Weather in Gonder

Find out the current weather forecast in Gonder to ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible. In this section, we have gathered fresh data and clear charts regarding weather conditions for you.

The climate of Gonder can be described as mild and moderately warm, largely due to its location in the Ethiopian Highlands. There is no extreme heat typical of African lowlands here, and the temperature regime remains surprisingly comfortable and stable throughout the year. The average air temperature usually fluctuates in a pleasant range from +18°C to +24°C, creating a feeling of "eternal spring".

Two main seasons are clearly traceable during the year: dry and wet. The dry period lasts from October to May and is considered the most favourable time for tourism. In these months, especially from November to February, rain is a rarity, and the sky delights with constant clarity. The warmest months are March and April, when daytime temperatures can reach +30°C, preceding the imminent onset of rains.

Travellers need to consider the pronounced rainy season, which falls in summer and early autumn (from June to September). July and August are the wettest months, when precipitation falls almost daily, and the air temperature becomes slightly cooler, dropping on average to +18°C. Despite the high humidity, this period gives tourists the opportunity to see the city's surroundings as green and blooming as possible.

The climate in Gonder is distinguished by its mildness and lack of extreme heat, making it comfortable to visit almost all year round. The warmest period here falls on the spring months, especially March and April. At this time, the average air temperature reaches its peak — about 23.6°C, and during the day the thermometer often rises to the 30°C mark. This time of year is characterised by dry heat, which is tolerated quite easily.

Curiously, the summer months (July and August), which are associated with heat in many countries, are the coolest period of the year in Gonder due to the rainy season. The average temperature in August is only about 17.8°C, and daytime maximums rarely exceed 21°C. Winter, on the contrary, pleases with pleasant warmth: in December and January, the air warms up to a comfortable 26–27°C during the day, with practically no precipitation observed.

Travellers should pay special attention to daily temperature fluctuations. The difference between the daytime heat and the night-time cool can be quite significant, especially in the dry season. For example, in January, after a sunny day with a temperature of about 27°C, the air can cool down to 11–12°C at night. Therefore, when packing for a trip, it is recommended to take layered clothing to feel cosy both at noon and after sunset.

The climate in Gonder is characterised by a clear division into dry and wet seasons, which is typical for many regions of Ethiopia. The dry period lasts from November to March, when the probability of precipitation is minimal. In the winter months, as well as in March, there is practically no rain: the amount of precipitation tends towards zero millimetres, and there is no more than one rainy day per month. This time is considered the most stable and clear for visiting.

The rainy season begins in spring, gradually gaining strength, and reaches its peak in the summer months. July and August are undoubtedly the wettest periods of the year. Statistics show that in these months precipitation can fall daily (up to 31 rainy days per month). June and September are also distinguished by a high frequency of rains — from 25 to 26 days with precipitation, so an umbrella or raincoat will become mandatory attributes in your luggage.

Transitional months, such as May and October, bring moderate humidity — about 11 rainy days per month. At this time, the weather is more changeable than in winter or summer. Despite the high frequency of rainy days at the height of the wet season, the total volume of precipitation in millimetres remains moderate, which often indicates regular, but not necessarily prolonged downpours.

A trip to Gonder requires a thoughtful approach to your wardrobe, as the weather here depends on the season and time of day. Since the city is located in the highlands, the principle of layering will be the best strategy. For daytime walks in the dry season (from October to May), light items made of natural fabrics, T-shirts, and summer trousers are suitable, as the sun shines brightly and the temperature can rise to +25–30°C. However, evenings and nights here are fresh, sometimes even cool (about +12°C), so be sure to put a warm sweater, hoodie, or light jacket in your suitcase.

If you are planning a trip in the period from June to September, be prepared for the rainy season: in July and August, precipitation falls almost daily, and the daytime temperature stays around +18–20°C. At this time, you will need a reliable raincoat, an umbrella, and a waterproof windbreaker. Regardless of the time of year, comfortable, worn-in shoes with non-slip soles — trainers or light trekking boots — are necessary for exploring historical sights. Also, do not forget sunscreen and a hat: even in cloudy weather, ultraviolet radiation in the mountains remains active.