When to Ivorycoast
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-Month Guide
January
January is peak dry season with excellent weather throughout Côte d'Ivoire. Coastal areas enjoy warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall, while northern regions experience the Harmattan winds bringing dry, dusty air from the Sahara. This is one of the busiest tourist months with ideal conditions for all activities.
February
February continues the dry season with hot, sunny weather and minimal precipitation. The Harmattan winds may still affect northern regions, creating hazy conditions but keeping humidity lower. Beach conditions remain excellent, making this another prime month for visiting coastal areas and national parks.
March
March marks the transition period as temperatures rise and humidity increases slightly. The dry season continues with occasional light showers beginning late in the month, particularly in southern regions. Heat intensifies, especially inland, but coastal breezes provide relief along the Atlantic shoreline.
April
April sees the beginning of the first rainy season with increasing showers, particularly in the afternoon and evening. Temperatures remain high with rising humidity making conditions feel quite warm and muggy. Tourist numbers begin to decline as rainfall becomes more frequent, though mornings often remain clear.
May
May is one of the wettest months with frequent heavy rainfall, particularly in coastal and southern regions. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, though mornings may start sunny. The landscape becomes lush and green, and humidity reaches high levels, making outdoor activities challenging during midday hours.
June
June continues the main rainy season with persistent showers and overcast conditions. Heavy afternoon downpours are typical, though they often clear quickly. This is the peak of the wet season in southern regions, with high humidity and warm temperatures creating tropical conditions throughout the country.
July
July marks the wettest month in most of Côte d'Ivoire with frequent heavy rainfall and cloudy skies. Despite the rain, temperatures are slightly cooler than earlier months. Tourist activity is at its lowest, but the countryside is spectacularly green, and wildlife viewing can be excellent in national parks.
August
August sees a brief respite from the heavy rains as the 'little dry season' begins, particularly along the coast. Rainfall decreases significantly compared to previous months, though occasional showers still occur. Temperatures remain moderate with slightly lower humidity, offering a more comfortable mid-year period.
September
September continues the relatively drier interlude with moderate rainfall and warm temperatures. Conditions improve for outdoor activities compared to the previous wet months, though afternoon showers remain possible. The landscape stays green and lush, and tourist crowds remain minimal, offering good value for travelers.
October
October brings the return of the second rainy season with increasing precipitation, particularly in coastal areas. Heavy afternoon thunderstorms become frequent again, and humidity rises. Temperatures remain warm, and the renewed rainfall refreshes the vegetation after the brief dry period in August and September.
November
November sees the second rainy season tapering off with decreasing rainfall as the month progresses. Conditions begin improving toward month's end, making late November a good shoulder season for visiting. Temperatures remain warm but become more comfortable as the dry season approaches, and tourist numbers start increasing.
December
December marks the beginning of the main dry season with excellent weather conditions throughout the country. Rainfall becomes minimal, skies clear, and temperatures are warm but pleasant. The Harmattan winds may begin affecting northern regions late in the month. This is peak tourist season with ideal conditions for all activities.