If you’re planning a trip to Ouagadougou, you’ll want to pay close attention to the weather. The capital of Burkina Faso sits under a tropical savannah climate, which means a long dry stretch and a shorter, intense rainy period.
Honestly, the best time to visit Ouagadougou is between October and April. Skies usually stay clear, there’s barely any rain, and it’s just much more comfortable for getting around and exploring.
You’ll quickly notice how the seasons shape life here. The dry season brings hot days but cooler nights, so it’s easier to stroll outdoor markets, catch cultural events, or wander through city landmarks.
Once the rainy season rolls in, expect heavy afternoon showers and a big jump in humidity. Sure, travel gets trickier, but the city turns greener and feels alive in a different way.
If you get a handle on how the weather shifts throughout the year, you can plan your trip around what suits you best. Maybe you love endless sunshine for sightseeing, or perhaps you don’t mind a few storms if it means fewer crowds. Either way, knowing the climate patterns helps you make the most of your time in Burkina Faso’s capital.
Overview of Ouagadougou’s Climate
Ouagadougou’s tropical climate owes a lot to its central location and the sharp difference between wet and dry seasons. Temperatures stay high all year, but rainfall, humidity, and sunshine hours swing wildly between seasons. That really changes how comfortable your days feel and how easy it is to get around.
Climate Classification and Location
You’ll find Ouagadougou right in the middle of Burkina Faso, about 300 meters (985 feet) above sea level. It’s classified as tropical savanna under the Köppen system.
So, you get a clear split between a long dry season and a shorter, intense rainy season.
Because it’s far from the coast, humidity can swing a lot. From November to March, dry northeasterly trade winds called the Harmattan take over. They blow in dust from the Sahara, so the air turns dry and sometimes hazy.
Once the rainy season starts, moist monsoon winds from the south sweep in heavy showers, especially from June to September. The city goes from dusty and dry to lush and green in just a few weeks.
These seasonal shifts really shape daily life and how you experience the city.
Annual Temperature Patterns
Temperatures in Ouagadougou run high all year, but you’ll notice big swings between daytime highs and nighttime lows. Average daily maximums go from about 31°C (88°F) in August up to 40°C (104°F) in April, which is easily the hottest month.
Nights cool off, especially during the dry season. In January, for example, nights can drop to around 17°C (63°F), which feels like a relief compared to days above 33°C (91°F). That difference gets even more noticeable when humidity is low.
The annual mean temperature hovers near 29°C (84°F), so you’re almost always in warm weather. Extreme heat above 40°C (104°F) hits mostly in March and April, but even the “cooler” months like December and January still feel warm compared to a lot of other places.
Seasonal Variations
The dry season runs from November to March. You’ll barely see any rain, skies stay clear, and humidity drops—sometimes below 20%. You get plenty of sunshine, around 9 hours a day in January and February.
The Harmattan might blow in some dust and haze, but the low humidity keeps things pretty comfortable.
The rainy season kicks off around late April and hits its peak in July and August. Rainfall can top 200 mm in a single month, with August getting the most. Humidity jumps over 70%, and it can feel muggy. Still, most showers come in short, intense bursts, so you’ll get breaks of sunshine.
From September to October, the rain eases up but the humidity sticks around. By November, the air dries out again, signaling the return of the dry season.
This sharp back-and-forth between dry, dusty months and humid, rainy ones really defines Ouagadougou’s weather—and it shapes when it’s best to visit.
Dry Season in Ouagadougou
When the dry season settles in, Ouagadougou enjoys clear skies, barely any rain, and warm or hot days. You’ll get long stretches of sunshine, and nights can feel pleasantly cool.
That makes it a great time for outdoor activities, especially compared to the wet months.
Months and Weather Characteristics
The dry season usually runs from November through March. During this time, rain is almost unheard of—often less than 5 mm per month.
January and December are the driest, with many days passing without a drop of rain. By March, you’ll notice the heat starting to build as the city edges toward the wet season.
The Harmattan winds blow in from the Sahara during this period. They bring dry air, a bit of dust, and a sharp drop in humidity.
Skies stay mostly clear, but the dust can sometimes make things hazy and cut down on visibility.
Most travelers like this time because the weather feels more predictable, and you don’t have to worry much about sudden storms messing up your plans.
Temperature and Sunshine Levels
During the dry season, daytime temperatures usually swing from 16°C (61°F) at night to about 35°C (95°F) during the day. December to February feels coolest, with nights that are pretty mild compared to the rest of the year.
By March, things start heating up, with daily highs pushing toward 37°C (99°F). Even with the rising temperatures, the low humidity makes the heat easier to handle than during the rainy season.
Sunshine is plentiful, with 8 to 10 hours of sunlight per day. It’s honestly a fantastic time for sightseeing, shopping in markets, or checking out cultural sites.
Just a heads-up: try to plan your outings for the morning or late afternoon, since midday can get uncomfortably hot.
Humidity and Air Quality
Humidity stays low in the dry season, usually between 25% and 40%. That makes the air feel more comfortable than the sticky humidity of the wet months.
The Harmattan winds, while they dry things out, also blow in fine dust particles. Sometimes, this can irritate your eyes or throat, and the air can look a bit murky.
If you’re sensitive, you might want to bring a light scarf or a mask for windy days.
Even with the dust, air quality is usually manageable, and the low humidity keeps things from feeling heavy. For most visitors, this is the most enjoyable time to experience Ouagadougou’s weather without the hassle of big storms or oppressive humidity.
Wet Season in Ouagadougou
When the wet season arrives, Ouagadougou gets soaked with heavy rain, high humidity, and abrupt shifts in daily weather. You’ll run into frequent storms, cloudier skies, and conditions that can really change your plans.
Rainfall Patterns and Timing
The wet season usually starts in late May and lasts until late September. August is the rainiest month, averaging about 7 inches.
Showers come down hard but don’t always last long, often leaving behind overcast skies.
Rain tends to hit in the late afternoon or evening, sometimes as big thunderstorms. These storms can cause sudden downpours that flood streets and turn unpaved roads into muddy messes.
From June through August, the number of rainy days keeps climbing. By August, you can expect rain almost daily, while May and September are more transitional with fewer, but still notable, showers.
| Month | Avg. Rainfall | Avg. Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| May | 1.8 in | ~10 days |
| Jun | 3.3 in | ~17 days |
| Jul | 5.8 in | ~24 days |
| Aug | 7.1 in | ~26 days |
| Sep | 4.4 in | ~19 days |
Temperature and Humidity During Rainy Months
Even with all the rain, Ouagadougou stays hot during the wet season. Daily highs hover between 87°F and 90°F (30°C–32°C), a bit cooler than the blazing dry months.
Nights are still warm, with lows around 74°F (23°C).
Humidity shoots up as soon as the rains start. From June to September, the air feels heavy and sticky—especially in August, when nearly every day feels muggy. Outdoor activities can wear you out faster than during the dry season.
Clouds become a lot more common, with August standing out as the cloudiest month. Skies are overcast or mostly cloudy about 70% of the time, so sunshine hours drop, but the heat doesn’t really let up.
Travel Considerations in the Wet Season
Traveling during the wet season takes a bit of flexibility. Roads outside the city can turn muddy and tough to cross after heavy storms.
Even in Ouagadougou itself, local flooding can slow traffic and throw off schedules.
If you’re coming during this time, pack lightweight rain gear, waterproof shoes, and don’t forget insect repellent. Mosquitoes love the standing water, and bites become more common.
Flights and buses usually keep running, but storms can cause delays. On the bright side, the city gets greener and evenings can feel a bit cooler compared to the dry season.
Give yourself extra time for getting around, stay open to changing outdoor plans, and check out indoor spots like cultural centers, markets, or museums if the rain won’t let up.
Best Months to Visit Ouagadougou for Pleasant Weather
You’ll find the most comfortable conditions in Ouagadougou during the cooler, drier months. Temperatures stay warm all year, but the swings in rainfall and humidity mean some times are just better for exploring and sightseeing.
Ideal Travel Periods
If you want the best weather for Ouagadougou, go between November and February. Daytime highs run from about 86°F to 95°F (30°C to 35°C), and nights drop to the mid-60s°F (18–20°C).
The dry air makes everything feel more bearable, and you’ll usually get clear skies.
If you prefer a greener city, July through September work too. There’s more rain, but daily highs dip a little—averaging around 88°F (31°C) in the evenings.
It’s more humid, but you’ll escape the worst of the dry-season heat.
Try to avoid April and May if you can. Temperatures can soar over 108°F (42°C), and there’s barely any rain to cool things down. It can get pretty uncomfortable, especially if you’re out and about a lot.
Monthly Weather Breakdown
Ouagadougou’s climate splits into two main patterns: a long dry season and a shorter wet season.
- January–February: Dry, sunny, and comfortable. Almost no rain.
- March–May: Extremely hot, with highs often above 104°F (40°C). There’s little relief from the heat.
- June: Transition month. Still hot, but showers start to pop up.
- July–September: Rainy season. Frequent showers, moderate highs, and cooler evenings.
- October: Rain fades, but the heat comes back.
- November–December: Dry, warm days with mild nights. Perfect for outdoor activities.
| Month | Avg High °F | Rainfall (in) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan–Feb | 95–101 | ~0 | Dry, sunny |
| Mar–May | 104–108+ | 0–1 | Very hot, dry |
| Jun | ~103 | 2 | Hot, start of rains |
| Jul–Sep | 88–95 | 4–9 | Rainy, humid |
| Oct | ~99 | 2 | Warm, light rain |
| Nov–Dec | 94–99 | ~0 | Dry, pleasant |
Events and Festivals During Peak Season
If you visit during the cooler months, you’ll catch some of the city’s best cultural events. December gets busy, with tourists flocking in for the pleasant weather and end-of-year festivities.
Prices for hotels and flights might go up, but the city feels lively and festive.
In February, Ouagadougou often hosts international arts and film events, making the most of the mild, dry weather. Outdoor shows and gatherings are way more enjoyable when it’s not sweltering.
Local festivals keep going in November and December, with traditional music, dance, and bustling markets. These celebrations match perfectly with the dry season, so you can explore without worrying about heavy rain or sticky humidity.
Weather Extremes and What to Avoid
Ouagadougou’s tropical climate swings between dry and rainy seasons, and the difference can be pretty stark. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll want to steer clear of the hottest months, dodge the heavy rain when it falls, and pay attention to weather that could make travel tough or even unsafe.
Hottest and Coolest Months
Temperatures in Ouagadougou stay high most of the year. The real scorchers come in April, with daily highs often hitting 40°C (104°F).
From March to May, the afternoons can feel brutal. Nights don’t cool down much, so you won’t get much relief from the heat.
December and January bring a cooler stretch. Highs hover around 33–34°C (91–93°F), and nights sometimes dip to 17°C (63°F).
It’s still warm, but lower humidity makes these months a bit more pleasant.
If you don’t handle heat well, definitely avoid late March through May. The cooler months are much better for exploring outdoors or checking out cultural events.
Periods of High Rainfall
The rainy season hits Ouagadougou from late April to early October. The heaviest downpours usually happen in July and August.
Rainfall can go over 200 mm per month during these months, and storms tend to roll in during the afternoon or evening.
Heavy rain often floods low-lying parts of the city, so some roads get tricky or even impassable. Travel delays happen a lot, and outdoor plans can get washed out.
Humidity jumps above 70%, making the heat feel stickier and more uncomfortable.
If you want easier travel and more predictable weather, skip July and August. If you do come during the rainy months, pack light rain gear and give yourself extra time to get around.
Potential Weather Hazards
Besides the heat and rain, other weather-related challenges can pop up. Between December and February, the Harmattan winds blow in dust and dry air from the Sahara.
These winds can cut visibility and dry out the air, which isn’t great if you have any respiratory problems.
In the hottest months, you risk heat exhaustion and dehydration, especially if you’re outside for hours. Drink water often, wear light clothes, and try to avoid heavy activity in the afternoon.
During the rainy season, mosquitoes become a bigger problem, and the risk of malaria goes up. Using repellent and sleeping under treated nets really matters if you’re here at that time.
Travel Tips for Visiting Ouagadougou Based on Weather
Ouagadougou’s climate jumps between long dry months and a shorter, intense rainy season. If you prep for the heat, dust, and sudden downpours, you’ll have a much easier time enjoying your trip.
Packing Recommendations
When it’s hot from March to May, bring lightweight, breathable clothes. Cotton or linen is your friend.
A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen help protect you from the strong sun.
If you’re coming during the rainy season from June to September, pack a light rain jacket and some quick-dry clothes.
Waterproof shoes or sandals with decent grip make sense because the streets can flood fast after a heavy shower.
Dust really picks up in the dry months, especially when the Harmattan winds kick in. A scarf or light mask can help keep sand out of your lungs and eyes.
Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, since the dry heat can sneak up on you.
Outdoor Activities by Season
The dry season from November to February is probably the most comfortable time for being outside. You can hit up markets, cultural spots, and parks without worrying about rain.
Temperatures are still warm, but they’re not as harsh, so walking around the city or taking day trips feels easier.
From March to May, the afternoons get seriously hot. It’s better to do outdoor stuff early in the morning or late in the day.
Midday? You’ll probably want to stay indoors.
During the rainy season, from June to September, everything turns lush, but travel gets tougher. Roads can get muddy, and storms might mess with your plans.
If you’re visiting then, focus on indoor attractions like museums, or plan your activities around the weather forecast.
October brings a nice transition—less rain and cooler evenings, so it’s actually a pretty good time for sightseeing.
Health and Safety Considerations
Heat-related illness can hit hard in Ouagadougou, especially when the heat peaks. Make sure you drink a lot of water. Try to rest in the shade, and honestly, it’s best to skip heavy activity when the sun’s blazing.
During the wet season, mosquitoes show up everywhere. Reach for insect repellent and think about sleeping under a treated bed net. Most travelers take malaria prevention meds, and it’s probably a good idea.
When the Harmattan blows in, dust fills the air and messes with the air quality. If you have any breathing problems, try to stay inside more and bring some protective gear just in case.
Food and water safety matter a lot here. Stick with bottled or filtered water. Eat meals that are cooked fresh to avoid stomach trouble.