar-Tigray   border areas  due  to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and crime .
• Amhara Region due to  sporadic violent conflict and civil unrest .
• Gambella and Benishangul Gumuz Regions due to  crime, kidnapping, ethnically motivated violence, and sporadic violent conflict
• Oromia Region – Specific areas due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and ethnically motivated violence.
• Southern Nations and National People (SNNP) Region due to  sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and ethnically motivated violence.
• Border area with Somalia due to  terrorism, kidnapping, and landmines .
• Border areas with Sudan, and South Sudan due to  crime, kidnapping, civil unrest, and sporadic violent conflict.
• Border areas with Kenya due to the potential for  terrorism and ethnically motivated violence.

The security situation in Addis Ababa is stable. However, there is sporadic violent conflict and civil unrest in other areas of Ethiopia, and the security situation may deteriorate without warning. The U.S. Embassy is unlikely to be able to assist with departure from the country if the security situation deteriorates. Due to sporadic violent conflict and civil unrest throughout parts of Ethiopia, travel by U.S. government personnel is routinely assessed for additional restrictions. Please see information on  What the Department of State Can and Can't Do in a Crisis .

U.S. officials have limited ability to provide services to U.S. citizens outside of Addis Ababa and have very limited consular access to U.S. citizens detained by Ethiopian authorities. The government of Ethiopia has previously restricted or shut down internet, cellular data, and phone services before, during, and after civil unrest. These restrictions impede the U.S. Embassy’s ability to communicate with and provide consular services to U.S. citizens in Ethiopia.

Please contact the Embassy’s American Citizen Services Unit at  [email protected]  for further assistance.

Read the  country information page  for additional information about travel to Ethiopia.

If you decide to travel to Ethiopia:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by U.S. citizens/Westerners/foreign travelers.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa and leave originals in your hotel safe.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for Ethiopia .
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Tigray Region and Border with Eritrea – Do Not Travel

Due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and crime, the Tigray Region and the border with Eritrea are restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts. Border roads with Eritrea are closed and conditions at the border may change with no warning.

Afar-Tigray Border Area – Do Not Travel

Due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and crime, the Afar-Tigray border area is restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts.

Amhara Region – Do Not Travel 

Due to sporadic violent conflict and civil unrest, the Amhara Region is currently off-limits for U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts.

Gambella Region – Do Not Travel

Due to crime, kidnapping, the potential for ethnically motivated violence, and sporadic violent conflict, the Gambella Region is restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts.

Benishangul Gumuz Region – Do Not Travel

Due to crime, kidnapping, the potential for ethnically motivated violence and sporadic violent conflict, the Benishangul Gumuz Region   is restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts.

Oromia Region – Specific Areas – Do Not Travel

Due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and ethnically motivated violence, the following zones in Oromia are restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts: the entirety of Horro-Guduru Wollega, East Wollega, West Wollega, Kelem Wollega, Illubabor, and Bale. Other areas in Oromia include portions of North, West, and Southwest Shewa to the immediate north and west of Addis Ababa; the Boset and Fentale woredas of East Shewa zone between Welenchiti and Awash; portions of the Borena zone surrounding Bule Hora; and portions of Guji zone to the east of Bule Hora.

Southern Nations and National People (SNNP) Region – Specific Areas – Do Not Travel

Due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and ethnically motivated violence the following towns and areas in SNNP are restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts: Gedeo, Konso zones and the Amaro and Derashe special woredas.

Border Area with Somalia – Do Not Travel

Terrorists maintain a presence in Somali towns near the Ethiopian border, presenting a risk of cross-border attacks and kidnappings. Landmines are present in this region. U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to the border areas with Somalia, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity efforts.

Border Areas with Sudan and South Sudan – Do Not Travel

Crime, kidnapping, the potential for ethnically motivated violence, and sporadic violent conflict exist near the Ethiopian borders with Sudan and South Sudan. This includes but is not limited to the Nuer Zone and the Jore Woreda of the Agnuak Zone in the Gambela region, and the Pawe, Guba, Dangur, Dibati, and Bulen woredas, and the Metekel zone in the Benishangul Gumuz Region. U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to the border areas of Sudan and South Sudan, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity efforts.

Border Areas with Kenya – Do Not Travel

Terrorists, particularly Al-Shabaab, maintain a presence in this area, and ethnically motivated violence has been reported. This includes but is not limited to the Borena zone and surrounding areas. U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to the border areas with Kenya, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity efforts.

Visit our website for advice if you decide to  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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