The climate of Gondar
Characterized by the Aw Köppen climate classification,
Gondar is known for its tropical wet and dry climate, commonly referred to as savanna. Geographically situated in the northern highlands of
Ethiopia, it experiences variations in weather elements throughout the year.
Temperatures in Gondar fluctuate throughout the year, with the lowest reported at 12.8°C (55°F) and the highs soaring up to 29.8°C (85.6°F). The months from
March to
May typically observe the highest temperatures, with
April marking the peak. From
June, temperatures gradually decrease until
November, only to rise marginally in
December.
The city experiences relative humidity levels ranging from 28% to a high of 88%. The humidity tends to increase between May and
August, correlating directly with the increase in rainfall recorded during these months.
Gondar's annual pattern of precipitation shows a distinct wet and dry phase. The months from June to
September report the highest rainfall, with
July recording the peak value of 233mm (9.17"). The commencing of November marks a significant decline in rainfall, contributing to a dry phase extending until April.
Wind speeds in Gondar range from 5.3km/h (3.3mph) to 7.8km/h (4.8mph), with the highest being reported in March. Overall, the year is marked by a fluctuating pattern of wind speeds, with a slight increase in the middle of the year.
Remarkably, Gondar reports almost no snowfall throughout the year, except for a minor record of 0.1 snowfall days in September.
The best time to visit Gondar
Given the weather patterns and climate, the best time to visit
Gondar would be between
November and
February. During these months, temperatures are relatively cooler and rainfall is at a minimum, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. While humidity levels are moderate, sunshine hours are at their peak, adding to the pleasant weather conditions.
The worst time to visit Gondar
The months from
June to
September mark the city’s wet phase, with high precipitation and high levels of humidity. For those not accustomed to heavy rainfall or venturing out during humid weather, this period could prove challenging. Evoking potential inconveniences during outdoor activities or sightseeing, these months might not be the best for tourists.
Spring weather in Gondar
Spring in
Gondar, which starts in
March and ends in
May, brings about a rise in temperatures, reaching up to the peak value of 29.8°C (85.6°F). Coupled with low precipitation and an increase in daylight hours, Spring showcases a unique contrast between the intensifying heat and the yet-to-come rainfall. This blend of climatic factors makes spring a remarkable time in Gondar.
Summer weather in Gondar
Summer stretches from
June to
August, characterized by high rainfall attributed to the tropical wet and dry climate. Temperatures during this period could go up to 27.7°C (81.9°F), with relative humidity levels peaking at 88%, making it the most humid part of the year. Despite the high volume of rain, a decent amount of sunshine is still experienced.
Autumn weather in Gondar
Autumn in
Gondar, from
September to
November, witnesses a significant drop in rainfall, putting an end to the wet phase. Concurrently, temperatures also exhibit a decline, providing a soothing respite from the previous high temperatures. Additionally, wind speed shows a noticeable increase during these months, adding to the sense of transition during the season.
Winter weather in Gondar
Winter months in
Gondar, from
December to
February, are considered the driest part of the year, with minimum rainfall recorded. Temperatures during these months remain relatively stable, ranging from 12.8°C (55°F) to 25.3°C (77.5°F). Despite being winter, the city experiences abundant sunshine hours, making it an enjoyable season for residents and tourists alike.
Weather in January
January in
Gondar,
Ethiopia, observes the lowest rainfall of the year with just 2mm (0.08") recorded. The city basks in an abundance of sunshine with very few cloudy days. Humidity is at its lowest, making the weather quite pleasant.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Rapid changes come about in
Gondar's weather from
January to
February. A slight increase in temperature occurs along with a small increase in rainfall. For those who enjoy a slightly warmer climate, February brings a hint of the approaching summer.
Weather in February »Weather in March
The shift from
February to
March brings a significant change in the rainfall pattern, as rainfall increases tenfold to 10mm (0.39"). Temperatures also achieve a new high with warmer days and nights. The city embraces the summer heat, while the humidity remains on the lower side.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April takes the torch from
March and continues the trend of increasing rainfall, reaching 15mm (0.59"). The highest temperature levels are reached during these months, climbing to a peak. Apart from the high rainfall and temperature, April also comes with an increase in cloud cover, blocking a little sunshine.
Weather in April » Weather in May
Transitioning from
April to
May,
Gondar experiences a significant rise in rainfall, a jump all the way up to 68mm (2.68"). The warmth of temperature begins to fade slowly, paving the way for lowering night temperatures. Cloud percentage also sees a rise, indicating the start of a wetter season.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June witnesses a momentous increase in rainfall, escalating from
May's 68mm (2.68") to a substantial 156mm (6.14"). The city is caught in the throes of the precipitation-laden months. Humidity levels increase significantly due to excessive precipitation, and temperatures cool down a notch.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The weather of
Gondar,
Ethiopia, in
July reaches its wettest point, with rainfall peaking at 233mm (9.17"). Temperatures take a fall, leading to colder nights and lower daytime temperatures. As a direct consequence of the rainfall, humidity levels reach their pinnacle during this month.
Weather in July »Weather in August
Cooler weather persists in
Gondar in
August, with the continuation of high rainfall from
July at 204mm (8.03"). The decrease in temperature initiates a more comfortable climate. Despite the decrease from July, rainfall still remains high, maintaining the heightened humidity levels from the previous month.
Weather in August »Weather in September
A gradual rescission of the wet season commences in
Gondar in
September as rainfall decreases to 93mm (3.66"). A decrease in temperature can also be observed from the values in previous months. Humidity begins its downward trend, releasing its grip on the city.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October's weather in
Gondar,
Ethiopia, brings further respite from the rainy season with a significant drop in rainfall to 51mm (2.01"). A decline in humidity accompanies the reducing rainfall, making the weather pleasant. A shift is observed in the cloud cover as it lessens, allowing more sunshine to reach the city.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The city welcomes the onset of the dry season in
November. A significant drop in rainfall, down to 29mm (1.14") from
October's 51mm (2.01"), marks the transition. The temperatures stay mostly constant, maintaining the comfort level in the city's weather.
Weather in November »Weather in December
The climatic conditions in
Gondar reach the end-of-the-year pinnacle in
December. The city observes the second lowest rainfall of the year at 5mm (0.2"). The comfortable weather from
November persists through December, concluding the year on a pleasant note.
Weather in December »