Thinking about a trip to Lomé, the lively capital of Togo? You’ll want to consider more than just your itinerary—it’s honestly about timing, too. The city’s tropical climate brings both dry and rainy seasons, and the time you visit can really shape your experience.
If you want the most comfortable weather, the dry season from November to February is your best bet. Rainfall stays low, and temperatures remain warm but not overwhelming.
Lomé’s climate stays hot most of the year, but humidity and rain can make some months a little less fun for outdoor adventures. Picking the right season lets you enjoy the beaches, markets, and cultural spots without fighting off heavy rain or sticky heat.
As you look into when to visit Lomé, you’ll notice how each season changes not just the weather, but also crowd sizes, prices, and the vibe of the city. If you get a handle on the city’s climate patterns, you can plan with a bit more confidence and really get the most out of your time in Togo.
Overview of Lome’s Climate
Lome, Togo’s capital, sits right on the Gulf of Guinea, so its climate stays warm and humid. Temperatures don’t swing much through the year, but rainfall and humidity shift with the seasons, giving you distinct dry and wet periods that really affect daily comfort and travel plans.
Tropical Savanna Climate Explained
Lome actually sits in the driest part of Togo’s coastline, but it still follows a tropical savanna climate. You’ll get a long wet season and a shorter dry season, with only small changes in temperature.
Since the city sits just north of the equator, the sun keeps days and nights about the same length. This gives you steady warmth all year.
Unlike places farther inland, Lome gets less intense rainfall because the coast faces southeast, while the strongest monsoon rains usually come in from the southwest. That’s why the city misses out on some of the extreme downpours that hit other parts of Togo.
During the dry months, the harmattan—a dusty wind from the Sahara—can show up. It’s not as harsh here as it is up north, but you might still notice a bit of haze and drier air.
Temperature and Humidity Patterns
Temperatures in Lome stay warm all year, from about 26 °C in August up to nearly 30 °C in March. Nights are mild, usually not dropping below 22 °C.
Humidity is a constant companion. The air often feels muggy, especially from April to June when moisture peaks. Even during cooler months, the humidity rarely drops enough to feel crisp.
The hottest stretch usually falls between February and April, with daytime highs often hitting 33 °C. On the other hand, July and August are a bit cooler, with highs around 28–29 °C.
If you like swimming, the sea stays inviting all year, ranging from 25 °C in August to 29 °C in April–May.
Rainfall and Seasonal Variation
Rainfall is what really changes things up in Lome. The city averages about 875 mm of rain each year, which is pretty moderate for West Africa.
May and June are the rainiest months, with totals over 200 mm. Showers usually come in quick, heavy bursts, and then leave behind humid, cloudy skies.
From July through September, rainfall drops along the coast as the monsoon moves north. Even though the clouds stick around, actual rain isn’t as heavy as you might expect.
The dry season runs from November to February. During these months, rain is scarce, humidity drops, and the skies clear up. December and January are especially dry, with less than 10 mm of rain on average.
This pattern makes it easier to plan outdoor stuff—you can guess when to expect heavy rain or dry spells.
Best Months to Visit Lome for Ideal Weather
Lome’s tropical climate keeps things warm all year, but rain and humidity can swing a lot. The best times to visit balance lower rainfall with plenty of sunshine, while the wetter months might slow down outdoor activities.
Dry Season Highlights (November to February)
From November to February, you get the driest and most pleasant weather in Lome. Rainfall stays very low, often under 25 mm a month, so you can explore the city with fewer interruptions.
Daytime highs sit between 29°C and 33°C, and nights cool off just a bit to around 24°C. Humidity drops compared to other months, so the air feels lighter. You get about 7–8 hours of sunshine per day, which gives you long, bright days for sightseeing.
The sea keeps warm, around 27–28°C, so swimming or beach trips are always an option. This season works great if you want to check out markets, stroll the beach, or take day trips without worrying about constant showers.
Tourism picks up during these months, so you’ll notice more people around and hotels can fill up. If you want the best weather and a lively vibe, this is the time to go.
Transitional Periods (March to May, October)
March to May and October bring a shift from dry to wetter conditions. These months get hotter, with daytime highs often hitting 32–34°C. Humidity climbs, and afternoons can feel especially muggy.
Rain starts to increase, especially in April and May, with totals between 90–155 mm over several days. Still, most showers are short, so you’ll often have dry stretches in the day. October is similar, though just a bit cooler.
You’ll get about 6–7 hours of sunshine each day, which is still enough for most plans. The sea stays warm, around 28–29°C, so swimming is still good.
If you don’t mind a little heat and the odd downpour, this period can work. Hotels are usually cheaper, and the city feels less crowded. It’s a solid option if you want to avoid the busiest months but still get decent weather.
Rainy Season Considerations (June to September)
Lome’s rainy season runs from June to September. June gets the most rain, averaging 250 mm over about 11 days. Showers come with high humidity, so the air feels sticky.
Temperatures drop a bit compared to March or April, with daily averages between 26°C and 28°C. Nights stay mild, rarely below 23°C. Sunshine is limited, only 4–5 hours per day, and it’s often cloudy.
July and August aren’t as wet as June, but humidity remains high. Winds can pick up along the coast, and the sea cools to about 25–26°C—still swimmable, but not as warm as before.
Traveling during this season means you’ll need to be flexible. Roads can get muddy, and rain might interrupt outdoor plans. Still, if you don’t mind the weather, you’ll find fewer tourists and a more relaxed city.
Weather by Month in Lome
Lome’s tropical climate means warm weather all year, but rainfall and sunshine really depend on the season. You’ll notice a clear difference between the dry months at the start and end of the year and the wetter months in the middle.
Monthly Temperature and Rainfall Trends
Temperatures in Lome don’t swing much, usually between 26°C and 30°C. March tops out as the hottest month, averaging about 29.6°C, while August is the coolest at around 26°C. Nights are warm, rarely below 22°C.
Rainfall changes a lot more. The heaviest rains show up in May and June, with June bringing about 250 mm over 11 days. December and January are super dry, with less than 10 mm of rain.
Here’s a quick look at rainfall extremes:
- Wettest month: June (~250 mm)
- Driest month: December (~8 mm)
- Annual rainfall: ~875 mm
Humidity usually sits above 75%, which can make the heat feel stronger. The short dry season from December to February is more comfortable if you want to spend time outdoors.
Sunshine Hours and Sea Temperatures
Sunshine changes through the year too. From November to March, you’ll see about 7–8 hours of sunshine per day, so it’s brighter and less cloudy. During the peak rainy season in June and July, sunshine drops to about 4–5 hours daily.
The Atlantic Ocean along Lome’s coast stays warm enough for swimming year-round. Sea temperatures range from 25°C in August to 29°C in April and May. Even during the coolest months, the water feels nice.
If you’re into beach activities, your best mix of warm seas and longer sunshine hours comes between January and April, when the skies are clearer and rain is rare.
Tourist Seasons and Crowd Levels
When you decide to visit Lome, the time of year affects both the weather and how many travelers are in town. Rain and temperature changes shape tourist activity, and local events can also bump up crowd sizes and hotel demand.
Peak and Off-Peak Travel Periods
The peak season in Lome runs from November to February. This is the dry season, with cooler temps and less humidity. You’ll see more visitors, especially around the beaches and markets. Hotels and flights usually cost more, so booking ahead is smart.
The off-peak season is from June to September. These months bring heavy rain, higher humidity, and plenty of downpours. Fewer tourists show up, so it’s easier to find deals on hotels and attractions aren’t as crowded. Still, some outdoor activities might get rained out.
The shoulder seasons in March to May and October offer a middle ground. The weather can go either way, with both sunny and rainy days. Tourist numbers are moderate, and prices usually drop compared to peak season. If you want fewer crowds but don’t want nonstop rain, these months could work for you.
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowd Level | Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak | Nov–Feb | Dry, cooler | High | Higher |
| Shoulder | Mar–May, Oct | Mixed | Moderate | Moderate |
| Off-Peak | Jun–Sep | Rainy, humid | Low | Lower |
Events and Festivals Influencing Visits
Cultural events in Lome can draw crowds no matter the weather. In January, the Voodoo Festival brings traditional ceremonies and attracts both locals and international travelers. Hotels can fill up even during the dry season.
Independence Day in April means parades and city-wide performances. If you’ll be in Lome around this time, expect bigger crowds in central areas.
The Fête des Evala in July happens during the rainy season. Despite the showers, the wrestling matches and rituals of the Kabye people pull in lots of visitors. Hotels in nearby regions book up fast during this festival.
Other events like the New Yam Festival in August and the Lome International Fair in November also affect crowd levels. These gatherings show off local culture and trade, so keep them in mind when planning your trip.
Budget Considerations by Season
Travel costs in Lomé, Togo change with the weather. Prices for hotels and flights usually go up during the dry months when more visitors arrive. The rainy season tends to bring lower rates, but sightseeing gets trickier.
Accommodation and Flight Price Fluctuations
You’ll notice the highest prices during the dry season, from November to February. The weather feels a lot more comfortable, so demand for rooms and flights just shoots up.
Hotels near the beach and city center fill up fast. You probably won’t find many discounts during this time.
June through September brings the wettest weather. Heavy rainfall keeps a lot of tourists away, so flights usually get cheaper and hotels start offering more flexible rates.
Some smaller guesthouses even try to lure visitors with extended-stay deals during these slower months.
Shoulder months like March, April, and October sit between the high and low seasons. You might catch moderate prices then.
They aren’t as low as the rainy season, but they’re definitely easier on the wallet than the peak dry months.
Best Times for Affordable Travel
If you want rock-bottom costs, plan your trip for the rainy season, especially June or July. Flight prices usually drop, and accommodation discounts can hit 20 to 30% compared to the busiest months.
August sometimes offers a break from the rain, so you get a nice balance between affordability and decent weather.
You’ll still see lower hotel rates than in December or January, but you probably won’t run into as many storms.
For a good mix of value and comfort, try late October or early November. Rain starts to let up, but most hotels haven’t hiked up their prices for the busy season yet.
This timing gives you a shot at warm weather in Lomé without paying those peak-season rates.
Tips for Planning Your Visit to Lome
When you head to Lome, the climate really shapes your plans. Packing and safety depend a lot on whether you arrive during the hot, dry months or the cooler, wetter ones.
Packing Recommendations by Season
In the dry season (November to February), temperatures often hit 30–32°C and rain is rare. You’ll want light cotton clothing, sunglasses, and a big hat.
A light jacket comes in handy for cooler evenings, especially near the coast.
During March to May, the humidity climbs and you’ll see some short rains. A compact umbrella and quick-dry clothes make sense.
Comfortable sandals or breathable shoes help a lot when it gets hot.
The wettest months (June to October) bring lots of showers and even more humidity. Waterproof shoes, a lightweight rain jacket, and insect repellent are must-haves.
Streets can flood after heavy rain, so leave shoes that soak easily at home.
No matter when you visit, pack sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and modest clothing for cultural sites.
These little things really make your trip to Lome a lot more comfortable—and respectful, too.
Weather-Related Safety and Comfort Tips
High humidity and heat can really sneak up on you, leading to dehydration before you know it. Try to drink bottled or filtered water often, and maybe skip those long midday walks.
If you can, plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons. The temperatures usually feel a bit more forgiving then.
Rainy months make roads slick and sometimes flooding happens out of nowhere. When you travel to Lome during this season, give yourself extra time to get around.
Definitely avoid wading through standing water, even if it looks shallow. Mosquitoes seem to love this weather, so grab some repellent and bed nets—it’s just not worth the risk.
A lot of smaller hotels don’t offer air conditioning, which can be a pain. Bringing a portable fan or wearing breathable sleepwear at night can make a big difference.
Keep an eye on local forecasts so you can adjust your plans if a storm or heavy rain rolls in. Sometimes the weather changes fast, and it pays to be ready.