Best Time to Visit Porto-Novo

December to February: the dry, sunny stretch

This is the best time to go. December and January are the easiest months, with about 8.5 hours of sun a day and only a few showery days. Streets stay dry, so walking is pleasant. You can wander from the Place Jean Bayol area to the Ethnographic Museum without dodging puddles.

It's still warm and fairly sticky, and nights stay around 24°C. February is a little cloudier and wetter, but it's still a good month. The Harmattan, a dusty wind off the Sahara, often hazes the sky around this time. It's usually milder on the coast, but views can look washed out.

March to July: the long wet season

Don't expect a sudden switch. March and April bring rain on most days, and by May and June it's nearly daily. June is the wettest month, at 221 mm. The rain often comes in heavy bursts, so roads can flood and motorbike taxis (zémidjans) get harder to find.

If you don't mind grey skies, this is also quieter. You'll have the Honoré Daniel Gallery and the Royal Palace of Toffa to yourself more often. Plan indoor visits for the afternoon and keep mornings for the market.

August to November: a short break, then more rain

August is a bit drier at 100 mm, though still cloudy. Then September and October bring a second rainy spell. September has 207 mm, and October rains on 29 days. Honestly, these are poor months for a first visit.

November is the turning point. Rain drops and the sun returns. It's rated Fair, and it's a good shoulder choice if you want fewer people and a better chance of dry days.

Crowds, festivals and who should go when

Porto-Novo is never overrun. Even in the dry season, the crowds are mostly returning families and a few visitors. Travel gets a little busier around Christmas and New Year.

Voodoo Day, on 10 January, is Benin's big national celebration. It's a strong reason to pick January, especially if you also plan to visit Ouidah, the main centre. Culture lovers should aim for December to February. If you're on a tight budget or don't mind rain, try November or August.