About Central African Republic

Sara and John say...

In the midst of this vast continent, Central African Republic has a tropical climate characterised by high temperatures and relatively high humidity for much of the year.

However, there is variation, with distinct wet and dry seasons.

Northernmost areas have least rainfall overall, For virtually half the year, from October to April, there is very little. At this time, humidity is lowest. So while temperatures by day climb into the 30s Celsius, it’s a more comfortable heat with refreshingly cool nights. However the dry Harmattan wind from the Sahara can lift the dust and reduce visibilities some days. It’s hottest through the spring, when temperatures approach 40 Celsius, just before the rains arrive. Summer are more humid with regular downpours and less sunshine, particularly through July and August.

As a rule, the further south you head through CAR, the wetter and longer the rainy season gets. At the capital, Bangui, showers can occur at any time of year, although winter months, especially December and January, are mostly dry. During the wettest months from May to October, flooding of some routes is commonplace.
Due to more cloud and less sunshine through the year, temperatures do not peak as high or dip as low as further north. They typically range between the high 20s and low 30s Celsius through the year. However humidity is higher, especially during the rainiest months.

We recommend visiting in the winter months of December to February, when most of the country is dry and less humid than at other times of year. And don’t forget the sunscreen!