Lagos weather in December: what to expect

Lagos in December: the numbers

These are typical long-term averages for Lagos. A single year can be a little hotter or wetter, so check a forecast in the week before you fly.

Does it rain in Lagos in December?

Rarely. December is one of the driest months of the year in Lagos. The rainy season runs from about April to October, with the heaviest rain in June. In December you can expect two or three short showers in the whole month. Outdoor concerts, beach days and rooftop bars are a safe bet.

What is harmattan, and when does it reach Lagos?

Harmattan is a dry, dusty wind that blows from the Sahara across West Africa. In Lagos it usually arrives in late December and lasts into February. Some years it is strong, and some years it is barely noticeable on the coast.

Harmattan changes five things:

1. The sky turns hazy. Dust dulls the sunlight and the skyline, and sunsets turn orange.
2. Mornings and nights feel cooler. Early mornings can drop to about 21–22°C.
3. The air gets dry. Lips, skin and eyes dry out, and static builds up.
4. Flights can be delayed. Thick haze cuts visibility, and domestic flights are the first to be affected.
5. Dust gets everywhere. People with asthma or allergies should carry their medication.

Is December a good time to visit Lagos?

Yes. December is the best month to visit Lagos for weather and for events. It is dry, the beaches are open and the biggest concerts of the year happen between 17 and 31 December. The trade-offs are higher prices and heavy traffic. See the Lagos December 2026 calendar.

What to wear and pack for Lagos in December

1. Light, breathable clothes: cotton and linen for the day.
2. Going-out outfits: Lagos dresses up at night. See the outfit guide.
3. A light layer: air conditioning indoors is cold, and harmattan mornings are cooler.
4. Sunscreen and sunglasses: the sun is strong even through haze.
5. Lip balm and moisturiser: for harmattan dryness.
6. Mosquito repellent: the dry season has fewer mosquitoes, but malaria risk remains. Read the health guide.
7. A power bank: long days out and patchy power.
8. Swimwear: for beach clubs and hotel pools.

Lagos or Accra: which is hotter in December?

They are almost the same. Both cities sit on the same coast, about 400 km apart, and both are in the dry season.

Compare the two cities in Lagos vs Accra.

Best time of day to do things

• Before 11am: sightseeing, the Lekki canopy walk and markets, before the heat peaks.
• Noon to 4pm: the hottest hours. Good for lunch, a pool, a spa or a nap.
• After 4pm: beaches, sunset at the Lekki–Ikoyi Link Bridge and dinner.
• After 10pm: clubs and concerts. Nights stay warm, about 25–27°C until late.