Weather in Maputo

Planning a trip or simply interested in the weather in Maputo? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date information on weather conditions, detailed forecasts, and clear charts to help you stay informed about all weather changes.

Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, has a hot climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, which is typical for tropical regions. Air temperature here remains high throughout the year, creating comfortable conditions for visiting; however, seasonal weather differences should be considered.

The summer period, which lasts approximately from November to March, is characterized as the warmest and relatively humid. Average daytime temperatures during these months range from 24.6°C to 26.3°C, while maximums can reach around 29.5°C. This time of year sees the highest number of days with precipitation – from 10 to 15 days per month. Nevertheless, according to the provided data, the total amount of rainfall remains small. The winter season, from May to August, brings cooler and significantly drier weather. Average temperatures during this period drop to 19.8°C - 22.0°C. The number of rainy days is minimal (only 2-4 days per month), and in July and August, precipitation is practically absent. This season is distinguished by an abundance of sunny days.

Transitional months, such as April, September, and October, offer a pleasant combination of warm weather and moderate humidity, with a gradual change in precipitation frequency. Overall, the climate of Maputo is favorable for travel, especially for those who appreciate warmth. The choice of season depends on your preferences: a more humid but hot summer or a dry and mild winter with plenty of sunshine.

The temperature regime in Maputo is characterized by year-round warmth, which is typical for its tropical location. The annual range of average temperatures spans from approximately 19.8°C in July to 26.3°C in February. The hottest months are traditionally February, with an average temperature of 26.3°C and maximums reaching 29.5°C, as well as January (average 26.0°C, max up to 29.3°C) and December (average 25.9°C, max up to 29.5°C). The coolest months, if one can use that term for this climate, are considered to be July (average temperature 19.8°C, with minimum night values around 15.0°C) and June (average 19.9°C, minimum around 15.3°C).

Summer months in Maputo, covering the period from November to March, bring real tropical heat. Average daytime temperatures during this time consistently stay above 24°C, with peak values in February (26.3°C). Maximum temperatures often approach the 29-30°C mark (for example, 29.5°C in February and December, 29.3°C in January). Nights also remain very warm, with average minimum temperatures fluctuating from 20.6°C in November to 23.1°C in February. This season is often accompanied by increased humidity, which can intensify the sensation of heat.

The winter period, from May to August, offers milder and drier weather in Maputo. Average temperatures during these months vary from 19.8°C in July to 22.0°C in May. During the day, the air usually warms up to a comfortable 24-26°C (for example, a maximum average temperature of 26.2°C in May and 24.6°C in July). However, nights become noticeably cooler compared to the summer season: minimum temperatures can drop to 15-16°C (for example, 15.0°C in July and 15.3°C in June). This leads to more significant daily temperature fluctuations, especially in June and July, when the difference between the daily maximum and nightly minimum can be around 9-10°C, making evenings and early morning hours refreshingly cool.

In Maputo, there is a distinct seasonality in the distribution of precipitation throughout the year, allowing for a clear distinction between wet and dry periods. Overall, the amount of rainfall in the city is small, even in the rainiest months.

The wet season in Maputo usually falls within the period from November to March, reaching its peak in February. This month records the highest amount of precipitation, about 6 mm, and the maximum number of rainy days – on average 15 days. January is also characterized by increased humidity with 3 mm of precipitation and 14 rainy days, while December brings about 4 mm of rainfall over 12 days. Despite the relatively frequent precipitation during these months, the total amount remains moderate, suggesting frequent but not overly intense rains. March and April are transitional, with a gradual decrease in both rainfall amounts (2 mm in each) and the number of rainy days (13 and 9 respectively).

The dry season sets in Maputo from May to September. This period is characterized by minimal precipitation and a predominance of sunny weather. The driest months are July and August, when rainfall amounts tend toward zero (0 mm), and the number of rainy days is just 2 and 4 days respectively. In May, June, and September, very little rain falls as well (about 1 mm in each), and the number of days with rain varies from 3 to 5. This makes the winter months an ideal time for those who prefer to avoid rain.

When packing your suitcase for a trip to Maputo, focus on the city's tropical climate. The foundation of your wardrobe should be light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen, which will help you comfortably endure the heat throughout the year. Don't forget comfortable shoes for walking around the city, as you will surely want to explore its streets. Regardless of the season, be sure to bring high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection against the active sun of Mozambique.

Although it is warm year-round in Maputo, seasonal features should be taken into account. The wet season, which lasts roughly from November to March, is characterized by the highest temperatures (up to 29.5°C) and the greatest number of days with precipitation (up to 15 days per month), although the rains themselves are usually not very heavy. During this period, a light raincoat or a compact umbrella, as well as quick-drying clothing, will come in handy. The dry season, from May to August, brings more moderate temperatures during the day (around 24-26°C) and noticeably cooler evenings and mornings, when the thermometer can drop to 15°C. For this time of year, the principle of layering is ideal: add a sweater, fleece jacket, or light jacket to your t-shirts and light shirts. In transitional months, such as April, September, and October, it is also recommended to stick to layering to be ready for any weather changes.