Last updated: April 14, 2025
The climate of Mali is characterized by a stark contrast between extreme temperatures and varying precipitation patterns. In January, temperatures can drop to a chilling 2°C (36°F) in Tombouctou, while in July, the heat peaks at an astonishing 49°C (121°F) in Taoudénit. Precipitation levels fluctuate significantly, with a dry 0 mm recorded in January at Ménaka and a remarkable 294 mm (11.6 in) falling in August in Bamako. Humidity also varies dramatically, reaching a low of just 9% in March in Ménaka before soaring to 87% in August in Bamako, highlighting the diverse climatic influences that shape this unique region.
Mali showcases a diverse spectrum of climate zones, reflecting its vast geographical landscape. The capital, Bamako, experiences a tropical wet and dry climate (Aw), while the northern regions like Gao and Kidal fall under the arid desert category (BWh). In places like Kayes and Koulikoro, travelers can encounter a mix of semi-arid (BSh) and tropical climates (Aw). The central regions, including Mopti and Ségou, also feature semi-arid conditions (BSh), while Ménaka and Tombouctou embrace the relentless heat of the Sahara with their BWh classifications. This climatic diversity shapes Mali's rich ecosystems and cultural practices.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Aw | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in winter. |
| BSh | Hot semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BWh | Hot desert climate with extremely low rainfall and high temperatures. |
Mali experiences striking temperature variations throughout the year, with a notable upward trend as it transitions from January to June, where regions like Kayes and Taoudénit can reach maximums soaring over 46°C (115°F). January starts relatively cool, with lows of 2°C (36°F) in Tombouctou, before rising sharply, peaking in May at impressive highs around 47°C (116°F). The heat reaches its zenith during the peak of summer in July, where temperatures can hit a blistering 49°C (121°F) in Taoudénit. A gradual cooling trend starts in October, though temperatures remain warm, with November and December still presenting highs of 42°C (107°F) in Kayes and lows hovering between 5°C (41°F) and 15°C (58°F). This seasonal fluctuation highlights Mali's extreme climate, making it essential for visitors to prepare for both the sweltering heat and cooler nights.
Mali's precipitation patterns reveal striking seasonal contrasts, with January strikingly dry, especially in locations like Ménaka, where no rainfall is recorded. As the year progresses, the country experiences a dramatic shift. By August, precipitation peaks, with Bamako recording a remarkable 294 mm (11.6 in). This surge in rainfall coincides with increased precipitation days; in August, Sikasso sees up to 25 days of rain, highlighting the critical role of the rainy season for agriculture and water resources. This pattern underscores the stark transition from the arid conditions of early winter to the lush, fertile landscapes that characterize the summer months in Mali.
Mali experiences a striking range of humidity levels throughout the year, reflecting the diverse climate across its regions. In March, the humidity drops to a minimal 9% in Ménaka, creating a dry and arid atmosphere reminiscent of the Sahara’s expansive landscapes. In stark contrast, August brings a surge in moisture with humidity levels peaking at a humid 87% in Bamako, setting the stage for torrential rains. This shift from dry to wet underscores the seasonal transitions that define Mali’s climate, making it a land of extremes where the air can feel both parched and saturated within mere months.
In Mali, the ultraviolet (UV) index displays significant variations across different months and regions, highlighting the need for sun safety awareness. In April, the average daily maximum UV index reaches a striking 15 in Tombouctou, indicating perilously high exposure levels. This intensity begins to moderate by June, with Taoudénit reporting an average daily maximum UV index of 12. This trend suggests that while the risk of harmful UV exposure remains considerable throughout the spring, it slightly decreases as summer approaches, underscoring the importance of monitoring UV levels year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Mali enjoys a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year, with noteworthy variations across different regions and months. For instance, January brings 245 hours of sunshine to Kidal and 266 hours to Sikasso, showcasing a manageable winter glow. However, as the year progresses toward the summer months, sunshine duration dramatically increases, peaking at 339 hours in May in Ségou and reaching an impressive 359 hours in July in Taoudénit. This striking rise highlights Mali's climate transition from the cooler, sunnier winter days to the long, bright days of summer, offering ample sunlight for both agriculture and leisure activities.
In Mali, the likelihood of sunny weather varies significantly across different regions and months, showcasing distinct patterns. For instance, while Bamako experiences a modest 17% chance of sunny conditions in August, the northern region of Kidal enjoys a much brighter 92% likelihood in June. This stark contrast highlights how geographical and seasonal factors influence weather patterns in the country. Travelers and locals alike can use this information to plan outdoor activities, with the early summer months in Kidal promising plenty of sunshine compared to the less favorable weather in Bamako later in the summer.
In Mali, daylight hours vary significantly throughout the year, showcasing the country's transition from winter to summer. In December, residents of Taoudénit experience about 10 hours of daylight, reflecting the shorter days typical of the winter months. However, by June, this number rises sharply to 13 hours of daylight, marking the height of summer when the days are longer and more vibrant. This increase in daylight not only enhances the atmosphere but also allows for more time to engage in outdoor activities and cultural events, highlighting the dynamic rhythm of life in Mali throughout the seasons.
Bamako, Mali, embraces a tropical climate, characterized by hot temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to March, the city experiences a stunning rise in heat, peaking at a toasty 42°C (107°F) in March, with humidity gradually increasing as the months progress. The rainy season, which commences in June, brings heavy downpours, notably peaking in August with an impressive 294 mm (11.6 inches) of rainfall, while humidity levels soar to 87%. Despite the warmth, cooler evenings can be enjoyed from November to February, where temperatures dip to around 12°C (53°F). For a detailed understanding of the weather patterns, check out the comprehensive Bamako climate.
In Gao, Mali, the climate is characterized by extreme heat and minimal rainfall, particularly from January to April, when temperatures frequently soar above 39°C (102°F). As the rainy season approaches in June, humidity rises significantly, peaking in August with an average of 65% humidity and over 72 mm of rainfall. While May marks the start of the wet season with a modest increase in rain, it is during the sweltering summer months that the city receives most of its precipitation. With temperatures fluctuating from mild 7°C (44°F) in January to a blistering 47°C (116°F) in May, Gao experiences a dramatic climate that shapes the lifestyle of its residents. For a deeper understanding of the weather patterns, visit Gao climate.
Nestled in the heart of Mali, Kayes experiences a hot desert climate characterized by sweltering temperatures that can soar to 46°C (115°F) in the peak of summer. From January to March, the weather remains relatively dry and cool, with average temperatures hovering around 26°C (79°F) to 32°C (89°F). As the rainy season kicks in from June to September, humidity levels rise dramatically, peaking at 85% in August alongside significant rainfall, making it the wettest month. Despite the shift to a more humid environment, the region still offers warm temperatures, with average highs around 28°C (82°F), ensuring that Kayes remains an evocative destination throughout the year. For a detailed overview, explore the Kayes climate.
Nestled in the heart of Mali, Kidal experiences a harsh desert climate characterized by scorching temperatures and minimal precipitation. With January temperatures hovering around a pleasant 19°C (67°F) but soaring up to 44°C (112°F) by April, the heat intensifies dramatically as summer approaches, reaching a peak of 47°C (116°F) in May and July. Despite this relentless heat, humidity remains low for much of the year, spiking slightly during the rainy season in August, which sees a modest 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain. The dry months from October to April witness near-zero rainfall, making Kidal a true oasis of resilience in the Sahara. For a deeper dive into Kidal's unique weather patterns, explore the Kidal climate.
In Koulikoro, Mali, the climate is characterized by hot temperatures and a pronounced wet season, making it a dynamic environment throughout the year. Winters (December to February) delight residents with cooler mornings and maximum temperatures reaching up to 41°C (106°F) in February, while humidity remains low at around 13%. As the rainy season sets in from June to August, heavy downpours can lead to high humidity levels peaking at 85%, with August alone receiving over 260 mm of rain. Despite the sweltering heat that frequently hits May and April, temperatures drop marginally in the months following, making for a more comfortable fall. For a deeper dive into the weather patterns of this region, check out the Koulikoro climate.
Mopti, Mali, experiences a climate characterized by extreme temperatures and a pronounced wet season. January through March sees warm, dry days with maximums reaching up to 43°C (111°F), while humidity stays low, often dropping to just 10%. As the rains arrive in June, temperatures remain high, yet humidity soars, culminating in August with heavy downpours and humidity peaking at 79%. The transition into dry autumn brings pleasant conditions, with cooler evenings and temperatures back down to around 25°C (78°F) in December. For a deeper understanding of the region's climate patterns, check out Mopti climate.
Ménaka, Mali, basks in a hot desert climate, with temperatures soaring to a blistering 47°C (116°F) in May. The year begins with cool nights around 10°C (50°F) in January, but quickly transitions to intense heat by April. Rainfall is scarce, peaking in August with 66 mm (2.6 in), while the humidity climbs to a stifling 70%, offering a brief respite from the dry months. Visitors seeking to understand this vibrant region will find detailed insights on its unique climate at Ménaka climate. Whether navigating the sweltering days or the cooler evenings, Ménaka's weather paints a vivid backdrop for exploration.
Sikasso, Mali, experiences a hot and dry climate, characterized by a distinct wet season from June to September. Temperatures soar to a sweltering maximum of 44°C (111°F) in May, dropping slightly during the rainy months where averages settle around 26-31°C (79-88°F). Despite the heat, humidity levels climb significantly, reaching up to 87% during the peak of the rainy season, creating a palpable stickiness in the air. Precipitation varies markedly throughout the year, with July and August seeing the heaviest rainfall, averaging around 259 mm (10.2 in). For more details on the weather patterns and conditions, visit Sikasso climate.
Ségou, Mali, boasts a tropical climate characterized by stark temperature fluctuations throughout the year. From the cool, dry days of January, where temperatures range from a refreshing 10°C (51°F) to a sizzling high of 40°C (104°F), the heat intensifies dramatically in the peak of the dry season, peaking in April and May with maximum temperatures soaring to 45°C (113°F). As the rainy season kicks in during June, humidity levels rise sharply, reaching a peak of 84% in August, accompanied by significant rainfall. Despite these moist months, the dry season from November to March offers a respite, with low humidity and clear skies. For a deeper dive into the ever-changing weather patterns of this vibrant region, visit the detailed Ségou climate.
The climate in Taoudénit, Mali, is characterized by extreme temperatures and dry conditions. With January temperatures swinging from a chilly 4°C (40°F) to a scorching 34°C (94°F), the months quickly heat up, peaking in July, where averages soar to a blistering 39°C (102°F). Precipitation is virtually non-existent, with most months recording minimal rainfall, and humidity levels remaining low, especially from April to June. As the year turns, expect a gradual cooling in November and December, providing a brief respite from the punishing heat. For more detailed insights, explore the Taoudénit climate.
Tombouctou, Mali, boasts an extreme desert climate characterized by sweltering temperatures and minimal rainfall. From April to June, temperatures can soar to a blistering 46°C (116°F), while the dry months of January to April see little to no precipitation, leaving the landscape parched. As the summer months arrive, humidity levels rise, especially in July and August, bringing the brief rainy season, where August can bring up to 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain. Despite the heat, the cooler evenings offer a refreshing respite, making Tombouctou a truly unique climate experience. For more detailed insights on the weather, check out the Tombouctou climate.
The climate of Mali showcases a striking contrast between extremes, with temperatures soaring up to 49°C (121°F) in July in Taoudénit while dropping to a chilly 2°C (36°F) in January in Tombouctou. This stark variation is complemented by a significant range in precipitation, peaking at a substantial 294 mm (11.6 in) in August in Bamako, a month characterized by high humidity levels that climb to 87%. In contrast, the dry season reveals arid conditions, with locations like Ménaka recording no rainfall in January and humidity plummeting to a mere 9% in March. These trends highlight Mali's diverse climate, marked by sweltering temperatures and stark seasonal shifts that shape both its environment and the lifestyle of its people.