Ethiopia Safari Guide: A Month-by-Month Exploration

Ethiopia offers experiences for every season. The vast expanse of the country offers a myriad of climates to explore. With that in mind, the dry months from October to June are considered the prime time for exploration in Ethiopia.

January, the height of excitement

January is the height of adventure for safaris in Ethiopia. The atmosphere is inviting and pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 22°. Ethiopian Christmas, Leddet/Genna, and Timket all occur in January, creating a bustling and thrilling atmosphere for visitors.

February, a month brimming with excitement

February brings some of the warmest days in Ethiopia. The highland areas boast average temperatures of about 24°, creating the perfect opportunity for an exhilarating safari in the Simien and Bale Mountains of Ethiopia. February attracts many travelers, so it is wise to secure your reservations ahead of time.

March, a time of transition

March in Ethiopia offers a delightful transition, with warm and dry weather inviting exploration. Exploring the mountains remains a fantastic experience, and now is the perfect moment to witness the bull-jumping ceremony in the Lower Omo Valley.

April, a time of celebration during Easter in Lalibela

In April, the rains begin to sprinkle occasionally, yet the days remain predominantly dry. Lalibela comes alive in April as pilgrims start to gather for the vibrant celebration of Orthodox Easter, Fasika.

May, the beginning of the downpours

As May arrives, the rains set in, transforming the landscape and making journeys to destinations like the Omo Valley a challenge due to washed-out roads and overflowing streams. The Northern Circuit experiences a dry spell during this time, and the landscape bursts into color with wildflowers, making May an especially beautiful month for exploration.

June, a time of refreshing rains

The rainy season kicks off in June. Trekking in Highland destinations like Bale and the Simien Mountains offers a challenging experience, while temperatures in the Danakil Depression soar to their highest levels.

July, a month often overlooked for travel

July’s heavy rains often deter travelers from exploring Ethiopia. Exploring the Omo Valley and the Gheralta Mountains remains an option, though the highland spots have been affected by heavy rains.

August, a challenging time to explore

Early August is often seen as a challenging period for an Ethiopia safari because of the intense rainfall. As September approaches, the rains start to ease, and the flowers burst forth in vibrant colors. The close of August offers an exhilarating opportunity for exploration.

September, Ethiopian celebrations Meskel and Enkutatash

September is a transitional time, offering a peaceful atmosphere before the bustling crowds of October make their entrance. The landscape is vibrant, teeming with life and color at every turn. Even with the occasional rain, it’s much lighter than what we’ve seen in the past months. September is an exciting festival month where Ethiopians joyfully celebrate Meskel and Enkutatash, marking the Ethiopian New Year.

October, peak season

The bustling tourist season kicks off in October. Ethiopia, vibrant from the recent rains, offers breathtaking scenery and delightful weather. Exploring the Simien Mountains in October offers fantastic weather and a vibrant display of flowers, making it an exhilarating experience.

November, crisp and bright

November is an exciting time for wildlife such as the Ethiopian wolf and Walia Ibex. As November rolls in, a wave of migratory birds makes their grand entrance, while the Danakil Depression experiences a delightful drop in temperatures, creating a more inviting atmosphere.

December, an ideal time to embark on an adventure in the Danakil Depression

December is an excellent time to embark on an exploration of the Danakil Depression. The December weather brings a crispness in the air, accompanied by bright, clear skies that invite exploration and excitement. Trekking in the Simien Mountains during December offers an exceptional experience, and it is an ideal time to explore the Omo Valley tribes, as the weather is mostly dry and pleasant.