Planning a trip to Addis Ababa is all about understanding the rhythm of the highlands. Because the city sits at over 2,300 meters, it enjoys a “permanent spring” climate, but the arrival of the rains and the timing of ancient festivals can completely change your experience.
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If you are looking for the perfect balance of sunny skies and cultural immersion, here is your guide to the best time to visit Addis Ababa in 2026.
1. The Best Overall Time: October to March
This is the High Season in Ethiopia, and for good reason. The “big rains” have ended, the air is crisp, and the skies are a brilliant blue.
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Weather: Expect daytime temperatures around 23°C to 25°C, dropping to a chilly 8°C to 10°C at night. It is the driest time of the year, making it perfect for walking tours in Merkato or hiking in the nearby Entoto Mountains.
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Landscape: In October and November, the countryside is still lush and green from the previous rains, and the highlands are carpeted with yellow Meskel Daisies.
2. The Festival Peaks: September and January
If you want to witness the city’s most spectacular cultural moments, you must time your visit around these two dates:
Meskel (The Finding of the True Cross)
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Date: September 27, 2026
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Why Visit: This is the most iconic festival in Addis Ababa. Tens of thousands of people gather in Meskel Square for a massive ceremonial bonfire. It marks the end of the rainy season and is a sea of white traditional robes and flickering torches.
Timkat (Ethiopian Epiphany)
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Date: January 19, 2026
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Why Visit: This is the most vibrant religious festival in the country. Replicas of the Ark of the Covenant are carried in grand processions through the streets with music, drumming, and dance. The energy in the city is electric, and the weather is arguably at its best—cool, dry, and sunny.
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3. Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown
| Period | Weather Summary | Travel Recommendation |
| Oct – Jan | Dry, sunny, and cool nights. | Best Time. Ideal for sightseeing and festivals. |
| Feb – May | Warmer, with “short rains” in April. | Good. Fewer tourists, but it can be dusty before the rain. |
| Jun – Aug | The “Big Rains.” Heavy daily downpours. | Low Season. Best for budget travel and lush scenery. |
| September | Rains tapering off. Sun returns. | Shoulder Season. Beautiful flowers and the Meskel festival. |
4. Considerations for the “Big Rains” (June – August)
While most travelers avoid the peak rainy season, visiting during these months has its perks:
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The Greenery: The landscape is incredibly vibrant, and the Blue Nile Falls (a short flight away) are at their most powerful.
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Lower Prices: Hotels often offer significant discounts during the low season.
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Note: Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms. They are usually intense but short-lived. Carry a high-quality raincoat and expect some muddy conditions in the markets.
Summary Travel Tips for 2026
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Pack Layers: Regardless of when you visit, the high altitude means it will be hot in the sun and cold in the shade. Always carry a light jacket for the evenings.
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Book Early for January: Because of Timkat (Jan 19) and Ethiopian Christmas (Jan 7), hotels in Addis Ababa book up months in advance.
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Sun Protection: The sun is incredibly strong at 2,300 meters. Even on cool days, you will burn quickly—sunscreen and a hat are essential.