Weather in Calabar

To ensure your trip to Calabar is as comfortable as possible, check out the latest weather update. In this section, you will find current weather data, useful charts, and a detailed forecast for the near future.

The climate in Calabar can be described as tropical monsoon, characterised by high temperatures and significant humidity throughout the year. Travellers should be prepared for it to be hot almost all the time: the average air temperature consistently stays in the range of +25°C to +29°C, and during the day, the thermometer often rises above +30°C. There are no sudden cold spells here, making the city attractive for those who love warmth.

The weather in the region is clearly divided into two periods: a relatively short dry season and a long rainy season. The dry season falls during the winter months — from December to February. At this time, rainfall is minimal, and temperatures reach their peak values. This is the most popular time to visit, when the sun shines most often, allowing you to comfortably explore local attractions.

The rainy season covers most of the year, starting in March and ending in November. A particularly wet period is the middle of the year (from July to October), when rains can occur almost daily. Despite heavy rainfall, the weather remains warm and even humid due to the moisture. Tourists planning a trip at this time should definitely bring an umbrella and light waterproof clothing, as tropical downpours can be sudden and intense.

The climate in Calabar is characterised by stable warmth throughout the year, although it has its own distinct seasonal features. The hottest months are traditionally February and January, when the average temperature holds at 29°C, and daytime highs often reach 33–34°C. This time coincides with the dry season, so the sun shines brightly, creating ideal conditions for lovers of true tropical heat.

Interestingly, the summer months familiar to many tourists — June, July, and August — are the "coolest" period of the year in Calabar. Due to the rainy season and cloud cover, the average temperature at this time drops to 25–26°C, bringing pleasant relief after the spring heat. Winter here is exceptionally mild and warm: in December, the air warms up to an average of 28°C, making the city an excellent destination for escaping the cold.

Daily temperature fluctuations in the region are quite comfortable for travellers. The difference between the daytime maximum and nighttime minimum is most noticeable in the dry season (January-March), amounting to about 9–10 degrees. Even on the hottest days, the nights bring welcome freshness, when the thermometer drops to 23–25°C, ensuring comfortable conditions for sleep and evening relaxation.

The climate of Calabar is characterised by a distinct division into dry and wet seasons, which is typical for this part of Nigeria. For most of the year, high cloudiness and regular precipitation are observed here. The rainy season lasts quite a long time — from March to November, with peak humidity falling in the summer months and early autumn.

The rainiest months are July and September, when precipitation falls most intensely, and the number of rainy days reaches a maximum — up to 30 days a month. In the period from May to October, an umbrella or raincoat will become your indispensable companions, as it rains almost daily. Precipitation at this time can vary from light drizzle to more noticeable rains.

The dry season in Calabar is relatively short and falls during the winter months. January is considered the driest period, when minimal precipitation falls (about 1 mm), and the number of rainy days decreases to nine. December and February are also distinguished by more stable weather compared to the rest of the year, making this time the most favourable for planning excursions and walks around the city.

Since hot weather prevails in Calabar all year round with an average temperature from +25°C to +29°C, the foundation of your wardrobe should be light clothing made from natural breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen. T-shirts, shorts, summer dresses, and loose-fitting trousers will help you comfortably endure high humidity. Do not forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the bright sun, especially in the drier months (December — February), when daytime temperatures can reach +34°C.

Given the large number of rainy days, especially in the period from March to November, a reliable umbrella and a compact raincoat will become your best companions. In the wettest months (from July to October), when precipitation falls almost daily, it is highly recommended to bring waterproof shoes or sandals that dry quickly and do not slip. Even in the relatively dry season, short-term rains are possible, so a light water-repellent windbreaker will not go amiss.

For long walks around the city, choose the most comfortable flat-soled shoes. Be sure to pack sunscreen with a high protection factor and quality insect repellents in your suitcase, as insects are active in the humid tropical climate. Although it is always warm outside, a light long-sleeved top may come in handy for protection against mosquitoes in the evening or for staying comfortable in rooms with strong air conditioning.