Burkina Faso has a hot tropical climate, which means it’s generally warm to very hot throughout the year. Its seasons aren’t like the usual spring, summer, autumn, and winter; instead, the year is divided into a dry season and a rainy season. But don’t let that put you off—there’s still a lot to enjoy, you just need to pick the right time to go based on what you want to do.
The Seasons in Burkina Faso
The main factor shaping Burkina Faso’s weather is the Harmattan wind. During the dry season (November to May), this wind brings dust from the Sahara Desert, which makes things dry and often hazy. Then, from June to October, the rainy season rolls in, bringing thunderstorms and cooler temps. Some people love the green landscapes of the rainy season, while others prefer to visit when it’s dry, so it comes down to your preferences.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Burkina Faso?
The best time to visit, in general, is during the cooler dry season—from November to February. It’s still hot, especially by midday, but it’s more bearable than the intense heat from March to May. You’ll deal with less humidity, too. Outdoor activities—like sightseeing or hiking—are much more comfortable during this time.
For those who love lush scenery and don’t mind the rain, visiting from June to October isn’t a bad idea either. Bear in mind that some rural roads might get muddy, which could limit your movement in certain areas.
What to Pack
In the dry season, pack for heat: light, breathable clothing and lots of sunscreen. But don’t forget a jacket since it can cool down at night, especially in January or February. During the rainy season, you’ll need waterproof gear and good, sturdy shoes in case you’re traveling off the beaten path.
Month-by-Month: What to Expect
Burkina Faso’s Weather in January
January is the peak of Burkina Faso’s cool season. Daytime temperatures are still warm, averaging around 30°C (86°F), but nights can be surprisingly cool, sometimes dropping to 15°C (59°F). The skies are usually clear, and there’s no rain, making it a great time for exploring.
Burkina Faso’s Weather in February
February starts heating up, with daytime temperatures climbing to around 35°C (95°F), but nights remain relatively cool. It’s still dry and clear, so it’s an ideal time for travel. This is part of the best season to visit for festivals and cultural experiences.
Burkina Faso’s Weather in March
March is when things start to feel hotter, with daily highs reaching 38°C (100°F). The air begins to feel heavier. The nights stay warm, around 20°C (68°F). The dry Harmattan wind still dominates, and it remains a clear sky period—just be prepared for some serious heat!
Burkina Faso’s Weather in April
April is very hot. Daytime temperatures hover around 40°C (104°F) and nights don’t offer much relief either. The dry, dusty season continues, so bring plenty of sun protection and water. Outdoor activities like hiking might be less appealing during this period due to the intense heat.
Burkina Faso’s Weather in May
May is still incredibly hot, but you may begin to feel some humidity creeping in. Daily highs remain in the 40°C range (over 104°F). The occasional cloud starts to appear, but the rain hasn’t really kicked off yet. Expect hot and dusty conditions to dominate this month.
Burkina Faso’s Weather in June
In June, the rainy season starts. Daytime temperatures drop slightly to around 35°C (95°F), but it’s a lot more humid now. You’ll see thunderstorms rolling in, especially toward the end of the month. The dust clears up, and the heat is more “sticky” than before. Make sure to check weather reports as storms can come quickly.
Burkina Faso’s Weather in July
July brings steady rain as the wet season kicks into full gear. The rain cools things down a bit, but conditions can feel muggy. Expect temperatures around 30°C (86°F) during the day and high humidity. Rain won’t be constant, but when it does come, it often pours. Pack those waterproofs!
Burkina Faso’s Weather in August
August is the heart of the rainy season. You’ll see heavy rain almost daily and a lot of cloud cover. Daytime temps remain around 28°C (82°F), but it’s very humid. This is when the countryside is at its greenest—beautiful, but also muddy. Travel can be more difficult in remote regions due to wet roads.
Burkina Faso’s Weather in September
September is still part of the rainy season, but the intensity starts to taper off. There’s less rain than in August, but things are still damp. Temperatures sit around 30°C (86°F) with high humidity. Roads remain muddy, so if you’re road-tripping, be prepared for challenges.
Burkina Faso’s Weather in October
October sees the end of the rainy season. The rain stops, and the humidity begins to drop away, but temperatures are rising again, hitting around 35°C (95°F). The landscape stays green for a while, but you’re on the verge of the dry season again.
Burkina Faso’s Weather in November
November marks the start of the dry season, and the rains disappear almost entirely. Temperatures are a comfortable 32°C (90°F) during the day, and the nights are cooler. The Harmattan winds also start returning, making the weather dry and dusty.
Burkina Faso’s Weather in December
December is one of the best months to visit, with cooler temperatures during both day and night. Daily highs are around 30°C (86°F), while nighttime temps can drop to 15°C (59°F). There’s almost no chance of rain, and the skies are clear.
Final Tips
If you’re traveling between November and February, bring light clothing for the day but don’t forget a warm layer for cooler evenings. For the rainy season—June to October—make sure to pack waterproof gear and shoes that can handle muddy conditions. Overall, Burkina Faso is an exciting destination no matter when you go, but knowing what weather to expect will help you make the most of your trip!
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