Last updated: April 14, 2025
Benin's climate showcases a remarkable range of temperatures and precipitation patterns that reflect its diverse geography. January experiences a chilly minimum of 14°C (57°F) in Atakora, while April can reach scorching highs of 44°C (111°F) in Alibori. Precipitation varies significantly throughout the year, with 0 mm recorded in December in Alibori, escalating to a maximum of 289 mm (11.4 in) in August in Donga. Humidity also fluctuates, dropping to an average minimum of 9% in January in Atakora and soaring to a peak of 91% in September in Atlantique. This climatic variability shapes the unique ecosystems and agricultural practices found throughout the region, offering both challenges and opportunities for its inhabitants.
Benin showcases a predominantly tropical savanna climate (Köppen-Geiger class Aw), characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons that shape its lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems. The regions of Alibori, Atakora, and others such as Atlantique, Borgou, and Donga experience warm temperatures and substantial rainfall during the wet season, making these areas ideal for agriculture and natural biodiversity. The climate extends across various regions including Kouffo, Mono, Ouémé, Plateau, Collines, and Zou, reflecting the country's rich environmental diversity and agricultural potential shaped by climate patterns.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Aw | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in winter. |
Benin experiences a diverse range of temperatures throughout the year, characterized by a steady increase leading into the hotter months. In January, temperatures start relatively cool, with lows around 14°C (57°F) in Atakora and peaks soaring to 39°C (103°F) in Alibori. As February rolls in, it remains hot, with Alibori reaching a maximum of 40°C (105°F). The heat escalates through March and April, with April peaking at a scorching 44°C (111°F) in Alibori. Temperatures begin to stabilize in May, shifting slightly lower but still hovering around 43°C (109°F). The rainy season begins in June, bringing some relief with maximums dropping to 42°C (108°F). July and August see milder temperatures, particularly with highs of 37°C (99°F) and 34°C (93°F), respectively, as humidity rises and rainfall increases. September maintains these cooler trends, before the temperatures slightly rise again in October and November, capping off at 39°C (102°F) and 38°C (101°F) in Alibori. Finally, December ushers in a refreshing drop, with minimum temperatures dipping to 16°C (62°F), while the highs hold steady at 38°C (100°F). Overall, Benin showcases a marked transition from a hot, dry season to a cooler, more humid climate, creating a dynamic year-round weather experience.
Precipitation patterns in Benin showcase significant variability throughout the year, reflecting the region's diverse climate. In Alibori, December stands out with a stark minimum of 0 mm of rainfall, while Donga experiences its peak in August with a remarkable 289 mm. This disparity is further highlighted by the precipitation days, where Alibori enjoys dry spells of 0 days in February, contrasting sharply with Donga, where July can see rainfall on nearly every day, tallying up to 28 days. These trends indicate a distinct wet season concentrated in the middle of the year, shaping the agricultural practices and overall ecosystem of this vibrant region.
Benin experiences significant fluctuations in humidity throughout the year, revealing a climate marked by contrasts. In January, the northern region of Atakora sees a relatively dry minimum humidity level of just 9%, providing a refreshing respite during the cooler dry season. As the year progresses, humidity levels soar, peaking at a staggering 91% in September in Atlantique, when the region faces the challenges of the rainy season. This stark transition from low to high humidity highlights the dynamic weather patterns that characterize Benin, marking a notable shift that impacts daily life and agriculture across the country.
In Benin, UV Index trends reveal noteworthy peaks that highlight regional variations in sun exposure. For instance, Alibori experiences its highest average daily maximum UV Index of 13 in August, a time when the sun's intensity reaches its annual zenith. Meanwhile, in Collines, the UV Index is slightly elevated in April, averaging 14, indicating a significant potential for sun-related health risks during this month. These trends underscore the importance of understanding seasonal variations in UV exposure across different regions, reminding residents and visitors alike to take appropriate precautions during peak periods.
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In Benin, sunshine duration varies significantly throughout the year and across different regions. For instance, January sees slightly less sunlight, with the Plateau receiving 261 hours and Donga a bit brighter with 271 hours. As the year progresses into May, regions like Zou bask in a remarkable 321 hours of sunshine, illustrating a transition into the dry season. The peak of sunshine occurs in July, particularly in Alibori, where residents enjoy a dazzling 348 hours. This upward trend highlights how the country embraces the sun’s warmth, especially as the year peaks into its sunniest months.
In Benin, the likelihood of sunny weather varies significantly across the seasons and regions. For instance, August in the Plateau region sees a mere 10% chance of sunshine, highlighting the peak of the rainy season where clouds dominate the sky. In stark contrast, January in Alibori boasts an impressive 91% likelihood of sunny days, marking a time of clear blue skies and bright sunshine. This striking difference underscores the diverse climatic conditions across Benin, suggesting that those seeking sunny weather would do well to plan their visits during the dry season in the northern regions.
In Alibori, daylight hours exhibit a marked shift between the seasons, with 11 hours of sunlight in December giving way to a more extended 12 hours in June. This gradual increase in daylight indicates the region's transition into the warmer months, enhancing opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The change in daylight not only reflects the rhythm of life in Benin but also influences the local agricultural practices, as longer days often correlate with the bustling farming season. As the year progresses, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the vibrant natural beauty of Alibori under the generous canopy of daylight.
The climate in Alibori, Benin, is characterized by a hot and humid tropical environment, with temperatures often peaking in the summer months. January brings cooler mornings at around 15°C (59°F), but by April, the heat intensifies, reaching maximums of up to 44°C (111°F). The rainy season spans from May to September, with August experiencing the highest precipitation at 243 mm (9.6 in), leading to elevated humidity levels that can reach 86%. Though November and December see a dramatic decrease in rain and humidity, the warm averages linger throughout the year, making for a consistently warm climate. For a deeper dive into the seasonal nuances of Alibori's weather, check out the detailed Alibori climate.
Atakora, Benin, experiences a tropical climate characterized by striking temperature variations throughout the year. January starts off cool, with temperatures dipping to a refreshing 14°C (57°F), before climbing to sweltering peaks of up to 39°C (102°F) in February and March. The region witnesses its heaviest rainfall between July and August, where humidity surges to an uncomfortable 87%, highlighting the shift into the rainy season. As the year closes, temperatures begin to cool again, providing a delightful end to the cycle. For more detailed insights, explore the comprehensive Atakora climate.
In Atlantique, Benin, the climate is characterized by a distinct tropical rhythm, with temperatures typically ranging from a comfortable 19°C (66°F) in January to a sultry 37°C (99°F) in February and March. As the year progresses, humidity levels rise significantly, peaking at 91% in September, which transforms the lush environment into a verdant paradise. The rainy season kicks off in May, unleashing heavy downpours that peak in June with 212 mm (8.4 in) of rainfall, leading to a fertile landscape adorned with vibrant greenery. Although the wet season brings humidity and heat, the cooler evenings offer a refreshing respite, perfect for evening strolls along the coast. For more detailed insights, explore the Atlantique climate.
Borgou, Benin experiences a tropical climate characterized by distinct dry and rainy seasons. Temperatures soar from the dry heat of January, averaging 26°C (80°F), to a peak in March and April where maximums reach up to 41°C (105°F). The rainy season kicks in around May, bringing a significant rise in both precipitation and humidity, peaking in July and August with over 200 mm of rain and humidity levels soaring to 88%. As the year winds down, the climate becomes more temperate, with cooler evenings and reduced humidity. For those interested in deeper insights, check the detailed Borgou climate.
The climate in Collines, Benin, showcases distinct seasonal variations that shape the region's unique character. January heralds the dry season, with temperatures ranging from a cool 17°C (63°F) to a sweltering 37°C (100°F), while humidity levels start low at 36%. As the months progress into late spring, the region transforms, with May to October bringing vibrant green scenery thanks to increased rainfall, peaking in September with 226 mm (8.9 in) and consistent humidity hovering around 90%. This makes for a lush, tropical landscape that thrives under the hot sun and nourishing rains. For a detailed breakdown of weather patterns throughout the year, explore the Collines climate.
The climate in Donga, Benin is characterized by a striking variation in temperatures and rainfall throughout the year. January welcomes the cooler months with minimums around 15°C (59°F), but by March, temperatures peak at a scorching 40°C (104°F). As the rainy season kicks off in May, humidity soars, reaching up to 89% during the wettest months of July and August, bringing substantial rainfall that can exceed 289 mm (11.4 in). This unique climate not only shapes the local ecosystem but also influences the vibrant lifestyles of its inhabitants, making Donga climate an intriguing study of tropical variations.
Kouffo, Benin experiences a tropical climate characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. Temperatures range from a comfortable minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to a high of 38°C (101°F) in February and March, while humidity rises notably, peaking at 91% in September. The region receives the most rains between May and October, with June and July witnessing up to 155 mm of precipitation, setting the stage for a lush landscape. As the year progresses, the humidity levels create a muggy environment, especially during the rainy months, making the dry season from November to February a popular time to visit. For a detailed look at weather patterns, check out the Kouffo climate.
The climate in Mono, Benin, is characterized by a warm tropical atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from a mild 18°C (65°F) in January to a sizzling 37°C (98°F) in February. As the year unfolds, the region transitions into a wet season, with May seeing the peak rainfall of 153 mm (6.0 in), while the humidity soars to an average of 83%. The summer months of July and August bring slightly cooler conditions, with average temperatures around 26°C (79°F) and humidity levels reaching up to 90%. With its distinct wet and dry seasons, Mono offers a unique climate profile that adapts seamlessly throughout the year, inviting visitors to explore its vibrant landscape. For more detailed insights, check out the Mono climate.
The climate in Ouémé, Benin is characterized by a warm tropical atmosphere with average temperatures ranging from a pleasant 19°C (66°F) in January to a balmy 39°C (102°F) in February. As the year progresses, humidity levels rise, peaking in the rainy season from May to September, when it often exceeds 90%. This period sees the heaviest rainfall, particularly in June, with 218 mm (8.6 in) of precipitation, creating a lush environment after the dry months. Visitors can expect warmer, drier conditions from November to February, making it an ideal time to explore the region. For more details on the specific weather patterns throughout the year, check out the Ouémé climate.
The climate in Plateau, Benin is characterized by a warm tropical pattern, with temperatures ranging from a cool 18°C (65°F) in January to a sizzling 39°C (103°F) in February. The region experiences a distinct rainy season, peaking in June and September, where precipitation can reach up to 199 mm (7.8 in), creating a lush environment. Humidity levels soar during the rainy months, often exceeding 90% in August, which adds a tropical feel to the air. As the year progresses, temperatures cool slightly during the late rainy season, yet remain pleasantly warm, making Plateau a place of rich climatic contrast. For more details on the local weather patterns, visit Plateau climate.
In Zou, Benin, the climate is characterized by a distinct warm and humid tropical pattern. Temperatures soar from 19°C (66°F) in January to a sizzling 39°C (102°F) in March, while the average temperature remains fairly consistent around 29°C (85°F). The region experiences its peak rainfall from June to September, with precipitation reaching as high as 179 mm (7.1 in) in September, contributing to the muggy atmosphere, with humidity levels climbing to an impressive 91%. This combination of heat and humidity makes for a lush environment, perfect for the vibrant ecosystems present in the area. For a detailed overview, explore the full Zou climate.
The climate of Benin showcases a striking contrast between its scorching temperatures and fluctuating humidity levels throughout the year. With minimum temperatures plummeting to 14°C (57°F) in January in Atakora and soaring to a sweltering 44°C (111°F) in April in Alibori, the country experiences a diverse thermal range. Rainfall patterns reveal a pronounced variability, with August in Donga showcasing a dramatic peak at 289 mm (11.4 in), while December in Alibori sees a stark dry spell with 0 mm (0.0 in) of precipitation. Humidity follows suit, oscillating from a minimal 9% in January in Atakora to a muggy 91% in September in Atlantique. These trends highlight Benin's dynamic climate, where each season brings distinct weather patterns, influencing both the landscape and daily life of its inhabitants.