Month by month

Ethiopia in August

August continues the long rainy season with widespread rainfall and lush, green scenery. Heavy rains can disrupt transport to remote sites, so many tourists avoid this period for long treks.

SeasonLow Season Temperature 15-22°C (59-72°F) Crowds Low Prices Low

Bernard Gagnon derivative work: ויקיג'אנקי CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons

High season Shoulder Low season

Weather by City in August

CityLow / highRain
  • Addis Ababa Cool 10° 20° 260 mm
  • Jijiga Mild 15° 26° 104 mm
  • Gondar Cool 11° 23° 291 mm
  • Mekelle Mild 13° 25° 195 mm
  • Adama Mild 13° 25° 189 mm
  • Werder Warm 21° 32° 1 mm
  • Hawassa Mild 13° 24° 129 mm

Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.

Temperature map

Ethiopia average temperature in August
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°

Average temperature across Ethiopia in August.

Where to Go in Ethiopia in August

Northern Highlands

Tigray, Amhara, Simien Mountains, Lalibela, Gondar

August continues the heavy rainy pattern across the northern highlands, with frequent afternoon storms and limited long-distance visibility on mountain trails. River transport, including boats on Lake Tana, can be affected by wind and runoff; the Blue Nile Falls (Tis Issat) are dramatically full and thunderous. Travel logistics require flexibility - allow extra travel time, and consider guided day hikes rather than multiday routes that risk washouts.

Central Highlands & Rift Escarpment

Addis Ababa, Debre Birhan, Adama, Awash

August remains dominated by Kiremt, with frequent heavy afternoon and evening thunderstorms that make the central highlands lush but muddy. Wildlife viewing in lower Awash is more difficult due to water abundance and denser vegetation, and some rural lodges close for the peak rains. For city stays, Addis remains pleasant and lively - bring a compact umbrella and flexible plans for intercity travel.

Bale Mountains & Southeastern Highlands

Bale, Sidamo, Yirgacheffe, Harenna Forest

August continues heavy rains with frequent low cloud over the Bale plateau; trails are often muddy and some remote lodges may close for the wettest weeks. Harenna Forest is luxuriant and alive with amphibians and birds but access can require sturdy vehicles. Lower-elevation coffee regions remain busy with farm work; consider focusing on cultural and coffee-tour experiences rather than high trekking in this month.

Southern Highlands & Omo Valley

Arba Minch, Jinka, Konso, Omo River

August continues heavy rains and challenging access to many Omo Valley communities; boat trips and seasonal land routes are unreliable and river crossings may be dangerous. If you do travel, do so with experienced drivers and expect slower progress and occasional detours. When conditions permit, the region is powerful visually with full rivers and lush vegetation, but be ready for muddy camps and increased insect activity.

Eastern Lowlands & Afar/Danakil

Afar Depression, Danakil Depression, Mille, Dire Dawa, Somali border

August continues the very hot conditions across the eastern lowlands; humidity pockets can form in some coastal areas but the interior stays dry and harsh. Roadside services are sparse and temperatures can stress vehicles and equipment, so plan fuel and water logistics carefully. If visiting archaeological or geological sites, expect blistering midday sun and prioritize guided, early-morning departures.

Western Lowlands & Gambela

Gambela, Benishangul-Gumuz, Metekel, Blue Nile headwaters

August continues the heavy rainy season: jungle and river excursions require experienced local guides and sturdy, high-clearance transport; some areas may be reachable only by boat. The environment is lush and productive, but travel becomes slow and occasionally hazardous from landslides or washed bridges. Plan for generous transit times and be prepared for rustic conditions if visiting research camps or villages.

Events & Festivals in August

There are no major festivals or events in Ethiopia during August to be aware of.

Planning a trip to Ethiopia?

See how August compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.