Ivory Coast in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Season
High Season
Temperature
23-30°C (73-86°F)
Crowds
High
Prices
High
December is dry with warm days and cooler nights inland; coastal areas are comfortable for beach activities. This period sees increased visitor activity as travelers enjoy reliable weather. Bookings around year-end holidays may be busier in major cities and resorts.

Climate Map for December

Ivory Coast average temperature in December
-30°-20°-10° 10°20°30°40°

Average temperature across Ivory Coast in December.

City Weather in December

City High Low Rain UV Feels
Abidjan 31° 24° 64 mm very high Hot
Abobo 30° 23° 63 mm very high Warm
Bouaké 32° 20° 12 mm high Warm
Korhogo 33° 19° 6 mm very high Warm
Daloa 32° 20° 22 mm high Warm
Koumassi 30° 24° 72 mm very high Hot
San-Pédro, Ivory Coast 30° 23° 83 mm very high Warm

High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.

Coast & Abidjan (Lagoon and Gulf shore)

Late February returns to the pre-rain warmth and rising humidity; by month’s end you’ll notice thicker air and sporadic showers signalling the approaching long rains. Abidjan’s nightlife and café culture operate at full tilt before the rains slow outdoor activities, so you can comfortably sightsee without the mud of later months. Travelers should schedule any inland excursions before April when road conditions deteriorate with sustained heavy rains.

South Rainforest & San‑Pédro-Taï area

description”:”The southern rainforest belt - from San‑Pédro through Taï and the Cavally - is the wettest part of the country, with a pronounced long rainy season (April-July) and a short resurgence in September-October. Elevation and thick canopy create frequent mists and consistently high humidity; trails become slippery or impassable during peak rains. Visit in the drier windows of November-February for hiking and wildlife watching, and expect heavy rain gear and flexible transport arrangements during the wet months.”

West Highlands (Man, Tonkoui & La Dent)

description”:”The western highlands around Man, including Mount Tonkoui and La Dent, sit higher and are noticeably cooler than the plains, with persistent cloud and heavier rainfall during the wet seasons. Elevation produces cooler nights year-round and misty conditions during the rains (April-July and again Sept-Oct), making July-August and December-February the most reliable windows for hiking. Trails can be treacherous in peak rains and some secondary roads close temporarily.”

Central Plateau (Yamoussoukro, Bouaké)

description”:”The Central Plateau around Yamoussoukro and Bouaké is transitional - less humid than the coast but with a clear wet season from April to October and a dry season with Harmattan influence in December-February. Elevation and inland position give cooler nights and more pronounced seasonal swings; the plateau is easiest to explore during the dry months of November-March when roads are most reliable and outdoor sites are accessible.”

North & Savannah (Korhogo, Ferkessédougou)

description”:”Northern Ivory Coast is a single‑rainfall savannah zone with a distinct dry season (November-April) and a wet season (May-September). The Harmattan (Dec-Feb) brings dusty, cool mornings, while March-April can be extremely hot before the rains arrive. Travelling is easiest in the dry months for overland access and cultural visits; the wet season turns the landscape green but makes some secondary roads impassable and increases insect activity.”

Events & Festivals in December

Independence Day
Independence Day on August 7 is Ivory Coast's national holiday; note that key national festivities happen in August.