Weather in Bahir Dar

Planning your visit to Bahir Dar? Here you will find the most up-to-date information on weather conditions, including charts and detailed forecasts, to ensure your trip goes perfectly.

The climate in Bahir Dar can be characterised as mild and moderately warm, making the city comfortable to visit practically all year round. Thanks to its location on high ground, there is no extreme tropical heat here: the average annual temperature fluctuates within a pleasant range, rarely rising above 28°C even in the warmest months. This creates a feeling of "eternal spring" that travellers appreciate so much.

Two main seasons are clearly distinguishable during the year: the dry and the wet. The dry season lasts approximately from October to May and is the most popular time for tourism. In the winter months (December, January, February), rain is almost completely absent, and the sky remains clear and sunny. This is the ideal time for boat trips on Lake Tana and visiting the monasteries.

From June to September, the rainy season arrives in the region. At this time, especially in July and August, precipitation occurs almost daily (up to 31 rainy days per month), and the air temperature drops slightly, becoming fresher — averaging around 18–20°C during the day. Despite the frequent rains, this period gives travellers the opportunity to see Ethiopia's nature at its greenest and most picturesque.

The climate in Bahir Dar is distinguished by its mildness and comfort, which makes the city attractive for visits almost all year round. The warmest period here is the spring months, especially March and April, when the average temperature reaches its peak around 23°C, and daytime maximums can rise to 28°C. During this time, you can expect plenty of sun and warmth, which is ideal for walking by Lake Tana and sightseeing.

Interestingly, the summer months familiar to Europeans (July and August) are the coolest of the year in this region due to the rainy season. At this time, the average temperature drops to 18°C, and the daytime air rarely warms up above 21°C. Winter, on the contrary, delights with dry and pleasant weather: in December and January, the thermometer firmly holds at the 24–25°C mark during the day, which feels like a warm, but not exhausting, summer.

Travellers should take into account the daily temperature fluctuations characteristic of the Ethiopian highlands. Even in the hottest months, the nights bring noticeable freshness: the temperature after sunset consistently drops to 14–16°C throughout the year. Such a drop makes the evenings cool, so despite the daytime warmth, it is recommended to bring a light jacket or sweater for a comfortable rest after sundown.

The climate in Bahir Dar is characterised by a distinct division into dry and wet seasons, which is typical for many regions of Ethiopia. If you are planning a trip in the period from November to March, you will hardly need an umbrella: during these months precipitation is practically absent, and the number of rainy days tends towards zero. This time is considered the most favourable for those who prefer clear and dry weather for walks.

The rainy season begins in June and reaches its peak in the middle of summer. The wettest months are July and August, when rains can occur daily — statistics record up to 31 days with precipitation per month. Despite the high frequency of rains, they bring a pleasant freshness, lowering the average air temperature.

Transition periods, such as May and October, are distinguished by changeable weather. At this time, the number of rainy days ranges from 10 to 13, but precipitation is generally less intense than at the height of the wet season. September also remains a fairly rainy month, gradually giving way to the dry and sunny season by the beginning of winter.

When packing for Bahir Dar, keep in mind that the climate here is mild and comfortable for most of the year, however, the high-altitude location dictates its own rules. For daytime walks in the dry season (primarily from October to May), light clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen, is ideal. The sun at this altitude is very active, so be sure to put sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and cream with a high SPF level in your suitcase to avoid burns even in cloudy weather.

If your trip falls during the period from June to September, be prepared for a prolonged rainy season: precipitation falls almost daily at this time, and humidity increases. You will definitely need a high-quality raincoat, a waterproof windbreaker, and a reliable umbrella. Footwear should be not only comfortable for long walks but preferably waterproof and with a non-slip sole, as the roads to the waterfalls and the lake shore can be washed out.

Regardless of the time of year, the principle of layering will become your best friend in Ethiopia. Even in the warmest months, night temperatures can drop to +14°C, so bring a fleece top, a sweater, or a light jacket that you can put on in the evening or early morning. Comfortable closed shoes (sneakers or trekking boots) are mandatory, as you will have to walk a lot while exploring the natural attractions of the surroundings.