Climate and monthly weather forecastTimbuktu, Mali

The climate of Timbuktu

Geographically situated within the country of Mali, Timbuktu falls under the BWh Köppen climate classification, indicating a subtropical desert climate characterized by high temperatures and scarce rainfall. Observing climate data for the entire year, fluctuations in average monthly temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine hours become noticeable.

Through the year, Timbuktu's average monthly temperatures typically range from a relatively mild 13°C (55.4°F) to a blistering peak of 42.2°C (108°F), underlining the city's desert conditions. The highest temperatures occur in between the months of April to June, with a peak in May at 42.2°C (108°F). Meanwhile, the least warm periods fall from December to February, with the lowest recorded temperature of 13°C (55.4°F) in January.

Notoriously scant, Timbuktu's yearly rainfall predominantly takes place from June to September, with its peak of 74mm (2.91") in August. The rest of the year typically observes minimal to no precipitation, reflecting the desert climate classification.

A noteworthy pattern of Timbuktu's climate is its consistently high amount of sunlight. Sunshine hours remain relatively high throughout the year, ranging from 7.8 hours daily in June to a maximum of 9.1 hours in November.

The best time to visit Timbuktu

Based on the climate data, the most favorable time to visit Timbuktu would be from December to February. During these months, the temperatures average from 13°C (55.4°F) to 30.4°C (86.7°F), the coolest of the year, providing a more comfortable environment for tourists. Rainfall is virtually absent during this period, with only 0.1 to 1mm (0.04"), ensuring clear days and dry conditions. Furthermore, sunlight averages at around 11.3 to 11.6 daily hours, enough daylight to explore the city's landscapes and rich heritage.

The worst time to visit Timbuktu

Conversely, the least desirable season to visit Timbuktu is from April to June, especially with May being the hottest month, with daily highs soaring up to an intense 42.2°C (108°F). This blistering heat can be too much for unacclimatized visitors, making sightseeing or outdoor activities potentially challenging. In addition, these months also record the least amount of rainfall, potentially contributing to the uncomfortably dry heat.

Spring weather in Timbuktu

Spring in Timbuktu, from March to May, brings a dramatic increase in heat. The temperatures fluctuate from a high of 36.6°C (97.9°F) in March to a chilling high of 42.2°C (108°F) in May. Rainfall remains minimal at 0mm (0") in March and April, increasing slightly to 1mm (0.04") in May. The daylight hours commonly stretch up to 12.1 hours to 12.5 hours and the number of sunshine hours ranges from 8.5 to 8.7 hours per day.

Summer weather in Timbuktu

Timbuktu's summer months, from June to August, are characterized by persistently high temperatures and increased rainfall. The day's high temperature fluctuates from 41.6°C (106.9°F) to 36.5°C (97.7°F). June marks the start of the rainy season with a significant jump to 16mm (0.63"), peaking at 74mm (2.91") in August. An average daylight span of 13 to 13.1 hours is observed.

Autumn weather in Timbuktu

September to November is Timbuktu's autumn, with temperatures averaging between highs of 38.3°C (100.9°F) to 35.2°C (95.4°F), and lows of 24.8°C (76.6°F) to 17.7°C (63.9°F). Rainfall diminishes rapidly after August, tapering down from 29mm (1.14") in September, to barely measurable amounts in November. Daily sunlight averages from 12.2 to 11.4 hours.

Winter weather in Timbuktu

Winter in Timbuktu, from December to February, offers the mildest temperatures of the year, from highs of 30.4°C (86.7°F) to 33.2°C (91.8°F), and lows of 13°C (55.4°F) to 15.2°C (59.4°F). Rainfall is almost non-existent throughout these months, averaging from 0.1 to 1mm (0.04"), demonstrating the city's typical desert climate. Daylight hours hover from 11.1 to 11.6 hours, complemented by an average of 8.3 to 8.9 hours of direct sunlight.

Weather in January

January in Timbuktu, Mali, greets locals and visitors with relatively cooler conditions. The city experiences mild temperatures, with the lowest daytime low of 13°C (55.4°F) compared to other months. Most days are clear and sunny, making outdoor activities comfortable. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February offers a slight increase in temperature, indicating a transition towards the warmer part of the year. Still, the weather is generally pleasant and dry, with minimal rainfall. With an average increase in daylight hours, longer and sun-filled days become more prevalent. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March signals the imminent arrival of the hot season in Timbuktu. Tropical conditions become more prominent, as temperatures hit a high of 36.6°C (97.9°F) during the day. Despite peak daytime temperatures, nights are relatively comfortable with clear skies and cooler conditions. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April brings the most intense heat to Timbuktu, making it the hottest month of the year. The city experiences the highest average temperature of 40°C (104°F), often making outdoor activities challenging during the day. As rainfall remains scarce, the city remains extremely dry. Weather in April »

Weather in May

In May, Timbuktu continues to experience extreme heat, although temperatures drop slightly compared to April. Although rainfall starts to occur, its frequency and volume remain minimal, hardly making a difference in the overall aridity. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June introduces rainy season in Timbuktu with a significant jump in rainfall, amounting to 16mm (0.63") on average. As a result, the city experiences a drop in both daytime and nighttime temperatures. Despite the rain, clear skies and sunny days are a norm. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July’s weather in Timbuktu features a continued downward trend in temperatures and an increase in rainfall volume, peaking at 54mm (2.13"). The higher frequency of rain does not overshadow the city's characteristically sunny weather. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August marks the climax of the wet season in Timbuktu as rainfall reaches its highest average volume of 74mm (2.91") for the year. This increase coincides with a noticeable dip in temperature. Despite being the wettest month, ample sunlight continues to illuminate the city for the majority of the day. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September sees a reduction in rainfall in Timbuktu, signaling the gradual end of the rainy season. Temperatures begin their rise again, and days continue to be sunny with ample hours of sunshine. The city's ever-present clear skies contribute to extended daylight periods, making this month suitable for outdoor exploration. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October hosts a return to drier conditions in Timbuktu, characterized by significantly reduced rainfall. Slight falls in temperature offer a more comfortable climate, easing off from the high heat experienced earlier in the year. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November marks the beginning of the cool season in Timbuktu, as comfortable temperatures become more pronounced. Virtually zero rainfall recorded for this month ensures dry weather conditions. The city basks in the longest daily sunshine hours for the year, creating perfect conditions for exploring the outdoors. Weather in November »

Weather in December

In December, Timbuktu maintains its dry and mild weather pattern from November. With the average daytime temperature dropping to 30.4°C (86.7°F), December is one of the year's temperate months, ideal for outdoor activities. The volume and frequency of rain remain negligible, ensuring clear skies and long hours of daylight. Weather in December »