Ethiopia's Lalibela has 11 churches carved downward into volcanic rock, the Simien Mountains hold endemic gelada baboons in 4,000m crags, and the Danakil Depression's Erta Ale lava lake glows at one of Earth's lowest points.
Highlights
Lalibela
Addis Ababa
Simien Mountains
Danakil Depression
When to Visit
Oct-Feb
Dry season the best window for highlands trekking, Lalibela Genna celebrations on January 7 with white-robed pilgrims, and Danakil Depression accessible.
Mar-May
Hot dry season transitioning to short rains, Simien wildflowers blooming, and Timkat Epiphany processions across the highlands have just passed.
Jun-Sep
Long rainy season makes northern roads unreliable, but Addis Ababa stays cool and the Meskel festival on September 27 fills Meskel Square.
Sep
Ethiopian New Year and Meskel cross-finding festival turn Addis Ababa into the country's biggest party, and the rains taper by late month.
Best time to travel — world map
Explore the best months to travel around the world based on weather, temperature, and travel conditions.
Best time to visit Europe
Explore the best months to travel across Europe based on weather, temperature, and travel conditions.
Best time to visit Asia
Discover when to travel across Asia, from Southeast Asia to East Asia, based on climate and weather patterns.
Best time to visit Italy
Plan your trip to Italy with monthly insights on temperature, rainfall, and travel conditions.
