ClimateForecastDecemberJanuary >>

Dakar Climate by Month

Dakar has a hot semi-arid climate with a short rainy season and a lengthy dry season. Dakar's rainy season lasts from July to October while the dry season covers the remaining eight months. The city sees approximately 540 mm of annual precipitation. Dakar between December and April is usually nice and warm. Nights during this time of the year are comfortable. Between May and November, the city becomes decidedly warmer. However, Dakar's weather is not quite as hot as that of African cities inland.

Average day and night temperature

The climate in Dakar remains fairly constant, offering comfortable temperatures throughout the year. Average daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 30°C in October, the warmest time of the year, to a comfortable 23°C during cooler months like February. At night, temperatures typically average around 20°C during these months.

The mean minimum and maximum temperatures throughout the year

Precipitation and rainy days

Dakar tends toward drier weather patterns, receiving approximately 283 mm of rain per year. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. During the wetter season, August receives high rainfall, averaging 133 mm of precipitation, recorded across 10 rainy days. In contrast, the drier season, April brings less rainfall, with 0.1 mm over 0 rainy days.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail and snow

Sunshine over the year

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.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Average water temperature

The mean water temperature over the year in Dakar ranges from 20°C in February to 27°C in July.

Water temperature over the year

The best time of year to visit Dakar in Senegal

During the months of January, February, March, April and May you are most likely to experience good weather with pleasant average temperatures that fall between 20°C and 26°C.

Other facts from our historical weather data:
  • Which is the warmest month in Dakar?
    October has an average maximum temperature of 30°C and is the warmest month of the year.
  • Which is the coldest month in Dakar?
    The coldest month is February with an average maximum temperature of 23°C.
  • Which is the wettest month in Dakar?
    August tops the wettest month list with 133 mm of rainfall.
  • Which is the driest month in Dakar?
    April is the driest month with 0 mm of precipitation.
  • Which is the sunniest month in Dakar?
    May is the sunniest month with an average of 291 hours of sunshine.

  • No idea where to travel to this year? We have a tool that recommends destinations based on your ideal conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.

    Forecast for Dakar

    Sun   Dec 15
    35°C | 24°C
    E 14 km/h
    broken clouds and no rain

    broken clouds and no rain

    Mon   Dec 16
    35°C | 23°C
    E 18 km/h
    almost clear and no rain

    almost clear and no rain

    Tue   Dec 17
    33°C | 23°C
    NE 22 km/h
    broken clouds and no rain

    broken clouds and no rain