Praia in December

November through May gives you the best weather - dry trade winds keep temperatures around 25°C (77°F) and humidity manageable. December and January are peak season, so book accommodations early and expect higher prices. March and April offer the sweet spot: good weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices. The harmattan winds from the Sahara sometimes bring dust, but they also create spectacular sunsets. June through October brings heat and humidity that can be oppressive. Temperatures hit 30°C (86°F) regularly, and the air feels thick. But this is also when you'll have beaches mostly to yourself and hotel rates drop by 30%. Avoid September and October if possible - it's the hottest period with occasional heavy rains that can flood streets quickly. But if you can handle the heat, you'll experience Praia at its most authentic, without any tourist veneer.