Ethiopia is an ecologically diverse country; you can therefore expect several climate zones ranging from tropical savanna in the west to warm desert climate in the east. Most of the country is highland with many of its tourist destinations like Lalibela and Gondar are at an elevation of 6,561 ft. These places enjoy a considerably cooler climate year-round.

Generally, the best time to visit Ethiopia is between November and February when clear, sunny days bring regular average temperatures in the mid to high 70'sF. This period is considered the dry season as rainfall is at its lowest. This is also a prime time for bird watching. If you're heading to the countryside, the period between September to October is a great time to visit as the landscapes are lush after the rainfalls.

The peak travel season in Ethiopia is from December to February, with January being the height of visiting travelers. Conditions in January are perfect for traveling, and you can experience some of the festivals in Ethiopia - it's truly a magical time to visit.