Last updated: January 18, 2025
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, exhibits a tropical savanna climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Aw. This coastal city experiences a minimum temperature of approximately 20°C (69°F) in August, with an average annual temperature around 26°C (80°F). The hottest month, March, sees maximum temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F), showcasing a distinct warm climate that influences both local ecology and lifestyle. The combination of these temperature ranges contributes to the region's vibrant biodiversity and significantly affects its seasonal weather patterns.
In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal rhythm, characterized by consistently warm conditions throughout the year. January and February feature the highest temperatures, with maximums reaching 33°C (91°F) and a stable average around 28°C (82°F). As the year progresses into the cooler months of April and May, temperatures slightly dip, with averages dropping to 26°C (79°F) and maximums falling to 30°C (86°F). The coldest months, July and August, see minimal fluctuations, maintaining average temperatures at 25°C (77°F) and maximums around 29°C (85°F). As the year concludes, temperatures begin to rise again, with December experiencing maximums returning to 31°C (89°F), reinforcing the tropical savanna climate of the region while creating a vibrant environment year-round.
Dar es Salaam experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) in August and a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in March. This variation highlights the city's warm tropical climate, making it an inviting destination year-round. For more detailed information about the monthly temperatures in Dar es Salaam, visit monthly temperatures in Dar es Salaam.
In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, precipitation patterns reveal a notable wet season primarily concentrated from March to May, peaking dramatically in April with 317 mm (12.5 in) of rain over approximately 29 days. Following this peak, the region experiences a gradual reduction in rainfall, with May still seeing 229 mm (9.0 in) before entering a much drier period from June to September, where monthly totals drop significantly—June receives just 45 mm (1.8 in), and July sees a mere 34 mm (1.4 in). The drier months coincide with lower rainfall days, particularly during July and August, where rain is less frequent but still contributes to the city’s overall climate dynamics.
As the year progresses towards November and December, the rainfall begins to increase again, with November bringing 126 mm (5.0 in) and December experiencing 148 mm (5.8 in) over approximately 23 days. This return to wetter conditions signifies the onset of the shorter rainy season as Dar es Salaam transitions between its distinct dry and wet periods. Overall, the annual precipitation totals not only support the lush ecosystem of the city but also play a crucial role in regulating the local climate, impacting agriculture, water supply, and daily life for its residents.
In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the sunshine duration follows a compelling trend throughout the year, marked by a gradual increase during the first half of the year, peaking in the winter months of July and August. Starting in January with 287 hours of sunshine, the city experiences a steady upward trajectory, reaching a significant high of 347 hours in August. This pattern highlights the region’s transition towards a sunnier disposition in the dry months, particularly favored by tourists and residents alike who enjoy outdoor activities in the warm sun.
Conversely, the latter part of the year sees a minor fluctuation in sunshine hours, with October and November still boasting impressive totals of 351 hours and 344 hours, respectively. However, December witnesses a brief decline in sunlight to 354 hours, likely influenced by the onset of the rainy season. Despite this slight dip, the overall consistency in sunshine hours throughout the year underscores Dar es Salaam's appeal as a destination characterized by abundant sunshine, making it an attractive location for both leisure and commerce year-round.
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, experiences a notably high UV Index year-round, indicating the need for vigilant sun protection. The months from January to April and August to December consistently reflect extreme UV levels, with January, February, March, and April recording an index of 14 and March peaking higher at 15. This means that during these months, individuals face a burn time of just 10 minutes without adequate sun protection. Such extreme conditions necessitate the use of sunscreen, clothing, and other protective measures to avoid sunburn and mitigate long-term skin damage.
As the year progresses into the cooler months of June and July, the UV Index remains significantly high, but with a slight reduction to 10, categorized as very high. In these months, the burn time extends to 15 minutes, offering a marginal reprieve for residents and visitors. However, the UV levels quickly rise again in August, leading back to extreme ratings that persist into the final months of the year. Consequently, awareness of the UV Index not only serves as a vital guideline for outdoor activities but also emphasizes the importance of sun safety in this tropical coastal city.
UV Risk Categories
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, enjoys a relatively consistent daylight duration throughout the year, influenced by its proximity to the equator. From January to March, the city experiences approximately 12 hours of sunlight each day, promoting a vibrant atmosphere ideal for outdoor activities. This steady amount of daylight fosters a sense of stability in daily life, with residents benefiting from ample light for both work and leisure.
As the year progresses into April through August, daylight slightly diminishes to around 11 hours daily. Despite this reduction, the variation remains minimal, ensuring that the city does not experience drastic changes in daylight that could disrupt routines. Interestingly, daylight duration returns to 12 hours in September through December, reinforcing the region's equatorial characteristics. This balance of light and dark not only shapes the climate but also enhances the overall quality of life for those living in Dar es Salaam, allowing for year-round engagement with nature and community.
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average monthly temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F), peaking in February and March at around 33°C (91°F). The region sees significant rainfall from April to May, with precipitation reaching up to 317 mm (12.5 in) in April, while dryer months like June and July receive less than 50 mm (2 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly from July to October, boasting over 330 hours of sun each month. For more detailed information, visit the Dar es Salaam climate.
In conclusion, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, presents a unique climatic profile characterized by its warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, high UV Index, and consistent daylight duration throughout the year. The tropical savanna climate fosters a vibrant ecosystem and supports the daily activities of its residents, while the seasonal variations in rainfall and temperature usher in distinct wet and dry periods. With careful attention to sun safety and awareness of weather patterns, both locals and visitors can fully embrace the natural beauty and cultural richness this coastal city has to offer, making it a remarkable destination for exploration and enjoyment regardless of the season.