Last updated: April 14, 2025
Mozambique experiences a diverse climate characterized by significant temperature variations and distinct seasonal patterns. In the northern region of Niassa, temperatures can dip to a chilly 7°C (45°F) in July, while in Tete, the mercury can soar to blistering heights of 45°C (113°F) in November. Precipitation is equally varied, with the wettest month in Niassa receiving up to 246 mm (9.7 in) of rain in January, contrasting sharply with Tete's driest month of September, which sees as little as 2 mm (0.1 in). Humidity levels fluctuate throughout the year, averaging a minimum of 44% in October in Tete and reaching an impressive 90% in January in Niassa. This climatic diversity significantly influences the region's ecosystems, agriculture, and daily life, showcasing Mozambique's rich environmental tapestry.
Mozambique boasts a diverse array of climate zones, primarily categorized under the Köppen-Geiger classification. Coastal regions like Cabo Delgado, Gaza, Inhambane, and Maputo City experience a tropical savanna climate (Aw), characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Nampula and Zambézia also fall under this classification, creating lush environments perfect for agriculture. Moving inland, Manica and Niassa showcase the temperate Cwa climate, offering cooler temperatures conducive for different ecosystems. Meanwhile, Maputo Province presents a mix of BSh and Aw climates, while Tete's semi-arid BSh conditions contribute to its unique ecological landscape. Overall, Mozambique's varied climate zones play a crucial role in shaping its biodiversity and agricultural practices.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| As | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in summer. |
| Aw | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in winter. |
| BSh | Hot semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| Cwa | Monsoon-influenced humid subtropical climate with dry winters and hot summers. |
Mozambique experiences a notable variation in temperature throughout the year, showcasing a transitional climate that keeps extreme conditions at the forefront. In January, temperatures start high with a minimum of 16°C (62°F) in Niassa and a scorching 40°C (104°F) peaking in Gaza. As summer progresses into February and March, the trend remains similar with temperatures slightly rising, hitting 40°C again in February and maintaining a tough 40°C in March, while minimums subtly shift downward. April begins to signal the onset of cooler temperatures, with lows dipping to 13°C (55°F) in Niassa and a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in Tete. This cooling pattern continues into the winter months, where May and June bring minimums as low as 9°C (49°F) and 9°C (48°F), respectively, although daytime highs remain comfortably warm, peaking at 36°C (96°F) and 33°C (93°F). The trend shifts again as July and August see the annual minimum dip to 7°C (45°F), while August experiences a maximum rise to 39°C (102°F) in Tete. As the year concludes, October and November signal a return to warmer climes, with maximums reaching 44°C (112°F) in October and 45°C (113°F) in November. By December, the temperature starts to mellow again with lows around 15°C (60°F) in Maputo Province and maximums still reaching 43°C (109°F), illustrating a cyclical rhythm of heat that effectively showcases Mozambique's diverse climate tapestry.
Mozambique experiences distinct precipitation patterns that reveal considerable variability across its regions and seasons. While the driest month, September, sees a mere 2 mm (0.1 in) of rainfall in Tete, the wettest period occurs in January, where Niassa is drenched with 246 mm (9.7 in) of rain. This fluctuation is further underscored by the number of rainfall days, which ranges from none in June in Niassa, marking a dry spell, to a remarkable 23 days in March in Cabo Delgado. These variations highlight a significant seasonal shift, characterized by intense wet periods followed by extended dry phases, shaping the region’s agriculture and water resources.
In Mozambique, humidity levels exhibit considerable variation throughout the year, reflecting the country's diverse climate. October witnesses the lowest humidity, dropping to a comfortable 44% in Tete, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Conversely, as the year progresses into January, humidity soars to a peak of 90% in Niassa, creating a humid atmosphere that can be quite stifling. This trend highlights the significant influence of seasonal changes on the climate, suggesting that visitors should plan accordingly to enjoy Mozambique's stunning landscapes while managing comfort levels.
The UV Index trends in Mozambique reveal a notable seasonal pattern, particularly in the southern and northern regions. In January, Maputo City experiences an average daily maximum UV Index of 14, while this figure rises to a striking 17 in February in Niassa. This increase highlights the growing intensity of sunlight during the transition from summer to late summer, emphasizing the need for sun safety awareness, especially in the northern areas where UV exposure peaks. The regional variation underscores the significance of local climate conditions in shaping UV levels, prompting residents and visitors alike to take appropriate protective measures against harmful radiation.
UV Risk Categories
Mozambique enjoys a diverse sunshine palette throughout the year, with distinct variations across its regions. In January, Niassa experiences 252 hours of sun, marking the start of a gradual shift towards brighter days. By June, Inhambane shines with an impressive 299 hours, continuing this upward trend. The peak of sunshine arrives in October in Manica, where the sun graces the skies for a remarkable 342 hours. December caps off the year in Inhambane, boasting 376 hours of sunny brilliance. This progression highlights a pattern of increasing sunshine that enhances the appeal of Mozambique's landscapes, making it an enticing destination year-round.
In Mozambique, the likelihood of sunny weather varies significantly by region and season, revealing intriguing trends. For instance, February in Niassa offers a mere 14% chance of sunshine, making it one of the least sunny months in that northern province. In stark contrast, the capital, Maputo City, experiences a remarkable 90% likelihood of sunny days in July, showcasing how different locations within Mozambique can present diverse climatic experiences. This stark difference highlights the importance of regional weather patterns and their influence on leisure and travel plans across the country.
In Mozambique, particularly in Maputo City, daylight hours change significantly throughout the year, reflecting the region's seasonal shifts. In June, the city enjoys around 10 hours of daylight, offering a shorter window for outdoor activities as the winter months settle in. By December, however, the days lengthen considerably to approximately 13 hours, inviting residents and visitors alike to engage in a vibrant array of leisurely pursuits under the sun. This gradual increase in daylight not only enhances the landscape's beauty but also boosts the energy and social life as the warmer summer approaches.
Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to March, the region experiences high humidity levels, with averages ranging from 80% to 84%, alongside summer highs peaking at 35°C (96°F). As the dry season arrives in May, temperatures cool slightly, offering a pleasant escape from the heat, with averages settling around 25°C (77°F). Rainfall significantly decreases from June to September, transforming the landscape, while October and December see a resurgence of precipitation. For more details on this captivating climate, visit Cabo Delgado climate.
The climate in Gaza, Mozambique, presents a vivid tapestry of warmth and variability throughout the year. With January and February boasting maximum temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F), the scorching summer days give way to relatively cooler months, where averages dip to around 20°C (68°F) in July. The region is characterized by a distinct wet season, particularly in the beginning of the year, marked by significant rainfall in January (114 mm) and February (140 mm), tapering off by late spring. Humidity remains relatively high, peaking at 77% during the hottest months, contributing to a tropical feel that's palpable. For a deeper understanding of this unique climate, visit Gaza climate.
Inhambane, Mozambique, boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and a distinct wet season. January and February are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F), accompanied by high humidity levels around 80% and substantial rainfall, particularly in January. As the year progresses, temperatures gradually decrease, with July and August offering cooler, drier conditions, perfect for outdoor adventures. The most rainfall occurs in the early part of the year, tapering off significantly by August, where it can drop to just 13 mm (0.5 in). For more detailed information, visit Inhambane climate.
Nestled in the heart of Mozambique, Manica experiences a delightful range of temperatures throughout the year. From the warm, humid days of January and February, where highs can reach up to 35°C (96°F), to the cooler depths of July, with lows around 8°C (47°F), the region's climate offers a refreshing contrast across the seasons. Rainfall primarily occurs during the warmer months, peaking in January with 193 mm (7.6 in), while the dry winter months bring significantly less precipitation. With humidity levels gently declining from 85% in February to just 56% in September, the climate remains comfortable for both locals and visitors alike. For a more in-depth look at weather patterns, check out the Manica climate.
Maputo City experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by hot temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to March, expect maximums reaching up to 36°C (97°F), accompanied by high humidity levels, particularly in January and February. The cooler months from May to August offer some respite, with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and minimal rainfall, especially in July which sees only 6 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation. As the year progresses, the city transitions back to warmer conditions, with November often peaking at 38°C (101°F) and humidity levels hovering around 85%. For further insights into the climate of Maputo City, explore Maputo City climate.
Maputo Province, Mozambique, boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. January and February welcome the year's highest temperatures, consistently reaching up to 38°C (101°F) while experiencing considerable rainfall, especially in February with 177 mm (7.0 in). As the months progress into the cooler season, temperatures dip to a pleasant 9°C (48°F) in July, with minimal precipitation. Humidity levels tend to hover around 75%, contributing to a tropical feel year-round. For a detailed look at the region's climate patterns, explore Maputo Province climate.
Nampula, Mozambique, boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to March, temperatures hover between 19°C (67°F) and 34°C (94°F), accompanied by high humidity and significant rainfall, peaking in January with 184 mm (7.2 in). The weather becomes milder through the dry season from May to August, where temperatures generally cool to about 11°C (53°F) at night while remaining comfortably warm during the day. However, as you move into October and November, temperatures can hit sweltering highs of 38°C (100°F), reminding visitors of the region's tropical heart. For a deeper dive into Nampula's unique weather patterns, explore the Nampula climate.
Nestled in northern Mozambique, Niassa experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to March, tropical humidity prevails with temperatures soaring up to 34°C (93°F), accompanied by significant rainfall peaking in January with 246 mm of precipitation. As the year progresses, temperatures gradually decrease, especially in the cooler months of June and July, where it can dip to a refreshing 7°C (45°F) at night. By late spring and early summer, November and December bring warmth back, with highs reaching 38°C (101°F), leading into another rainy season. For more in-depth information, explore the Niassa climate.
Sofala, Mozambique, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From January to March, the region swelters in high heat, with temperatures soaring up to 38°C (100°F) and humidity levels peaking around 85%, making these months the warmest and wettest. As the year progresses, the temperatures gradually cool, particularly in the winter months of June and July, where temperatures drop to a refreshing 10°C (50°F) at night. Rainfall is abundant in the early year, tapering off significantly by August, making it ideal for enjoying the dry and cooler spell that follows. For a deeper dive into the specifics of this region’s weather patterns, check out Sofala climate.
Tete, Mozambique, basks in a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and notable humidity throughout the year. With January highs soaring to 39°C (102°F) and December witnessing a peak of 43°C (109°F), the region's heat can be intense, particularly during its dry season from May to September, where temperatures average around 22-25°C (72-77°F). Rainfall is concentrated in the summer months, peaking in January with 206 mm (8.1 in), although it diminishes considerably by August, making it one of the driest months. While humidity remains high during the wet season, dipping to a comfortable 44% in October, Tete's climate encourages a vibrant array of flora and fauna. For a more detailed overview of what to expect, visit Tete climate.
Zambézia, Mozambique, boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to March, the region experiences its hottest and most humid months, with average highs touching 36°C (97°F) and humidity consistently above 79%. As the year progresses, temperatures gradually cool, dipping as low as 15°C (59°F) in August. Rainfall peaks in the early months, notably with 184 mm (7.2 in) in January, before diminishing towards the driest months of July and August. Discover more about the dynamic weather patterns in this captivating region at Zambézia climate.
The climate of Mozambique exhibits a striking contrast between extreme temperatures and variable precipitation throughout the year. With January witnessing peak rainfall of up to 246 mm in Niassa while October’s humidity dips to an average low of 44% in Tete, the weather patterns underscore a clear seasonal rhythm. Temperatures range from a frigid 7°C in July to a sweltering 45°C in November, highlighting the diverse climatic zones across the country. This variability not only shapes the natural landscape but also influences agricultural practices and local lifestyles, making Mozambique's climate a dynamic feature of its rich cultural tapestry.