When to visit the Bale Mountains

The best time to visit the Bale Mountains is from October to March. At this time of year, the days are generally warm and dry, and temperatures can reach up to 25°C (although they are usually closer to 15°C). These dry days offer more pleasant conditions for trekking in the Bale Mountains, and clearer views of the breath-taking landscapes.

The clear night boast an incredible sky full of stars which you can enjoy from a camp or the veranda of your lodge. Due to the altitude, temperatures at night can drop to below zero and so you will need to bring warm clothing no matter what time of year you are visiting.

If you're visiting from October to December, the flowers will be in full bloom and the landscape flush with thick green tropical vegetation. With the mist of the clouds rolling across this blanketed terrain, the Bale Mountains have a true wilderness appeal. 

When you choose to visit the Bale Mountains will have an impact on your overall experience. As a high-altitude area, the park sees more rainfall than the rest of southern Ethiopia. There are two rainy seasons in the Bale Mountains, a short rainy season in April, and the long rainy season from August and September.

Whilst the rains and mist create a certain moody atmosphere and add to the frontier explorer appeal of the Bale Mountains, it does limit your ability to fully explore the park as trekking routes and camping options can be more limited. 

One benefit to visiting during these months is the reduced price tag. The Bale Mountains Lodge has seasonal rates and so accommodation is cheaper from May to September. If you are camping, there are no price changes. 

For those willing to put up with afternoon showers, May to July is also a wonderful time to visit the Bale Mountains. The days remain warm and sunny with periods of brilliant blue skies despite the occasional downpour, and daytime temperatures around 15°C. Nighttime temperatures hover around zero.

For lovers of wildflowers, June also offers a spectacular treat. Around this time the hillsides are covered by red-hot pokers and other stunning flowers in bloom. These spring flowers attract many colourful birds, which adds to the magic of the park at this time of year.