Cotonou in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Cotonou

32°C (89°F) High Temp

24°C (76°F) Low Temp

13mm (0.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season begins - only 13mm (0.5 inches) of rain across 10 days, making it ideal for exploring outdoor markets and walking tours
Harmattan winds from the north bring relief from humidity, creating the most comfortable weather conditions of the year
Festival season peaks - December hosts the Fête du Vodoun preparation ceremonies and end-of-year celebrations that showcase authentic Beninese culture
Perfect beach weather - consistent 32°C (89°F) temperatures with reduced Atlantic swells make Fidjrosse Beach and Playas ideal for swimming

Considerations

Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% compared to rainy season, especially during Christmas and New Year weeks
Harmattan dust can reduce visibility and create hazy conditions, particularly affecting photography and those with respiratory sensitivities
Strong demand means popular restaurants and cultural sites get crowded between 6-9pm when temperatures cool

Best Activities in December

Ganvie Stilt Village Tours

December's low water levels make navigating the lagoon easier and provide better views of stilt house foundations. The dry weather ensures comfortable boat rides without rain interruptions. Water levels are 0.5-1m (1.6-3.3 ft) lower than rainy season, revealing more of the village's unique architecture.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed boat operators at Calavi port. Tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 CFA ($25-42) per person including guide. Morning departures (8-9am) offer cooler temperatures and better lighting. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Dantokpa Market Cultural Tours

December's cooler mornings make exploring Africa's largest market more comfortable. Special holiday preparations create unique shopping opportunities for traditional textiles and ceremonial items. The 70% humidity is more tolerable in early morning hours (7-10am) before peak heat.

Booking Tip: Join guided market tours starting at 7am to avoid afternoon heat. Tours cost 8,000-15,000 CFA ($13-25) and include cultural interpretation. Book through cultural centers or see current guided tour options below. Bring small CFA bills for purchases.

Pendjari National Park Day Trips

December marks peak wildlife viewing season as animals gather around permanent water sources during the dry period. Cooler temperatures 200km (124 miles) inland make full-day safaris comfortable. Wildlife concentration is highest from mid-December through February.

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead as this is peak safari season. Full-day trips cost 80,000-120,000 CFA ($135-200) including transport from Cotonou. Depart at 5am for optimal game viewing. Licensed operators required - check current safari packages in booking section.

Traditional Fishing Village Tours

December's calm seas and favorable winds create ideal conditions for experiencing traditional fishing methods along the coast. Villages like Benin showcase centuries-old techniques, and fishermen are more active during cooler morning hours (5-9am).

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost 20,000-35,000 CFA ($34-58) including transport and local guide. Book through eco-tourism associations for real feels. Morning tours (6am start) offer boat launches and net demonstrations. Current village tour options available below.

Abomey Historical Palace Complex

December's dry conditions make the 1.5-hour drive north comfortable, and reduced humidity preserves artifacts better for viewing. This UNESCO World Heritage site tells the complete story of the Dahomey Kingdom without rainy season closures affecting outdoor exhibits.

Booking Tip: Full-day trips including transport cost 45,000-65,000 CFA ($76-110). Book through certified heritage tour operators. Morning departures (8am) allow full exploration before afternoon heat. Entry fee additional at 2,000 CFA. See current palace tour packages below.

Artisan Workshop Tours

December showcases traditional craft production at peak activity as artisans prepare for holiday sales and ceremonies. Bronze casting, textile weaving, and wood carving workshops operate full schedules in comfortable morning temperatures before 11am.

Booking Tip: Half-day workshop tours cost 12,000-20,000 CFA ($20-34) including materials for hands-on experiences. Book through cultural associations for authentic workshops. Morning sessions (8-11am) avoid peak heat. Current artisan experiences listed in booking section.

December Events & Festivals

Throughout December

Vodoun Festival Preparations

Throughout December, communities prepare for January's Fête du Vodoun with ceremonial preparations, drum making, and costume creation. Witness authentic spiritual practices and traditional craftsmanship in neighborhood temples and family compounds.

December 31st

New Year Beach Celebrations

December 31st transforms Cotonou's beaches into massive celebration venues with traditional music, dance performances, and midnight ceremonies. Fidjrosse Beach hosts the largest public celebration with live bands and cultural performances.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight cotton or linen clothing - avoid synthetic fabrics in 70% humidity as they trap moisture and become uncomfortable

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 with strong reflection off water and sand surfaces

Dust mask or scarf - Harmattan winds carry Saharan dust that can irritate airways and eyes

Lightweight rain jacket - brief afternoon showers occur 10 days per month, lasting 15-30 minutes

Comfortable walking shoes with breathable mesh - for market tours and uneven surfaces at historical sites

Wide-brimmed hat - essential protection during midday sun exposure at outdoor attractions

Electrolyte supplements - sweating increases in warm humid conditions despite lower rainfall

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes remain active in evening hours despite dry season

Modest covering for shoulders and knees - required at religious sites and shows cultural respect

Small daypack - for carrying water, sunscreen, and purchases during extended walking tours

Insider Knowledge

Most locals schedule important outdoor activities between 6-10am when temperatures are coolest and Harmattan dust is minimal

December accommodation prices drop significantly after December 20th as business travelers leave, but spike again December 28-31st for New Year

The port area experiences stronger winds in December - great for cooling but challenging for outdoor dining, plan restaurant visits inland

ATMs frequently run out of cash during December festivities - withdraw CFA early in the day and keep reserves for weekend markets

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking accommodation only for Christmas week - New Year's Eve week (Dec 28-Jan 2) is actually more expensive and crowded

Planning outdoor activities after 11am - December heat peaks at 32°C (89°F) by midday making walking tours uncomfortable

Underestimating Harmattan dust impact - many tourists don't pack appropriate eye protection or respiratory covering