Worst time to visit Dakar
Some months in Dakar are clearly tougher for travel — extreme heat, cold, drenching rain, or peak storm season. Here's what to skip.
Months to avoid
| Month | Why |
|---|---|
| August | extremely wet (22 rain days) |
| September | very wet (17 rain days) |
| October | very hot (31°C / 87°F) |
| November | very hot (30°C / 86°F) |
What to expect in the worst months
August. 22 rain days out of 31 means roughly 71% of days see measurable rainfall — plan flexible indoor backups for every outdoor day.
September. 17 rain days out of 30 means roughly 57% of days see measurable rainfall — plan flexible indoor backups for every outdoor day.
October. Highs in the 31°C range are tolerable in the shade but draining if you're walking all day.
Better times to go
Better months: January (27°C, 0 rain days) · February (26°C, 1 rain days) · March (25°C, 0 rain days) · April (25°C, 0 rain days) · May (26°C, 0 rain days) · June (28°C, 2 rain days)
Better in the same region in August
If you're set on Africa in August, these cities have more comfortable conditions in the same window:
If you still have to go — what to bring
- Heat: UPF-rated long-sleeve sun shirt, refillable insulated bottle, electrolyte tablets, lightweight wide-brim hat. Plan indoor activities for 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Wet: Real rain shell (not a "water-resistant" jacket), packable umbrella, dry-bag for electronics, quick-dry layers. Pre-book indoor museums and food halls.
Related Dakar guides
The positive counterpart: which months are great and why.