Climate guide for Dakar, Senegal

Dakar in January

Weather, crowds & best time to visit

How to read the score (0–10)
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January · Senegal

Best time to visit Dakar in January Weather, crowds & prices

Weather in Dakar in January

Average temperature 24°C, 2 mm of rain, about 21 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 71% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).

January score

8.8/10

Ranked #4 of 12 months

Full year for Dakar
Avg temp
24°C
Rainfall
2 mm
Humidity
71%
Days with 6h+ sun
21
Crowd Density
Peak Tourist Rush
Average Expenses
$$$ · Peak Season Rates ($$$)

January in Dakar scores 8.8/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - an above-average month (#4 of 12). Expect around 24°C, 2 mm of rain, and roughly 21 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.

Dakar's peninsula holds African markets, Atlantic surf and the ferry to Gorée island.

January ranks 4th of 12 for Dakar — one of the best windows

January averages 24°C (75°F) — pleasant for mornings and evenings on foot in the city, with a midday break when the sun is strongest.

Rain is a non-issue at 2 mm for the month, with about 21 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 11.2 hours of daylight to work with.

A 8.8/10 puts this among the year's best months in Dakar (4th of 12); only February scores higher, at 9.5/10.

Pack light clothing, a hat and real sun protection.

Plan for peak pricing, with this is one of the busiest months here.

View all 12 months

Ranked by pure climate comfort

Score scale: 0.0 → 10.0Quiet / UncrowdedModerate CrowdsPeak Tourist Rush

Frequently asked

What is the weather like in Dakar in January?
In January, Dakar averages 24°C, 2 mm of rain, and about 21 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 8.8/10.
Is January a good time to visit Dakar?
January earns a 8.8/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
How much does it rain in Dakar in January?
Expect about 2 mm of rain in January. Average humidity is 71% and there are about 21 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.

Curated in Dakar

Tickets & experiences

Things to do in Dakar

Dakar, Senegal. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.