Ethiopia in May

October through March gives you the best weather — dry season with clear mountain views and comfortable temperatures. December and January are peak months, so expect higher prices and crowded churches in Lalibela. Avoid June through September unless you enjoy mud. This is rainy season, and roads become impassable quagmires. Plus, many trekking routes in the Simien Mountains close completely. Timkat (Ethiopian Orthodox Epiphany) in January is spectacular but chaotic. Thousands of pilgrims descend on Lalibela and Gondar for colorful processions and blessing ceremonies. Book accommodations months ahead if you want to experience this. Ethiopian Easter varies from Western Easter due to the different calendar. The celebrations rival Timkat for intensity but with fewer tourists. Consider altitude when planning. Lalibela sits at 8,200 feet, and many visitors get headaches their first day. Addis Ababa is at 7,700 feet, so even arriving can trigger mild altitude sickness. Build in rest days and drink lots of water.