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Addis Ababa in December

Addis Ababa Weather in December

🇪🇹 Ethiopia

21°C
High
8°C
Low
1
Rain Days
11h
Sunshine
82%
Humidity

Africa › 🇪🇹 Ethiopia › Addis Ababa

Updated: March 2026

Is December a Good Time to Visit Addis Ababa?

8/10
Excellent

December is a excellent time to visit Addis Ababa (8/10). With 11 daily sunshine hours and only 1 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 9th sunniest of the year in Addis Ababa. Beach and outdoor-focused visitors will find December ideal, though hotel prices reflect demand and popular sites get crowded by mid-morning. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Addis Ababa's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: book accommodation at least 6-8 weeks ahead, as popular hotels fill quickly during December. Purchasing skip-the-line tickets for major attractions in advance saves meaningful time. If you have flexibility, arriving a few days before or after peak weekends reduces both crowds and prices noticeably.

vs November:21°C avg high

Addis Ababa's December weather is shaped by atmospheric forces that make the data more than just numbers. The 21°C average high reflects a transitional pressure pattern where mid-latitude westerlies alternately bring mild maritime air and cooler polar intrusions. As a result, 11 daily sunshine hours are recorded on average, and rainfall of 6mm is distributed across approximately 1 days because precipitation events tend to be brief and infrequent.

21°C

Avg High

8°C

Avg Low

1 days

Rain Days

11h

Sunshine

82%

Humidity

Temperature in Addis Ababa in December

The 13°C day-to-night swing is large enough to require a deliberate layering strategy, what works at noon will be noticeably cold by 10pm. At 82% humidity, the 21°C daytime high feels 2-4°C warmer in practice: quick-dry fabrics and shade-seeking between noon and 3pm are the sensible response. The UV index of 3 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Winds are calm at an average 14 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 70°F average high, 46°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in December

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Addis Ababa in December

Morning8°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon21°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening11°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Addis Ababa in December means dressing for 21°C days and 8°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 21°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evenings drop 13°C to around 8°C, a notable shift that catches underprepared visitors off guard. Pack a dedicated evening layer. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues. At 82% average humidity, quick-dry synthetic or bamboo fabrics dry overnight and stay comfortable longer than cotton.

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Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in Addis Ababa. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.

Events in Addis Ababa in December

December has no major festivals or public holidays in Addis Ababa, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.

What to Pack for Addis Ababa in December

Based on 21°C average highs and 1 rainy days

  • Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
  • Mix of short and long-sleeve layers
  • Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support
  • Universal travel adapter
  • Small day pack for city exploration
  • Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in Addis Ababa in December

  • Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 21°C, the temperature is ideal for extended walking without overheating
  • Guided walking tour of the historic centreMorning or late afternoonComfortable temperatures allow several hours on foot without fatigue
  • Visit rooftop viewpoints and observation decksGolden hour (1 hour before sunset)Warm clear evenings provide exceptional visibility for panoramic photography
  • Day trip to the surrounding countryside or coastFull day (depart by 8am)December is reliably dry enough for rural day trips without weather risk
  • Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
  • Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
  • Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
  • Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
  • Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmDecember seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year

Why is Addis Ababa mild in December?

In December, Addis Ababa sits in the dry season corridor, as the ITCZ shifts away from the region and trade winds bring drier, more stable air. This produces reliably sunny days reaching 21°C, with lower humidity than the wet months. Overnight lows of 8°C offer a pleasant reprieve from the midday heat. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).

Sunshine Hours

The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.

UV Index

A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.

Rain Days

A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.

Humidity

Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions: Addis Ababa in December

In December, Addis Ababa experiences average highs of 21°C (70°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F). Expect around 1 rainy days and 11 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 82%. The 13°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 3.
Addis Ababa typically sees 1 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 6mm. This makes December one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Addis Ababa typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.
Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Addis Ababa in December. Daytime temperatures of 21°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 8°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. Rain is infrequent with only 1 wet days, so a light rain layer is optional. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Addis Ababa. With 11 daily sunshine hours and only 1 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 21°C during the day are comfortable for long walks and outdoor dining. This is peak travel season, so booking accommodation in advance and arriving at popular attractions early in the morning helps avoid the busiest periods.
The average high temperature in Addis Ababa in December is 21°C (70°F), and the average low is 8°C (46°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 15°C (58°F). The day-to-night range of 13°C is significant and requires layering. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Addis Ababa is generally January. January offers the most sunshine at 11 hours per day and only 3 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 22°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around January gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
December is shoulder or low season in Addis Ababa, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 11 sunshine hours and 1 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In December, Addis Ababa suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 21°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 11 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

December ranks 9th sunniest of the year in Addis Ababa, with an average 11 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are December, November, and January. February is the hottest month (23°C avg high); July is the coolest (19°C). From here, temperatures rise 1°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 21°C high, 2 rain days), December is similarly warm and drier. December sits in the middle of the annual sunshine ranking for Addis Ababa, offering a reasonable balance of good weather and manageable crowds.

Year-Round Climate

MonthHighLowRain DaysSunDetails
January22°C9°C311hView
February23°C10°C511hView
March23°C11°C1011hView
April23°C11°C1411hView
May23°C11°C1411hView
June21°C11°C2310hView
July19°C11°C319hView
August19°C11°C3110hView
September20°C10°C2511hView
October20°C8°C711hView
November21°C8°C211hView
December21°C8°C111hView

Other Months in Addis Ababa

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Plan Your Trip to Addis Ababa

Best Time to Visit Addis Ababa

Data Sources for Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa on WikipediaOpen-Meteo Climate APINOAA National CentersUK Met OfficeWMOGeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.