Asmara - When to Visit

When to Asmara

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Asmara Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview -1°C 6°C 14°C 22°C 30°C Rainfall (mm) 0 87 175 Jan Jan: 22.0°C high, 4.0°C low, 3mm rain Feb Feb: 23.0°C high, 5.0°C low, 3mm rain Mar Mar: 25.0°C high, 7.0°C low, 15mm rain Apr Apr: 25.0°C high, 8.0°C low, 33mm rain May May: 25.0°C high, 10.0°C low, 41mm rain Jun Jun: 24.0°C high, 10.0°C low, 38mm rain Jul Jul: 21.0°C high, 10.0°C low, 175mm rain Aug Aug: 21.0°C high, 10.0°C low, 155mm rain Sep Sep: 22.0°C high, 8.0°C low, 15mm rain Oct Oct: 21.0°C high, 8.0°C low, 15mm rain Nov Nov: 21.0°C high, 6.0°C low, 20mm rain Dec Dec: 21.0°C high, 4.0°C low, 3mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Asmara enjoys a remarkably pleasant highland climate year-round due to its elevation of over 7,500 feet above sea level. The city experiences two distinct seasons: a dry season from October through June with minimal rainfall, and a wet season from July through September when the majority of annual precipitation occurs. Despite being located in the Horn of Africa, Asmara's high altitude creates moderate temperatures that rarely become uncomfortably hot, with highs ranging from 70-77°F throughout the year. The most striking feature of Asmara's climate is the dramatic difference between the dry and wet seasons. During the dry months, rainfall is virtually non-existent (often just 0.1 inches per month), while July and August bring substantial precipitation with 6.9 and 6.1 inches respectively. Temperatures remain surprisingly consistent, with the coolest period during the rainy season when highs drop to around 70°F, and the warmest months occurring in spring (March-May) when temperatures peak at 77°F.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
October through March offers the driest conditions and comfortable temperatures for visiting coastal areas near Asmara. The clear skies and minimal rainfall make this ideal for beach activities.
Cultural Exploration
November through February provides perfect weather for walking tours and outdoor cultural activities with comfortable temperatures and virtually no rain. The pleasant climate makes exploring Asmara's Italian colonial architecture particularly enjoyable.
Adventure & Hiking
March through May offers the warmest temperatures and dry conditions ideal for highland trekking and outdoor adventures. The landscape is still green from previous rains but trails are dry and accessible.
Budget Travel
July and August during the rainy season offer the lowest tourist numbers and potentially better accommodation rates. While wet, the cooler temperatures and dramatic landscapes can be appealing for budget-conscious travelers who don't mind occasional showers.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January offers excellent weather with warm days and cool nights, making it one of the most comfortable months to visit Asmara. The dry conditions and clear skies are perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Cool mornings and evenings require light layers while midday temperatures are pleasantly warm.

72°F High
39°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

February

February continues the excellent dry season weather with slightly warmer temperatures than January. The minimal rainfall and comfortable conditions make this an ideal time for exploring the city and surrounding highlands. The large temperature variation between day and night requires versatile clothing.

74°F High
41°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

March

March marks the beginning of the warmest period with temperatures reaching their annual peak. The weather remains predominantly dry with only occasional light showers. This is excellent weather for outdoor activities, though the increasing warmth signals the approaching end of peak tourist season.

77°F High
45°F Low
0.6 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

April

April maintains warm temperatures while showing the first signs of increasing rainfall as the wet season approaches. The weather is still predominantly dry and pleasant, making it a good shoulder season month. Occasional showers begin to appear but don't significantly impact outdoor activities.

77°F High
47°F Low
1.3 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

May

May represents the transition toward the wet season with increasing rainfall while maintaining the year's warmest temperatures. The weather becomes more unpredictable with occasional showers, but many days remain clear and pleasant. This is still a good time to visit before the heavy rains arrive.

77°F High
50°F Low
1.6 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

June

June continues the transition to the wet season with moderate rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures than the previous months. While showers become more frequent, they're typically brief and the weather remains generally pleasant. Tourist numbers begin to decline as the rainy season approaches.

76°F High
50°F Low
1.5 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

July

July marks the heart of the wet season with the heaviest rainfall of the year and noticeably cooler temperatures. The frequent rains create lush, green landscapes but can impact outdoor activities and transportation. Despite the rain, the cooler temperatures provide relief from the heat and create dramatic atmospheric conditions.

70°F High
51°F Low
6.9 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

August

August continues the wet season with substantial rainfall and cool temperatures, making it the second rainiest month of the year. While outdoor activities may be limited by frequent showers, the landscape is at its most verdant and beautiful. The cooler weather can be refreshing, though visitors should be prepared for wet conditions.

70°F High
51°F Low
6.1 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

September

September marks the end of the wet season with dramatically reduced rainfall and slightly warming temperatures. The landscape remains green from the recent rains while weather conditions begin to stabilize. This transitional month offers good value for visitors as tourist numbers remain low but conditions improve significantly.

73°F High
47°F Low
0.6 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

October

October signals the return of the dry season with minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures. The post-rain landscape is still lush and green, making this an excellent time for photography and outdoor activities. Tourist numbers begin to increase as the favorable weather returns.

71°F High
46°F Low
0.6 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

November

November offers excellent weather with cool, dry conditions perfect for exploring Asmara and the surrounding region. The clear skies and comfortable temperatures make this one of the best months to visit. Cool mornings and evenings contrast with pleasant daytime temperatures.

70°F High
43°F Low
0.8 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

December

December provides ideal weather conditions with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures, marking the beginning of peak tourist season. The dry, clear weather is perfect for all outdoor activities and sightseeing. The large diurnal temperature range requires layered clothing for comfort throughout the day.

70°F High
40°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

Activities in Asmara