Best Time to Visit Nigeria
Nigeria is at its sunniest and driest in January–December.
The best time to visit Nigeria for sunny, dry weather is November–February — 4 months of the year match our sunny profiles at a country-wide average. The drier half of the year covers October–April, while the wetter half runs through May–September. Country-wide monthly temperatures range from 25.5°C / 77.9°F in July to 28.5°C / 83.3°F in March, and monthly rainfall from 10 mm / 0.4 in (January) to 255 mm / 10 in (September). Nigeria's climate is broadly tropical. These are national area-weighted averages from long-term climate normals — regional variation within Nigeria can be substantial, especially for large or geographically diverse countries. Below, every month is classified against our five weather profiles so you can match your travel window to your preferred weather.
Recommended months
| Month | Temp | Rain | Feels like |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 26°C78.8°F | 10 mm0.4″ | Sunny & Hot, Sunny & Warm |
| February | 28°C82.4°F | 25 mm1″ | Sunny & Hot |
| November | 27°C80.6°F | 35 mm1.4″ | Sunny & Hot |
| December | 26°C78.8°F | 12 mm0.5″ | Sunny & Hot, Sunny & Warm |
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Nigeria?
The best time to visit Nigeria for sunny, dry weather is January, February, November, December. The warmest month is March (28.5°C / 83.3°F country-wide average) and the driest is January (about 10 mm / 0.4 in). These months combine warmth with low rainfall based on long-term climate normals.
When is the rainy season in Nigeria?
The rainy season in Nigeria runs through May–September, when monthly rainfall exceeds the national annual median of about 165 mm / 6.5 in. The wettest single month is September, averaging 255 mm / 10 in.
What is the dry season in Nigeria?
The drier half of the year in Nigeria covers October–April, when monthly rainfall stays at or below the annual median of about 165 mm / 6.5 in. The driest single month is January with about 10 mm / 0.4 in.
What months should I avoid visiting Nigeria?
The least comfortable months for travel in Nigeria — based on our climate data — are January, June, July, August, September, October, December. These are Nigeria's wettest or coolest months. Rainfall peaks at 255 mm / 10 in in September, and temperatures bottom out at 25.5°C / 77.9°F in July.
Is there a shoulder season in Nigeria?
Shoulder-season months in Nigeria — moderate weather, lower rainfall than the wet season — include March, April, May, June, August, October. These are typically the quietest and cheapest months for travel, and often deliver decent weather without the peak-season crowd.