Addis Ababa Weather in September

September: rain eases slowly

September still feels damp and cloudy in Addis Ababa. Rain falls on many days, often leaving wet streets and muddy patches, though showers can break up the day. The afternoons are mild, and evenings feel cool at this high-altitude city.

You can visit the National Museum or explore the cafés around Bole between showers. Keep long outdoor walks flexible, and skip a full day on the Entoto hills if the slopes are slick or clouded over. If you hate crowds, September is a quieter choice than the busier months ahead.

New Year and Meskel

Ethiopian New Year, Enkutatash, usually falls on September 11. You may see flowers, family gatherings and church services around the city. Meskel, on September 27, marks the finding of the True Cross. Its large bonfire ceremony is held at Meskel Square, where crowds gather for singing and dancing.

These events bring local visitors into central Addis, so the square and nearby roads can feel busy on the day. For a calmer visit, explore the red-and-white architecture of the Holy Trinity Cathedral outside ceremony times.

Quieter than peak season

September is generally less busy than October to March, the popular stretch for visiting Addis. Hotel rates may also be softer than in those drier months, though event days can bring extra demand near Meskel Square. Rain is lower than in August, but October is much drier, so September isn't the easiest month for outdoor plans.

Practical tip: if you're going to Meskel Square, ask your hotel which roads are closed for the ceremony. Taxis may need to drop you farther away than usual.