The best months to visit Addis Ababa are Oct – Mar. Dry season with clear skies and mild temps.
Quick facts
Currency ETB (Birr) 1 USD ≈ 57 ETB. Cash-based economy, few ATMs
Language Amharic English spoken at hotels and tourist sites
Timezone EAT (UTC+3) Ethiopia uses a 12-hour clock starting at dawn
Best Months Oct – Mar Dry season with clear skies and mild temps
Daily Budget ~$20–35 USD Very affordable outside top-end hotels
Visa e-Visa required Apply online at evisa.gov.et before travel
When to go
The birthplace of coffee and cradle of humanity: Lucy at the National Museum, Africa's largest market, injera feasts, and the diplomatic heart of the continent.
Getting Around in Addis Ababa
- Blue and white minibuses cover the city. Destinations are called out by assistants. Fares are 2–10 Birr
- Ride (Ethiopian ride-hailing app) and metered taxis are the safest transport options for tourists
- Addis Ababa has a light rail system (2 lines), useful for north-south and east-west crossings. Fare is 2–6 Birr
For itineraries, costs and practical travel advice, see the full Addis Ababa travel guide.
Timezone: EAT (UTC+3) (Ethiopia uses a 12-hour clock starting at dawn)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Addis Ababa?
The best months to visit Addis Ababa are Oct – Mar (Dry season with clear skies and mild temps), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Addis Ababa budget breakdown.
