Portonovo - When to Visit

When to Visit Portonovo

Year-round climate guide & best times to travel

Portonovo, Bénin experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a wet season from April to October and a dry season from November to March. The coastal location moderates temperatures year-round, keeping them relatively stable between 24-33°C (75-91°F). The harmattan winds from the Sahara bring dry, dusty conditions during December and January, while the monsoon season peaks between June and September with heavy rainfall and high humidity. The city enjoys abundant sunshine during the dry season, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits. The climate is characterized by high humidity throughout the year, particularly during the wet season when rainfall can exceed 200mm per month. The dry season offers more comfortable conditions with lower humidity and minimal precipitation, though temperatures can feel quite warm. Ocean breezes provide some relief from the heat, especially along the coastal areas where many of the city's attractions are located.

Best Time to Visit by Travel Style

Beach & Relaxation

November to February offers the best beach conditions with minimal rainfall, comfortable temperatures, and refreshing ocean breezes during the dry season.

Cultural Exploration

December to March provides ideal conditions for visiting historical sites and museums with lower humidity, clear skies, and comfortable walking weather.

Adventure & Hiking

November to February offers the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities with cooler temperatures, low rainfall, and excellent visibility.

Budget Travel

May to September during the wet season offers lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds, though expect frequent rain showers and higher humidity.

Month-by-Month Climate Guide

January

January is peak dry season with harmattan winds bringing dusty but comfortable conditions. Minimal rainfall and lower humidity make it excellent for all outdoor activities. Clear skies and ocean breezes provide ideal beach weather.

32°C (90°F) High Temp
24°C (75°F) Low Temp
15mm (0.6in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View January Details →

February

February continues the dry season with very little rainfall and comfortable temperatures. Harmattan winds may still bring some dust, but conditions remain excellent for tourism. This is one of the most pleasant months to visit.

33°C (91°F) High Temp
25°C (77°F) Low Temp
20mm (0.8in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View February Details →

March

March marks the end of the dry season with increasing temperatures and humidity. Rainfall remains minimal but occasional showers may begin. Still excellent conditions for most activities with warm, sunny days.

33°C (91°F) High Temp
26°C (79°F) Low Temp
45mm (1.8in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View March Details →

April

April signals the beginning of the wet season with increasing rainfall and humidity. Temperatures remain warm but frequent afternoon showers begin. Mornings are often clear, making it possible to enjoy outdoor activities with proper planning.

32°C (90°F) High Temp
26°C (79°F) Low Temp
95mm (3.7in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View April Details →

May

May brings heavier rainfall and higher humidity as the wet season intensifies. Daily showers become more common, though they're often brief and intense. Temperatures remain consistently warm with increased cloud cover.

31°C (88°F) High Temp
25°C (77°F) Low Temp
140mm (5.5in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View May Details →

June

June is peak wet season with frequent heavy rainfall and very high humidity. Despite the rain, temperatures are slightly cooler due to cloud cover. Expect daily showers and occasional thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoons.

30°C (86°F) High Temp
24°C (75°F) Low Temp
220mm (8.7in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View June Details →

July

July continues the intense wet season with heavy rainfall and maximum humidity levels. This is typically the wettest month with frequent downpours and overcast skies. Outdoor activities are challenging but the landscape is lush and green.

29°C (84°F) High Temp
23°C (73°F) Low Temp
280mm (11in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View July Details →

August

August maintains heavy rainfall patterns with very high humidity and frequent storms. Temperatures are at their coolest due to constant cloud cover and rain. This is the heart of the monsoon season with challenging travel conditions.

29°C (84°F) High Temp
23°C (73°F) Low Temp
250mm (9.8in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View August Details →

September

September sees continued heavy rainfall but with signs of the wet season beginning to ease. Humidity remains very high and daily showers are common. Temperatures start to rise slightly as cloud cover occasionally breaks.

30°C (86°F) High Temp
24°C (75°F) Low Temp
210mm (8.3in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View September Details →

October

October marks the transition from wet to dry season with decreasing rainfall and humidity. Showers become less frequent and more sporadic. Temperatures begin to rise and sunny periods become more common, especially later in the month.

31°C (88°F) High Temp
25°C (77°F) Low Temp
120mm (4.7in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View October Details →

November

November brings the welcome return of the dry season with significantly reduced rainfall and humidity. Clear, sunny skies become the norm and temperatures are comfortable. This marks the beginning of the best weather period for tourism.

32°C (90°F) High Temp
25°C (77°F) Low Temp
35mm (1.4in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View November Details →

December

December offers excellent dry season conditions with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures. Harmattan winds begin to bring drier air from the north. This is one of the best months for all tourist activities with clear skies and pleasant weather.

32°C (90°F) High Temp
24°C (75°F) Low Temp
20mm (0.8in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View December Details →

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