If you’re planning a trip to Dakar, you’ll want to pay close attention to the seasons. This coastal capital in Senegal stays warm all year, but the vibe shifts a lot depending on whether you show up in the dry season or the rainy season.
Honestly, the best time to visit Dakar for weather is during the dry season—from November to May—when skies stay clear, rain barely shows up, and temperatures feel just right for exploring the city and coastline.
These months bring long, sunny days, cooler nights, and calm seas. Sightseeing and hanging out at the beach just feel better without the sticky humidity or those sudden downpours that hit later on.
Still, the rainy season from June to October has its own charm. Showers come more often, but the landscape turns greener, the air feels fresher, and you’ll find fewer crowds. If you know how Dakar’s climate shifts throughout the year, you can pick the season that actually fits your travel style.
Understanding Dakar’s Climate
Dakar’s climate stays dry and warm, mostly thanks to its spot on the coast and the winds that roll through. Conditions don’t change wildly month to month, but rainfall, humidity, and wind can make some months a lot more comfortable than others.
Tropical Arid Climate Overview
Dakar sits in a hot semi-arid zone. Expect long dry stretches and just a short rainy season. The dry season usually runs from November to June, and the rainy season takes over from July to October.
Rain barely makes a dent most of the year, averaging around 500–550 mm annually. August soaks the city the most, while some months barely see a drop.
Temperatures stay moderate compared to what you’d get inland. Highs usually hover between 23°C and 30°C, and nights cool off to about 20°C to 27°C. It’s definitely less extreme than a lot of other West African cities.
Humidity swings more than temperature does. It drops to about 68% in January, but by September, it can climb over 80%. That really affects how comfortable it feels outside.
Cape Verde Peninsula’s Influence
Dakar sits out on the Cape Verde Peninsula, the farthest west you can go on mainland Africa. This spot totally shapes the city’s weather.
The Atlantic Ocean keeps things moderate all year, so you never get the brutal heat you’d find inland. Coastal breezes sweep in and help knock down the humidity during the dry months.
Most of the year, northeast trade winds blow through, clearing out clouds and keeping rain away. But during the rainy season, moist air from the southwest brings more clouds and rain.
The mix of ocean currents and shifting winds gives Dakar a climate that’s warm, but not overwhelming. Without that Atlantic influence, Dakar would probably feel way hotter and less pleasant.
Year-Round Weather Patterns
From December through April, you’ll get mild winters with daytime highs around 23–26°C and comfy evenings. These are the driest months, with barely any rain.
May and June warm up a bit, but it’s still manageable. Once July hits, the rainy season starts, and August brings about 130 mm of rain over several days.
By October, the rain backs off, and November brings back those dry, breezy days. Sunshine hours shift too, peaking at 9–10 hours a day in May, then dipping to 7 hours in September.
Atlantic water temperatures range from 20°C in February to about 27°C in July. That means the coast stays swimmable most of the year. These steady patterns make it pretty easy to plan—you’ll know what to expect each season.
Dry Season: The Ideal Time to Visit
Dakar’s dry season brings steady weather, clear skies, and great conditions for getting out and about. You’ll get predictable temperatures, almost no rain, and loads of sunshine—perfect for both sightseeing and hitting the beach.
Weather Conditions from November to June
From November through June, Dakar settles into its dry season groove. Rainfall drops to almost nothing, sometimes close to 0 mm a month. Days stay warm but not scorching, with average temps between 22°C (72°F) and 28°C (82°F).
Humidity hangs out at a comfortable 50–70%. That makes being outside a lot easier than during the wet months, when humidity and rain can really mess with your plans.
You’ll also notice consistent sunshine hours, usually 7 to 9 a day. The Atlantic winds cool things down, especially from December to February, when breezes pick up.
You get mild heat, steady winds, and long daylight hours. It’s a reliable setup for exploring Dakar’s coastline, markets, and historic sites—no need to stress about surprise storms.
Highlights of December to February
Between December and February, the weather feels just about perfect. Temperatures sit around 19°C (66°F) at night and 26°C (79°F) during the day. If you love mild weather, it’s a sweet spot for walking tours or soaking up some culture.
The northeast Harmattan winds usually blow in, drying out the air and clearing the skies. Wind speeds hit 15–20 km/h, so humidity drops, and everything feels fresher.
With 8–9 hours of sunshine, you’ve got plenty of daylight to play with. It’s a great time for beach days, trips to Gorée Island, or wandering through Dakar’s open-air markets without sweating buckets.
If you’re after cooler nights and low humidity, this stretch is the best part of the dry season.
March to June: Warmth and Sunshine
From March to June, things heat up a little, but it’s still manageable. Highs run between 25°C (77°F) and 30°C (86°F), and nights get a bit warmer.
Sunshine ramps up, with 9–10 hours a day. That’s ideal for outdoor adventures like checking out the Pink Lake or trying out water sports on Dakar’s beaches.
Winds calm down compared to winter, so the air feels warmer and less breezy. Humidity stays reasonable, so the heat feels noticeable but not overwhelming.
By late May and June, you’ll feel the heat picking up, signaling the wet season’s on its way. If you’re chasing sunshine and don’t mind a little extra warmth, this is when the skies are brightest.
Rainy Season: What to Expect
From July to October, Dakar flips into its wet season. Expect frequent showers, higher humidity, and warmer nights. You can still have a good time, but the weather can throw a wrench into outdoor plans and comfort.
Weather Patterns from July to October
The rainy season kicks off in July and sticks around until October, with August and September getting the most rain. Highs usually range from 22°C to 32°C (72°F to 90°F).
Rain falls in quick, heavy bursts, often in the afternoon or evening. Mornings might start out clear, but storms can roll in fast. This makes it tough to plan long outdoor adventures unless you’re flexible.
Winds pick up, and the Atlantic gets rougher. That can limit beach days or water activities. On the plus side, the rain turns the landscape greener, especially outside the city.
Humidity and Rainfall Impact
Humidity jumps way up during these months—often hitting 70–90%. That thick air can make the heat feel even stronger.
High humidity and regular rain mean you’ll deal with dampness inside and out. Clothes and gear dry slowly, and just walking through markets or busy streets can feel a lot more tiring.
August and September usually see the heaviest rain. Flooding sometimes hits low-lying neighborhoods, making traffic a headache and blocking off certain areas. If you’re not a fan of humid, sticky air, this season can feel rough unless you’ve got AC or good ventilation.
Travel Considerations During Wet Months
Traveling in the rainy season takes a bit more planning. Heavy rain can flood Dakar’s roads, which slows down taxis, buses, and cars. Day trips outside the city might take longer.
Pack light waterproof clothes, quick-dry fabrics, and solid shoes. An umbrella works for light showers, but bigger storms call for a rain jacket.
Tourist numbers drop from July to October, so you might score better hotel deals. Just keep in mind that some outdoor attractions or beach activities could get canceled if the seas are rough or the weather’s too wet. Museums, galleries, and restaurants stay good options if you need to dodge the rain.
Monthly Weather Breakdown in Dakar
Dakar’s weather stays warm all year, but rainfall, humidity, and wind patterns really change with the seasons. Winters and springs are dry and breezy, while summer brings more humidity, heavier rain, and less sunshine.
Temperature and Rainfall by Month
Dakar’s temperatures don’t swing much. It rarely drops below 20°C (68°F) or climbs above 29°C (84°F). The coolest months are January–February, with daytime highs around 22–24°C (72–75°F). The warmest stretch is July–October, with highs at 28–29°C (82–84°F).
Rain is where you see the biggest difference. From November to May, rain is almost nonexistent—often less than 3 mm a month. June–September is the wet season, peaking in August with about 77–88 mm of rain.
Humidity spikes in summer, reaching 81–82% in July and August. The air feels heavier compared to the crisp, dry winter months.
Quick view of averages:
| Month | Avg High °C | Avg Low °C | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 24 | 22 | 0 |
| Apr | 22 | 20 | 2 |
| Jul | 26 | 23 | 33 |
| Aug | 29 | 24 | 77–88 |
| Nov | 28 | 23 | 1 |
Sunshine and Daylight Hours
Dakar gets steady daylight, with 11.3 to 13 hours a day. Sunshine hours shift more, depending on the season.
From December to April, you’ll see the most sun—9.6–9.9 hours daily. If you want long, bright days for outdoor fun, these months are your best bet.
During the wet season, clouds roll in. August drops to about 7.7 hours of sunshine a day—the lowest stretch. It’s still brighter than many places, but those shorter sunny spells can cut into your beach or sightseeing time.
Sea temperatures stay pleasant, from 19.9°C (68°F) in winter up to about 28.7°C (84°F) in late summer. Swimming works year-round.
Wind Speed and Comfort Levels
Wind really shapes how Dakar feels. From December to February, stronger breezes sweep across the peninsula and make even sunny days feel cooler and more refreshing. Walking around or visiting markets feels much more comfortable.
By late spring and into summer, those winds die down, and the humidity starts to make its presence known. The combo of high temps and 80%+ humidity in July and August can feel muggy—especially inland or in crowded spots.
If you’re sensitive to heat, you’ll probably like the drier months, when the wind is up and the air feels lighter. Sometimes the breeze kicks up a little dust, but honestly, it beats the heavy, damp summer air.
Sea and Water Conditions
The Atlantic around Dakar stays warm enough for swimming almost all year, with only minor changes. The Cap-Vert Peninsula keeps the area good for casual beach days or more active water sports.
Water Temperature Trends
Water temperatures off Dakar usually stay pretty steady, thanks to its spot on the Cap-Vert Peninsula. The ocean hovers around 22°C (72°F) in the coolest months and climbs to about 27°C (81°F) in the warmest months.
You’ll notice the water feels coolest between January and March. Trade winds and upwelling from the Atlantic cool things down during this time.
By late spring and into summer, the water warms up. It hits its peak in August and September.
You probably won’t ever find the water too cold for swimming here. While some places get big temperature swings, Dakar’s coastal waters stay pretty comfortable year-round.
Swimming and Beach Activities
People flock to the peninsula’s beaches because the water stays mild and swimmable almost all year. Ngor Beach, Yoff, and Plage de la Voile d’Or draw the most visitors.
During the dry season, from November to May, calmer seas and low rainfall make swimming a lot more pleasant. You’ll find clearer water and not as many storms to worry about.
The wet season, especially July through September, brings stronger swells and rougher surf. Surfers love these conditions, but casual swimmers need to be careful.
If you’re after a laid-back beach day, stick to the dry months. For surfing or water sports, late summer swells give you more reliable waves.
Choosing the Best Time for Your Visit
When you visit Dakar really depends on what you want out of the trip. The city’s climate shifts from a dry season with mild temps to a rainy season with more humidity. This affects outdoor plans and even the vibe around town.
Festivals, local traditions, and tourist crowds all change with the seasons.
Weather Preferences and Activities
Dakar’s got two main seasons: the dry season (November–May) and the rainy season (June–October). If you want cooler, more comfortable weather, the dry season is your go-to. Temperatures usually sit between 18–27°C (64–81°F), and humidity stays pretty low. That makes it easier to wander markets, check out museums, or just hang out by the coast.
Beach lovers find the dry months perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The Atlantic looks clearer, and the breezes keep things pleasant. Surfing is best from late fall through spring, with steady swells near N’Gor and Yoff beaches.
The rainy season brings hotter days, usually between 26–32°C (79–90°F), and frequent showers. Sightseeing can feel tough in the heat, but you’ll see lush, green scenery and find lower hotel rates. Some roads might flood, so keep that in mind, but if you want fewer crowds and to save a bit, this season could still suit you.
Events and Local Experiences
Cultural life in Dakar really moves with the seasons. When the dry season rolls in, the city bursts with major events like the Dakar Biennale (Dak’Art) in May and the FIDAK trade fair in December.
These events pull in international visitors, giving everyone a chance to dive into art, crafts, and performances right in the heart of one of West Africa’s most colorful capitals.
Music and cultural festivals come alive during the dry months. The Saint-Louis Jazz Festival isn’t actually in Dakar, but plenty of travelers set up base here just for it.
In November, the Gorée Diaspora Festival celebrates history and heritage over on Gorée Island, which is just a quick ferry ride from the city.
When the rainy season arrives, the vibe shifts and you can catch more local traditions. Islamic holidays like Tabaski and Korité take over daily life, with families gathering and sharing festive meals.
September brings the Hip Hop Awards Senegal, where the city’s modern music scene really shines. Locals outnumber tourists at these events, so you get a much more authentic feel.