Dakar in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Dakar

28°C (82°F) High Temp

21°C (69°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season with zero rainfall and daily sunshine - ideal for outdoor activities and beach time without weather disruptions
Harmattan winds from the Sahara bring cooler evenings (21°C/69°F) and crystal-clear visibility for photography and sightseeing
Peak season for traditional wrestling (laamb) matches and cultural festivals - December has the most authentic local events
Optimal conditions for Senegal visits - calm Atlantic waters make ferry rides comfortable and island exploration pleasant

Considerations

High tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% compared to rainy season months
Harmattan winds carry Saharan dust, potentially irritating for those with respiratory sensitivities or contact lens wearers
Popular beaches like Yoff and Ngor become crowded on weekends with both tourists and locals celebrating holiday season

Best Activities in December

Île de Gorée Historical Tours

December's calm seas make the 20-minute ferry ride comfortable, and dry conditions are perfect for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site. Clear harmattan skies provide excellent photography conditions at the House of Slaves and IFAN Museum. Morning tours (8-11am) avoid both crowds and peak heat.

Booking Tip: Book ferry tickets 2-3 days ahead during December peak season. Tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 CFA francs including ferry and guided museum visits. Look for certified guides with official badges (see current tour options in booking section below).

Retba Lake (Lac Rose) Excursions

December's low humidity and clear skies showcase the lake's famous pink coloration at its most busy. Dry season means accessible roads and comfortable conditions for salt harvesting demonstrations. The 35 km (22 mile) drive takes 45 minutes in good December conditions.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically range 20,000-35,000 CFA francs. Book through licensed operators offering 4WD transport and include Fulani village visits. Best visited 10am-2pm when pink coloration peaks (see current options in booking section below).

Dakar Peninsula Coastal Adventures

Perfect weather for exploring Pointe des Almadies (Africa's westernmost point) and Les Mamelles lighthouse. December's clear visibility extends to 25 km (15.5 miles) offshore. Ideal for surfing at Ouakam and N'Gor beaches with consistent Atlantic swells and comfortable air temperatures.

Booking Tip: Coastal tours typically cost 12,000-20,000 CFA francs for half-day trips. Surfboard rentals average 8,000-12,000 CFA francs daily. Book surf lessons 1-2 days ahead (see current coastal tour options in booking section below).

Traditional Wrestling (Laamb) Experiences

December marks peak laamb season with major tournaments at Demba Diop Stadium. This is Senegal's national sport and December matches feature top wrestlers. Combine with visits to wrestling training sites in Pikine for authentic cultural immersion unavailable other months.

Booking Tip: Stadium tickets range 2,000-15,000 CFA francs depending on seating. Cultural tour packages including training site visits typically cost 18,000-30,000 CFA francs. Book weekend matches early as they sell out (see current cultural tour options in booking section below).

Djoudj National Bird Park Expeditions

December brings peak migratory bird populations with over 1.5 million birds present. The 120 km (75 mile) journey north is comfortable in dry season conditions. Pelicans, flamingos, and European migrants are most active during December's cooler mornings.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours typically cost 45,000-65,000 CFA francs including transport and park fees. Depart 6am for optimal bird activity. Book 4-5 days ahead for weekend trips (see current nature tour options in booking section below).

Casamance Cultural Immersion

December's dry weather makes southern Casamance region accessible via improved road conditions. This is harvest season for cashews and palm wine, offering authentic cultural experiences. The Diola culture is most celebrated during December ceremonies and festivals.

Booking Tip: Multi-day packages range 80,000-150,000 CFA francs including accommodation in traditional compounds. Requires 7-10 day advance booking for December. Include Senegal and Senegal (see current Casamance packages in booking section below).

December Events & Festivals

Late December

Festival International de Jazz de Saint-Louis

Though based in Saint-Louis, many Dakar musicians participate and preliminary events occur in Dakar venues. Features international and West African jazz fusion with traditional Wolof and Mandinka influences.

Throughout December

Laamb Wrestling Championships

December hosts the most prestigious traditional wrestling matches at Demba Diop Stadium. These tournaments determine annual champions and feature elaborate pre-match ceremonies with drummers, griots, and mystical preparations.

Variable based on Islamic calendar

Tabaski Preparations (Eid al-Adha festivities)

While Tabaski dates vary by Islamic calendar, December often features preparation celebrations in Dakar's markets. Experience the cultural significance at Sandaga Market with traditional clothing, henna ceremonies, and special foods.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 with intense reflection off Atlantic waters and sandy surfaces

Lightweight cotton or linen clothing in light colors - avoid polyester in 70% humidity, especially during midday heat

Light scarf or buff for Harmattan dust protection - essential for respiratory comfort and contact lens wearers

Comfortable closed-toe shoes for Senegal's cobblestone streets and rocky coastal areas

Insect repellent with DEET 20%+ for evening outdoor dining and sunset activities along the coast

Light jacket or cardigan for evening temperatures dropping to 21°C (69°F) with ocean breezes

Waterproof phone case for coastal activities and potential ferry spray during Senegal trips

Cash in small denominations - many local vendors don't accept cards, and ATMs can be unreliable in tourist areas

Reusable water bottle - stay hydrated in dry harmattan conditions while reducing plastic waste

Power adapter Type C and K - bring universal adapter as older buildings may have different outlet types

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in Almadies or N'Gor for cooler ocean breezes and avoid downtown Dakar's urban heat island effect during December peaks

Visit major attractions before 10am or after 4pm - December sun is intense midday, and locals adjust schedules accordingly

Stock up on moisturizer and lip balm - harmattan winds are extremely drying, and pharmacies charge tourist prices in hotel areas

Learn basic Wolof greetings beyond French - 'Nanga def' (how are you) opens doors and gets better prices, especially during cultural events

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating December accommodation demand - book 6-8 weeks ahead or face 200-300% price increases for remaining options

Wearing dark colors in direct sun - locals wear white and light blues for good reason in 28°C (82°F) heat with high UV exposure

Planning only indoor activities for hot afternoons - December heat peaks 1-4pm, but evenings are perfect for outdoor exploration until 10pm