The 2 Seasons of Djibouti: A Few Words About the Climate and the Best Times to Visit
The climate in Djibouti is hot and arid, with high temperatures and very little rainfall. However, these general characteristics vary significantly depending on the time of year and the terrain.
In Djibouti, there are two distinct seasons: a very hot season, which lasts from May to September, and a cooler, more temperate season, which runs from October to April. Despite the heat, traveling in Djibouti offers a chance to discover a remarkable variety of landscapes: paradise-like white sand beaches, semi-desert areas, mangroves, primary forests, volcanic landscapes, and green mountains. Let yourself be surprised!
To give you a better understanding of the climate, this article provides average figures on temperatures and monthly rainfall. Keep in mind that these are averages based on data collected over several years, so don’t be too surprised if you experience some variations during your visit.
For example, November 2019 saw heavy rains that caused significant damage in the capital.
Djibouti City Flooded
The heat in Djibouti is greatly reduced in the mountainous regions (Goda and Mabla mountains), where warm clothing is necessary before and after sunset. Consider this when packing for your trip, and don’t hesitate to inquire about your accommodation before traveling to Djibouti!
Morning Fog in the Day Forest
The Hot Season in Djibouti: From May to September
During this season, minimum temperatures range from 29°C (May) to 32°C (July and August), while maximum temperatures range from 33°C (May) to 38°C (July and August).
The seawater temperature ranges from 30°C to 31°C.
Ground Cracks in the Gagadé Desert, A Sign of Water’s Passage
Acacias are very common trees in Djibouti.
The desert landscapes bear witness to the common drought in Djibouti, yet vegetation still appears in the most unexpected places!
Vegetation can even be found in the lava fields surrounding Ardoukoba.
During this season, rainfall is extremely rare. Additionally, a hot, dusty wind known as the khamsin can cause a sudden increase in the already high temperatures.
In coastal areas, the high heat combined with high humidity can create an uncomfortable feeling, which is why it is not advisable to travel to Djibouti during this period, especially for those sensitive to the heat.
The Temperate Season in Djibouti: From October to April
In this season, the minimum temperatures range from 23°C (December and January) to 27°C (October and April), and the maximum temperatures range from 27°C (December, January, and February) to 31°C (October).
The seawater temperature ranges from 26°C (January and February) to 30°C (October).
Low Tide in Djibouti
Rain is a rare occurrence in Djibouti. When it does rain, it usually falls in short, heavy showers, which can make it difficult to cross the wadis and may cause flooding in certain areas of Djibouti City.
The “rainiest” months are December and February (with 5 rainy days each) and January (with 8 rainy days). These exceptional rains can have dramatic effects on the landscape, reviving the vegetation that becomes more noticeable because it is so rare! Despite the damage it may cause, particularly in urban areas, rain is often seen as a symbol of “good weather” for Djiboutians.
Wadi Kalou
In conclusion, it is certainly better to plan your visit to Djibouti during the temperate months… and to head to neighboring Ethiopia during the hot months!
The Effects of Climate on Djibouti’s Landscapes
Despite, and because of, the aridity and dryness of the climate in the Horn of Africa, Djibouti boasts an astonishing variety of landscapes.
Lakes
Lake Assal and Lake Abbé are two of the country’s must-see natural sites, which I explore further in the article on the geology of Djibouti.
Grazing at Lake Abbé
Salt Packs at Lake Assal
Deserts
The dry climate creates desert or semi-desert landscapes of great beauty, such as the Gagadé Desert and the vast expanse of the Grand Bara.
Dunes Between Gour Abous and Gagadé
Grand Bara: Ideal for a Day of Windsurfing!
Even rare showers bring marvelous greenery, and not only in the mountains.
Shade for the Picnic
Oasis and Palm Trees
Water Point Downstream of Abourma Canyon
Beaches and Coastline
In addition to its beautiful beaches and campsites, the coastal areas offer mangroves, which are essential for the marine ecosystem.
Djibouti is well known among diving and sea bed enthusiasts, and many species can be observed while snorkeling, including the whale shark!
Paradise Beaches and Turquoise Waters of Maskali Island, All Year Round!
The White Sands of Tadjourah
Ras Ali, Near Tadjourah
Mountains and Forests
Less known, but equally captivating, are the mountainous regions of the Goda and Mabla Mountains, which offer cool temperatures and lush green landscapes, spared from the country’s hot and arid climate.
30 kilometers west of the Gulf of Tadjourah, the Day Forest rises 1,500 meters above sea level on the slopes of Mount Goda.
Palm Trees in the Goda Mountains
Walk in the Goda Mountains
Accessible by a beautiful 30 km track, this forest is part of a protected national park and is one of the most beautiful in the world. It offers a glimpse of the vegetation that once thrived in the mountains of the Sahara and Arabia thousands of years ago, with wild olive trees, giant acacias, and jujube trees.
Day Hike
Endangered Primary Forest
The Goda Mountains are crisscrossed by pleasant hiking trails, rewarding hikers with stunning views and waterfalls.
Natural Shower While Hiking from Dittilou
Valley Below the Wadi
To experience the Goda Mountains and their climate over several days, the campsites at Bankoualé, Day, and Dittilou provide accommodation in lush green landscapes. Feel free to check out the article on the campsites for more information!
Bankoualé in the Goda Mountains
Bean Plantations in Bankoualé
Day Camp
For those who love walking, the “Hikers” trip lets you reach the campsites of Dittilou, Day, and Bankoualé on foot.
On the Trail of Dittilou
Wadi of Bankoualé
The Mabla Mountains, located 25 km west of Obock, offer invigorating temperatures, lush greenery, and breathtaking views!
Landscapes in the Mabla Mountains
Hikers can also enjoy campsites like Medeho camp, providing a resting spot after a great day’s hike!
On a Walk from the Medeho Camp
Data Massay in the Mabla Mountains.
To fully enjoy these regions, don’t forget to pack a good pair of shoes in your suitcase!
Above all, I hope the few photos included in this article help capture the natural beauty and diversity of Djibouti’s landscapes.