Thinking about a Christmas trip to Mindelo? You’ll get warm, steady weather while much of the world bundles up. Daytime temperatures usually sit around 24–25°C (75–77°F), and nights stay pretty comfortable at 20–22°C (68–72°F).
That’s honestly one of the best times to check out the city, wander the beaches, or hop to nearby islands. You won’t have to stress about any wild weather or big temperature swings.
December barely brings any rain—just a few quick showers here and there. Humidity levels feel manageable, and you’ll notice the skies are often partly sunny, with a mix of bright days and some light clouds.
Trade winds sweep through, keeping the air fresh and the sea a bit lively. It really adds to that coastal feeling.
Curious about Christmas week specifics? You’ll find info here on how the winds shape sea conditions, how much daylight you’ll get, and what the weather feels like for sightseeing. That way, you can plan with confidence and dive into Mindelo’s festive vibe and reliable weather.
Overview of December Weather in Mindelo
December in Mindelo brings steady warmth, low rainfall, and lots of sunshine. Day and night temperatures don’t swing much.
You’ll get a dry climate and comfortable conditions compared to the hotter or wetter months.
Typical Temperature Ranges
December days in Mindelo usually reach 23–25°C (73–77°F). Nights cool off a bit but stay mild, hovering around 21–22°C (69–72°F).
The sea keeps steady at about 24°C (75°F), so swimming and water sports feel great. Cape Verde’s island climate doesn’t really do dramatic shifts, so you won’t get hit with surprise cold snaps.
Humidity sticks around 69–73%, but that steady breeze makes it feel fine. Light clothes work for the day, though you might want a thin jacket after dark.
General Climate Characteristics
December lands in the dry season, with just 5–6 mm of rain the whole month. Usually, rain falls on just 1–2 days, so rain gear mostly stays in your bag.
The skies are mostly clear, offering about 200+ hours of sunshine. Winds blow regularly, since Mindelo sits on São Vicente island, but they’re usually more refreshing than bothersome.
You’ll notice the air feels stable, without that heavy summer heat or sticky tropical humidity. December really stands out as a comfortable time to be outside.
Comparison to Other Months
December feels cooler and drier than the summer months. In August or September, highs hit 28–30°C (82–86°F) with more humidity, while December sits closer to 24°C (75°F) and stays drier.
Rainfall drops off fast. September might see up to 80–100 mm, but December barely scrapes 6 mm.
January and February bring nearly identical conditions to December, with only tiny shifts in temperature or wind. This kind of consistency makes December a favorite for sightseeing and enjoying the Atlantic.
Temperature Patterns During Christmas Week
December weather in Mindelo stays mild and predictable, which makes planning outdoor plans easy. You’ll get warm afternoons, cooler nights, and steady sea temperatures that make swimming pleasant.
Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
During Christmas week, daytime highs average around 75°F (24°C). The sun keeps things warm, but you won’t feel overheated, so walking around or hitting the beach is comfortable.
At night, temperatures dip to about 72°F (22°C). Evenings feel nice with a gentle breeze, and you probably won’t need more than a light sweater. Humidity stays moderate, so the air doesn’t get sticky.
There’s not much of a temperature swing between day and night. You can count on steady conditions most of the week.
Temperature Trends Near Christmas
December is the cooler season in Mindelo, but honestly, it’s not a huge difference from summer. When summer highs top out at 86°F (30°C), the Christmas stretch feels a bit fresher.
Humidity and rain drop in December compared to the soggy September peak. Late December usually delivers steady, dry weather.
With the city’s desert climate, you won’t see dramatic seasonal changes. Annual averages hover around 73°F (23°C), so Christmas fits right in that comfortable zone.
Water Temperatures for Swimming
The sea near Mindelo stays warm for swimming in December. Water temperatures average about 24°C (75°F), which most people find comfortable—no wetsuit needed.
The Atlantic changes slowly, so water temps don’t drop much at night. You can swim almost any time of day.
If you’re planning beach time or a boat tour, the water stays stable and inviting. Winds can kick up some surface chop, but the temperature itself doesn’t really budge.
Rainfall and Humidity in December
December brings Mindelo very little rain and moderate humidity. Showers, if they happen, are quick, and the air feels good compared to the wetter months earlier in the year.
Average Rainfall and Rainy Days
Rainfall in December is low—it’s one of Mindelo’s driest months. On average, you might see 5–6 mm of rain for the whole month, which is less than a single heavy shower elsewhere.
Expect very few rainy days, usually just 1–2 days with any real precipitation. When it does rain, it’s light and over fast. December is a safe bet if you want to plan outdoor activities without worrying about the weather.
September is the wettest month, so December’s drop in rain really signals the dry season. You’ll get some of the year’s most stable weather.
Humidity Levels
Humidity in December stays moderate, averaging about 73%. It’s noticeable but not uncomfortable, especially with the trade winds blowing through Cape Verde.
Daytime brings warm temperatures—24–25°C (75–77°F)—paired with that easygoing humidity, so the climate feels good. At night, humidity doesn’t spike, and with temperatures dropping to 20–22°C (68–72°F), the air feels even lighter.
December is less humid than late summer, so you skip the stickiness. That balance of warmth and comfort draws a lot of visitors this time of year.
Rainfall Variability Year to Year
Rainfall in Mindelo during December usually stays consistent, but there are small year-to-year changes. Some years barely see any rain, while others might get 20–25 mm spread over a few showers.
Even in wetter Decembers, you rarely get more than 3–4 rainy days. Showers pass quickly, and most days are dry and sunny.
This kind of stable weather is typical for Cape Verde, and December really marks the start of the dry season. You can plan your days without worrying much about rain.
Sunshine, Daylight, and Cloud Cover
December in Mindelo means steady daylight, reliable sunshine, and pretty clear skies. You’ll notice mild seasonal differences, but it’s bright enough for all your outdoor plans.
Average Hours of Sunshine
Mindelo sees about 9 hours of sunshine daily in December. That’s plenty for long, bright days but not so much that it feels harsh.
The sun feels strong but not oppressive, making it easy to stroll, sightsee, or relax by the sea. Even though the days are a bit shorter than June, the sunshine hours are steady.
Don’t forget about UV exposure. The UV index averages around 6, which counts as moderate. Sunscreen and light clothing are smart choices for outdoor time.
Length of Daylight
Daylight in December lasts between 11 and 11.5 hours per day. The sun rises around 7:00 AM and sets close to 6:15 PM.
That gives you a good window to explore the city, visit the port, or take a boat ride before dusk. Unlike northern places, the days don’t shrink dramatically, so you won’t feel rushed by early sunsets.
The steady daylight helps balance out the cooler winter weather. You can fit in plenty of activities without running out of natural light.
Cloudiness and Sky Conditions
December is one of Mindelo’s clearest months. Cloud cover averages about 20%, so you’ll often see big blue skies.
Compared to summer, when humidity and clouds ramp up, December brings drier, brighter days. Rain is rare, with just 1–2 mm expected over a couple of days, so you probably won’t get stuck under gray skies.
Low rainfall, good visibility, and open skies make December perfect for the coastline. Whether you’re down at the harbor or hiking up above the city, you’ll get wide, unobstructed views.
Winds and Sea Conditions
During Christmas, Mindelo gets steady trade winds and a dry atmosphere. These winds shape the sea around São Vicente, affecting how calm or choppy it feels for boating, swimming, and other water activities.
Typical Wind Speeds and Directions
Winds in December average about 25 km/h (15–16 mph). These are the northeast trade winds, which sweep through Cape Verde in winter.
They usually blow from the northeast to east-northeast, bringing a steady breeze over the bay and open ocean. The climate can feel cooler than the thermometer says, with temps in the mid-70s °F.
The wind almost never goes completely calm, but it doesn’t hit storm force either. Stronger gusts might show up along the north and east coasts.
You’ll want to plan for breezy conditions most days. Light jackets come in handy at night, and you can expect a steady airflow during meals or beach time.
Sea Conditions and Suitability for Activities
The December winds keep the sea around Mindelo moderately choppy. Inside the bay, nearshore waters stay more sheltered and calm, which is perfect for swimming or paddle sports.
Out in the open Atlantic, trade winds drive noticeable swells. These are usually manageable but can challenge small boats or less experienced sailors.
Windsurfing and kitesurfing thrive in these conditions, thanks to the reliable breeze. Scuba diving and snorkeling are also good, though waves might change visibility a bit.
If you’re thinking about boat trips between islands, expect some rolling seas, especially on longer rides. Picking bigger ferries or boats helps with comfort. For most beachgoers, the sandy coves near Mindelo stay safe and fun for swimming.
Weather-Related Travel Tips for Christmas in Mindelo
Mindelo’s December weather stays warm and mostly dry, with daytime highs near 24°C and cooler evenings around 22°C. You’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine, but those steady breezes and the odd light shower mean it’s smart to pack for both comfort and a bit of protection.
What to Pack for December
Go for light, breathable clothing—think t-shirts, shorts, and cotton dresses. I’d toss in a light jacket or sweater too, since evenings can get a bit cooler, especially if you’re hanging around outside after sunset.
You’ll want comfortable walking shoes to wander Mindelo’s streets and the waterfront. Sandals feel great for casual strolls, but if you’re planning longer walks or exploring uneven paths, closed shoes really make a difference.
If you’re headed to the beach, throw in swimwear, a quick-dry towel, and flip-flops. The sea sits around 24°C, so swimming and water sports still feel inviting.
Rain hardly ever shows up in December, but I’d still tuck a small foldable umbrella or a light rain jacket into my bag, just in case.
Here’s a simple packing guide:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Light clothing | Warm daytime weather |
| Jacket/sweater | Cooler nights |
| Swimwear | Beach and water activities |
| Walking shoes | City and day trips |
| Sunglasses/hat | Sun protection |
Health and Sun Protection Advice
Even in December, the Cape Verde sun feels surprisingly strong. I always reach for broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and put on more every few hours, especially after a swim.
Sunglasses with UV protection help cut down on glare, and a wide-brimmed hat shields your face and neck. It’s a simple trick, but it works.
Drink bottled or filtered water throughout the day to stay hydrated. The warm weather and steady ocean breeze might fool you, but dehydration sneaks up fast.
If you’re planning outdoor activities, try to head out early in the morning or wait until late afternoon. The midday sun hits hardest, and UV levels peak then.
If you or your kids have sensitive skin, light long-sleeve shirts can add extra protection without making you feel too hot. I find this especially helpful for long beach days or boat rides around São Vicente.