Dakar in May
Good time to visit
The heat ramps up but crowds disappear, creating a trade-off situation. May works if you can handle higher temperatures and appreciate having popular spots to yourself.
Weather
May sees temperatures climb into the 90s as humidity increases significantly. The occasional shower appears but rain remains light and sporadic. Heat becomes more oppressive during midday hours, making air conditioning a welcome relief.
30°C high23°C low2 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$65/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Labour Day
- •Korité (Eid al-Fitr)
May Tips
- •Tourist numbers drop significantly due to increasing heat
- •Plan activities for early morning (before 10am) or evening
- •Hotels start offering shoulder season rates
All Months
November through April is peak season for good reason. Temperatures hover around 25°C, humidity drops, and the harmattan winds from the Sahara keep things comfortable. This is surf season too, with consistent swells hitting the peninsula's beaches.
December and January see the most visitors, so book accommodations early and expect higher prices. But the trade-off is perfect weather and the most cultural events.
May through October brings rain, heat, and humidity that can be brutal. Temperatures hit 35°C regularly, and when the rains come (usually July-September), they come hard. Streets flood, some restaurants close, and the city slows down.
But rainy season has advantages: fewer tourists, lower prices, and the landscape turns green. Plus, some of the best music happens during this period as artists return from European tours.
Ramadan shifts annually but affects the city's rhythm whenever it falls. Many restaurants close during daylight hours, but the evening iftar meals create incredible community energy.
Dakar Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
6/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
8/10
Luxury
5/10
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