On Holiday Tips

When you are overseas/ holiday destination, do call your close relatives/ friends to let them know you have arrived safely and keep them updated of where you are if you are moving around. Make sure to always keep your luggage locked when leaving them behind in the hotel. Carry your passport with you and ensure you don’t carry excessive cash that might attract attention. If you are taking a self drive holiday, make sure you collect the car from the airport and get a GPS.

When you are abroad and if you want to try something local, make sure it is a recommendation from a trustworthy source. To make life easier, get a local map and identify the tourist info centres. Moreover for safety precautions, avoid walking alone at night or in dark areas and beware of pickpockets whose modus operandi is by distracting you. Also, if you drive, follow the local traffic rules and avoid driving at night.

Before your return flight, do confirm your flight details in case of delays or cancellations. It is best to ensure that you have all travel documents prepared and easily accessible for check in. Always plan your packing and don’t do too much last minute shopping that can’t fit your luggage. Keep track with the luggage requirements of the country you’re visiting in mind.

Do not forget to remind your close relatives/ friends of your return and make arrangements for an airport pick up. Keep track of all your valuables and make sure that they are in your hand- wallet, passport, camera, watch, jewellery.

Last but not least, make sure you are at the airport two hours (or 3-4 hours in some countries) earlier to avoid missing the flight.

When is the best time to visit Ethiopia?

Ethiopia is one of the most incredible places to visit in Africa. Known as the ‘Cradle of Mankind’, it has a long and fascinating history, a rich and diverse culture, breathtaking landscapes, and a jaw-dropping range of wildlife.

Though you may imagine Ethiopia being a hot, dry country that is uncomfortable to visit, this is simply not the case. Though on the fringes the temperatures can go above 86°F (30°C), Ethiopia enjoys a fairly mild climate with average temperatures of around 86°F (20°C), though this varies depending on altitude.

Overall, the best time to travel to Ethiopia is the dry season (between October and June) as the highlands are green, lush, and perfect for hiking. Going during the wetter months is wet and humid but, on the other hand, is the cheapest time to go to Ethiopia. This handy guide will explain the pros and cons of going during the high, shoulder, and low seasons.

The High Season (January to March)

  • Season: Summer
  • Average temperature (in Addis Ababa): 50-75°F (10 -24°C)
  • Average rainfall: 20-80 mm

This is the best season to visit Ethiopia as the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for seeing wildlife such as ibex, wolves, and giraffes. The average rainfall is at its lowest in many parts of the country including the capital, Addis Ababa.

Some of Ethiopìa’s most vibrant festivals, such as Timkat and Leddet, also fall during this time of year. The only activity you cannot do during these months is hiking in the Simien or Bale mountains.

Shoulder Season (October to December)

  • Season: Summer
  • Average temperature (in Addis Ababa): 50-70°F (10-20°C)
  • Average rainfall: 10-40mm

Another fantastic time to visit Ethiopia for tourism. Though it is cooler than the high season, it is a great time for trekking and there are fewer tourists. There is little rain during this period so visibility is perfect.

This is the ideal time to go hiking in the Simien mountains which are truly stunning. More adventurous visitors can also visit the Danakil Depression and the Great Rift Valley.

The Low Season (April to September)

Season: Monsoon

Average temperature (in Addis Ababa): 55-75°F (12-25°C)

Average rainfall: 55-270 mm

This is the peak rainy season and it is a bad time to visit many parts of the country such as the Simien or Bale mountains. The lowlands can be hot, sticky, and uncomfortable including Addis Ababa.

The major advantage of traveling during the low season is the price. Certain national parks such as the Omo and Mago Valley can be visited after July but many of the most popular national heritage sites and trekking routes are inaccessible.

When is the best time to go to Ethiopia?

So, when is the perfect time to travel to Ethiopia? This depends on where you want to visit. It is best to avoid the rainy season but apart from this, the Ethiopian weather generally makes for an unforgettable adventure.

Here are some recommendations for different regions

The highlands, north, east, and west: October to April

The south and Danakil: August to mid-October and mid-February to march

If you plan to travel around Ethiopia, take clothing for hot and cooler temperatures they can vary greatly depending on the altitude and time of day.