Thinking of a trip to Pemba around Christmas? You’ll get warm, tropical weather, high humidity, and a good chance of rain. Average daytime temperatures hover near 29°C (84°F), and evenings stay mild at about 23°C (73°F). December usually brings more rain as the wet season gets going, but the sun still breaks through for a good chunk of the day.
The Indian Ocean stays warm and inviting, with sea temperatures close to 28°C (82°F). Swimming and diving are comfortable, even if a rainstorm rolls in. Showers can get heavy, but they tend to be brief, so you can still enjoy the beaches and coast most days.
This mix of heat, humidity, and quick tropical downpours is just part of Christmas in Pemba. Knowing these patterns makes it easier to plan—maybe you’ll sneak in outdoor adventures between showers or just relax by the coast in the evenings.
Overview of Pemba’s Climate
Pemba, Mozambique, sits on the Indian Ocean and has a tropical climate. You’ll find hot weather year-round, a clear split between wet and dry seasons, and sea conditions that rarely dip below “comfortable for swimming.”
Tropical Climate Characteristics
Pemba sits in northern Mozambique, right along the coast. It has a tropical wet and dry climate, sometimes called a savanna climate. Rainfall doesn’t spread out evenly—some months get heavy downpours, then you’ll get long stretches with barely a drop.
Humidity stays high, often above 70%, so the heat feels even stronger. Ocean breezes give some relief, especially in the dry season when the sky clears up and things feel less stifling.
The Köppen-Geiger classification calls Pemba’s climate Aw, which is typical for tropical places with wet and dry stretches. Unlike deserts, the rainy season keeps vegetation green for most of the year.
Pemba’s spot on the coast keeps temperature swings mild. The sea moderates daytime heat and keeps nights warm. You won’t see the wild temperature changes that happen inland.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
You’ll experience two main seasons in Pemba: a wet season from about December to April and a dry season from June to October. May and November can go either way, with mixed weather.
During the wet season, heavy rains and thunderstorms hit often. February and March bring the most rain, usually 150–200 mm per month. Cloud cover sticks around, and humidity rises, making the air feel thick.
The dry season sees far less rain, sometimes just a few millimeters a month. Skies clear up, sunshine hours jump, and winds pick up a bit—especially in July and August. Outdoor activities feel more comfortable during this stretch.
If you visit in the dry season, you’ll get lots of sunny days and only the occasional brief shower. In the wet season, storms come on strong but don’t usually last all day.
Temperature Trends Throughout the Year
Temperatures in Pemba stay warm all year, usually between 23 °C and 28 °C on average. December and January are the hottest months, with daytime highs often reaching 31 °C. Nights rarely dip below 21 °C.
The coolest stretch is June, July, and August. Even then, highs average near 27 °C, and lows are around 19–20 °C. It’s warm, but not uncomfortably hot—even in “winter.”
Sea surface temperatures follow a seasonal rhythm too. The ocean peaks in March at about 29.5 °C, and the coolest water is in August and September at around 25.5 °C. So, you can swim year-round without freezing.
Sunshine hours change with the seasons. Wet months bring about 6–7 hours per day, while the dry season jumps to 8–9 hours daily, peaking in October. Dry season days feel brighter and better for outdoor plans.
Typical Weather Conditions at Christmas
December in Pemba means hot, humid weather and frequent rain. Sea temperatures stay warm, humidity stays high, and you’ll see a mix of sun and heavy showers.
Average Temperatures in December
Daytime temperatures in December usually run between 27°C (81°F) and 30°C (86°F). Nights stay warm, with lows rarely under 25°C (77°F). The humidity makes the heat feel even more intense, especially in the afternoons.
Sea temperatures average around 28–29°C (82–85°F), so the water feels very warm for swimming. You won’t need a wetsuit at all, but if you’re not used to tropical climates, the heat can feel a bit much.
If you’re planning to be outside, mornings are usually cooler and less humid. Light clothing, hats, and plenty of water help you stay comfortable.
Rainfall and Humidity Levels
December falls in the wet season in Pemba. Rain picks up compared to earlier months, with totals around 200–250 mm (8–10 in). Downpours come fast and heavy, sometimes lasting hours.
You’ll probably see 15–20 rainy days in December, so showers several times a week are the norm. The heaviest rain often comes late in the day.
Humidity is high, usually 75–80%, making the air feel sticky. This combo of rain and humidity can make it tough to stay comfortable outside, but travelers still hit the beach between showers.
Cloud Cover and Sunshine Hours
Clouds show up more in December, with skies flipping between overcast and partly sunny. Even with the rain, you’ll still get about 7–8 hours of sunshine per day, though not always in one long stretch.
Clear mornings are common, but clouds build up as the day goes on. So, you might get bright skies early, then showers later.
These shorter sunny spells, mixed with high humidity, create a thick, tropical feel. If you’re into photography or sightseeing, mornings usually offer the best light.
Sea and Coastal Weather Around Christmas
Around Christmas, Pemba’s coast stays hot and humid. The sea is warm, and steady winds shape the daily weather. Rain showers happen often but are usually short, so you’ll still get plenty of sun along the shore.
Sea Surface Temperatures
The sea near Pemba is very warm in December, with surface temps around 28–29°C (82–84°F). Swimming, snorkeling, and diving feel great—no wetsuit needed.
Day and night water temps barely change. The Mozambique Channel holds heat well, so the sea always feels warm.
Warm water helps with good visibility for diving, though heavy rains can muddy things near river mouths. Offshore reefs usually stay clearer than closer-in shallows.
Wind Conditions and Effects
December brings moderate onshore winds, averaging about 13 kph (8 mph). These breezes cool the humid air a bit, but they can make the water a little choppy.
Afternoon breezes often pick up, especially on open beaches. If you’re in a small boat or kayak, it’s safer to head out earlier in the day.
Wind direction changes how comfortable beaches feel. Sheltered coves stay calm, but open stretches get more gusts.
Coastal Activities and Weather Considerations
With warm seas and long days, you can enjoy most coastal activities. Swimming, snorkeling, and diving are all popular, but watch for lower visibility after heavy rain.
Fishing trips are common in December, though wind and rain might shuffle schedules. Local guides usually adjust departure times based on the weather.
If you’re spending time on the beach, expect high humidity and strong sun. Bring shade or take breaks inside during peak heat. Rain usually comes in bursts, so you can get back outside pretty quickly.
All in all, Christmas coastal weather in Pemba is good for outdoor fun, but you’ll want to stay flexible if winds or rain pop up.
Comparing Christmas Weather to Other Seasons
Christmas in Pemba falls during the wet season, with high humidity and more rain than usual. Comparing December to the drier months and the peak rainy season helps set your expectations.
Differences From the Dry Season
The dry season runs from about May to October. During this time, you’ll see clearer skies, way less rain, and stronger winds. Highs sit around 81–84°F (27–29°C), but the lower humidity makes it feel cooler. Nights dip to 71–73°F (22–23°C), which feels nice and comfortable.
In December, things change. Humidity rises, showers become frequent, and highs reach 87°F (31°C), with nights around 79°F (26°C). The extra moisture in the air makes it feel warmer, even if the actual temperature isn’t much higher.
December’s winds are lighter compared to the middle of the year. July gets breezy, averaging over 13 mph, while December is calmer at 9–10 mph. That means Christmas weather feels more still and humid.
In short, compared to the dry months, Christmas in Pemba feels hotter, wetter, and stickier, with less breeze to cool things off.
Contrasts With Peak Rainy Season
The peak rainy season hits from January through March. These months get the most rain—7–8 inches per month—and frequent downpours. February often brings 17 or more rainy days, making travel and outdoor plans a bit of a gamble.
At Christmas, rain is common but not as intense as in January or February. December averages about 4–5 inches of rain and roughly 13 wet days. Showers are shorter and more scattered, so you still get breaks between storms.
Humidity stays high in both December and the peak rainy months. February can feel even more oppressive, since the wet days pile up with little relief. In late December, you’ll still see some partly clear days.
Temperature differences are minor. Highs in January and February average 84–85°F (29°C), just a bit lower than December’s 87°F (31°C). Nights stay warm across all these months, rarely dipping below 77°F (25°C).
So, Christmas weather in Pemba has the warmth and humidity of the peak rainy season, but usually skips the worst of the downpours.
Travel Tips for Visiting Pemba During Christmas
Expect hot, humid weather in Pemba during December, with regular rain and warm seas. If you plan ahead with your clothing, activities, and health, you’ll enjoy your trip without too much hassle.
What to Pack for the Weather
Daytime temps around Christmas often reach 29–30°C (84–86°F). Nights don’t usually fall below 24°C (75°F). Rain is frequent, so bring light, breathable clothes that dry fast.
Pack cotton or linen shirts, light trousers or shorts, and a waterproof jacket for sudden downpours. A small umbrella is handy, too.
For your feet, bring sandals for the beach and sturdy shoes for wet or rough ground. Sun protection is a must: broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen.
Because of the humidity, you’ll want insect repellent to keep mosquitoes away. A dry bag for your electronics will protect your phone or camera during heavy rain.
Best Outdoor Activities
The Indian Ocean stays warm for swimming and snorkeling, with sea temps near 29°C (84°F). Coral reefs close to shore have colorful marine life, but rain can cloud the water.
Boat trips to the Quirimbas Archipelago are popular, but check the sea conditions first—winds and storms are more common now.
Fishing is good in December, with chances for tuna and other big fish. Kayaking and paddleboarding work well in calm lagoons.
If you prefer staying on land, try short hikes along the coast or check out local markets. Skip long hikes in the midday heat, and plan outings for the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler.
Health and Safety Considerations
Mosquitoes get a lot more active during the rainy season. Use repellent with DEET or picaridin, wear long sleeves in the evening, and if your lodging doesn’t give you a mosquito net, bring your own. Malaria prevention meds? Yeah, those are a must.
Stick to bottled or filtered water. Tap water can be sketchy sometimes. Drink plenty, but if you’re sweating buckets, remember to replace your electrolytes too.
After storms, roads turn muddy and slippery. Give yourself extra travel time, and honestly, it’s best not to drive at night. If you’re heading out on the water, check the forecast—sudden squalls pop up fast.
You’ll find basic medical facilities in Pemba, but for anything serious, you might need to get to a bigger city. Pack a personal first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and any prescription meds you need.
Long-Term Weather Trends and Climate Change
Christmas in Pemba usually lands right between the dry and rainy seasons. Over the years, rainfall patterns, humidity, and temperatures have all shifted, changing what the holidays feel like here in Mozambique.
Recent Changes in Christmas Weather
These days, Christmas in Pemba feels a bit warmer and definitely wetter than it used to. Historical records show average daytime highs hit about 29–30°C (84–86°F) in December, with nights dropping to around 23–24°C (73–75°F). Temperatures haven’t changed much, but humidity and rainfall sure have.
Rainfall in late December happens more often now. Some years, totals go over 150–200 mm. So, heavy downpours can easily mess with outdoor plans. December now brings up to 20 or more rainy days in some years.
Wind speeds and sea surface temperatures are shifting too. The Indian Ocean off Pemba now sits at about 28–29°C (82–84°F) in December, which means stronger storms and stickier air. These trends really show climate changes hitting northern Mozambique—wet seasons come earlier and last longer than they used to.
Forecasts for Future Holiday Seasons
If you’re looking ahead, you’ll probably find Christmas in Pemba still hot and humid, with a bigger chance of intense rainstorms. Climate models for Mozambique point to more rainfall during the wet season, and the dry season might not last as long.
By the middle of the century, average December temperatures could jump by 1–2°C. That would push daytime highs up to around 31–32°C (88–90°F). Since warmer air hangs onto more moisture, you might see heavier downpours, even if the number of rainy days doesn’t really go up.
Travelers should plan for flexible activities during the holidays. Maybe you’ll want to stick to indoor options or quick trips between storms.
If diving or snorkeling is your thing, the sea will still feel warm, but heavy rains could make the water a bit murky.
That being said, Christmas in Pemba won’t always turn stormy, but the odds of wetter and hotter weather just keep climbing.