Timbuktu Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Timbuktu.
Climate overview of Timbuktu
The climate in Timbuktu, Mali, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 43°C (109°F) in May to 29°C (84°F) in January.
The city has an arid climate, receiving only 115 mm (4.5 in) of rainfall per year. Sunshine peaks in May, when the city sees around 9.2 hours of sunshine per day.
Timbuktu Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Timbuktu - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Timbuktu
In Timbuktu, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a very hot 43°C (109°F) in May to a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 30°C (86°F) in May to 15°C (59°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Timbuktu
Timbuktu sits in an arid zone with minimal moisture, averaging 115 mm (4.5 in) of rainfall per year. The seasons in Timbuktu bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, August, receives moderate rainfall, with an average of 51 mm (2 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 8 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, December, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 0.1 mm (0 in) over 0 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Timbuktu 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 Timbuktu
The sunniest days in Timbuktu occur in May, with around 9.2 hours of daily sunshine. Even in June, the least sunny month, Timbuktu doesn't shy away from the sun, still enjoying a comfortable 7.8 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Timbuktu by Month
The relative humidity is low throughout the year in Timbuktu.
The city experiences its highest humidity in August, reaching 56%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 15%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Timbuktu
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 1 m/s (2 knots) in October to 3 m/s (6 knots) in July. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Timbuktu
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: January
- Warmest weather: May and June
- Most sunshine: January, March, May, October and November
- Seasonal pattern: Very little rainfall for most of the year, with very hot summers and warm winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Timbuktu
What is the best time to visit Timbuktu?
January typically offers the most optimal weather in Timbuktu. In contrast, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November tend to have less optimal conditions. Timbuktu has very little rainfall for most of the year, with very hot summers and warm winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Timbuktu?
Daytime highs range from 29°C (84°F) in January to 43°C (109°F) in May. Nighttime lows range from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Timbuktu get?
Annual rainfall is around 115 mm (4.5 in). August is the wettest month with 51 mm (2 in), while December is the driest with 0.1 mm (0 in).
How sunny is Timbuktu?
Timbuktu receives around 3,108 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 275 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 235 hours. Overall, Timbuktu enjoys abundant sunshine.
Timbuktu 3-Day Forecast
Timbuktu on the map
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