When to Visit Central African Republic
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Dry Season (November-February)
Pre-Wet Season (March-April)
Wet Season (May-September)
Late Wet/Transition (October)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
Peak dry season with warm days around 34°C and comfortable nights. The harmattan winds from the Sahara create hazy skies and dusty conditions, particularly noticeable in northern regions. This is one of the most reliable months for travel, with roads in their best condition and wildlife congregating around water sources.
February
The hottest month of the year, with temperatures peaking before the wet season arrives. The harmattan continues to blow, bringing dry, dusty air that can irritate throats and eyes. Despite the heat, it's still excellent for travel since roads remain passable and rainfall is minimal.
March
Transitional month as the dry season winds down and the first pre-monsoon showers begin, usually toward the end of the month. Temperatures remain high, and the humidity starts climbing, making it feel increasingly sticky. The landscape looks parched and brown, waiting for the rains.
April
The rains arrive in earnest, bringing relief from the heat but also the start of muddy conditions. Afternoon thunderstorms become common, often dramatic but brief. Roads in rural areas start deteriorating, and this marks the beginning of the challenging travel season.
May
Firmly into the wet season now, with frequent heavy downpours that transform the landscape from brown to lush green. Temperatures drop slightly from the March-April peak, but the humidity is high enough that it doesn't feel much cooler. Many secondary roads become difficult or impossible to navigate.
June
One of the wettest months, with persistent rains that can last for hours rather than just quick afternoon storms. The countryside is at its greenest, and rivers run high. Travel becomes quite challenging outside major towns, and many tour operators reduce their services during this period.
July
Deep in the wet season with heavy rainfall continuing, though there's often a brief mid-season dry spell that can provide a few days of respite. The humidity is relentless, and everything feels damp. This is probably the most challenging month for visitors, but the forests are spectacular if you can handle the conditions.
August
Still quite wet, though rainfall typically begins tapering off slightly compared to July. The landscape remains lush and green, and while travel is still difficult, there are occasional stretches of clearer weather. Mosquitoes are at their peak, so malaria precautions are essential.
September
The wet season continues but with noticeably less intensity than the peak months. You'll still get regular rain, but it's more predictable—often afternoon storms rather than all-day downpours. Roads begin slowly improving, though many remain muddy and challenging.
October
Transitional month as the rains taper off, though you'll still get occasional storms. The landscape remains green from months of rain, and temperatures start climbing again as the dry season approaches. Roads begin drying out, making this a better option for travel than the previous few months.
November
The dry season officially begins, though you might catch the occasional late-season shower. Temperatures are pleasant, humidity drops noticeably, and roads become reliably passable again. This is when tourism picks up, and it's an excellent time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around shrinking water sources.
December
Solidly in the dry season with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures. The harmattan winds begin arriving from the north, bringing drier air and sometimes hazy skies. This is one of the best months for visiting, with good road conditions and pleasant weather, though nights can feel surprisingly cool.