"ጎንደር የአፍሪካ ካስቴል | Gondar, The Camelot of Africa"
About:
Gondar, Ethiopia, was founded by Emperor Fasilides in the 17th century and served as the Ethiopian Empire's capital until the 19th century. Known for its distinctive architecture, it's home to numerous castles and churches, including the UNESCO World Heritage site, Fasil Ghebbi. Gondar experienced several invasions and occupations, notably during the Second Italo-Ethiopian War and World War II. Today, it's a prominent tourist destination and educational center, housing the University of Gondar.
When to visit:
Gondar, located in northern Ethiopia, is best visited during the dry season, which typically occurs from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies, making it ideal for exploring the city's historical sites and taking part in outdoor activities. The city's major attractions, including the Royal Enclosure and Debre Berhan Selassie Church, can be enjoyed without the interruption of rain. Travelers planning a holiday in Gondar during this time can expect comfortable temperatures and vibrant cultural events.
When to avoid:
Gondar, located in northern Ethiopia, experiences a rainy season from June to September, making this period the least favorable for travel. Heavy downpours and potential flooding can disrupt transportation and outdoor activities, limiting the overall travel experience for visitors. Additionally, the wet weather may lead to road closures and muddy conditions, affecting accessibility to popular tourist sites in and around the city. Travelers planning a holiday to Gondar are advised to avoid visiting during the rainy season to ensure a more enjoyable and seamless travel experience.
"Winter Season (Jan-Mar)"
Gondar, Ethiopia experiences its coldest and wettest season from June to September, known as Kiremt or the big rainy season. Average temperatures range from 15-20°C. Rainfall is frequent and heavy, with monthly totals reaching up to 300mm in July and August. Sunlight is limited due to consistent cloud cover. An average day for a visitor during this season involves bracing for afternoon showers, with mornings typically being cloudy but dry. Despite the rain, the lush green landscapes and lower tourist crowds can offer a unique experience.
"Summer (September–May)"
In Gondar, Ethiopia, the warmest part of the year typically spans from March to May. During this time, the average high temperature ranges from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F), while the average low temperature is between 14°C (57°F) and 16°C (61°F).
Rainfall is relatively low in these months, with an average monthly precipitation of about 60mm in March, increasing slightly in April and May. The city receives an average of 9 to 10 hours of sunlight per day, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities.
Humidity is moderate, with average relative humidity ranging from 50% to 60%. Cloudiness varies, with partly cloudy to mostly clear skies being common.
A typical day for a visitor during this period in Gondar would likely be warm and fairly dry. Mornings can be a bit cool, so it's advisable to dress in layers. As the day progresses, the temperature rises, making it perfect for sightseeing. The moderate humidity and ample sunlight make the weather pleasant, not too sticky or uncomfortable. Despite the occasional cloud cover, there's usually plenty of sunshine to enjoy the city's historical sites and natural beauty. However, it's always a good idea to carry a light raincoat or umbrella, just in case of a sudden shower.
Language:
Amharic is the primary language spoken in Gondar, Ethiopia. It's the official language of the country and belongs to the Semitic language family. English is also taught in schools and used in business and tourism, making it a commonly spoken second language.