If you’re planning a trip to Ghana’s capital, you’ll want to pay close attention to the weather. Accra stays warm year-round, but rainfall and humidity really shape your experience.
The best time to visit Accra for comfortable weather is during the drier months from November to March or the mid-year stretch of July to October. These months bring less rain and more stable conditions, so it’s much easier to enjoy the city’s beaches, markets, and cultural landmarks.
You’ll notice that Accra’s climate follows a tropical rhythm, with two rainy seasons and two drier periods. If you know when the rain hits hardest, you can avoid getting your plans washed out. And if you get the timing right with the cooler months, packing and staying comfortable becomes a breeze.
This mix of temperature and rainfall makes timing your trip kind of a big deal.
As you read on, you’ll get a sense of what each month feels like. Some seasons attract more visitors, and Accra’s weather can differ from other parts of Ghana.
That way, you can pick the best time that fits your travel style—whether you’re chasing sunshine, cooler days for exploring, or just want to dodge the crowds.
Understanding Accra’s Climate
Accra has a tropical climate thanks to its coastal spot and seasonal winds. You can expect warm temps all year, but the real differences come from rainfall and humidity.
Tropical Savanna Climate Explained
Accra sits in a tropical savanna climate, so it stays warm all year but has clear wet and dry seasons. The city actually gets less rain than inland Ghana, probably because of its southeast-facing coastline.
The dry season runs from December to February. Harmattan winds sometimes bring dry, dusty air from the Sahara, but honestly, it’s not as intense here as up north.
From April to October, rain takes over, but the heaviest downpours usually hit in May and June. July and August are a bit cloudy, but you’ll find the rain isn’t as heavy as earlier in the wet season.
This pattern keeps Accra less extreme than some tropical cities. You won’t see as many days with wild storms, and there’s a better balance of sun and rain.
Temperature Ranges Throughout the Year
Accra’s temperatures don’t change much from month to month. Average daily highs hover between about 28 °C in August and 33 °C in March.
Nighttime lows usually stay between 23 °C and 26 °C.
The hottest stretch comes from February to April, when daytime highs often hit 34–36 °C. Humidity also cranks up, so being outside can feel kind of heavy.
August is the coolest month, averaging around 25–26 °C. It’s still warm, but the sea breezes and lower temps make it feel much nicer than the March heat.
The sea stays warm all year, usually between 24 °C and 29 °C. You can swim anytime, and sudden cold snaps just don’t happen here.
Rainfall Patterns and Seasons
Accra gets about 740 millimeters of rain per year, which isn’t much compared to other parts of Ghana. The rain doesn’t spread out evenly, though—it really spikes in late spring and early summer.
Monthly rainfall (mm):
- January: ~10
- May: ~150
- June: ~175
- August: ~20
- October: ~65
May and June are the wettest months, when storms show up more often and cloudy skies linger. In January and February, it’s super dry, with just the occasional quick shower.
July through September bring less rain but more clouds. It feels cooler, but you won’t get as much sun. By November, rain drops off again, and December brings back dry weather.
These rainfall cycles really affect when outdoor events and festivals happen, and when travel activities are most enjoyable.
Monthly Weather Overview in Accra
Accra stays warm all year, with only small changes in temperature. The real differences each month come from rainfall, humidity, and sunshine.
Weather Highlights by Month
January to March brings hot and dry weather. Daily highs often top 32 °C, and you’ll get long sunny days with barely any rain.
April to June kicks off the first rainy season. May and June get the most rain, sometimes over 150 mm. Humidity goes up, and the sky turns more overcast.
July and August cool down a bit, with average highs around 28 °C. August sees less rain, but clouds still hang around.
September to November brings back moderate rains. September is wetter than October and November.
December dries out again, with warm days, little rain, and lots of sunshine.
Temperature and Rainfall Trends
Accra’s temperatures stay pretty steady all year. March is the hottest, with an average of about 29 °C. August is the coolest, around 25.7 °C.
Nighttime lows rarely drop below 23 °C, so evenings stay warm.
Rainfall can change a lot, though.
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 28.6 | 10 |
| Mar | 29.3 | 55 |
| Jun | 27.0 | 175 |
| Aug | 25.7 | 20 |
| Oct | 27.4 | 65 |
| Dec | 28.6 | 25 |
Humidity climbs during the wettest months, going over 80% from June through September. Sunshine drops during these months, with just 4–5 hours a day, compared to 7–8 hours in the dry season.
Dry and Wet Seasons
Accra really has two main seasons. The dry season runs from December to February, with barely any rain and lots of sun. You might notice the harmattan—that dusty wind from the Sahara—but it’s not as strong on the coast.
The major wet season is from April to June, peaking in May and June. There’s also a shorter wet season in September and October, but it’s not as intense as early summer.
July and August give a little break from the rain, though it stays cloudy. Locals call this the “little dry season,” and it’s something unique to coastal Ghana. You get cooler weather without the heavy downpours.
Best Months to Visit Accra for Ideal Weather
Accra’s tropical climate means it’s always warm, but rainfall and humidity swing a lot by season. Picking the driest and most comfortable months makes outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach days way easier.
Optimal Travel Periods
The best months to visit Accra are November through March. That’s the dry season, when rain is rare and humidity drops a bit. Daytime temps usually sit between 27°C and 31°C (81°F to 88°F), so exploring the city isn’t a sweaty struggle.
July through October can also be a good bet, with slightly cooler temperatures around 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F). You’ll still get showers, but they’re lighter than in June, and humidity feels a bit more manageable.
If you love long sunny days, April offers more daylight, but it also brings sticky humidity and more rain. For beach days, January and February are the driest, so you can really soak up the sun.
Months to Avoid Due to Weather
June is the toughest month for travel. Accra hits peak rainy season, with rainfall over 120 mm and showers most days. Cloud cover is almost constant, and humidity rockets past 80%, making things feel muggy.
September and October also bring heavy rain, with showers on more than 20 days each month. The temperatures stay mild, but all that wet weather can throw off your sightseeing and turn roads muddy.
March and May aren’t as bad, but they can still feel sticky and damp. If you’re not a fan of humidity and constant showers, you might want to skip these months.
Weather Factors Affecting Travel
Rainfall and humidity shape Accra’s climate more than anything. The city’s always warm, but the swing between dry and wet spells is what matters.
During the dry season (November–March), Harmattan winds sometimes blow in drier air and make nights a bit cooler. Sightseeing is just nicer, and you won’t have to worry about sudden downpours.
The wet season (April–October) brings more showers and higher humidity, especially in June and September. Even if it doesn’t rain hard, the dampness can make outdoor activities less fun.
If you’re sensitive to heat and humidity, you’ll probably enjoy Accra most during the cooler, drier months.
Tourist Seasons and Visitor Trends in Accra
Tourism in Accra rises and falls with the weather. Visitor numbers shift with the rain, humidity, and local events, which all shape the city’s busiest and quietest times.
High and Low Tourist Seasons
Most people visit Accra during the dry season. From November to March, the weather is less humid and rain is rare, so it’s a great time for beaches, markets, and city tours.
Hotels and flights can get pricey during these months because demand is high.
Fewer people come during the wetter months, especially May, June, and September. Heavy rain and sticky humidity make outdoor activities less appealing. You’ll probably find better deals on places to stay and fewer crowds at big attractions.
Impact of Weather on Tourism
Weather in Accra has a big impact on what tourists do. Dry, cooler months invite more outdoor exploring, while the wet season keeps people inside.
Rain can come on suddenly and hit hard, which often disrupts day trips or beach outings.
When humidity rises, walking around the city or visiting markets gets sweaty fast. The dry season brings clearer skies and calmer weather, so it’s just easier to get around and see the sights.
Events and festivals usually happen in the drier months, so more visitors show up then. If you plan your trip around both the weather and local events, you’ll get the best experience.
Peak and Off-Peak Months
The busiest months for tourism in Accra are December through February. The weather is pleasant, and holiday travel brings in big crowds, so expect higher prices and packed attractions.
July and August are more of a middle ground. Rain is lighter than in the wettest months, and visitor numbers are moderate. If you want manageable weather and fewer crowds, this could work for you.
May, June, and September are off-peak. Heavier rains mean fewer outdoor options, but you’ll find better deals and a quieter city.
Quick Reference:
- Peak: December–February
- Shoulder: July–August
- Off-Peak: May, June, September
Weather-Related Travel Tips for Accra
Accra’s tropical climate means warm temps all year, but the rain, humidity, and wind can really shift from season to season. Packing right and planning ahead helps you stay comfortable and make the most of your trip.
Packing Recommendations
Pack light, breathable clothes since daytime highs usually stick between 83°F and 91°F (28°C–33°C). Cotton or linen works best in the humidity.
Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—the sun’s strong even if it’s cloudy.
Bring a light rain jacket or small umbrella if you’re coming between April and July. Showers can pop up anytime. Go for sturdy, breathable shoes; sandals are fine for short walks, but closed shoes work better if it’s wet or the ground’s rough.
Carry a refillable water bottle. The humidity can make the heat feel more intense, so staying hydrated is important.
If you plan to be out in the evenings, pack insect repellent to keep mosquitoes away, especially near standing water.
Staying Safe During Rainy Seasons
Rain in Accra usually shows up in short, heavy bursts. The wettest months, honestly, are May and June.
Flooded streets happen fast because the drainage isn’t great, so try not to walk or drive through deep water. Bad drainage means road conditions get rough, and you’ll probably run into traffic jams after storms.
If you’re planning to be outside, mornings are your best bet since rain tends to hit later in the day. Keep your plans loose, though—showers can surprise you.
I always bring waterproof covers for electronics and travel documents, just in case. It’s an easy way to keep your stuff safe.
Humidity jumps up during rainy months, making the heat feel even stronger. Wear light clothes and take breaks in the shade to stay comfortable.
Checking the local weather forecast before heading out really helps, since things can change fast.
Planning Around Local Climate
Accra’s dry season runs from November to March. You’ll find lower humidity and barely any rain, which makes sightseeing and hitting the beach way more pleasant.
The rainy season peaks from April to July. There’s also a smaller wet spell in September and October.
Tourism follows these patterns. More people show up in the dry months, so hotel and flight prices usually go up.
If you want to dodge the crowds, try visiting in August or late October. The weather stays manageable, and things feel less hectic.
Wind matters too. August is the windiest month. It can make the heat less brutal, but sometimes it kicks up dust along the coast.
If you plan your trip around these seasonal quirks, you’ll have a smoother time and get to enjoy Accra’s outdoor spots.
Comparing Accra’s Weather With Other Regions in Ghana
Accra’s coastal climate stays warm and humid all year. Other parts of Ghana can swing hotter, cooler, or wetter, depending on the season.
Inland areas get stronger seasonal changes. Up north, the dry and rainy seasons feel more extreme.
Regional Weather Variations
Accra sits right on the Gulf of Guinea, which keeps temperatures steady. Highs usually hover around 28–32°C (82–90°F), and humidity stays moderate.
Rain falls during two wet seasons, but the showers don’t last long.
Kumasi is inland, in the Ashanti Region, and gets more rain than Accra. It often feels muggy, especially from March to July during the long rainy season.
Temperatures are about the same as Accra’s, but the higher humidity can make the days feel stickier.
Northern Ghana, including Tamale, deals with a different rhythm. The Harmattan winds blow in from December to February, bringing dry, dusty air and cooler nights.
Daytime highs in the north can climb past 35°C (95°F) during the hottest months.
The Volta Region is a mixed bag because of its mountains and valleys. Higher spots cool off at night, while the lowlands get hotter and wetter.
Choosing the Right Destination Based on Climate
If you like steadier conditions without wild swings, you’ll probably feel more comfortable in Accra’s coastal weather. The sea breeze takes the edge off the heat, so you can actually enjoy being outside, even when it’s warm.
People who want lush green landscapes and vibrant cultural festivals usually head to Kumasi during or right after the rainy season. The heavy rain keeps the forests dense, but you’ll want to pack for soggy days.
If you’re after dry heat and those wide-open savannah views, the north comes alive in the cooler months when the Harmattan winds drop the humidity. The hottest time of year, though, can really push your limits if you’re not used to it.
For milder nights and some pretty amazing views, the Volta highlands give you a break from the hotter lowlands. This spot’s a good pick if you like hiking or wandering through nature reserves in cooler air.