Most of West Africa doesn't have four seasons — it has two: a dry season and a rainy season. Which one suits your trip depends on whether you're prioritizing weather, lower prices, or fewer crowds.
Dry season — roughly November to March
This is peak travel season across the region: consistent sunshine, easier road travel, and the busiest period for both business and leisure visitors. Expect fares to run higher, especially around the December holidays — book well ahead if you're traveling in this window.
Rainy season — roughly June to October
Rain typically arrives as heavy afternoon downpours rather than all-day washouts, and mornings are often clear. Airfares are noticeably lower, and destinations feel far less crowded. It's a strong option if your schedule is flexible and low prices matter more than guaranteed dry days.
Cheapest months, country by country
- Liberia (Monrovia): March, May, September
- Ghana (Accra): February, May, October
- Nigeria (Lagos): January, April, September
- Senegal (Dakar): March, June, November
Notice the pattern: the cheapest months tend to fall right at the seasonal transitions — after the dry-season rush ends, or before the peak December period ramps up. Those shoulder weeks quietly combine reasonable weather with the lowest fares of the year.
Getting there for less
Connecting through Casablanca, Brussels, or Istanbul frequently beats a direct fare on these routes, and Ethiopian Airlines' Addis Ababa hub is worth checking regardless of your final destination in the region.
Explore West Africa destination guides