When planning a trip one of the first things to consider is the weather at your destination, therefore one of the key decision-makers for the time of year for your trip. Weather also has specific implications on the reasons of your visits.

We suggest to rather think of Senegal in terms of dry and wet season rather than hot or cold, due to the fact that Senegal has overall temperatures rarely plummeting below 20°C all year round.

January-February

Although admired for its ‘winter sun’, there is a noticeable change between December and January. The daytime temperature at the turn of the year will continue at an enjoyable 22°C (72°F), but coastal winds, will force a jacket onto your shoulders in the evening. January-February is known to have a milder climate in the area and makes a lovely time of year to come and strap on some walking boots without the fear of melting (which it can feel like later in the calendar). Animals are happy to be outside in this milder climate and you might be able to tick off many of the animal species we house from your watch list during this time.

Rainfall: 0 days

Temperature: 22-23°C (72-74°F)

March-April

March-April is an enigma in Senegal due to being the month where outside temperatures rises exponentially and the water temperature drops to its lowest. Although to be enjoyed throughout the year, it is an especially wonderful time of the year to hop on a boat and see the magnificent mangroves! April is a busy month with celebrations and festivals, so be sure to book your accommodation in advance.

Rainfall: 0 days

Temperature: 24-26°C (75-79°F)

May-June

During the month of May you will get an indication whether it is going to be a hot year or a very hot year. During these two months, temperatures can reach 30°C. Humidity is also on the rise during the months of May and June, so be sure to book luxury accommodation that has air conditioning, especially if you’re not used to night temperatures rising above 25°C.

Rainfall: 3 days

Temperature: 28-30°C (82-86°F)

July-August

July is the start of the rainy season for most of Senegal, which increases the humidity to sauna levels. Many of the inland attractions will close down for the season, with roads becoming slower and more liable to flooding. Fathala Wildlife Reserve is perfectly located with little to zero disruption when the rainy season starts. August is the official rainiest month with much of the rainfall coming in short hard bursts of two to three hour sessions, but rain can manifest in light drizzling for longer periods too. Lightning and thunder can present a spectacular natural performance in the nighttime sky in Senegal. The days, although still hot and humid, can be lovely, but there are far more rainy days than sunny days during these two months, we’d say about 75% of it is all precipitation in some form. At Fathala Wildlife Reserve, you can still enjoy a boat ride this time of year; you will just be boarding a different type of boat than in the dry season for the higher water level conditions.

Rainfall: 28 days

Temperature: 30-32°C (86-90°F)

September-October

September remains very hot and humid so be prepared to be changing t-shirts on a regular basis, with October being the hottest month of the year. Temperatures during October rarely dips below 34°C (93°F). The heat continues well into the evenings. What is more romantic than an evening in your own private open air Jacuzzi?

Rainfall: 15 days

Temperature: 33-34°C (91-93°F)

November-December

November battles with December for the crown of best month to visit Senegal. Constant sunshine blended with a warm, yet refreshing ocean. November is renowned for bringing the humidity to a complete halt. With sunny days, dry roads, and slightly cooler evenings, December is the perfect time to enjoy Fathala’s spectacular array of flora and fauna. A cocktail by the poolside surrounded by untouched wildlife seems to be a fine way to spend your December holiday!

Rainfall: 0 days

Temperature: 30-33°C (86-91°F)

For more info, contact us: book@fathala.com