Weather in Kisangani

Stay informed about the meteorological situation when planning your visit or walk. This section presents the latest weather data and forecasts for the city of Kisangani.

The city of Kisangani, located in the heart of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, welcomes travellers with a classic equatorial climate. An eternal summer reigns here: the weather remains hot and humid throughout the year, without sharp temperature changes or the shift between cold and warm seasons familiar to temperate latitudes. The average air temperature consistently stays in a comfortable range from +25°C to +28°C, making the city an attractive destination for those who love warmth.

Throughout the year, periods of varying rainfall intensity can be distinguished, although rain here is a frequent occurrence. The beginning of the year, especially January and February, is considered a relatively dry season, when the number of rainy days is minimal (about 7–8 days per month), and the sun shines most often. However, humidity rises from March, and the peak of the rainy season falls on the second half of the year, from August to November. October is the wettest month, when precipitation can occur almost daily.

A characteristic feature of the local climate is its remarkable stability. During the day, the air usually warms up to +29°C... +33°C, while nights bring pleasant coolness with temperatures around +22°C... +23°C. When planning a trip, tourists should be prepared for high humidity and the likelihood of tropical downpours, which, despite their intensity, are often short-lived and are quickly replaced by the sun.

The climate in Kisangani is distinguished by enviable stability due to its proximity to the equator, so eternal summer reigns here without sharp seasonal contrasts. Throughout the year, the temperature background remains high and steady. The hottest month is traditionally February: at this time, the average temperature is about 28.5°C, and at the height of the day, the air can warm up to a sultry 33.4°C. March and January are also characterized by high figures, maintaining an atmosphere of true tropical warmth.

The concept of a "cool season" for this region is quite conditional. Even in months with minimum figures, such as September and November, the average temperature does not drop below 25.5°C. During this period, the daytime heat becomes slightly milder, rarely exceeding the 29°C mark, which may feel like more comfortable weather for excursions and walks. In general, the annual amplitude of average temperatures is extremely small and amounts to only about 3 degrees, which makes the weather predictable at any time of the year.

Diurnal temperature fluctuations are expressed moderately here but bring welcome relief after the midday heat. If during the day the thermometer confidently hits marks of 30–31°C, then by night the air cools down to a pleasant 22–23°C. Such a difference allows one to more comfortably endure the high humidity characteristic of the Congo (DR). Tourists are unlikely to need warm clothes, as mild warmth persists here even in the early morning.

The climate in Kisangani is typical for the equatorial zone: it is warm and humid here all year round. Precipitation is an integral part of the local weather; however, its frequency changes noticeably depending on the season. Although there is no absolute drought here, the beginning of the year can be called the most favourable and relatively dry period.

January and February are the times when rains disturb travellers least often. The minimum number of days with precipitation (about 7–8) is recorded in these months, making them the most comfortable for walking around the city and its surroundings. Starting from March, humidity rises, and the number of rainy days gradually grows, reaching significant figures in the second half of the year.

The wettest season falls in autumn. October is the record holder for the frequency of precipitation: it can rain up to 25 days a month. November, as well as August and September, are also distinguished by high humidity (22–23 rainy days). At this time, travellers should be ready for frequent but warm tropical downpours, which support the lush greenery of the local nature.

When preparing for a journey to Kisangani, one should orient oneself towards a hot and humid tropical climate. The air temperature here consistently stays in the range of +25...+33°C throughout the year, so the basis of your wardrobe should be light clothing made of natural breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen. Give preference to light-coloured items of a loose cut, which will ensure comfort in hot weather and protect the skin from the active sun.

Given the high probability of precipitation, especially in the period from August to November, when the number of rainy days can reach 25 per month, be sure to put a compact umbrella or a light raincoat in your suitcase. Footwear should be maximally comfortable for walking, non-slip and, preferably, quick-drying, so that a sudden tropical downpour does not spoil your plans for a walk around the Congo (DR).

Do not forget about protection from the sun and insects: a head covering with a wide brim, sunglasses, and cream with high SPF are simply necessary. For evening outings, when the temperature drops to a comfortable +22°C, it is recommended to have a light long-sleeved shirt or a windbreaker with you — this will help not only to keep warm in a light breeze but also to protect yourself from mosquitoes.