Not few tourists are surprised at how cool it can be in the Ethiopian highlands. Get ready for unexpected mountain storms and cold weather. During the day in the dry season, lightweight clothing is proper, yetit is a wise precaution to carry a lightweight sweater. A jacket or sweater is very important for evenings. For cold days in the ‘winter’ rainy season (from June to September), light woolen clothing is comfortable.

As you move down from the highlands the temperature increases considerably, and you comprehend that you are in fact in the tropics, after all. In the lowlands:

Light clothing is a must.
Canvas or leather walking shoes are practical.
A hat is a wise precaution for days in the sun.

Though the weather is not hot, the sun can be powerful, and sunglasses are desirable. Sunscreen lotion is also advisable. T-shirts, even tank tops, and knee-length walking shorts are acceptable anywhere outside of the streets of Addis Ababa – although long trousers are fine at any of the lakesides, yet in the cities and towns, halter tops and short shorts are considered improper. It is best to cover up out of courtesy.