Weather in Lagos 🇳🇬
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
December
Avg Temp
31°C
Rain Days
10 days
Sun Hours
11 hrs
Humidity
82%
Africa › 🇳🇬 Nigeria › Lagos
Updated: March 2026
Is December a Good Time to Visit Lagos?
5/10
Fair
December is a fair time to visit Lagos (5/10). With 11 daily sunshine hours and only 10 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 4th sunniest of the year in Lagos. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find December a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak January without sacrificing all the good weather. November offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Lagos's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.
vs November:29°C avg high
Lagos's December climate peaks at 31°C each afternoon before cooling to 25°C overnight. 11 daily sunshine hours and just 10 wet days mean the odds of a fine day are solidly in your favour. It is a reasonable time to visit, with a backup plan for the occasional shower.
31°C
88°F
Avg High
25°C
77°F
Avg Low
10 days
31 mm total
Rain Days
11h
per day avg
Sunshine
82%
Humid
Humidity
Temperature in Lagos in December
The 6°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. At 82% humidity, the 31°C daytime high feels 2-4°C warmer in practice: quick-dry fabrics and shade-seeking between noon and 3pm are the sensible response. UV index averages 4 this month, classed as moderate. Sunscreen is a sensible precaution for extended outdoor time, particularly at midday. Winds are calm at an average 14 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 88°F average high, 77°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Lagos in December
Morning25°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon31°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening28°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Lagos in December means dressing for 31°C days and 25°C evenings. A lightweight linen or cotton shirt with loose-fit trousers or a sundress handles the 31°C daytime heat. Evening temperatures settle at 25°C, a modest 6°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. For footwear, breathable walking sandals work for casual exploration, but closed-toe trainers are better for uneven surfaces in the historic centre. A compact foldable umbrella weighs almost nothing and earns its keep across 10 potential rainy days. At 82% average humidity, quick-dry synthetic or bamboo fabrics dry overnight and stay comfortable longer than cotton.
Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in Lagos. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.
Events in Lagos in December
December has no major festivals or public holidays in Lagos, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Lagos in December
Based on 31°C average highs and 10 rainy days
- Lightweight breathable clothing
- Linen or bamboo shirts for the hottest hours
- Sun hat with a wide brim
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Hydration bottle (at least 1 litre)
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Anti-chafe balm for long walking days
- Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for active days
- Compact folding umbrella
- Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
- Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Lagos in December
- Early morning walk through Lagos's historic market districtBest before 9amTemperatures are still manageable at 27°C before the midday heat builds
- Open-air rooftop dining at sunsetFrom 6pm onwardsThe 31°C daytime heat drops noticeably after sunset, making al fresco dining comfortable
- Waterfront promenade or harbour walkEarly morning or after 5pmSea breezes cut through the humidity, making coastal routes the most pleasant in heat
- Guided cycling tour of the old quarterFirst tour of the day (7-9am)The low-traffic window before tourist crowds and the cooler morning air make this the prime riding slot
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Seek out chilled local specialities: cold-brew tea, ice desserts, or chilled seafood at street-level stallsAny time; most atmospheric in evening marketsHot-weather street food culture peaks in December, with vendors setting up specifically for warm evenings
Why is Lagos warm in December?
In December, Lagos sits in the dry season corridor, as the ITCZ shifts away from the region and trade winds bring drier, more stable air. This produces reliably sunny days reaching 31°C, with lower humidity than the wet months. Overnight lows of 25°C offer a pleasant reprieve from the midday heat. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate, wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High, hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High, limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme, seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry, skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable, ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky, light breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy, heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lagos in December
In December, Lagos experiences average highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows of 25°C (77°F). Expect around 10 rainy days and 11 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 82%. The 6°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 4.
Lagos typically sees 10 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 31mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in Lagos typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing (linen or cotton), a wide-brim sun hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle for Lagos in December. The 31°C daytime heat demands sun protection during midday hours, typically 11am to 4pm. A compact travel umbrella is also worth packing, as 10 rainy days means afternoon showers are a real possibility. Quick-dry synthetic fabrics are preferable to cotton in 82% humidity.
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Lagos. With 11 daily sunshine hours and only 10 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 31°C during the day are comfortable for long walks and outdoor dining. This is peak travel season, so booking accommodation in advance and arriving at popular attractions early in the morning helps avoid the busiest periods.
The average high temperature in Lagos in December is 31°C (88°F), and the average low is 25°C (77°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 28°C (82°F). The day-to-night range of 6°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Lagos is generally January. January offers the most sunshine at 11 hours per day and only 9 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 31°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around January gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
December is shoulder or low season in Lagos, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 11 sunshine hours and 10 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In December, Lagos suits a range of activities thanks to warm temperatures of 31°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 11 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.
December ranks 4th sunniest of the year in Lagos, with an average 11 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are January, December, and February. January is the hottest month (31°C avg high); July is the coolest (27°C). From here, temperatures fall 0°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 29°C high, 19 rain days), December is warmer and drier. December sits in the middle of the annual sunshine ranking for Lagos, offering a reasonable balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 31°C | 24°C | 9 | 11h | View |
| February | 31°C | 26°C | 12 | 11h | View |
| March | 31°C | 26°C | 19 | 11h | View |
| April | 30°C | 26°C | 21 | 10h | View |
| May | 29°C | 25°C | 27 | 9h | View |
| June | 28°C | 24°C | 28 | 8h | View |
| July | 27°C | 24°C | 25 | 9h | View |
| August | 27°C | 24°C | 20 | 9h | View |
| September | 27°C | 24°C | 26 | 9h | View |
| October | 28°C | 24°C | 27 | 9h | View |
| November | 29°C | 25°C | 19 | 10h | View |
| December | 31°C | 25°C | 10 | 11h | View |
January
9 rain days, 11h sun
31°24°
February
12 rain days, 11h sun
31°26°
March
19 rain days, 11h sun
31°26°
April
21 rain days, 10h sun
30°26°
May
27 rain days, 9h sun
29°25°
June
28 rain days, 8h sun
28°24°
July
25 rain days, 9h sun
27°24°
August
20 rain days, 9h sun
27°24°
September
26 rain days, 9h sun
27°24°
October
27 rain days, 9h sun
28°24°
November
19 rain days, 10h sun
29°25°
December
10 rain days, 11h sun
31°25°
Other Months in Lagos
Plan Your Trip to Lagos
Data Sources for Lagos
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.