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Dakar Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Dakar.
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Climate overview of Dakar
Dakar Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Dakar - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Dakar
The climate in Dakar remains fairly constant, offering comfortable temperatures throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 30°C (86°F) in October, the warmest time of the year, to a comfortable 23°C (73°F) during cooler months like March.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 27°C (81°F) in October to around 20°C (68°F) during March.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Dakar
Dakar tends toward drier weather patterns, receiving approximately 283 mm (11 in) of rain per year. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, August it receives high rainfall, averaging 133 mm (5.2 in) of precipitation, recorded across 10 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month April brings less rainfall, with 0.1 mm (0 in) over 0 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Dakar Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Dakar
While the amount of sunshine in Dakar varies throughout the year, all seasons offer their own charm. Enjoy up to 9.7 hours of daily sun in May, and experience slightly darker atmosphere in September, with about 7.3 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in Dakar
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 20°C (68°F) in February to 27°C (81°F) in July.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Dakar by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Dakar.
The city experiences its highest humidity in September, reaching 83%. In January, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 68%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Dakar
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) in July, August, September and October to 5 m/s (10 knots) in January, March, April, May and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Dakar
The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Dakar is usually found in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, November and December. Conditions are generally least comfortable in September.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
excellent
Feb
excellent
Mar
excellent
Apr
excellent
May
excellent
Jun
excellent
Jul
excellent
Aug
very good
Sep
good
Oct
very good
Nov
excellent
Dec
excellent
- Best overall: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, November and December
- Warmest weather: July, August, September, October and November
- Most sunshine: March, April and May
- Best for swimming: Any time of year. The sea stays pleasantly warm year-round.
- Wettest months: August and September, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from October to July
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Dakar
What is the best time to visit Dakar?
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Dakar. In contrast, September tends to have less optimal conditions. Dakar has a distinct dry season from October to July.
What temperatures can I expect in Dakar?
Daytime highs range from 23°C (73°F) in March to 30°C (86°F) in October. Nighttime lows range from 20°C (68°F) to 27°C (81°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Dakar get?
Annual rainfall is around 283 mm (11 in). August is the wettest month with 133 mm (5.2 in), while April is the driest with 0.1 mm (0 in).
How sunny is Dakar?
Dakar receives around 3,025 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 291 hours, while September is the cloudiest with just 219 hours. Overall, Dakar enjoys abundant sunshine.
Dakar 3-Day Forecast
Dakar on the map
Dakar is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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