Lome Weather in December

December: warm and mostly dry

December feels hot, sunny and sticky in Lomé. The high reaches 30°C, and humidity stays noticeable, but rain is limited to about five days. November is wetter, so December is a good time for outdoor plans. You can wander the Grand Marché, visit the Musée National, or spend time along the seafront.

The strong sun makes long walks at midday tiring. Save a stretch through central Lomé for the cooler parts of the day, and don't count on the beach for calm swimming; the Atlantic surf can be rough.

Christmas and New Year

Christmas brings church services and family gatherings, while New Year's Eve is marked with celebrations around the city. These holidays can change opening hours, so check locally before making a special trip to a museum or market. December is one of Lomé's best-weather months, alongside January, and the holiday period can bring more visitors than quieter months. Expect some hotels and flights to feel busier, and potentially cost more, than in the wet season.

If you hate crowds, visit the Grand Marché on a weekday rather than close to Christmas. It's a lively place to shop for fabric and local goods, but holiday errands can make it especially packed.

A useful Lomé tip

For a break from the heat, visit the Musée National, then take a shared taxi toward the seafront instead of walking the whole way. Agree on the fare before you get in, since shared taxis don't always use a meter. You can finish with grilled fish at a beachside spot, but stay back from rough water.

Travelling with kids? Keep the Grand Marché visit short, then head somewhere quieter for a rest. December's long, sunny days are good for sightseeing, but the midday heat can wear everyone down.