Weather and Climate in Gambia

The Gambia experiences a sub-tropical climate just like in the neighbouring Senegal, southern Mali and the northern part of Benin. This means that the year is divided into two distinct seasons. During the dry season, temperatures feel quite pleasant.

Rain Season
The rainy season in The Gambia runs from the middle to the end of June climaxing in late October. Temperatures rise during this period, with August often being the hottest and wettest month of the year. Plausible to know is that the rainy season is characteristic of high humidity. Gambia-bound travellers during this time therefore are cautioned to come with heavy clothing for the cooler evenings, as well as plenty of insect repellent due to high breeding of pests. Temperatures may go as high as 40ºC.

Dry Season
The country experiences dry conditions between October and June. During this time, average daytime peak temperature ranges between 29 and 43 degrees Celsius daily along coastal resorts. Inland, the climate tends to be hotter, with averages of around 32ºC. Travellers to Gambia during this time should be aware of the heat which at time is not visitor-friendly. Pack some light clothing and enough liquids.
November to February is the Harmattan period, and usually there is poor visibility due to sand and dust particularly in the countryside resulting from the blowing dry winds.

The Best Time to Visit
There is one sound reason why Gambia edges out other countries to being a more popular winter destination for European tourists. This is simply its average daytime temperature which barely changes all year round. Gambia delights from its wonderful climate where it seldom rains.
November to March is dry and bearably warm presenting the best time to view the local wildlife. During the same time, the coastal areas experience cooler sea breezes in contrast to the inland areas which are scorching hot. This is the most ideal time for Gambia holidays.