Things to Do in Ethiopia in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Ethiopia

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Spectacular dramatic landscapes with lush green highlands after rain - the Simien Mountains and Ethiopian Highlands are at their most photogenic with cascading waterfalls and emerald valleys
Significantly lower accommodation prices (30-40% cheaper than dry season) and fewer crowds at major attractions like Lalibela and the Danakil Depression
Perfect timing for highland trekking in cooler temperatures 16-26°C (61-79°F) - comfortable for multi-day hikes without the scorching heat of March-April
Prime coffee harvest season in regions like Sidamo and Yirgacheffe - participate in traditional coffee ceremonies with the freshest beans and witness the harvest process firsthand

Considerations

Heavy afternoon rains (typically 2-4 hours daily) can disrupt outdoor activities and make some rural roads impassable, particularly in the Omo Valley and remote regions
Limited visibility for photography during frequent cloud cover and rain - mountain views can be obscured for days at higher elevations above 2,500m (8,200ft)
Increased risk of altitude sickness combined with respiratory issues due to high humidity - particularly challenging for first-time visitors to areas above 3,000m (9,843ft)

Best Activities in May

Simien Mountains National Park Trekking

May offers the best trekking conditions in the Simiens with cool temperatures, dramatic cloud formations, and lush green landscapes. The Gelada baboons are most active, and waterfalls are at full flow. Morning treks (6-10am) avoid afternoon storms, and the iconic Ras Dashen peak (4,550m/14,928ft) has clearer morning visibility.

Booking Tip: Book mountain guides and camping permits 2-3 weeks ahead through Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority. Multi-day treks cost typically 3,500-5,500 ETB per person per day including guide and camping gear. Choose operators with waterproof equipment and flexible itineraries for weather delays.

Lalibela Rock Churches Cultural Tours

The rainy season brings cooler temperatures perfect for exploring the 12th-century rock-hewn churches without the intense heat. May's green landscapes provide stunning contrast to the red volcanic rock. Early morning visits (6-9am) offer the best lighting and avoid afternoon rains. Local pilgrims increase during the rainy season, adding authentic spiritual atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Purchase church entry permits (typically 1,200-1,500 ETB) at the site entrance. Hire certified local guides for 800-1,200 ETB per day who know covered routes during rain. Book accommodation 10-14 days ahead as options are limited. See current guided tour options in the booking section below.

Rift Valley Lakes Birdwatching Tours

May marks peak migration season for European birds escaping to warmer climates, with over 400 species concentrated around lakes Ziway, Langano, and Awasa. The rains create optimal feeding conditions, and flamingo populations reach their highest numbers. Morning sessions (5:30-9am) offer the best activity before afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Rent 4WD vehicles with experienced drivers for 2,800-4,200 ETB per day including fuel - essential for wet season road conditions. Binocular rental available for 200-300 ETB per day. Book through eco-lodges that provide specialized guides familiar with seasonal bird patterns.

Harar Old City Cultural Immersion

The walled city of Harar becomes particularly atmospheric during the rainy season with cooler temperatures ideal for walking the narrow streets. May coincides with the traditional khat harvest, offering insight into local customs. The famous hyena feeding occurs rain or shine, and indoor cultural sites like the Rimbaud House provide shelter during storms.

Booking Tip: Stay within the old city walls to minimize rain-related transport issues. Traditional guesthouses cost 1,500-2,500 ETB per night and offer authentic experiences. Local guides charge 500-800 ETB per day and know covered markets and indoor cultural sites perfect for rainy afternoons.

Coffee Origin Tours in Sidamo Province

May is harvest season in Ethiopia's premier coffee regions, offering unique opportunities to participate in traditional picking, processing, and ceremony rituals. The birthplace of coffee comes alive with activity, and the rainy season ensures the landscapes are lush and scenic. Indoor processing facilities provide shelter during afternoon rains.

Booking Tip: Book coffee farm stays 2-3 weeks ahead for 2,200-3,800 ETB per night including meals and activities. Multi-day coffee tours typically cost 4,500-6,500 ETB per person including transportation and guide. Choose operators who work directly with farming cooperatives for authentic experiences.

Blue Nile Falls and Tis Issat Village Tours

The rainy season transforms the Blue Nile Falls into a thundering spectacle - May offers the perfect balance of water flow and accessibility before peak rains. The 45m (148ft) falls are at 70% capacity compared to just 20% in dry season. Local villages showcase traditional life adapted to seasonal rhythms, with indoor craft demonstrations during rain.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (7-11am) for best photography light and to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. Local guides cost 600-900 ETB per day and essential for river crossings and village protocol. Waterproof camera gear recommended - rental available in Bahir Dar for 300-500 ETB per day.

May Events & Festivals

Early to Mid May

Timkat Celebrations Continuation

While main Timkat occurs in January, many rural communities hold delayed celebrations in May coinciding with local harvest blessings. These intimate ceremonies offer authentic experiences without tourist crowds, featuring traditional white cotton clothing, holy water rituals, and community feasting.

Mid to Late May

Coffee Harvest Festivals

Traditional ceremonies marking the beginning of coffee harvest season in regions like Kaffa, Sidamo, and Yirgacheffe. Local communities perform blessing rituals, traditional dances, and elaborate coffee ceremonies using the season's first beans. Each region has distinct customs and timing.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight waterproof jacket and pants - not just rain protection but essential for morning mountain temperatures that drop to 16°C (61°F)

Quick-dry hiking pants and long sleeves - protect against afternoon UV index of 9 and provide warmth during temperature swings of 10°C (18°F)

Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support - essential for muddy highland trails and river crossings during rainy season

Compact umbrella plus rain poncho - umbrella for walking cities like Addis Ababa, poncho for rural trekking where hands need to be free

SPF 50+ sunscreen and sunglasses - UV reflection off wet surfaces intensifies exposure, particularly dangerous at altitudes above 2,000m (6,562ft)

Moisture-wicking base layers in merino wool - regulate temperature during 65% humidity and provide warmth when wet

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - afternoon storms can arrive suddenly with heavy downpours lasting 2-4 hours

Insect repellent with 25%+ DEET - increased mosquito activity around Rift Valley lakes and rural areas during rainy season

Headlamp with extra batteries - power outages common during storms, and early morning activities start before sunrise

Electrolyte tablets and water purification - increased dehydration risk from altitude plus humidity, and water quality varies in rural areas during rains

Insider Knowledge

Ethiopian time runs 6 hours behind standard time (7am = 1 o'clock Ethiopian time) - confirm appointment times to avoid confusion, especially for early morning activities before rain

ATMs frequently run out of cash during rainy season due to transport delays - carry sufficient Ethiopian Birr and US dollars (post-2009 series only) for rural areas

Many restaurants close during afternoon prayers (1-3pm) coinciding with heaviest rains - plan lunch before noon or after 3pm for best selection

Download offline maps before traveling - cell service becomes unreliable in highlands during storms, and GPS accuracy decreases in cloudy conditions