Thinking about a trip to Malabo at Christmas? Get ready for warm, tropical weather. Forget the chilly winter you might expect elsewhere. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F), and December brings the lowest rainfall of the year, making it one of the driest and most comfortable months to visit. That mix of heat and less rain really opens up the city for sightseeing and outdoor plans.
Humidity still hangs around, but it’s nothing like the heavy, sticky wet season. The skies brighten up, and both land and sea calm down, giving you more freedom to plan what you want. December gives you a rare break in Malabo’s usual climate, so weather rarely gets in your way.
If you’re hoping to dive into the city’s lively culture, check out its coastline, or just soak in the festive mood without dodging rain, Christmas in Malabo is your chance. Steady warmth, lighter rain, and long dry stretches make this time especially tempting for travel.
Overview of Malabo’s Climate
Malabo stays warm and humid all year, with only tiny changes in temperature. Rainfall, the ocean, and its spot near the equator shape the weather way more than seasons do.
Geographical Location and Climate Classification
Malabo sits on the north coast of Bioko Island, just off mainland Equatorial Guinea in Central Africa. The Gulf of Guinea is right there, so the Atlantic Ocean keeps things warm but also cranks up the humidity.
The city falls under a tropical monsoon climate. You get warm temps all year, plus a clear wet and dry season. The wet season runs from March to November, and December through February usually stays drier.
Most days, highs land between 83°F and 88°F (28–31°C), and lows dip to 70°F to 75°F (21–24°C). The gap between day and night isn’t huge—nights don’t really cool off much.
Humidity stays high, often near 99%, so the air always feels a bit muggy. Even in drier months, it’s still heavier than other tropical places.
Influence of Africa and the Equator
Malabo’s just north of the Equator, so day and night barely change in length. You’ll get about 12 hours of daylight all year, with sunrise around 6:20 a.m. and sunset near 6:20 p.m. That keeps temperatures steady.
The Atlantic Ocean shapes the weather, too. Sea surface temps average about 83°F (28°C) in December, which helps keep everything warm and humid.
Malabo’s weather ties into bigger regional patterns as part of Central Africa. Moist ocean air drives heavy rains in the wet season, but wind shifts in December and January pull in drier air.
That mix of sunlight, warm ocean, and African weather systems keeps Malabo’s climate stable. You won’t see wild swings—just steady, tropical conditions.
Typical Weather in December
December brings warm temperatures, less rain, and steady humidity. The weather barely shifts between day and night. Rain showers still show up, but they’re lighter and less common than in the rainy season.
Temperature Ranges During Christmas
Daytime highs usually hit 28–30°C (82–86°F), and nights stay mild at 22–24°C (71–75°F). The weather feels pretty stable, with no big surprises.
Since Malabo’s close to the equator, daylight is almost always around 12 hours. You get steady warmth, not the wild swings you’d find in temperate places.
Expect it to be warm all day. Evenings are great for being outdoors, and the sea stays perfect for a swim or boat ride. No cold nights here—just steady, tropical heat.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
December is Malabo’s driest month. Average rainfall drops to about 50–70 mm (2–3 in), and rain only falls on a few days. Compare that to July and August, when rain totals can blast past 400 mm.
Rain comes in quick bursts, not all-day storms. Skies are often partly cloudy, and you’ll see more sunshine than during the wet months. Most days, you get around 4–5 hours of sunshine.
It’s not totally dry, though. Light rain gear still makes sense, but showers probably won’t ruin your plans. December’s pretty reliable for being outside.
Humidity and Relative Humidity Levels
Humidity in December stays high, usually 70–80%, but it’s less suffocating than during the rainiest months. Less rain makes the air feel a bit lighter, though you’ll still notice the moisture.
You’ll probably feel muggy in the afternoons. But the Atlantic brings steady breezes that help cut the heaviness.
Relative humidity doesn’t change much through the day—just tiny dips when it’s hottest. If you’re sensitive to humidity, aim for mornings or late afternoons when it feels a bit better.
Sunshine and Daylight Hours
Because Malabo hugs the equator, daylight hours barely change in December. You’ll get about 12 hours of daylight, but actual direct sunshine is less because clouds often hang around.
Average Hours of Sunshine
Most days in December, you’ll see about 4 to 5 hours of sunshine. That’s more than the wet season, but still less than half the possible daylight.
Sunrise and sunset hit nearly the same time every day, with daylight lasting 11 hours 54 minutes to 11 hours 56 minutes. No big changes, unlike farther north or south.
At midday, the sun climbs to about 63° above the horizon. When it’s clear, the sun feels intense—even if it’s only out for a few hours.
Mornings usually bring clearer skies, while afternoons get cloudier. If you want sun, plan outdoor stuff early.
Cloud Cover and Sunlight Visibility
Even with 12 hours of daylight, clouds block the sun a lot. In December, about 38% of daylight hours are sunny, and the rest are cloudy or hazy.
You’ll probably notice more filtered light than direct sun. The sky often looks bright but overcast, so shadows are soft and sunlight isn’t too harsh.
Compared to July or August, when you might get less than two hours of sun, December’s a lot brighter. Still, weather can flip quickly—sunny one minute, cloudy the next.
Humidity stays high, so even short sunny spells can feel hotter than the numbers suggest. Light clothes and sunscreen are smart, especially near midday.
Wind and Sea Conditions
Around Christmas, Malabo sees light to moderate winds and warm sea temperatures that are great for swimming. Conditions stay steady, with just small changes that might affect your plans by the coast.
Average Wind Speed and Direction
December winds usually feel light to moderate, averaging 10–16 km/h (6–10 mph). They tend to blow from the west or southwest, thanks to the Atlantic.
Sometimes you’ll get stronger gusts, but they rarely top 20 km/h (12 mph). The breeze makes beach walks and outdoor dining pleasant, not windy or wild.
That consistent airflow helps take the edge off the humidity. Even on hot days, the breeze cools things down. Nights are calm, with winds dropping a bit more.
If you’re into boating or water sports, the steady wind means you can count on predictable conditions. Sudden wind changes are rare this time of year.
Sea Temperatures Near Christmas
The sea around Malabo stays warm year-round, and December’s no different. Water temps average 27–28°C (81–82°F).
That’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just wading—no wetsuit needed. The ocean holds onto heat, so the water barely changes from day to day.
December usually brings calm seas, since rain and storms are at a minimum. Waves stay gentle, and the water clears up, which is great if you want to check out reefs or coastal spots.
With steady winds and warm water, it’s easy to relax or try light water activities. You’ll find gentle surf and inviting water all through the holidays.
Comparison to Other Seasons
Christmas lands right in Malabo’s driest, most comfortable stretch. Rainfall hits its lowest, and temps stay warm but not brutal. This is a big shift from the rainy months, when heavy downpours and high humidity rule.
Rainy Season Versus Dry Season
Malabo’s rainy season runs mainly from May to September, peaking in July. Rain can top 300 mm a month, and humidity often sits above 80%. Clouds are common, and sunshine is rare.
The dry season, peaking in December and lasting into February, sees rainfall drop way down—December averages about 51 mm. Humidity ticks down a bit, so the air feels lighter.
Temperatures barely budge all year, usually between 24°C (75°F) and 28°C (82°F). What changes is how it feels: rainy season heat is heavy and sticky, while the dry season is just more comfortable for being outside.
| Season | Average Rainfall | Typical Temperature | Humidity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rainy (Jun–Sep) | 300–400 mm+ | 24–27°C | 80%+ |
| Dry (Dec–Feb) | 50–100 mm | 24–28°C | 70–78% |
Weather in January and February
After Christmas, January and February keep up the dry season vibe. Rain stays low, though February might see a slight bump from December’s minimum. Still, it never gets close to the wet season’s totals.
January days often reach 28°C (82°F), and nights stick around 24°C (75°F). February’s about the same, with just tiny changes in rain and humidity.
You’ll get stable weather, almost no storms, and clearer skies than in the middle of the year. The sea stays warm and calm, so it’s a great time for outdoor trips, water fun, or sightseeing—without the rainy season headaches.
Travel Tips for Visiting Malabo at Christmas
Expect warm days, mild nights, and the driest weeks of the year in Malabo at Christmas. Pack smart and plan your activities with the weather in mind, and you’ll have a comfortable, memorable trip.
What to Pack for the Weather
December in Malabo usually feels pretty warm, with daytime temperatures hovering around 25–28°C (77–82°F). The humidity drops compared to the rainy season, which is a relief.
Rain doesn’t happen much, just about 50 mm on average, but those quick showers can still surprise you.
I’d pack light, breathable clothing—think cotton shirts, shorts, and sundresses. A light long-sleeved shirt comes in handy at night or if you’re planning to visit any cultural sites.
You’ll want comfortable sandals or walking shoes, especially if you’re going to be wandering around the city.
Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The equatorial sun really doesn’t mess around, even if there are clouds.
I’d also toss in some insect repellent, particularly if you like being outdoors in the evening.
While rain isn’t common, a small travel umbrella or light rain jacket might save you from getting caught in a sudden shower.
If you’re thinking about swimming or lounging by the coast, bring a swimsuit—sea temperatures stay warm all year.
Outdoor Activities and Weather Considerations
Christmas lands right in Malabo’s dry season, so it’s honestly one of the best times to get outside for outdoor activities. Roads and walking paths open up more compared to the rainy months, and you’ll probably catch clearer skies for sightseeing.
You might want to check out Pico Basile National Park or wander through local markets. The city’s waterfront feels way more inviting without those heavy downpours.
Lower humidity makes walking tours and cultural excursions a lot more pleasant.
Thinking about water activities? The Atlantic Ocean near Malabo usually stays warm and calm enough for a swim or a boat ride.
Don’t forget sun protection, though, since UV levels can still get pretty intense.
Try to plan your outings for the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s cooler.
Midday heat can get uncomfortable, especially if you’re out in the sun, so maybe save indoor plans or downtime for that stretch.