Addis Ababa Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Addis Ababa.

Climate overview of Addis Ababa

With consistently stable weather, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, sees little seasonal temperature change. Daytime highs average 23°C (73°F), ranging from 26°C (79°F) in March to 21°C (70°F) in August.

With around 1801 mm (71 in) of annual rainfall, Addis Ababa has a notably wet climate. However, this rainfall is not evenly distributed, the city has distinct dry (November to February) and wet (June to September) seasons. The wettest month is August. The most sunshine falls in December, with an average of 9.3 hours of daily sunshine.

Addis Ababa Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Addis Ababa - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Addis Ababa

The climate in Addis Ababa remains fairly constant, offering comfortable temperatures throughout the year. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 26°C (79°F) in March. In August, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a pleasant 21°C (70°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 12°C (54°F) in March to 8°C (46°F) in August.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1801 mm (71 in). Addis Ababa can be quite wet during August, receiving approximately 398 mm (16 in) of precipitation over 13 rainy days.

In contrast, during the driest month (December), you will experience much drier conditions, with 7.6 mm (0.3 in) of precipitation spread across 3 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Addis Ababa Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of December under a blue sky, with approximately 9.3 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in July, with only 3.7 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Addis Ababa by Month

Wind Speed in Addis Ababa

Best Time to Visit Addis Ababa

The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Addis Ababa is usually found in January, February, March, October, November and December. Conditions are generally least comfortable in June, July, August and September.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: January, February, March, October, November and December
  • Warmest weather: January, February, March, April and May
  • Most sunshine: January, November and December
  • Fewest rainy days: January, February, November and December
  • Wettest months: May, June, July, August and September, when rainfall is highest.
  • Seasonal pattern: Distinct dry (November to February) and wet (June to September) seasons

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Addis Ababa

What is the best time to visit Addis Ababa?

January, February, March, October, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Addis Ababa. In contrast, June, July, August and September tend to have less optimal conditions. Addis Ababa has distinct dry (November to February) and wet (June to September) seasons.

What temperatures can I expect in Addis Ababa?

Daytime highs range from 21°C (70°F) in August to 26°C (79°F) in March. Nighttime lows range from 8°C (46°F) to 12°C (54°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.

How much rain does Addis Ababa get?

Annual rainfall is around 1801 mm (71 in). August is the wettest month with 398 mm (16 in), while December is the driest with 7.6 mm (0.3 in).

How sunny is Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa receives around 2,573 hours of sunshine per year. December is the sunniest month with 280 hours, while July is the cloudiest with just 110 hours. Overall, Addis Ababa enjoys abundant sunshine.

Addis Ababa 3-Day Forecast

Addis Ababa on the map

Addis Ababa is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.

Popular this month

Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.